7-Day Road Trip to Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Sofia in Bulgaria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Sofia for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia 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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia 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 delightful culinary experience when you dine at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Sofia boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 4,010 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Sofia is Restaurant "Staria Chinar". It has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,717 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Art Club Museum, in Sofia. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,570 satisfied customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Bar Friday, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Sofia. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 3,410 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular The Cocktail Bar, consistently rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to One More Bar, one of the top-rated bars in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 satisfied customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, 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.

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, 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.

Something that makes Sofia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding convention center, National Palace of Culture. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 visitors.

The famous South Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Sofia's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 30,763 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Sofia is also home to the extraordinary St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 19,648 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Ivan Vazov National Theater. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 9,760 reviews, a visit to this wonderful point of interest and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. Your travel time is around 2 hours 43 min.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Veliko Tarnovo’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 Veliko Tarnovo. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Restaurant Asenevtsi while you’re in Veliko Tarnovo. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,457 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Veliko Tarnovo is VkusoteriA. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 993 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Veliko Tarnovo, enjoy Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One")’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 8,818 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Bianko. This famous bar in Veliko Tarnovo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,466 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Lino Bar. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Lino Bar has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,358 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Tequila Bar Funky Monkey. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 493 customers.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and Dumbrăveni in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bucharest where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Veliko Tarnovo is the fantastic Monument of Mother Bulgaria. As an appreciated sightseeing destination and local gem in the area, Monument of Mother Bulgaria has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,765 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Tsarevets Fortress. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,802 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 4,790 reviewers.

Set your GPS to Dumbrăveni, Romania and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dumbrăveni beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Edenland Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 6,422 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Edenland Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

When you’ve had your share of Dumbrăveni, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bucharest. Your travel time is around 37 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

As the sun sets on day 3 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 region’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.

Make a reservation at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a popular dining spot in Bucharest. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,705 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at PAPILA while indulging in the charm of Bucharest. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, cherished by 805 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Caru' cu bere, a treasured establishment in Bucharest. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 30,392 satisfied guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Origo. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,167 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at QP Pub. This popular bar in Bucharest is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 921 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Zeppelin Pub. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Zeppelin Pub has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 585 reviews.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bucharest in Romania. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Craiova, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

In Bucharest, the extraordinary Constitution Square awaits. This attraction is a valued sightseeing destination that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,443 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Bucharest is the spectacular Tineretului Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,293 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,456 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Cișmigiu Gardens is another attraction you might want to add to your Bucharest exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,082 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA. More than a popular park and attraction, King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Bucharest. King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,313 traveler reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bucharest and set your GPS to Craiova. 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 3 hours 12 min. Upon reaching Craiova, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Casa Ghincea, an acclaimed dining establishment in Craiova. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,494 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Big Ben while experiencing the best of Craiova. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,194 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Epoca Steak House & Wine Bar Restaurant, an elegant culinary destination in Craiova. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,125 previous guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Soho, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 844 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Restaurant Mignon. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 702 customers.

Curtea Berarilor Craiova is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 714 customers.

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!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, 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, Vidin in Bulgaria, and City of Niš in Serbia. In the evening, you’ll end up in City of Niš, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Nicolae Romanescu Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 17,064 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Nicolae Romanescu Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,139 travelers.

Vidin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Craiova behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Vidin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Serbia, eagerly anticipating your arrival in City of Niš. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in City of Niš. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit ORAČ. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in City of Niš has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 2,732 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, MINISTARSTVO Beer Bar should be on your list. Situated in the heart of City of Niš, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,931 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Irish Pub Crazy Horse. This highly regarded restaurant in City of Niš has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 3,667 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Vespa Bar, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Vespa Bar has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,126 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Pivnica Berta, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Pivnica Berta captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,975 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Stambolijski, another local party gem in City of Niš. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,741 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of City of Niš 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of City of Niš in Serbia and Sofia in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 1 night.

A tour of City of Niš is not complete without a visit to the famous King Milan Square. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,434 travelers.

Make the most of your City of Niš travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Park Čair. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,558 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Skull Tower for an experience worth remembering. This local monument and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Niš Fortress. This amazing site is a wonderful fortress with more than 15,473 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sofia, Bulgaria. This car ride takes around 2 hours 8 min.

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.

Reserve your spot at The Wrong Bar, a popular local restaurant in Sofia. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Taj Mahal Restaurant during your stay in Sofia. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,423 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Luciano, a popular local gem in Sofia. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Sofia. At Halbite Beer Hall, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,280 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Lime Cafe & Cocktails, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,223 reviews.

5 Corners Pub is also one of the best places in Sofia where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,463 customers.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia 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 Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Get a last taste of Bulgaria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Sofia 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 Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia.

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia with fond memories. Safe travels!