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

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania and Bulgaria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region 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 region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Bucharest is the fantastic Bucharest Fountains. As an appreciated sightseeing destination and local gem in the area, Bucharest Fountains has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,393 reviews.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Bucharest. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bucharest. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Romania 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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit PAPILA. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Bucharest has received a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from around 805 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Caru' cu bere should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Bucharest, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,392 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at QP Pub, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. QP Pub boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 921 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Zeppelin Pub, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Zeppelin Pub has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 585 customers.

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.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Bucharest. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the region for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bucharest is the magnificent King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA. Around 59,946 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest on this leg of your adventure in Romania. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 10,399 travelers.

The remarkable Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is known to be one of the best places to visit in Bucharest, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,850 traveler reviews is proof. Attracting more than 150,001 visitors in a single year, it's clear that the wonderful Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is a perfect add-on to your itinerary.

Dive deeper into Bucharest by exploring the captivating "Dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden. With a stellar average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,482 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Bucharest exploration list!

Get a more in-depth understanding of Bucharest by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Bucharest.

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

Reserve your spot at Restaurant Hanu' lui Manuc, a popular local restaurant in Bucharest. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 11,726 satisfied guests.

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

On day 3, you will wake up in Bucharest with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Bucharest before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Romania and Bulgaria.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Children's World Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 11,014 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Children's World Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Children's Town Bucharest is another of the region's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This amusement park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 23,656 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Tineretului Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,054 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Bucharest, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Bucharest.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along 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 Bucharest. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Excalibur, an acclaimed dining establishment in Bucharest. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,700 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Control Club, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,063 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Romanian Craft Beer. It is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 customers.

Distrikt 42 is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,865 customers.

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 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 Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brasov, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bucharest today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Romanian Athenaeum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,801 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Cișmigiu Gardens. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to 36,761 visitors.

According to travelers in Bucharest, the extraordinary Izvor Park is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 19,208 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible point of interest, Constitution Square. Up to 19,305 visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular park, Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park. This attraction is rated an average 4.7 out of 5 stars among 31,317 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brasov. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Bucharest, Romania.

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

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at Dei Frati, an acclaimed dining establishment in Brasov. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 3,030 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of La Birou Bistro while experiencing the best of Brasov. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 968 discerning diners.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Tipografia. This famous bar in Brasov has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,566 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Deane's. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Deane's has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,019 customers.

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 5 of your great European road trip in Romania and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Brasov for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brasov is the fantastic Tâmpa. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Tâmpa has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,855 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Rope Street. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,219 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Brașov city hall, a standout building and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,011 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Parcul Nicolae Titulescu. This park is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,848 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Brașov Zoo, a popular zoo and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 14,422 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Brasov in Romania by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Brasov’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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

Make sure to book a table at Ograda, a popular restaurant in Brasov. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 634 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Sergiana during your stay in Brasov. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 11,397 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Kasho Lounge, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Kasho Lounge boasts an impressive 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,452 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Jamaica, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Jamaica has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,681 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Aftăr Stube. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5-star from 1,681 customers.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Brasov in Romania and Ruse in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Ruse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Brasov to the enchanting landscapes of Sinaia. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 1 hour 35 min without traffic disruptions.

Brasov, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. We highly recommend checking out its popular attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Brasov — Bran Castle. About 91,758 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Ruse’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brasov behind. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 14 min.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Romania, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Brasov's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Brasov.

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

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Happy Bar & Grill, a distinguished dining establishment in Ruse. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 6,967 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Ruse is Chiflika. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,542 happy diners.

Terassa stands out as a local favorite in Ruse. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,027 customers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Планет фууд, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Планет фууд has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,078 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at hype, a crowd-favorite. Around 751 customers have rated their experience at hype an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Tavern "Pri Galka" belongs to the list of the best bars in Ruse, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 566 bar-goers.

Take in the ambiance of Ruse 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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Ruse 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 2 nights.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Monument of Liberty. This outstanding monument and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 2,633 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Monument of Liberty is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating EcoMuseum is another of the region's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This museum and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,158 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing museum, Regional Historical Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,478 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ruse and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. 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 1 hour 55 min.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Romania. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Ruse itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful region.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Romania extra special!

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. 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.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along 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 Veliko Tarnovo. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Reserve a table at Restaurant Asenevtsi, a renowned restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,457 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at VkusoteriA while in Veliko Tarnovo. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 993 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One"), a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 8,818 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Bianko. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,466 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Lino Bar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,358 customers.

Tequila Bar Funky Monkey cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 493 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.7 out of 5 stars average rating.

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.

Day 8 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Veliko Tarnovo, including the outstanding Hotnitsa Waterfall. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,377 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Veliko Tarnovo is also home to the captivating Marno Pole Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 4,606 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Monument of Mother Bulgaria is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Veliko Tarnovo. This extraordinary point of interest and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,742 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Park "Sveta Gora" will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,769 reviews.

Soak in Veliko Tarnovo's rich culture at the fantastic Tsarevets Fortress. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,718 visitor reviews.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Romania, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Veliko Tarnovo's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Veliko Tarnovo.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Veliko Tarnovo’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 a reservation at Restaurant Ego 1, a popular dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,561 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town while indulging in the charm of Veliko Tarnovo. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, cherished by 3,580 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Pizzeria "SPS", a treasured establishment in Veliko Tarnovo. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,455 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Sammy's Bar, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Sammy's Bar has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 524 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Cybar, a crowd-favorite. Around 160 customers have rated their experience at Cybar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Ristretto belongs to the list of the best bars in Veliko Tarnovo, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 153 bar-goers.

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 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Gabrovo in Bulgaria and Bucharest in Romania. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bucharest, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bucharest in Romania. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Romania. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 55 min.

To make your fun escapade in Gabrovo, Romania even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Bucharest. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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 region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Romania and Bulgaria.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to The PUB Bucharest, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, The PUB Bucharest has charmed many with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,495 happy guests.

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 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.

On your last day in Romania, take time to indulge in shopping at Bucharest’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, region’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Romania. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable University Square. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 6,542 travelers, a visit to the remarkable University Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

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.

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!