6-Day Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria from Bucharest to Brasov and Ruse

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 1 night.

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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bucharest is the magnificent Cișmigiu Gardens. Around 36,761 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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.

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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in PAPILA, a distinguished dining establishment in Bucharest. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 805 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Bucharest is Caru' cu bere. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 30,392 happy diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit QP Pub, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, QP Pub has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 921 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Zeppelin Pub, a crowd-favorite. Around 585 customers have rated their experience at Zeppelin Pub an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your multi-country journey across Romania and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bucharest in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Brasov. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 59,946 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum, a local natural history museum considered one of the highlights of the region. About 17,850 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 150,001 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

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 19,305 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Tineretului Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,054 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 31,317 visitor reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Bucharest to the enchanting landscapes of Brasov. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 2 hours 35 min without traffic disruptions.

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 Bucharest's unique culture.

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

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.

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 Brasov'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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Dei Frati, a distinguished dining establishment in Brasov. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 3,030 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Brasov is La Birou Bistro. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 968 happy diners.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Brasov. At Tipografia, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,566 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Deane's, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,019 reviews.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 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 and Ruse in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ruse, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Brasov today.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brasov, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sinaia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min.

When you reach Brasov, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road and indulge in some sightseeing and adventure. Check out some of the top attractions in the region.

A tour of Brasov is not complete without a visit to the famous Bran Castle. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,758 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop in Bulgaria. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Romania’s Brasov to the enchanting landscapes of Ruse. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 4 hours 14 min without traffic disruptions.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Brasov has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Romania. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

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 Ruse. 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 book a table at Happy Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Ruse. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 6,967 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Chiflika during your stay in Ruse. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,542 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Terassa, a renowned dining destination in Ruse. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,027 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Планет фууд. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,078 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous hype. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 751 customers.

Tavern "Pri Galka" cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 566 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

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

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Romania and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Ruse for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Something that makes Ruse the perfect holiday destination is that the region offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding monument, Monument of Liberty. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,633 visitors.

The famous EcoMuseum is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Ruse's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 1,158 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Ruse is also home to the extraordinary Regional Historical Museum, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 1,478 traveler reviews.

To make your fun escapade in Ruse, 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Imperial Restaurant (cafe-ristorante Imperial) while you’re in Ruse. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 1,096 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Ruse is The River bar & dinner. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 892 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Ruse, enjoy SNACK BAR CAT’s delectable dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 731 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Za RazBIRAchi Craft Beer Bar, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Ruse. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, backed by 169 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Biga Bar, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to P. R. Cocktail Bar (Пиар), one of the top-rated bars in Ruse, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 295 satisfied customers.

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.

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Veliko Tarnovo 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ruse, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Romania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bucharest may take around 4 hours 25 min.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Romania by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of Veliko Tarnovo, immersing in local customs and meeting 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.

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.

Don't miss out on experiencing Restaurant Hanu' lui Manuc, a renowned dining spot in Bucharest. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 11,726 satisfied guests.

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 6 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.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Bucharest is the fantastic Romanian Athenaeum. As an appreciated concert hall and local gem in the area, Romanian Athenaeum has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,801 reviews.

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 6-day European road trip in Romania and Bulgaria with fond memories. Safe travels!