One-Week Road Trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia from Bucharest to Craiova, City of Niš, and Pleven

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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Bucharest, Craiova, Kula, Karlukovo, and City of Niš 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 4 nights in Romania, 1 night in Bulgaria, and 2 nights in Serbia.

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 Craiova, 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 Kula, Karlukovo, Lukovit, and Pleven, where every street tells a story.

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

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Kula’s Fortress "castra Martis" and City of Niš's iconic Niš Fortress. 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 Serbia 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 Serbia. 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 Serbia.

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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  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia 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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bucharest today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Romanian Athenaeum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,475 visitors.

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.

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 city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Vintage Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Newton Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Qp Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Your multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia 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

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 16 km, 51 min

  • "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum
  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • The Triumphal Arch
  • “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History
  • "Carol I" Park
  • More

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Bucharest. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A tour of Bucharest is not complete without a visit to the famous Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,870 travelers.

Make the most of your Bucharest travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful King Mihai I Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 60,835 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Arcul De Triumf Bucharest for an experience worth remembering. This local triumphal arch and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,562 visitors.

Another stop we recommend you add to your Bucharest sightseeing list is the remarkable natural history museum, Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. Sought after by many travelers from around the world, Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,249 visitors. More than 150,001 people visit this impressive attraction annually.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Carol Park. This amazing site is a wonderful urban park with more than 16,604 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average 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, Bulgaria, and Serbia.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vatra Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bucharest tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Control Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wicked Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bucharest, and Craiova

  • Craiova
  • Bucharest
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Drive 250 km, 4 hours 17 min

  • Tineretului Park
  • Children's World Park
  • Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
  • Izvor Park
  • More

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

Something that makes Bucharest the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Tineretului Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,528 visitors.

The famous "children's World" Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Bucharest's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 11,212 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Bucharest is also home to the extraordinary "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 33,714 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Constitution Square. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 19,690 reviews, a visit to this wonderful point of interest and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Bucharest exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Izvor Park up close. This fascinating park and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 19,456 travelers is proof.

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

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 Craiova'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.

Dine in style at Hotel Bavaria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mode Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Essenza Bar & Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Craiova.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Tipsy, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Miky's Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Gelateria Scena 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!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Craiova, Kula, and City of Niš

  • Niš
  • Craiova
  • Kula
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Drive 258 km, 4 hours 18 min

  • Castelul Fermecat
  • Nicolae Romanescu Park
  • Fortress "Castra Martis"
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Craiova in Romania, and Kula in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in City of Niš, your home for 2 nights.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Craiova is the fantastic Castelul Fermecat. As an appreciated sightseeing destination and local gem in the area, Castelul Fermecat has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 731 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,212 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Nicolae Romanescu 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 17,275 reviewers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Craiova and set your GPS to Kula, Bulgaria. 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 1 hour 50 min. Upon reaching Kula, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of Craiova, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kula, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 1 hour 50 min.

In Kula, the extraordinary Fortress "castra Martis" awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 382 travelers' reviews.

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

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 City of Niš. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Beer Garden after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Hub - Pub And Club, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Vespa Bar 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, Bulgaria, and Serbia! Enjoy your evening in City of Niš 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 5

Day 5 – City of Niš

  • Niš
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Niš Fortress
  • King Milan Square
  • Park Čair
  • Skull Tower
  • St Sava Park
  • More

On day 5, you will wake up in City of Niš with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in City of Niš before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia.

One place travelers keep coming back to in City of Niš is the magnificent Niš Fortress. Around 15,732 visitors have rated this excellent fortress and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing King Milan Square on this leg of your adventure in Serbia. This attraction is a well-known sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 6,548 travelers.

The remarkable Park Čair is known to be one of the best places to visit in City of Niš, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,609 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into City of Niš by exploring the captivating Skull Tower. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,748 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your City of Niš exploration list!

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through City of Niš's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Serbia 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, City of Niš has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Галија, a highly-rated dining destination in City of Niš. If you're eager to try something different, consider Caribic pizza, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kafana Laki. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in City of Niš this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Industrija Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Distrikt Cafe&bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Pivnica Berta is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 6

Day 6 – City of Niš, Karlukovo, Lukovit, and Pleven

  • Pleven
  • Karlukovo
  • Lukovit
  • More

Drive 345 km, 4 hours 30 min

  • Prohodna Cave
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are Karlukovo 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 Pleven. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of City of Niš, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Karlukovo, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 3 hours 16 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated cave and attraction in Karlukovo — Prohodna. About 8,894 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Karlukovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lukovit may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Lukovit, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Panega Eco Trail is a travelers’ favorite in Lukovit, 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 3,509 visitors.

In Lukovit, don’t miss Riverside Landscape Park "panega", a great park and place to see in the village. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,319 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Lukovit off your list when you visit the wonderful Zlaten Park. This popular sight is an outstanding sightseeing destination, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,316 travelers.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Pleven. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at КОМПЛЕКС "ЗАМЪКЪТ", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria Cantonata? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Дежа Вю Пица & Ресторант as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pleven.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Momento Bar & Pizza, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sky Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Кафе-бар Бораго provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Pleven 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 7

Day 7 – Pleven, and Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • Pleven
  • More

Drive 227 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Pleven Panorama
  • Skobelev Park
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pleven 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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Pleven is the magnificent Pleven Water Cascades And Fountains. Around 2,309 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Pleven Panorama on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 6,206 travelers.

The remarkable Skobelev Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Pleven, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,569 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Pleven by exploring the captivating Kaylaka Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,480 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Pleven exploration list!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pleven, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bucharest, Romania. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Romania. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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.

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 Serbia 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.

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

Keep the evening going at Origo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Pub Bucharest, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 8

Day 8 – Bucharest - departure day

  • Bucharest - Departure day
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  • Cișmigiu Gardens
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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 Serbia. 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.

Cișmigiu Gardens 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,510 visitors.

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 Serbia.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu 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 Serbia with fond memories. Safe travels!

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