7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Bucharest to Brasov and Ruse
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Description
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Bucharest, Bran, Brasov, and Ruse sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
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 4 nights in Romania and 2 nights 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, Bran, Brasov, and Sinaia, 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 Ruse, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Ruse’s Monument Of Liberty. 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bucharest - Arrival day
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- Bucharest Fountains
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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.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding Bucharest Fountains. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,326 reviews, this fascinating art installation and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? PAPILA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Complex Herăstrău. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Vintage Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Newton Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Qp Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
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
- Bucharest
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Drive 29 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
- Tineretului Park
- "Carol I" Park
- “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History
- King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
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On day 2, 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.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bucharest today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,714 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Tineretului Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 37,528 visitors.
According to travelers in Bucharest, the extraordinary Carol Park is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,604 visitors.
As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible museum, Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. Up to 150,001 people visit this attraction every year, and around 18,249 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular park, King Mihai I Park. This attraction is rated an average 4.6 out of 5 stars among 60,835 visitors.
Bring home unique finds from Bucharest's bustling shopping hub, Băneasa Shopping City. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Băneasa Shopping City offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, 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 Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, 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 Vatra Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Control Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Wicked Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Manasia Hub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Bucharest
- Bran
- Brasov
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Drive 221 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Cișmigiu Gardens
- Izvor Park
- Constitution Square
- Bran Castle
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Bucharest in Romania, 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 Brasov. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
In Bucharest, the extraordinary Cișmigiu Gardens awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,510 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Bucharest is the spectacular Izvor Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 19,456 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Constitution Square. This local public square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,690 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bucharest, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bran. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Bran is the magnificent Bran Castle. Around 93,196 visitors have rated this excellent castle and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bran, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brasov. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Brasov’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
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 Brasov’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 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 dinner by heading to Musik Cafe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Michele Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Juno Wine Garden is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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!
Day 4
- Brasov
- Sinaia
- Ruse
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Drive 274 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Tâmpa
- The Council Square
- Dimitrie Ghica Park
- Peleș Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Romania and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Brasov in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Ruse where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.
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.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sinaia. This car ride takes around 55 min.
Dimitrie Ghica Park is a travelers’ favorite in Sinaia, 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 15,720 visitors.
In Sinaia, don’t miss Peleș Castle, a great castle and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 62,721 reviews.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Ruse of your choice.
As the sun sets on day 4 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 Bulgaria 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.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Pontoon", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro "Lake" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Godfather. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ruse tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Black & White, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Frame is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bowling offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 5
- Ruse
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Drive 111 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Lipnik
- EcoMuseum
- Regional Historical Museum
- Orlova Chuka Cave
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On day 5 of your European tour in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Ruse, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ruse for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ruse in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Something that makes Ruse the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Lipnik Forest Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,416 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 1,205 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 1,521 traveler reviews.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dve Mogili. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ruse, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dve Mogili may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Dve Mogili, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Dve Mogili is the magnificent Orlova Chuka Cave. Around 2,014 visitors have rated this excellent cave and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
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.
Savor the flavors at Chinese fast food "Undying Fire", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Imperial Restaurant (cafe-ristorante Imperial) beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kapana. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ruse tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Za Razbirachi Craft Beer Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Hype, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, P. R. Cocktail Bar (piar) also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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!
Day 6
- Ruse
- Bucharest
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 36 min
- Monument of Liberty
- Fountain in front of the Opera House
- Pantheon of National Revival Heroes
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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, Ruse 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.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Ruse — Monument Of Liberty. About 2,688 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
The popular Fountain In Front Of The Opera House is another top sight in Ruse that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved point of interest in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 266 visitors.
Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes is a spectacular monument and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Ruse, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,080 enchanted visitors.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Bucharest. 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 Bucharest'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 dinner at Restaurant Bucătărașul, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Aubergine Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at SkyBar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bucharest.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Origo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Pub Bucharest offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bucharest. Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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!
Day 7
- Bucharest - Departure day
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- Romanian Athenaeum
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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 AFI Cotroceni. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Romania.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding Romanian Athenaeum. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 14,475 reviews, this fascinating concert hall and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
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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