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

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece 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 2 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.

Something that makes Bucharest the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding concert hall, Romanian Athenaeum. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,073 visitors.

Find your way to your hotel in Bucharest. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Romania. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, PAPILA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bucharest.

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

Your multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece 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 city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding Carol Park. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,367 reviews, this fascinating urban park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating Bucharest Fountains, a local point of interest considered one of the highlights of the city. About 9,675 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Constitution Square is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Bucharest. This extraordinary sightseeing destination and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,443 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Izvor Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 19,327 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 31,456 visitor 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 Bucharest. 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 Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, 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 Stadio Unirii, 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 Osho, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Manasia Hub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Origo. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The PUB Bucharest, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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 Bucharest in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ruse, your home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ruse, 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 Bucharest to Ruse may take around 1 hour 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ruse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Something that makes Bucharest the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,618 visitors.

The famous King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Bucharest's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 60,313 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Bucharest is also home to the extraordinary Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 18,035 traveler reviews. This stunning natural history museum and local feature draws more than 150,001 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Tineretului Park. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 37,293 reviews, a visit to this wonderful park and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Bucharest exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Children's World Park up close. This fascinating park and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,125 travelers is proof.

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 sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Ruse'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, Ruse has them.

Dine in style at Restaurant "Pontoon", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Godfather boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Imperial Restaurant (cafe-ristorante Imperial). Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ruse.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Black & White. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Frame offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bowling, another top-rated bar in the area.

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!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, 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 Pleven in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Ruse’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pleven. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 3 min. When you arrive in Pleven, it's time to take a break from the road.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Pleven, including the outstanding Skobelev Park. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,554 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Pleven is also home to the captivating Pleven Panorama, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 6,118 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pleven, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lukovit. This drive usually takes around 49 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Lukovit is not complete without a visit to the famous Zlaten Park. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,150 travelers.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mamma Mia Ltd, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Divaka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Face bar & dinner. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Thessaloniki where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thessaloniki, Greece. Your travel time is around 3 hours 36 min.

South 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 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,763 visitors.

In Sofia, don’t miss National Palace of Culture, a great convention center and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful Borisova Gradina Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,346 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This church and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,648 reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki. 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, Bulgaria, and Greece, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Thessaloniki. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Greek, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ενοχές Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vogatsikou 3, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Castra- All Day Terrace Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Apallou. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

In Thessaloniki, the extraordinary White Tower of Thessaloniki awaits. This attraction is a valued fortified tower that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,335 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 290,192 visitors every year, the amazing White Tower of Thessaloniki is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Thessaloniki is the spectacular The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos. This attraction is a point of interest that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,676 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vergina. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

Museum of the Royal Tombs at Aigai (Aegae) is a travelers’ favorite in Vergina, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,578 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Thessaloniki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Edessa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 18 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Edessa is the magnificent Waterfalls Park, Edessa. Around 19,283 visitors have rated this excellent urban park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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 Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece by rewarding yourself with a taste of Thessaloniki’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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at rOOTS, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Menta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Opsopoion Maganeiai. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Thessaloniki tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Tribeca, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kafodeio Greek. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Pulp, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece! Enjoy your evening in Thessaloniki 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 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. Today's main destinations are Thessaloniki in Greece, 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 Blagoevgrad. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Bulgaria. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Kapani. This outstanding market and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 11,618 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Kapani is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Aristotelous Square is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This square and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,159 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing square, Agias Sofias Square. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,231 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Arch of Galerius and Rotunda, an outstanding market, is one place you should visit while in Thessaloniki considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,215 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Atatürk Museum and discover what makes this local house museum and wonder one of the best attractions in Thessaloniki. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 7,650 travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Blagoevgrad. 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 Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece by rewarding yourself with a taste of Blagoevgrad’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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Tchsasovnika, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar All Stars is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Verde. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Blagoevgrad tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at BeFree. Alternatively, go to Swing, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Найс плейс provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lovech in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Lovech’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bistritsa behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min. Lovech welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A tour of Lovech is not complete without a visit to the famous Covered Bridge. This incredible bridge and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,683 travelers.

Make the most of your Lovech travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Vasil Levski Museum, Lovech. This architectural structure and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 587 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blagoevgrad and set your GPS to Bistritsa. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Bistritsa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

In Bistritsa, the extraordinary Rila awaits. This attraction is a valued urban park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,899 travelers' reviews.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Romania's delectable cuisine at one of Veliko Tarnovo'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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "Ethno", an iconic dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Bell, a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Burger and Sweets "Асеневци", a hidden gem nestled in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and Pantelimon in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bucharest, your home 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 Romania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pantelimon may take around 3 hours 1 min. Upon your arrival in Pantelimon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Veliko Tarnovo, the extraordinary Monument of Mother Bulgaria awaits. This attraction is a valued sightseeing destination that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,765 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 4,637 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Tsarevets Fortress. This local sightseeing destination and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,802 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Tarnovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pantelimon, Romania. Your travel time is around 3 hours 1 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Pantelimon, including the outstanding Ferma Animalelor. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,389 reviews, this fascinating zoo and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

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, Bulgaria, and Greece.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Romanian Craft Beer, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider 18Lounge, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arcade Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Zeppelin Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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 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, Bulgaria, and Greece. 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, the city’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. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Romania forever.

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, Bulgaria, and Greece.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Terasa Baraka, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Shift? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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, Bulgaria, and Greece with fond memories. Safe travels!