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

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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bucharest today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding King Mihai I Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,835 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This incredible attraction and museum holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 18,249 visitors. Up to 150,001 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

According to travelers in Bucharest, the extraordinary Carol Park is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,604 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, "children's World" Park. Up to 11,212 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, Tineretului Park. This attraction is rated an average 4.5 out of 5 stars among 37,528 visitors.

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.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Romania's delectable cuisine at one of Bucharest's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Control Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Wicked Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Manasia Hub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the night falls in Bucharest, 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 - Bucharest in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Craiova where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated concert hall and attraction in Bucharest — Romanian Athenaeum. About 14,475 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Cișmigiu Gardens is another top sight in Bucharest that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,510 visitors.

Izvor Park is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Bucharest, earning an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 19,456 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Constitution Square. Because of its allure and charm, around 19,690 visitors have rated this attraction and public square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of "dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden. Echoing its popularity, 13,898 travelers have awarded this famous botanical garden and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of 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.

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

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.

Take in the ambiance of Craiova 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 4 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 Craiova in Romania and Vidin in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in City of Niš, where you will stay for 2 nights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Craiova, including the outstanding Nicolae Romanescu Park. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,275 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Craiova is also home to the captivating "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden, a local botanical garden considered one of the highlights of the city. About 8,212 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vidin, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Craiova to Vidin may take around 1 hour 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vidin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Baba Vida Fortress is a travelers’ favorite in Vidin, 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 6,272 visitors.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Beer Garden stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Hub - Pub And Club offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Vespa Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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!

Greet day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to City of Niš for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Donji Matejevac in Serbia.

A tour of City of Niš is not complete without a visit to the famous Skull Tower. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,748 travelers.

Make the most of your City of Niš travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful St. Sava Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,335 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Niš Fortress for an experience worth remembering. This local castle and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,732 visitors.

After soaking in City of Niš’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Donji Matejevac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Donji Matejevac, it's time to take a break from the road.

A tour of Donji Matejevac is not complete without a visit to the famous Čegar. This incredible battlefield and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,437 travelers.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Serbia's delectable cuisine at one of City of Niš'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 Galija, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Caribic pizza boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kafana Laki. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in City of Niš.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Industrija Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Distrikt Cafe&bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pivnica Berta provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of City of Niš in Serbia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 1 night.

Something that makes City of Niš the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, King Milan Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,548 visitors.

The famous Park Čair is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of City of Niš's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 6,609 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

City of Niš is also home to the extraordinary Church Of Saint Panteleimon, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 1,745 traveler reviews.

After soaking in City of Niš’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sićevo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Sićevo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Sićevo the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding observation deck, Sićevo Panorama. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 526 visitors.

After soaking in Sićevo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ostrovitsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Ostrovitsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Nature Park Sicevo Canyon. This outstanding canyon and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 1,974 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Nature Park Sicevo Canyon is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia'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, Sofia has them.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Grijn Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cairo Relax Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar National ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the night falls in Sofia, 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.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia. 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, 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 20,088 visitors.

In Sofia, don’t miss Zaimov Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful Borisova Gradina Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding South Park. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 delightful dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern "Petleto"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Bell as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Famous Bar 2, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Grill Kolata, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Veliko Tarnovo 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.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Veliko Tarnovo is the fantastic Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. As an appreciated monument and local gem in the area, Monument Of Mother Bulgaria has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,801 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Marno Pole Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,692 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Park "sveta Gora", 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 4,821 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Tsarevets Fortress. This castle is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,913 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Trapezitsa Fortress, a popular archeological site and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 2,202 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

Dine in style at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Aubergine Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out SkyBar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Origo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Pub Bucharest provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!