13-Day Road Trip in Romania and Bulgaria from Bucharest to Brasov, Hateg, Râmnicu Vâlcea, Ruse, Sofia, and Gabrovo

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania and Bulgaria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region of Bucharest in Romania. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Bucharest for 3 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 region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Find your way to your hotel in Bucharest. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Romania. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As the sun sets on day 1 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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bucharest. At Origo, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,167 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at QP Pub, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 921 reviews.

Zeppelin Pub is also one of the best places in Bucharest where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 585 customers.

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.

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 region for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

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 Bucharest. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the region’s most popular bars.

Book a table at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, a famous dining establishment in Bucharest. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 11,370 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Bucharest is Restaurant Hanu' lui Manuc, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.3 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 11,726 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Bucharest’s Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,626 satisfied diners.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Nomad Skybar, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Nomad Skybar has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 4,882 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Shift, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Shift captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 4,444 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Control Club, another local party gem in Bucharest. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,063 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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!

On day 3, 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 and Bulgaria.

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 region’s most recommended bars.

Make sure to book a table at Excalibur, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,700 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Stadio Unirii during your stay in Bucharest. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 3,146 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Romanian Craft Beer, a renowned dining destination in Bucharest. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,501 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bucharest. At Distrikt 42, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,865 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Arcade Cafe, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,781 reviews.

Haute Pepper is also one of the best places in Bucharest where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,992 customers.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Romania and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bușteni in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Brasov. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Ghighiu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bucharest behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Ghighiu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Something that makes Ghighiu the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding place of worship, Orthodox Monastery Ghighiu. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,633 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ghighiu and set your GPS to Bușteni. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Bușteni, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Brasov’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bușteni behind. This drive usually takes around 45 min. Brasov welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

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 Brasov. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Don't miss out on experiencing Old Jack, a renowned dining spot in Brasov. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 5,682 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Dei Frati while immersing yourself in Brasov. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,030 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of La Birou Bistro, a beloved dining establishment within Brasov. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 968 satisfied customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Tipografia. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,566 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Deane's. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,019 customers.

Ma Cocotte Gastro Wine Bar cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 1,825 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

As the night falls in Brasov, 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.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Brasov today.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Kashmir Brasov. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Brasov has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 800 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Ograda should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Brasov, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 634 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Sergiana. This highly regarded restaurant in Brasov has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 11,397 satisfied guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Kasho Lounge. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,452 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Jamaica. This popular bar in Brasov is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,681 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Aftăr Stube. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Aftăr Stube has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,141 reviews.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Hateg in Romania. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hateg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bran. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Set your GPS to Lisa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lisa beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lisa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Hateg. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

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 Hateg’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.

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 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 Sibiu in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Râmnicu Vâlcea, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Hateg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sibiu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive in Sibiu, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable The Bridge of Lies. This outstanding point of interest and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 20,465 travelers, a visit to the remarkable The Bridge of Lies is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating The Large Square is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This point of interest and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,200 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing protected area, Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,831 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated ASTRA Museum, an outstanding point of interest, is one place you should visit while in Sibiu considering its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,206 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Râmnicu Vâlcea, 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 Sibiu to Râmnicu Vâlcea may take around 1 hour 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Simfonia Restaurant, a distinguished dining establishment in Râmnicu Vâlcea. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 858 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Râmnicu Vâlcea is Hanul Haiducilor. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,782 happy diners.

Ristorante D'Amici stands out as a local favorite in Râmnicu Vâlcea. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,227 customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Brothers Pub, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Râmnicu Vâlcea. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,059 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular ClubWinners, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to SOHO PUB, one of the top-rated bars in Râmnicu Vâlcea, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 294 satisfied 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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Romania and Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Curtea de Argeș in Romania and Ruse 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 Ruse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Curtea de Argeș, 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 Râmnicu Vâlcea to Curtea de Argeș may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pitesti. This drive usually takes around 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of Pitesti, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ruse, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 2 hours 27 min.

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

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 Ruse'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.

Make a reservation at Happy Bar & Grill, a popular dining spot in Ruse. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 6,967 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Chiflika while indulging in the charm of Ruse. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,542 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Restaurant "Pontoon", a treasured establishment in Ruse. 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 2,347 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Планет фууд. This famous bar in Ruse has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,078 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, hype. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Hype has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 751 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Tavern "Pri Galka". 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 566 customers.

Celebrate day 8 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 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Pleven in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia. Sofia will be your home for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Pleven and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pleven beckons with new experiences!

Skobelev Park is a travelers’ favorite in Pleven, 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 3,554 visitors.

In Pleven, don’t miss Pleven Panorama, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,118 reviews.

Lukovit’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pleven behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Lukovit welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Lukovit today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Panega Eco Trail. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,406 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lukovit, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sofia may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Sofia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

Make sure to book a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Restaurant "Staria Chinar" during your stay in Sofia. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,717 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Art Club Museum, a renowned dining destination in Sofia. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 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 Bar Friday, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,410 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at The Cocktail Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,814 reviews.

One More Bar 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,228 customers.

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

Day 10 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Wrong Bar, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Taj Mahal Restaurant while in Sofia. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,423 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Luciano, a favorite in Sofia. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 discerning guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Halbite Beer Hall, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Halbite Beer Hall has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,280 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Lime Cafe & Cocktails, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,223 customers have rated their experience at Lime Cafe & Cocktails an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

5 Corners Pub belongs to the list of the best bars in Sofia, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,463 bar-goers.

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 11 of your multi-country journey across Romania and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Gabrovo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Plovdiv, including the outstanding Singing Fountains. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Plovdiv is also home to the captivating “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 15,346 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Plovdiv. This extraordinary sightseeing destination and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 travelers.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gabrovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 13 min. When you arrive in Gabrovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Gabrovo. 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 Gabrovo. 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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at PIZZA TEMPO - Gabrovo, an acclaimed dining establishment in Gabrovo. 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 2,151 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Strannopriemnitsa while experiencing the best of Gabrovo. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,192 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Rest, an elegant culinary destination in Gabrovo. 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 1,047 previous guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Kafe-club Alfrida, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Kafe-club Alfrida has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 589 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion", a crowd-favorite. Around 209 customers have rated their experience at Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner belongs to the list of the best bars in Gabrovo, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 168 bar-goers.

Take in the ambiance of Gabrovo 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 12 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Boicheta in Bulgaria and Bucharest in Romania. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bucharest, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Gabrovo today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Музей на хумора и сатирата, Габрово. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,676 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gabrovo and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. 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 56 min. Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Veliko Tarnovo is the magnificent Tsarevets Fortress. Around 11,802 visitors have rated this excellent sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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 Bucharest may take around 2 hours 51 min. Upon your arrival in Bucharest, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Boicheta today.

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 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 and Bulgaria.

Reserve your spot at Bazaar, a popular local restaurant in Bucharest. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,635 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend The PUB Bucharest, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,495 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Gilda Music Lounge. It is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,458 customers.

Manasia Hub 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 1,000 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Romania and Bulgaria! 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 13 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.

As your final day in Romania unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bucharest’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the region’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Romania.

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