5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Bucharest to Sofia

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Get ready for an exhilarating 5-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Romania and Bulgaria and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Romania and 1 night in Bulgaria.

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, 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 Sofia and Ruse, where every street tells a story.

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 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 5-day self-drive adventure in 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 Romania and Bulgaria.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Lipscani
King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CARomanian AthenaeumCișmigiu GardensPalace of the ParliamentConstitution SquareCotroceni
Park "Zaimov"St Alexander Nevsky CathedralNational Palace of Culture
Rock-Hewn Churches of IvanovoRegional Historical MuseumFountain at Freedom squareMonument of Liberty
Calea Victoriei

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bucharest - Arrival day
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  • Lipscani
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania and Bulgaria 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.

Bucharest is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Lipscani, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, PAPILA is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Complex Herăstrău. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bucharest tonight.

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 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.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bucharest
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • Cișmigiu Gardens
  • Palace of the Parliament
  • Constitution Square
  • Cotroceni
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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.

Cotroceni is a fantastic place you can explore today in Bucharest. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Bucharest-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Bucharest on today’s itinerary. First up is the astonishing park, King Mihai I Park. Afterward, continue to Romanian Athenaeum, a concert hall every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bucharest’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Cișmigiu Gardens. This well-known park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Palace Of The Parliament, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Constitution Square, a popular public square in the city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vatra Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Control Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Wicked Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Manasia Hub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take in the ambiance of Bucharest 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 3

Day 3

  • Bucharest
  • Sofia
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Drive 390 km, 5 hours 49 min

  • Park "Zaimov"
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • National Palace of Culture
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia in Bulgaria. 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 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bucharest, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Zaimov Park, a well-known park in the city. Then, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and soak in the ambiance of this stunning church.

There are many interesting places to see in Bucharest, and when you are ready for more, go to National Palace Of Culture. This is one of the city’s most well-known photogenic spots of interest.

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.

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 and Bulgaria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Sofia’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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

Celebrate day 3 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 4

Day 4

  • Sofia
  • Bucharest
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Drive 398 km, 5 hours 49 min

  • Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo
  • Regional Historical Museum
  • Fountain at Freedom square
  • Monument of Liberty
  • More

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across 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 Ivanovo in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sofia, including a church, a museum, a public square, a monument and much more! Start your day at Rock-hewn Churches Of Ivanovo. This stunning church is an increasingly popular place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Regional Historical Museum. If eye-catching sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Fountain At Freedom Square. This grand public square is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Monument Of Liberty is an up-and-coming spot in the region that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Origo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Pub Bucharest offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bucharest. Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 5

Day 5

  • Bucharest - Departure day
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  • Calea Victoriei
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On day 5 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 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 Romania, take time to indulge in shopping at Bucharest’s popular marketplace, AFI Cotroceni. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Calea Victoriei, a street that captures the true essence of Bucharest. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

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 and Bulgaria.

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

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