9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Belgrade to Sofia, City of Niš, and Timișoara
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Description
Set off on a grand 9-day Euro trip through Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. Visit multiple cities like Belgrade, Svilajnac, Sofia, and Timișoara, each offering a unique experience unlike any other.
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 Serbia, 2 nights in Romania, and 2 nights in Bulgaria.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Serbia, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Belgrade and begin your adventure from there. Explore Belgrade, Svilajnac, City of Niš, and Vršac, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Romania. Immerse yourself in the allure of Timișoara, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Bulgaria. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Sofia.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Timișoara’s Victory Square. 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria 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 9-day self-drive adventure in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Belgrade - arrival day
- Belgrade - Arrival day
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- Karađorđe's Park railway station
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Belgrade in Serbia. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Belgrade for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Serbia to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Belgrade 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 favorite among locals and travelers alike in Belgrade is the fantastic Karađorđe's Park Railway Station. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Karađorđe's Park Railway Station has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,925 reviews.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Belgrade. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Serbia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Belgrade. 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Make sure to reserve a table at Wurst Platz Bar, an iconic dining spot in Belgrade. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pub Kolonija, a popular restaurant in Belgrade. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kafana Mornar, a hidden gem nestled in Belgrade. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Monkey Bar Belgrade, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Riddle Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Srpska Kuća Vina Lokal 2 is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Your multi-country road trip in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria 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.
Day 2 – Belgrade
- Belgrade
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Drive 7 km, 58 min
- Kalemegdan
- Belgrade Fortress
- Београдски зоолошки врт
- Jevremovac Botanical Garden
- Tašmajdan
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On day 2, you will wake up in Belgrade with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Belgrade before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Kalemegdan. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 29,413 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Kalemegdan is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating Belgrade Fortress is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 44,883 travelers.
This day is also your chance to see the amazing zoo, Belgrade Zoo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,507 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.
The top-rated Botanical Garden "jevremovac", an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Belgrade considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,012 travelers.
Explore the magnificent Tašmajdan Park and discover what makes this local park and wonder one of the best attractions in Belgrade. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 20,184 travelers.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Belgrade. 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Iva New Balkan Cuisine in Belgrade by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Iva New Balkan Cuisine offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Istok, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing vietnamese cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Coco Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Svaštara Concept Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Okto Bilijar Pub 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!
Day 3 – Belgrade, Svilajnac, and Sofia
- Belgrade
- Svilajnats
- Sofia
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Drive 403 km, 4 hours 45 min
- Republic Square
- Saint Sava Temple
- Natural History Center of Srbija
- Belgrade Fortress
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On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Belgrade in Serbia. 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 2 nights.
A tour of Belgrade is not complete without a visit to the famous Republic Square. This incredible public square and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 36,496 travelers.
Make the most of your Belgrade travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful The Temple Of Saint Sava. This church and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,534 travelers.
After soaking in Belgrade’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Svilajnac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Svilajnac, it's time to take a break from the road.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Svilajnac, 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 Belgrade to Svilajnac may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Svilajnac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
In Svilajnac, the extraordinary Natural History Center Svilajnac awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,442 travelers' reviews.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Sofia. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Grijn Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cairo Relax Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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!
Day 4 – Sofia
- Sofia
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Sofia Zoo
- National Palace of Culture
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Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.
Sofia Zoo 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.
In Sofia, don’t miss South Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.
Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful National Palace Of Culture. This popular sight is an outstanding convention center, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 travelers.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Zaimov Park. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic North Park awaits. This park is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,004 visitors.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Sofia. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Make sure to book a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Urban Rebel, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – Sofia, Reduta, and City of Niš
- Sofia
- Niš
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Drive 171 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Eagles' Bridge
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. 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 City of Niš. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sofia is the fantastic Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.
Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Eagles' Bridge. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!
Join countless others in discovering the allure of Borisova Gradina Park, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 reviewers.
Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding National Theater "ivan Vazov". This performing arts theater is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 visitor reviews.
Reduta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Reduta today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Geo Milev Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,414 visitors.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in City of Niš. 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 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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Beer Garden offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Hub - Pub And Club is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Vespa Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria! 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.
Day 6 – City of Niš, Vršac, and Timișoara
- Niš
- Vršac
- Timișoara
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Drive 353 km, 4 hours 39 min
- St Sava Park
- Niš Fortress
- City Museum Vršac
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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 Timișoara, your home for 2 nights.
In City of Niš, the extraordinary St. Sava Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,335 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in City of Niš is the spectacular Niš Fortress. This attraction is a castle that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,732 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of City of Niš, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vršac may take around 3 hours 8 min. Upon your arrival in Vršac, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
A tour of Vršac is not complete without a visit to the famous City Museum Vršac. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 552 travelers.
Timișoara’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vršac behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Timișoara welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Timișoara.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Timișoara. 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.
Dine in style at Hotel Boutique Casa del Sole, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rivière Brasserie boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Homemade. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Timișoara.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Scârț, A Chill Place, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The 80's Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Pisici Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 7 – Timișoara
- Timișoara
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Drive 9 km, 34 min
- Banat Village Museum
- Liberty Square
- Victory Square
- Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
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Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Timișoara. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
Something that makes Timișoara the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Banat Village Museum, Timișoara. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,128 visitors.
The famous Libertății Square In Timișoara is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Timișoara's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 7,724 travelers have rated this incredible public square and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Timișoara is also home to the extraordinary The Old Town Of Timișoara, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 9,243 traveler reviews.
Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Victory Square. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 20,524 reviews, a visit to this wonderful public square and tourist destination is truly a great idea.
On this Timișoara exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic "three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral up close. This fascinating church and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,106 travelers is proof.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Timișoara boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Romania.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Neața Omelette Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Timișoara. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafeneaua Verde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zaza Restopub. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Timișoara.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Storia, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Charlatan's Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Timișoara. Csíki Beer House is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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!
Day 8 – Timișoara and Belgrade
- Timișoara
- Belgrade
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Drive 152 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Botanic Park
- Union Square
- Theresia Bastion
- Roses Park
- Victory Square
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On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria, 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 Timișoara in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Belgrade, where you will stay for 1 night.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Timișoara is the magnificent Botanic Park. Around 4,230 visitors have rated this excellent botanical garden and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
We also recommend you explore the amazing Piața Unirii on this leg of your adventure in Romania. This attraction is a well-known public square that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 8,805 travelers.
The remarkable Theresia Bastion is known to be one of the best places to visit in Timișoara, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,859 traveler reviews is proof.
Dive deeper into Timișoara by exploring the captivating Ion Creangă Children's Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,388 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Timișoara exploration list!
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Belgrade of your choice.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Belgrade. 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Make sure to reserve a table at „Proleћe“, an iconic dining spot in Belgrade. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Uzelac, a popular restaurant in Belgrade. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Nachos, a hidden gem nestled in Belgrade. 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 Ginger Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Negroo Caffe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tri Kralja Beer Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
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!
Day 9 – Belgrade - departure day
- Belgrade - Departure day
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- Belgrade Fortress
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On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Belgrade 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
On your last day in Serbia, take time to indulge in shopping at Belgrade’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Belgrade — Hyde Park. About 2,811 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Get a last taste of Serbia’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Belgrade 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Savor the flavors at Central Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Voulez-Vous beckons with its unique menu offerings.
The time has come to say farewell to Belgrade 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 Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria with fond memories. Safe travels!
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