Road Tripping
Almost 4.000 km, 4 different countries, two couples and an 18 months old young lady. The road with some exceptions only,- mainly in the south part of Bulgaria- was quite nice. Rest areas were plenty. No money exchange required since credit/ debit cards were accepted everywhere. We encountered heavy traffic in a couple of toll stations and we faced some delays on border crossings. It would had been better, if we had more stops… but our main goal was Budapest and, moreover, packing/unpacking kid’s essentials was not so easy.
Sofia, Bulgaria
The south part of Bulgaria is rather poor and this is pretty obvious. On the other hand Sofia, the capital city, is by far different. City centre was like any other European town; pedestrian zones, paved streets and beautiful buildings. A roughly two hour walk through the streets was enough to take a look at the highlights. We had booked in Thracia Hotel to spend the night, which turned to be a nice choice, especially due to its central location.
Budapest, Hungary
By a mere chance, we arrived in Budapest on the eve of commemorations the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. Everything was extremely quiet and the streets were empty. Our hotel was in a great location, near the Parliament. Parlament Hotel (no other name could had been given!) was exceptional in every aspect. The Danube along with the Gothic and Renaissance architecture, transfer you in a dreamy fairy tailed city; you need to convince yourself that you actually live in the 21st century and not in the once wealthy Austro-Hungarian Empire. We had dinner at Aurum Bistro and Aszur Restaurant, with the second one to be an excellent choice!
Belgrade, Serbia
We arrived at early noon and we settled down to Armonia Bed & Breakfast in Repuplike Square; although its prime location, the hotel is not really worth visiting it. We had lunch at Three Hats in famous Skadarska street, in the bohemian quarter of Belgrade (similar to Paris’ Montmartre). Later, we walked along the Knez Mihailova Street, one of the landmarks of the city and strolled around Kalemegdan park and Fortress. Sitting down and watching Sava and Dunabe was extremely relaxing. A uniquely lively city in general and we strongly suggest to book a long stay there.
Few things more…
A vignette card is needed once you get in Bulgaria
Head lights must be switched on while you are on the move even in daylight (it is not applied in Greek road traffic regulation)
Cellular networks in Serbia have pricey cost
