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

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Romania, Serbia, 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 1 night.

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.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Cișmigiu Gardens. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 from 36,761 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Cișmigiu Gardens is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, an iconic dining spot in Bucharest. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,705 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at PAPILA while in Bucharest. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, treasured by 805 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Caru' cu bere, a favorite in Bucharest. 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 30,392 discerning guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Origo, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,167 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is QP Pub. It is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 921 customers.

Zeppelin Pub is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 585 customers.

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

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria, 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.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Tineretului 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 37,054 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Tineretului Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park 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 31,317 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing point of interest, Constitution Square. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,305 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Carol Park, an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Bucharest considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,167 travelers.

Explore the magnificent King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA and discover what makes this local park and wonder one of the best attractions in Bucharest. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 59,946 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Craiova. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to continue your journey, get into the car. As you arrive in Bucharest, slow down and say goodbye to the road for a while. Bucharest welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences. Stretch your arms and legs and head out into the city.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Tineretului 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 37,054 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Tineretului Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park 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 31,317 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing sightseeing destination, Constitution Square. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,305 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Carol Park, an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Bucharest considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,167 travelers.

Explore the magnificent King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA and discover what makes this local park and wonder one of the best attractions in Bucharest. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 59,946 travelers.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Bucharest in Romania by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Craiova’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Casa Ghincea. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Craiova has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 1,494 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Big Ben should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Craiova, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,194 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Craft. This highly regarded restaurant in Craiova has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 988 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Epoca Steak House & Wine Bar Restaurant. This famous bar in Craiova has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,125 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Soho. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Soho has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 844 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Restaurant Mignon. 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 4.5 out of 5 stars from 702 customers.

As the night falls in Craiova, 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.

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Romania, Serbia, 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 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 2 nights.

Something that makes Craiova the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Nicolae Romanescu Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,839 visitors.

The famous "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Craiova's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 8,057 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop in Serbia. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Romania’s Craiova to the enchanting landscapes of City of Niš. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 4 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions.

Jump into the car and drive to your next destination. When you arrive in Craiova, it's time to take a well-deserved break from the road. This is your chance to tour the city’s most remarkable sights and top-rated attractions.

A tour of Craiova is not complete without a visit to the famous Nicolae Romanescu Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,839 travelers.

Make the most of your Craiova travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,057 travelers.

When you start to long for the next destination, jump into the car and continue your journey. When you reach Vidin, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road. Check out some of the top attractions in the city.

A tour of Vidin is not complete without a visit to the famous Baba Vida Fortress. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,980 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Craiova by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Craiova.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria, 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.

Make a reservation at ORAČ, a popular dining spot in City of Niš. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,732 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Kafana Mrak while indulging in the charm of City of Niš. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,687 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Švajcarija, a treasured establishment in City of Niš. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,211 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Vespa Bar, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Vespa Bar has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,126 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at MINISTARSTVO Beer Bar, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,931 customers have rated their experience at MINISTARSTVO Beer Bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Irish Pub Crazy Horse belongs to the list of the best bars in City of Niš, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,667 bar-goers.

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

On day 4, you will wake up in City of Niš with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in City of Niš before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Skull Tower. This outstanding monument and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 4,561 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Skull Tower is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating St. Sava Park is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,162 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Park Čair. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,521 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated King Milan Square, an outstanding monument, is one place you should visit while in City of Niš considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,371 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Niš Fortress and discover what makes this local fortress and wonder one of the best attractions in City of Niš. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 15,348 travelers.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in City of Niš in Romania by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of City of Niš’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Код Рајка. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in City of Niš has received a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from around 3,247 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Pleasure 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 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,952 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Nišlijska Mehana. 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 2,238 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Pivnica Berta, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,975 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Stambolijski. It is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,741 customers.

Komuna Gastro Bar is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,892 customers.

As the night falls in City of Niš, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 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 Karlukovo in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pleven. Pleven will be your home for 1 night.

Pleven’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of City of Niš behind. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 7 min.

It's time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Upon your arrival in Karlukovo you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this village and discover some of its most popular sights.

Something that makes Karlukovo the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding cave, Prohodna. This local gem has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 8,620 visitors.

When you're ready for a new adventure, get into the car and drive to your next destination. Upon reaching Lukovit, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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 3,298 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Riverside Landscape Park "Panega". This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 2,199 visitors.

According to travelers in Lukovit, the extraordinary Zlaten Park is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,010 visitors.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Karlukovo, Romania.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Pleven. 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 Дежа Вю Пица & Ресторант, an acclaimed dining establishment in Pleven. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,699 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Canape Food # STRIP Club while experiencing the best of Pleven. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,419 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Pizza Napoli, an elegant culinary destination in Pleven. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,235 previous guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Life Restaurant & sushi. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,799 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Revue - Coffee and Food. This popular bar in Pleven is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 851 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Momento bar & pizza. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Momento bar & pizza has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 547 reviews.

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 6 of your multi-country journey across Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Pleven in Bulgaria and Bucharest 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 Bucharest. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

In Pleven, the extraordinary Pleven Water Cascades and Fountains awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,269 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Pleven is the spectacular Pleven Panorama. This attraction is a museum that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,032 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Skobelev Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,542 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pleven, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Romania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bucharest may take around 3 hours 28 min.

Jump into the car and set your direction on Pleven. Once you arrive, make time to explore the city’s most popular attractions and learn something new today.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Pleven is the magnificent Pleven Water Cascades and Fountains. Around 2,269 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Pleven Panorama on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 6,032 travelers.

The remarkable Skobelev Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Pleven, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,542 traveler reviews is proof.

Jump into the car and drive to your next destination. When you arrive in Ruse, it's time to take a well-deserved break from the road. This is your chance to tour the city’s most remarkable sights and top-rated attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ruse, including the outstanding Monument of Liberty. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,633 reviews, this fascinating monument and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Romania, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Pleven's unique culture.

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

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, Serbia, and Bulgaria.

Reserve a table at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, a renowned restaurant in Bucharest. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 11,370 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Hanu' lui Manuc while in Bucharest. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 11,726 discerning diners.

Many previous guests have raved about this restaurant.

Experience a taste of Bucharest at Restaurant Pescăruș, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 7,758 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, 18Lounge. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,447 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Nomad Skybar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,882 customers.

Shift cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 4,444 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.5 out of 5 stars average rating.

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 7 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, Serbia, 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. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, region’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 Romania. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

In Bucharest, the extraordinary Romanian Athenaeum awaits. This attraction is a valued concert hall that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,801 travelers' reviews.

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, Serbia, and Bulgaria.

Many previous guests have raved about this restaurant.

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