One-Week Road Trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece from Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo, Kardzhali, Thessaloniki, Sofia, and Pleven

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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Bucharest, Pantelimon, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Thessaloniki 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 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 2 nights in Romania, 4 nights in Bulgaria, and 1 night in Greece.

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, and Pantelimon, 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 Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, Kardzhali, Sofia, Pleven, and Ruse, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Greece. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Thessaloniki.

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, Bulgaria, and Greece 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 8-day self-drive adventure in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. 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, Bulgaria, and Greece.

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

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Day 1

Day 1 – Bucharest - arrival day

  • Bucharest - Arrival day
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  • Grădina Cișmigiu
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece 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 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 city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider PAPILA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Complex Herăstrău. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Vintage Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Newton Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Qp Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Your multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece 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, and Veliko Tarnovo

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Bucharest
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Drive 200 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • "Grigore Antipa" National Museum of Natural History
  • Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
  • Youth Park
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Bucharest is the fantastic King Mihai I Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, King Mihai I Park has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 60,835 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum, which is a natural history museum that gets around 150,001 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,249 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,714 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Tineretului Park. This park is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,528 visitor reviews.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Famous Bar 2, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Grill Kolata is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece! Enjoy your evening in Veliko Tarnovo 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 3

Day 3 – Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Kardzhali

  • K'rdzhali
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 308 km, 4 hours 46 min

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, 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 Plovdiv in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kardzhali, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo and set your GPS to Plovdiv. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 43 min. Upon reaching Plovdiv, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a travelers’ favorite in Plovdiv, 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 17,893 visitors.

In Plovdiv, don’t miss Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a great sightseeing destination and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Plovdiv off your list when you visit the wonderful “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Singing Fountain. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 reviews.

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

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Kardzhali'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, Kardzhali has them.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Old Home Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Kardzhali. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Art bar & dinner, a popular restaurant in Kardzhali. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Хотел и ресторант "Градина", a hidden gem nestled in Kardzhali. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friends, known for its lively atmosphere. The Face is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, My Place - Bar Restaurant offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 – Kardzhali, and Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki
  • K'rdzhali
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Drive 321 km, 4 hours 9 min

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Kardzhali in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki, your home for 1 night.

In Kardzhali, the extraordinary Regional Museum Of History Kardzhali awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,323 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Kardzhali is the spectacular City Garden, Kardzhali. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,476 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Park Recreation And Culture Prostor. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,175 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Thessaloniki’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Thessaloniki’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, Bulgaria, and Greece.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kitchen Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Greek offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Phanós is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Thessaloniki.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beetle Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Vogatsikou 3 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Thessaloniki. Souel 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!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Thessaloniki, and Sofia

  • Sofia
  • Thessaloniki
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Drive 301 km, 4 hours 23 min

  • Aristotelous Square
  • Arch of Galerius
  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Thessaloniki in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Something that makes Thessaloniki the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Aristotelous Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,109 visitors.

The famous Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Thessaloniki's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 12,542 travelers have rated this incredible tetrapylon and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Thessaloniki is also home to the extraordinary White Tower Of Thessaloniki, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 52,379 traveler reviews. This stunning fortified tower and local feature draws more than 290,192 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 13,884 reviews, a visit to this wonderful point of interest and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Sofia. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria 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 Hotel Forum, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mamma Mia Ltd, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Halbite Beer Hall after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Lime Cafe & Cocktails for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Sofia, and Pleven

  • Pleven
  • Sofia
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Drive 192 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • National Palace of Culture (NPC)
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Pleven where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Borisova Gradina Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 27,635 visitors.

According to travelers in Sofia, the extraordinary National Palace Of Culture is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, South Park. Up to 30,985 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular park, Zaimov Park. This attraction is rated an average 4.5 out of 5 stars among 15,334 visitors.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Pleven. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Pleven. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Dine in style at КОМПЛЕКС "ЗАМЪКЪТ", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizzeria Cantonata boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Дежа Вю Пица & Ресторант. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pleven.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Momento Bar & Pizza, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sky Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Кафе-бар Бораго offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Pleven, Ruse, Pantelimon, and Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • Ruse
  • Pantelimon
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Drive 262 km, 4 hours 5 min

  • Monument of Liberty
  • Pantheon of National Revival Heroes
  • Cernica Monastery
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. Today's main destinations are Ruse in Bulgaria, and 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 Bucharest. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Pleven’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ruse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours. When you arrive in Ruse, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Ruse is the magnificent Monument Of Liberty. Around 2,688 visitors have rated this excellent monument and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Fountain In Front Of The Opera House on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 266 travelers.

The remarkable Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes is known to be one of the best places to visit in Ruse, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,080 traveler reviews is proof.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ruse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pantelimon, Romania. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Romania. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Cernica Monastery. This outstanding monastery and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 5,201 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Cernica Monastery is worth pages in your travel diary.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bucharest. 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.

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, Bulgaria, and Greece 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Vatra Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bucharest.

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.

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!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bucharest - departure day

  • Bucharest - Departure day
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  • The Romanian Athenaeum
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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, Bulgaria, and Greece. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 14,475 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, Bulgaria, and Greece.

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.

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, Bulgaria, and Greece with fond memories. Safe travels!

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