12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania With Itinerary from Athens to Thessaloniki, Sofia, Plovdiv, Bucharest, and Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2, you will wake up in Athens with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Athens before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Set aside time today to explore Adrianou Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Something that makes Athens the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding archeological site, Acropolis Of Athens. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 visitors and gets around 1,807,580 visits every year.

The famous Parthenon is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Athens's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 74,124 travelers have rated this incredible archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Athens is also home to the extraordinary Acropolis Museum, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 65,819 traveler reviews. This stunning museum and local feature draws more than 814,565 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Athens’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Dine in style at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 42 Barstronomy Athens boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out O Babas. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Athens.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Tiki Bar Athens, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brettos, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Luxus Bar Bistro provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Thessaloniki and set your GPS to Sofia, Bulgaria. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 31 min. Upon reaching Sofia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding Zaimov Park. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,334 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Sofia is also home to the captivating Borisova Gradina Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 27,635 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Sofia. This extraordinary church and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful National Theater "ivan Vazov" will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing performing arts theater and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Sofia’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Grijn Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cairo Relax Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar National. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 5 of your European tour in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, you’ll start and end your day in Stob, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Stob in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stob. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Stob today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Stob Earth Pyramids. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,279 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stob and set your GPS to Rila. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 33 min. Upon reaching Rila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Rila the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding monastery, Rila Monastery. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,596 visitors.

The famous Kirilova Polyana Meadow is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Rila's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 502 travelers have rated this incredible hiking area and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

When you arrive in Samokov, it's time to take a break from the road.

In Samokov, the extraordinary Malyovitsa awaits. This attraction is a valued mountain range that boasts an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 308 travelers' reviews.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Sofia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Urban Rebel ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Plovdiv where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Set your GPS to Plovdiv and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Plovdiv beckons with new experiences!

Something that makes Plovdiv the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding archeological site, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 visitors.

The famous Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Plovdiv's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 7,842 travelers have rated this incredible archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Plovdiv is also home to the extraordinary “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 15,537 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Singing Fountain. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,640 reviews, a visit to this wonderful art installation and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Plovdiv. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Plovdiv as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Greet day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bucharest for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bran in Romania.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of Bucharest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bran. Your travel time is around 2 hours 41 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Bran — Bran Castle. About 93,196 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Valea Cu Povesti is another top sight in Bran that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved sightseeing destination in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 674 visitors.

After soaking in Bran’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rasnov. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Rasnov, it's time to take a break from the road.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Rasnov today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Valea Cetatii Cave. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,289 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rasnov, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sinaia. This drive usually takes around 51 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Sinaia is not complete without a visit to the famous Dimitrie Ghica Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,720 travelers.

As the sun sets on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Bucharest's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Romania to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Bucharest has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vatra Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Control Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Wicked Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Manasia Hub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. Today's main destinations are Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Veliko Tarnovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bucharest behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 54 min. Veliko Tarnovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Trapezitsa Fortress is a travelers’ favorite in Veliko Tarnovo, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,202 visitors.

In Veliko Tarnovo, don’t miss Tsarevets Fortress, a great castle and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,913 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Veliko Tarnovo off your list when you visit the wonderful Park "sveta Gora". This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,821 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Marno Pole Park. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,692 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Monument Of Mother Bulgaria awaits. This monument is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,801 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Veliko Tarnovo. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Veliko Tarnovo’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Famous Bar 2, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Grill Kolata, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania! Enjoy your evening in Veliko Tarnovo to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Thessaloniki in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Thessaloniki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Veliko Tarnovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Greece! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Thessaloniki may take around 5 hours 52 min. Upon your arrival in Thessaloniki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Thessaloniki is the fantastic Agias Sofias Square. As an appreciated public square and local gem in the area, Agias Sofias Square has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,374 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Holy Church Of Hagia Sophia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,861 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, a standout monument and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,542 reviewers.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Thessaloniki.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Thessaloniki's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mamalouka, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Thessaloniki at Clochard, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Sofi's House Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Thessaloniki tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Apallou offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 11 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Kastraki in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Athens, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kastraki. This car ride takes around 2 hours 51 min.

In Kastraki, the extraordinary Main Observation Deck Of Meteora awaits. This attraction is a valued observation deck that boasts an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,834 travelers' reviews.

Trikala’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kastraki behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Trikala welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Something that makes Trikala the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, Central Bridge. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,997 visitors.

The famous Trikala City Center Square is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Trikala's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 4,007 travelers have rated this incredible public square and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Athens of your choice.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Athens’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cookoovaya, a top-rated dining spot in Athens. If you're in the mood for something new, try Karamanlidika, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Auli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Athens.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kazu Cafe-bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Upupa Epops - The Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gazarte, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in Athens, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.