Transylvania to Bulgaria: Romania and Bulgaria by Car

A scenic cross-border self-drive journey linking Romania’s capital, the mountain landscapes and medieval towns of Transylvania, and Bulgaria’s most emblematic cultural sites. This itinerary combines Bucharest, Brasov, Bran, Sinaia, Veliko Tarnovo, Kazanlak, Plovdiv, Sofia and Rila Monastery in one rich route through two Balkan countries.

D1: Bucharest / Arrival
Arrival at Bucharest Airport. Pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a first walk in Romania’s capital.

 

D2: Bucharest
A full day to explore Bucharest at your own pace. Discover the historic centre, elegant boulevards, parks, museums and the city’s mix of Belle Époque, communist-era and contemporary architecture.

 

D3: Bucharest – Brasov
Drive north towards the Carpathian Mountains and continue to Brasov, one of Transylvania’s most charming historic cities. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore its colourful squares, medieval streets and old town atmosphere.

 

D4: Brasov – Bran – Brasov
Take a day excursion to Bran, famous for its legendary castle and dramatic setting at the edge of the Carpathians. Return to Brasov for another evening in the heart of Transylvania.

 

D5: Brasov – Sinaia
Drive to Sinaia, an elegant mountain resort known for its royal heritage and beautiful natural setting. Visit Peleș Castle, one of Romania’s most impressive landmarks, before enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the resort.

 

D6: Sinaia – Veliko Tarnovo
Leave the Carpathians and drive south, crossing the Danube into Bulgaria. Continue to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital, beautifully set on the hills above the Yantra River.

 

D7: Veliko Tarnovo – Etara – Kazanlak
Explore the region of the Balkan Mountains with a stop at Etara, an open-air ethnographic complex dedicated to traditional crafts and architecture. Continue to Kazanlak, in the heart of the Rose Valley, known for Thracian heritage and rose traditions.

 

D8: Kazanlak – Plovdiv
Drive to Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Discover its Roman Theatre, Ancient Stadium, colourful Old Town and creative Kapana district.

 

D9: Plovdiv – Sofia
Continue to Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. Enjoy free time to explore its churches, Roman remains, museums, Vitosha Boulevard and local restaurants.

 

D10: Sofia – Rila Monastery – Sofia
Take a day excursion to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s most iconic spiritual and architectural landmark, beautifully located in the Rila Mountains. Return to Sofia for your final evening.

 

D11: Sofia / Departure
Return the rental car and depart from Sofia International Airport.

The price includes:
10 nights in 4-star hotels, in standard rooms
10 breakfasts
Rental car from Day 1 to Day 11: Renault Clio or similar, manual transmission, unlimited mileage
Top Protection insurance, valid only upon presentation of a police report

The price does not include:
Meals and drinks, except breakfasts
Fuel and parking costs
Entrance fees and visits
Refundable security deposit for the rental car
Any services not mentioned in the program
Personal expenses and tips