10-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling north to Samokov, Sofia, Gabrovo, Shumen, Varna, and Burgas
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 10-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Plovdiv, Samokov, Sofia, Gabrovo, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, Shumen, Varna, Nessebar, Burgas, and Yambol. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Plovdiv, 1 night in Samokov, 2 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Gabrovo, 1 night in Shumen, 1 night in Varna, and 1 night in Burgas. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Plovdiv, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. The Sea Garden and Sea Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Samokov, Sofia, Gabrovo, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, Shumen, Varna, Nessebar, Burgas, and Yambol, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.
Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
- More
Say hello to Plovdiv! Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Plovdiv is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Youth Hill or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Plovdiv. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Salt & Pepper, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Rahat Tepe, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is KFC. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2 – Plovdiv, and Samokov
- Samokov
- Plovdiv
- More
Drive 133 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Samokov, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Take the opportunity to see “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 visitors.
Singing Fountain is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,640 travelers.
Plovdiv is also the home of Alyosha Monument. Around 4,510 people have rated this monument an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,842 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.
This day of your vacation in Plovdiv is also your chance to admire Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This must-visit point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Samokov. Samokov offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Samokov's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Khaĭduti, a top-rated dining destination in Samokov. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kalipso, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Velcheva Zavera. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Samokov this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Defected Bar & Café, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.
Say good night to Samokov and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3 – Samokov, Rila Monastery, and Sofia
- Sofia
- Samokov
- More
Drive 215 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Rila Monastery
- More
On day 3 of your road trip in 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 in Samokov, and Rila Monastery. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Journey into the unknown at Great Fountain, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 303 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Samokov Museum Of History is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 592 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Samokov is City Park By The River Iskar. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,268 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Samokov offers an experience you will remember.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Samokov, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rila Monastery may take around 1 hour 27 min. Upon your arrival in Rila Monastery, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Rila Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,596 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Mamma Mia Ltd. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 4 – Sofia
- Sofia
- More
Drive 32 km, 1 hour 24 min
- Sofia Zoo
- National Palace of Culture
- More
Day 4 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Sofia Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 15,237 visitors.
When you’re finished at Sofia Zoo, head to South Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit National Palace Of Culture. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Borisova Gradina Park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 visitors.
To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to North Park. This famous park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 travelers.
To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Sofia, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Sofia below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Divaka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Face bar & dinner beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Art Club Museum. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 5 – Sofia, Reduta, and Gabrovo
- Gabrovo
- Sofia
- More
Drive 226 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Eagles' Bridge
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Sofia, and Reduta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Zaimov Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.
Eagles' Bridge is another popular attraction you could visit today. This stone bridge has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 visitors.
Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors.
National Theater "ivan Vazov" is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Reduta, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Reduta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take the opportunity to see Geo Milev Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,414 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Gabrovo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Gabrovo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Strannopriemnitsa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vanilla coffee&food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Gabrovo.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Moda Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Zahir - Bar & Dinner provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 6 – Gabrovo, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, and Shumen
- Shumen
- Boicheta
- Dolni Varpishta
- Veliko Tarnovo
- More
Drive 209 km, 3 hours 11 min
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, and Veliko Tarnovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Shumen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Boicheta. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ethno Village Etar. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,399 reviews.
After soaking in Boicheta’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dolni Varpishta. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Dolni Varpishta, it's time to take a break from the road.
Journey into the unknown at Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable place of worship has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,058 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Shumen. Shumen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Shumen. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Механа "Хитър Петър", an iconic dining spot in Shumen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern Oreha, a popular restaurant in Shumen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Primo Bar & Grill, a hidden gem nestled in Shumen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Zino Club, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Arizona Lounge. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 7 – Shumen, Balchik, Kavarna, and Varna
- Varna
- Balchik
- More
Drive 245 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Albena
- Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
- Kaliakra
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Balchik, and Kavarna, 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 Varna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Balchik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Shumen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. Balchik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Albena. Previous visitors have rated this seaside resort an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,524 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Balchik. This car ride takes around 1 hour 28 min.
Drop by the renowned Balchik Palace. This popular palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,803 visitors.
Another unforgettable place to experience is Balchik Botanic Garden. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,545 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Varna, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Varna, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Dine in style at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizza Selena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Three Dolphins. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.
Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 8 – Varna, Nessebar, and Burgas
- Burgas
- Varna
- Nesebar
- More
Drive 149 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Retro Museum
- Sea Garden
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Varna, and Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This extraordinary eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,169 visitors.
Next, make your way to Retro Museum. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,087 visitors.
We also recommend a visit to Sea Garden. This urban park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,572 travelers.
Set your GPS to Nessebar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nessebar beckons with new experiences!
Kick off the day at Church Of Saint Sophia, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,993 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Burgas, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an iconic dining spot in Burgas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, a popular restaurant in Burgas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of IN BAR, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Billiard Club Hot Shot stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Target offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pillow is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 9 – Burgas, Yambol, and Plovdiv
- Plovdiv
- Burgas
- Yambol
- More
Drive 265 km, 3 hours 10 min
- The Sea Garden
- Bezistena
- Central" park Yambol
- More
On day 9 of your road trip in 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 in Burgas, and Yambol. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Make The Clock your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,766 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Archaeological Museum Burgas. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 392 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.
The Sea Garden is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Yambol. Your travel time is around 1 hour 5 min.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bezistena. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,840 visitors.
"central" Park Yambol is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,638 visitors.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Plovdiv's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Qbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 10 – Plovdiv - departure day
- Plovdiv - Departure day
- More
Day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
Journey into the unknown at Old Town Of Plovdiv, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Citizens Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Bulgaria
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.