One-Week Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria from Bucharest to Brasov, Ruse, and Shumen

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 3 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 region’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 region 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 13,801 visitors.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Bucharest. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the region.

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 region’s most popular bars.

Plan ahead and secure a table at PAPILA, an acclaimed dining establishment in Bucharest. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 805 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Caru' cu bere while experiencing the best of Bucharest. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 30,392 discerning diners.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, QP Pub. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 921 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Zeppelin Pub. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 585 customers.

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.

On day 2, you will wake up in Bucharest with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights 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 Constitution Square. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,305 reviews, this fascinating point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating Izvor Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the region. About 19,208 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.3 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Cișmigiu Gardens 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,761 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum will inspire you as it does to more than 150,001 travelers every year. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing natural history museum and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,850 reviews.

Soak in Bucharest's rich culture at the fantastic King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Bucharest is its overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 59,946 visitor reviews.

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.

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 region’s most recommended bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Hanu' lui Manuc, an iconic dining spot in Bucharest. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 11,726 satisfied guests.

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 region center, or simply just relaxing.

Day 3 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 region for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In Bucharest, the extraordinary "Dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,482 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Bucharest is the spectacular Carol Park. This attraction is an urban park that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,167 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Tineretului Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,054 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Children's World Park is another attraction you might want to add to your Bucharest exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,014 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park. More than a popular park and attraction, Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Bucharest. Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,317 traveler reviews.

While in Bucharest, take the chance to join a popular tour to experience something one-of-a-kind during your getaway in Romania. Check out all the tours Bucharest offers, and personalize your vacation package to your preferences for an amazing day in the region.

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.

Reserve your spot at Excalibur, a popular local restaurant in Bucharest. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,700 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Control Club, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,063 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Romanian Craft Beer. It is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 customers.

Distrikt 42 is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,865 customers.

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 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bucharest in Romania. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brasov, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bucharest, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brasov. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 39 min.

Bucharest, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. We highly recommend checking out its popular attractions.

Ferma Animalelor is a travelers’ favorite in Bucharest, 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 6,297 visitors.

In Bucharest, don’t miss Cernica monastery, a great monastery and place to see in the region. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,058 reviews.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the region!

Bucharest has something for every interest and travel budget.

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

Book a table at Dei Frati, a famous dining establishment in Brasov. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 3,030 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Brasov is La Birou Bistro, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.8 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 968 satisfied customers.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Brasov, Tipografia. This famous place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,566 customers.

Another trendy bar is Deane's. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 5,019 customers.

As the night falls in Brasov, 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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Brasov in Romania and Ruse 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 Ruse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Tâmpa. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 18,855 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Tâmpa is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Brașov city hall is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This building and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,011 travelers.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Ruse, Bulgaria. This car ride takes around 4 hours 9 min.

Prepare for a great time when you reach Brasov. While in Brasov, you’ll soak in Romania’s rich culture while exploring its wonderful attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Brasov, including the outstanding Tâmpa. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,855 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Brasov is also home to the captivating Brașov city hall, a local building considered one of the highlights of the city. About 16,011 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

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.

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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Ruse. 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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Happy Bar & Grill, an acclaimed dining establishment in Ruse. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 6,967 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Chiflika while experiencing the best of Ruse. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,542 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Terassa, an elegant culinary destination in Ruse. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,027 previous guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Планет фууд, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Ruse. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,078 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular hype, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Tavern "Pri Galka", one of the top-rated bars in Ruse, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 566 satisfied customers.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 - Varna in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Shumen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Ruse’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Shumen. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 3 hours 19 min.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Varna in Romania by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Shumen’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Shumen'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, Shumen has them.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Barbarossa Beach Club. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Shumen boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 1,743 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Shumen is Primo Bar & Grill. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,308 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Vienna garden, in Shumen. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,079 satisfied customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Shumen. At BACARDI CLUB, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,210 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Zino Club, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 646 reviews.

СПОРТЕН БАР И ГРИЛ "РЕФЕРИТЕ" is also one of the best places in Shumen where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 285 customers.

Celebrate day 6 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 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Shumen in Bulgaria and Bucharest in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bucharest. Bucharest will be your home for 1 night.

In Shumen, the extraordinary Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,219 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Shumen is the spectacular Park Kyoshkovete. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,424 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Madara Horseman. This local sightseeing destination and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,348 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park is another attraction you might want to add to your Shumen exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,445 reviews.

Feel the freedom as you navigate your way from Shumen to Bucharest, Romania. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 56 min without stops.

While in Shumen, take the chance to join a popular tour to experience something one-of-a-kind during your getaway in Romania. Check out all the tours Shumen offers, and personalize your vacation package to your preferences for an amazing day in the city.

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.

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.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to The PUB Bucharest, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, The PUB Bucharest has charmed many with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,495 happy guests.

Take in the ambiance of Bucharest 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 8 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.

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 9,393 reviews, this fascinating point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.

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