9-Day Road Trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia from Bucharest to Craiova, City of Niš, Sofia, and Veliko Tarnovo

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.

A tour of Bucharest is not complete without a visit to the famous "Children's World" Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,212 travelers.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bucharest. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Romania. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

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.

On day 2, you will wake up in Bucharest with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Bucharest before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,870 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating King Mihai I Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 60,835 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Arcul de Triumf Bucharest is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Bucharest. This extraordinary triumphal arch and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,562 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 18,249 reviews.

Soak in Bucharest's rich culture at the fantastic Tineretului Park. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Bucharest is its overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,528 visitor reviews.

As the sun sets on day 2 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.

Savor the flavors at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vatra Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bucharest tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Control Club. Alternatively, go to Wicked Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 Bucharest in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Craiova, your home for 1 night.

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.

The fascinating Cișmigiu Gardens is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,510 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Izvor Park. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 19,456 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Constitution Square, an outstanding concert hall, is one place you should visit while in Bucharest considering its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,690 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Carol Park and discover what makes this local urban park and wonder one of the best attractions in Bucharest. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 16,604 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Craiova. This car ride takes around 3 hours 13 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hotel Bavaria, a top-rated dining spot in Craiova. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mode Cafe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Essenza Bar & Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Craiova.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tipsy, known for its inviting atmosphere. Miky's Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gelateria SCENA provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Craiova in Romania, and Kula in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in City of Niš, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Craiova is the fantastic Craiova's Old Town. As an appreciated sightseeing destination and local gem in the area, Craiova's Old Town has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,071 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.

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.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in City of Niš. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Serbia 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 delicious dinner at Zlatkovic, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kafana Skadarlija offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Flert. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in City of Niš.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Beer Garden. Alternatively, go to The Hub - pub and club, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Vespa Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Wake up and see what day 5 of your great European road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia has in store for you! You will be staying in City of Niš for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One place travelers keep coming back to in City of Niš is the magnificent Park Čair. Around 6,609 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing St. Sava Park on this leg of your adventure in Serbia. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 10,335 travelers.

The remarkable Skull Tower 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 4,748 traveler reviews is proof.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in City of Niš. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Serbia 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Галија, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Caribic pizza offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kafana Laki is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in City of Niš.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Industrija Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Distrikt cafe&bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Pivnica Berta, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in City of Niš, 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.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in City of Niš today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding King Milan Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,548 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Nazi Concentration Camp "Red Cross”. This incredible attraction and point of interest holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 1,388 visitors.

According to travelers in City of Niš, the extraordinary Niš Fortress is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,732 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible church, Church of Saint Panteleimon. Up to 1,745 visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Upon your arrival in Ostrovitsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Something that makes Ostrovitsa the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Nature Park Sicevo Canyon. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,974 visitors.

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 day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Sofia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Dine in style at Hotel Forum, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mamma Mia Ltd. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Halbite Beer Hall, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Lime Cafe & Cocktails provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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!

On day 7 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. Around 20,088 visitors have rated this excellent church and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Zaimov Park on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 15,334 travelers.

The remarkable Borisova Gradina Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating South Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Veliko Tarnovo'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 "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Grill Kolata offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Veliko Tarnovo. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are Veliko Tarnovo 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.

Something that makes Veliko Tarnovo the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding sightseeing destination, Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,801 visitors.

The famous Marno Pole Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Veliko Tarnovo's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 4,692 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Veliko Tarnovo is also home to the extraordinary Tsarevets Fortress, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 11,913 traveler reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Veliko Tarnovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Romania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pantelimon may take around 3 hours 1 min. Upon your arrival in Pantelimon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Tarnovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pantelimon, Romania. Your travel time is around 3 hours 1 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Pantelimon, including the outstanding Ferma Animalelor. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,474 reviews, this fascinating zoo and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Aubergine Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is SkyBar. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bucharest tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Origo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The PUB Bucharest is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 9 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.

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

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Bucharest — "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. About 33,714 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

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