One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Romania With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Bucharest

On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sofia allows for both. Start by heading to Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This often recommended museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a picture-perfect church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Boyana Church, a beloved church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Vitosha Nature Park.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Sofia’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 Bulgaria and Romania.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. The Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the night falls in Sofia, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Plovdiv in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, your home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Youth Hill. This underrated park is a romantic place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Alyosha Monument, a historic monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This popular park offers a serene encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Singing Fountain to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Plovdiv'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 delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Rock Bar Download, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. North Star is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Morado Bar & Dinner ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria and Romania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bachkovo in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Plovdiv on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned monastery, Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Afterward, continue to Asen's Fortress, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This captivating archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Old Town Of Plovdiv, a beloved historical landmark in the village. Finally, end your day with a visit to Nebet Tepe, a history-steeped archeological site that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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 Plovdiv. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Qbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 5 of your multi-country road trip across 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 Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a museum and a church. Start your day at National Museum Of Romanian History. This respected museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Stavropoleos Monastery. If history-steeped sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley.

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

As the sun sets on day 5 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 lovely meal at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, PAPILA is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Complex Herăstrău. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bucharest tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Vintage Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Newton Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Qp Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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!

Wake up and see what day 6 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria and Romania has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Bucharest is Cotroceni. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Calea Victoriei, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Today’s agenda in Bucharest includes a palace, a park, and a concert hall. Palace Of The Parliament is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Cișmigiu Gardens, a notable park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Romanian Athenaeum, an enchanting concert hall, also available for your discovery today.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bucharest. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, an iconic dining spot in Bucharest. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vatra Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Control Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Wicked Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Manasia Hub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ruse in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Bucharest covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a museum, and a church. Start your adventure at Monument Of Liberty. This beloved monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Regional Historical Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Rock-hewn Churches Of Ivanovo. This beloved church offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sofia. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. 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.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, One More Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bsd 2 Ndk is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!