11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Bucharest to Brasov, Ruse, Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna

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 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Bucharest — King Mihai I Park. About 60,835 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is another top sight in Bucharest 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 18,249 visitors.

"dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden is a spectacular botanical garden and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Bucharest, earning an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,898 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Izvor Park. Because of its allure and charm, around 19,456 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Constitution Square. Echoing its popularity, 19,690 travelers have awarded this famous public square and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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.

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

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

As the night falls in Bucharest, 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.

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.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding Tineretului Park. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,528 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating "children's World" Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 11,212 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Carol Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Bucharest. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,604 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Bucharest Fountains will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing art installation 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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Origo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Pub Bucharest is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 city center, or simply relaxing.

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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brasov is the magnificent Tâmpa. Around 18,971 visitors have rated this excellent mountain range and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Brașov City Hall on this leg of your adventure in Romania. This attraction is a well-known public square that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 16,872 travelers.

The remarkable Nicolae Titulescu Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Brasov, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,010 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Brasov by exploring the captivating Parcul Sportiv. With a stellar average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,855 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Brasov exploration list!

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Viva la Vida Bistro-Hostel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Opus 9 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Romantik. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brasov tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Kasho Lounge, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Karma Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Street Cafe 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Pleven in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ruse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pleven. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Pleven is the magnificent Pleven Water Cascades And Fountains. Around 2,309 visitors have rated this excellent sculpture garden and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Skobelev Park on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 3,569 travelers.

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 50 min. Upon your arrival in Lukovit, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Zlaten Park. This outstanding point of interest and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 3,316 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Zlaten Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Panega Eco Trail is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This hiking area and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,509 travelers.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Sofia. 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 Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Grijn Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar National is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

On day 8 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Sofia — Zaimov Park. About 15,334 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular South Park is another top sight in Sofia that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 visitors.

Borisova Gradina Park is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Because of its allure and charm, around 20,088 visitors have rated this attraction and church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of National Theater "ivan Vazov". Echoing its popularity, 9,932 travelers have awarded this famous performing arts theater and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Plovdiv. 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'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 Plovdiv. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

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

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

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

Singing Fountain is a travelers’ favorite in Plovdiv, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 visitors.

In Plovdiv, don’t miss “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Plovdiv off your list when you visit the wonderful Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This popular sight is an outstanding archeological site, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burgas. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

The Sea Garden is a travelers’ favorite in Burgas, 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 35,099 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pizza Selena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Three Dolphins. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Varna 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 Varna, the extraordinary Sea Garden awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Varna is the spectacular Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This attraction is a church that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,169 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Madara. Your travel time is around 53 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Madara is the magnificent Madara Horseman. Around 6,528 visitors have rated this excellent archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madara, 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 Bucharest may take around 2 hours 55 min. Upon your arrival in Bucharest, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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 Romania and Bulgaria.

Dine in style at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Stadio Unirii. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Zeppelin Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Celebrate day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!