9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece With Itinerary from Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo, Sofia, Thessaloniki, and Plovdiv

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Make sure to visit Cotroceni, a popular neighborhood in Bucharest. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the extraordinary King Mihai I Park, a mesmerizing park in Bucharest. Next, go to Romanian Athenaeum.

After visiting King Mihai I Park and Romanian Athenaeum, have a stroll along Bucharest's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cișmigiu Gardens. This eye-catching park offers a unique experience. Palace Of The Parliament is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Constitution Square, one of the most historic places to visit in Bucharest.

Bring home unique finds from Bucharest's bustling shopping hub, AFI Cotroceni. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, AFI Cotroceni offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Vatra Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bucharest tonight.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, your home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Trapezitsa Fortress, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Tsarevets Fortress, another must-visit landmark and interesting castle renowned for its respected features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bucharest by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Park "sveta Gora". This stunning park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bucharest experience. We also recommend visiting Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a frequently visited monument. Nearby, you'll also find Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Veliko Tarnovo boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Famous Bar 2, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take in the ambiance of Veliko Tarnovo 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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. Today's main destinations are Sofia 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is South Park. This locally renowned park is a mesmerizing place to see in Veliko Tarnovo. Continue your discovery at Boyana Church, an UNESCO world heritage-listed church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Veliko Tarnovo, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace Of Culture. This popular convention center offers a picture-perfect encounter with Veliko Tarnovo. Next, make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Banya Bashi Mosque, a curiosity-inducing mosque that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Veliko Tarnovo.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Grijn Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cairo Relax Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Bar National is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 - Thessaloniki in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Thessaloniki where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Thessaloniki Olympic Museum, a beloved museum in the city. Then, head to Kapani and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching market.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Agias Sofias Square. This is one of the city’s most interesting symbolic spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the popular Aristotelous Square.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitchen Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Greek, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Phanós. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Beetle Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Vogatsikou 3 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Souel provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 6, you will wake up in Thessaloniki with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Thessaloniki before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece.

Today's adventure in Thessaloniki promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Roman Forum Of Thessaloniki. This picture-perfect archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to White Tower Of Thessaloniki, one of the city’s most top-rated attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki. This respected museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Museum Of Byzantine Culture, an intriguing museum, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos before you head back to your hotel.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Thessaloniki'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 lovely meal at Mamalouka, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Clochard is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sofi's House Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Thessaloniki tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Apallou likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Thessaloniki, including a church, a monument, an art installation, a park and much more! Start your day at Belyova Church. This culturally significant church is an often recommended place to see in Thessaloniki. Then, wander over to Alyosha Monument. If culturally significant sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Singing Fountain. This enchanting art installation is a favorite among visitors.

Thessaloniki offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a notable spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rock Bar Download, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to North Star. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 8 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 Bucharest, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Plovdiv on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular archeological site, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Afterward, continue to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.

As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This often recommended museum is an essential stop.

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.

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 Bucharest. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Bucătărașul, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Aubergine Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss SkyBar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Origo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Pub Bucharest offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti, another top-rated bar in the area.

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!