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

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 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 city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Romanian Athenaeum. This outstanding concert hall and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 14,475 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Romanian Athenaeum is worth pages in your travel diary.

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 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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Vintage Pub. Alternatively, go to Newton Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, QP Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Romania, and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Bucharest — Constitution Square. About 19,690 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Izvor Park is another top sight in Bucharest that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 19,456 visitors.

Cișmigiu Gardens is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Bucharest, earning an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,510 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. Because of its allure and charm, around 18,249 visitors have rated this attraction and natural history museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. More than 150,001 people visit this attraction each year, and today is your opportunity to be one of the lucky travelers to explore it.

Discover the allure of King Mihai I Park. Echoing its popularity, 60,835 travelers have awarded this famous park and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Control Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wicked Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Manasia Hub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the night falls in Bucharest, 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.

Greet day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Romania, and Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bucharest for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bucharest in Romania.

A tour of Bucharest is not complete without a visit to the famous Carol Park. This incredible urban park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,604 travelers.

Make the most of your Bucharest travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Tineretului Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,528 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible "Children's World" Park for an experience worth remembering. This local park and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,212 visitors.

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

Something that makes Ghighiu the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding place of worship, Orthodox Monastery Ghighiu. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,853 visitors.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Origo after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The PUB Bucharest for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 just relaxing.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Pantelimon 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.

When you’ve had your share of Bucharest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pantelimon. Your travel time is around 30 min.

A tour of Pantelimon is not complete without a visit to the famous Ferma Animalelor. This incredible zoo and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,474 travelers.

Pantelimon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bucharest behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Pantelimon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monastery and attraction in Pantelimon — Cernica monastery. About 5,201 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Bran, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brasov. Your travel time is around 31 min.

In Bran, the extraordinary Bran Castle awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 93,196 travelers' reviews.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Cucinino Pasta Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Am Rosenanger beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Birou Bistro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brasov tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Musik Cafe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Michele Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, JUNO Wine Garden also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Brasov in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ruse, your home 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 18,971 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 16,872 travelers.

After soaking in Brasov’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sinaia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 55 min. When you arrive in Sinaia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Sinaia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Dimitrie Ghica Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,720 visitors.

The famous Peleș Castle is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Sinaia's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 62,721 travelers have rated this incredible castle and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Ruse. 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Pontoon", a highly-rated dining destination in Ruse. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Godfather, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chinese fast food "Undying Fire". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ruse this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Black & White stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Frame offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bowling 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!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Kranevo in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Varna where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

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 Kranevo may take around 2 hours 39 min. Upon your arrival in Kranevo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kranevo Beach is a travelers’ favorite in Kranevo, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,079 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Balchik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Varna. Your travel time is around 40 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Balchik is the magnificent Albena. Around 2,524 visitors have rated this excellent seaside resort and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to Varna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varna beckons with new experiences!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated palace and attraction in Balchik — Balchik Palace. About 19,803 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Balchik Botanic Garden is another top sight in Balchik that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,545 visitors.

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

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vogue cafe bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cuba Beach Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar PUNTA CANA also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take in the ambiance of Varna 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 7 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 Varna in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Varna is the fantastic Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. As an appreciated eastern orthodox cathedral and local gem in the area, Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Sea Garden. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,572 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Madara. This drive usually takes around 56 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Madara is the fantastic Madara Horseman. As an appreciated point of interest and local gem in the area, Madara Horseman has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,528 reviews.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stadio Unirii. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Zeppelin Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

As the night falls in Bucharest, 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 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.

Maximize your last day in Romania and go on a shopping spree in Bucharest’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Romania.

A tour of Bucharest is not complete without a visit to the famous Bucharest Fountains. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,326 travelers.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Auchan, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Osho offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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!