7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Bucharest to Brasov and Sofia

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Cityscape view across Dambovita river city of Bucharest.
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Set off on a grand 7-day Euro trip through Romania and Bulgaria. Visit multiple cities like Bucharest, Sinaia, Brasov, Sofia, and Veliko Tarnovo, each offering a unique experience unlike any other.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 5 nights in Romania and 1 night in Bulgaria.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Romania, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Bucharest and begin your adventure from there. Explore Bucharest, Sinaia, Brasov, Bran, and Rasnov, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Bulgaria. Immerse yourself in the allure of Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo, where every street tells a story.

From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 7-day self-drive adventure in Romania and Bulgaria. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Romania and Bulgaria.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Romanian Athenaeum
King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CACișmigiu GardensPalace of the ParliamentConstitution SquareCotroceniCalea Victoriei
Peleș CastleSinaia MonasteryDimitrie Ghica ParkAdventure Park BrasovParcul Nicolae Titulescu
Bran CastleValea Cetatii CaveTâmpaRope StreetBlack ChurchThe Council Square
Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-MakerSt George Rotunda ChurchBanya Bashi Mosque
Tower of BaldwinTsarevets FortressAscension Cathedral
Lipscani

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bucharest - Arrival day
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  • Romanian Athenaeum
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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 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.

Bucharest is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Romanian Athenaeum, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Vintage Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Newton Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Qp Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bucharest
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 17 min

  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • Cișmigiu Gardens
  • Palace of the Parliament
  • Constitution Square
  • Cotroceni
  • Calea Victoriei
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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.

Don’t miss Cotroceni in Bucharest today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Calea Victoriei, another street that adds to the charm of Bucharest.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bucharest, including a park, a palace, and a public square. Start your adventure at King Mihai I Park. This astonishing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cișmigiu Gardens located in Bucharest for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Palace Of The Parliament. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Constitution Square. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this public square.

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.

Savor the flavors at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vatra Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bucharest tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Control Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Wicked Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Manasia Hub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bucharest
  • Brasov
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Drive 193 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Peleș Castle
  • Sinaia Monastery
  • Dimitrie Ghica Park
  • Adventure Park Brasov
  • Parcul Nicolae Titulescu
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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 Sinaia in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brasov, your home for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bucharest. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a monastery, a park, an adventure park and much more! Begin your adventure at Peleș Castle. This is an astonishing castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Sinaia Monastery, a locally renowned monastery in Bucharest.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dimitrie Ghica Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Adventure Park Brasov, another of the town’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Nicolae Titulescu Park, a stunning place of interest in the town.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Brasov. 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 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 dining experience at Cucinino Pasta Bar, a popular restaurant in Brasov. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brasov at Am Rosenanger, 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 La Birou Bistro. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brasov tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Musik Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Michele Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Juno Wine Garden is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Brasov
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Drive 72 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Bran Castle
  • Valea Cetatii Cave
  • Tâmpa
  • Rope Street
  • Black Church
  • The Council Square
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip through Romania and Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bran in Romania. With 1 night left in Brasov, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Brasov, including a castle, a cave, a mountain range, a street, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day at Bran Castle. This enchanting castle is a widely recognized place to see in Brasov. Then, wander over to Valea Cetatii Cave. If enchanting sites excite you, this cave will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Tâmpa. This eye-catching mountain range is a favorite among visitors.

Brasov offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Rope Street is an intriguing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the street, don’t forget to check out the heritage-rich Black Church (romania). Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this frequently visited church. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Brasov's top attractions with a visit to Brașov City Hall.

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 wonderful meal at Viva la Vida Bistro-Hostel, a top-rated dining spot in Brasov. If you're in the mood for something new, try Opus 9, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Romantik. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brasov.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kasho Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Karma Lounge offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Street Cafe is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Brasov
  • Sofia
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Drive 578 km, 7 hours 53 min

  • Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
  • St George Rotunda Church
  • Banya Bashi Mosque
  • More

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Brasov, including a church and a mosque. Start your day at Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This instagrammable church is a worthwhile place to see in Brasov. Then, wander over to Ancient Orthodox Rounda Church "saint George" (4th Century). If monumental sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Banya Bashi Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is a favorite among visitors.

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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Sofia’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 Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia
  • Bucharest
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Drive 404 km, 5 hours 53 min

  • Tower of Baldwin
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Ascension Cathedral
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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bucharest, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Tower Of Baldwin, a beloved castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Tsarevets Fortress, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension. This church is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

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

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 and Bulgaria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bucharest’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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Origo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Pub Bucharest, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bucharest - Departure day
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  • Lipscani
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On day 7 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.

Make the most of your final day in Romania by visiting Bucharest’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Piata Victoriei. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Romania. Savor your final moments in Romania at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Lipscani, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Bucharest. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Stadio Unirii.

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

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