10-Day Road Trip in Romania, and Bulgaria from Bucharest to Brasov, Ruse, Sofia, and Veliko Tarnovo

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania, and Bulgaria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Bucharest in Romania. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Bucharest for 3 nights.

Catch an early flight to Romania to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Bucharest before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

In Bucharest, the extraordinary Romanian Athenaeum awaits. This attraction is a valued concert hall that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,475 travelers' reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bucharest. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As the sun sets on day 1 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, 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 PAPILA, 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 Complex Herăstrău, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Vintage Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Newton Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. QP Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Your multi-country road trip in Romania, and Bulgaria has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding King Mihai I Park. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 60,835 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 10,870 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Bucharest. This extraordinary natural history museum and tourist hot spot hosts more than 150,001 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,249 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Bucharest Fountains will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing sightseeing destination and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,326 reviews.

Soak in Bucharest's rich culture at the fantastic "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Bucharest is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,714 visitor reviews.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Control Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wicked Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Manasia Hub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Bucharest 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!

Wake up and see what day 3 of your great European road trip in Romania, and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Bucharest — Cișmigiu Gardens. About 37,510 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Izvor Park is another top sight in Bucharest that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 19,456 visitors.

Constitution Square is a spectacular point of interest and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Bucharest, earning an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,690 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Carol Park. Because of its allure and charm, around 16,604 visitors have rated this attraction and urban park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Tineretului Park. Echoing its popularity, 37,528 travelers have awarded this famous park and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Aubergine Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SkyBar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Origo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The PUB Bucharest is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti 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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bușteni in Romania. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brasov, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bucharest, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bușteni may take around 1 hour 58 min. Upon your arrival in Bușteni, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bușteni is the magnificent Caraiman Monastery. Around 12,081 visitors have rated this excellent place of worship and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Cantacuzino Castle on this leg of your adventure in Romania. This attraction is a well-known castle that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 20,212 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bran, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bușteni to Bran may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bran, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

In Bran, the extraordinary Bran Castle awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 93,196 travelers' reviews.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Romania, and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brasov. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cucinino Pasta Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Am Rosenanger offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Birou Bistro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brasov.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Musik Cafe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Michele Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, JUNO Wine Garden is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 multi-country road trip across Romania, and Bulgaria, 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 Brasov in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ruse, where you will stay for 1 night.

Something that makes Brasov the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Tâmpa. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,971 visitors.

The famous Brașov city hall is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Brasov's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 16,872 travelers have rated this incredible building and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brasov and set your GPS to Sinaia. 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 55 min. Upon reaching Sinaia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

Make the most of your Sinaia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Peleș Castle. This castle and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 62,721 travelers.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Pontoon", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Godfather is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Chinese fast food "Undying Fire". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ruse tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Romania, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Pleven in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sofia where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pleven, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ruse to Pleven may take around 2 hours 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pleven, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Pleven — Skobelev Park. About 3,569 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Pleven Panorama is another top sight in Pleven that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved museum in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,206 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pleven, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lukovit may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Lukovit, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Lukovit — Zlaten Park. About 3,316 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Lukovit, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sofia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 50 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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 sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria 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, Sofia has them.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Forum, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mamma Mia Ltd, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Halbite Beer Hall, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Take in the ambiance of Sofia 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!

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In Sofia, the extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular Eagles' Bridge. This attraction is a stone bridge that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This local church and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

National Palace of Culture is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This convention center is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,569 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — South Park. More than a popular park and attraction, South Park offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Sofia. South Park boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 traveler reviews.

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria 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, Sofia has them.

Savor the flavors at Divaka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Face bar & dinner beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Art Club Museum. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

As the night falls in Sofia, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay 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 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Sofia in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, your home for 1 night.

Zaimov Park is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.

Plovdiv’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. Plovdiv welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Plovdiv, including the outstanding Singing Fountain. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Plovdiv is also home to the captivating “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 15,537 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Plovdiv. This extraordinary point of interest and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 travelers.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Romania, and Bulgaria.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern "Petleto", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bell. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Famous Bar 2 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Grill Kolata, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Romania, and Bulgaria! 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 just relaxing.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, and Bulgaria. 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 Bucharest. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

In Veliko Tarnovo, the extraordinary Monument of Mother Bulgaria awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,801 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Veliko Tarnovo is the spectacular Marno Pole Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,692 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing State Art Gallery "Boris Denev". This local art gallery and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 261 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Park "Sveta Gora" is another attraction you might want to add to your Veliko Tarnovo exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,821 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Tsarevets Fortress. More than a popular point of interest and attraction, Tsarevets Fortress offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Veliko Tarnovo. Tsarevets Fortress boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,913 traveler reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Stadio Unirii. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bucharest tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Zeppelin Pub, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Bucharest before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Romania, and Bulgaria. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Children's World" Park is a travelers’ favorite in Bucharest, 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 11,212 visitors.

Get a last taste of Romania’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Bucharest and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Romania, and Bulgaria.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Osho, another premier location with a delectable menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Bucharest for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in Romania, and Bulgaria with fond memories. Safe travels!