10-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Plovdiv, Burgas, and Stara Zagora

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Sofia and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Sofia for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Sofia 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 Holy Trinity Park 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 Sofia. 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 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.

Dine in style at Hotel Forum, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mamma Mia Ltd. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Halbite Beer Hall after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Lime Cafe & Cocktails for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 2 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to North Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 visitors.

Russian Monument Square is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,608 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to National Palace of Culture. Visitors have rated this convention center an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,569 reviews.

South Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Sofia Zoo, perhaps the most famous zoo in Sofia. This attraction is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 15,237 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Divaka, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Face bar & dinner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Art Club Museum. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Reduta for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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.

Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors.

Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,066 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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Park Hotel "MOSKVA". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cathedral of Saint Nedelya. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,691 reviews.

Continue your journey at Prince's Garden. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Borisova Gradina Park. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Druzhba Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,598 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rock Bar Download offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, North Star is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Morado Bar & Dinner is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Make Singing Fountain your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Alyosha Monument is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This monument has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno". This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,211 visitors.

After soaking in Bachkovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Asen's Fortress one of your first sightseeing stops in Asenovgrad. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,157 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Plovdiv and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, ANYWAY Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Youth Hill. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,086 reviews.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews.

Nebet Tepe is another outstanding experience in Plovdiv. Around 2,913 travelers have rated this hill an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Old Town of Plovdiv is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,450 reviews.

Your discoveries in Plovdiv do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Plovdiv on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at RESTAURANT Raia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Citizens Club beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ресторант "Мегдана". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Крилото Cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cocktail Bar Noris offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook бар Фабрик, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Burgas, Ravadinovo, and Sozopol, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Burgas. This car ride takes around 2 hours 33 min.

Drop by the renowned The Sea Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is The Clock. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ravadinovo. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Castle of Ravadinovo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,164 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Burgas, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Burgas's best restaurants.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated dining spot in Burgas. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at IN BAR. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Burgas.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Billiard Club Hot Shot, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Target is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pillow offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Burgas and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nessebar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stara Zagora. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Burgas’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nessebar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Nessebar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,788 visitors.

Ancient Theatre is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,941 travelers.

Nessebar is also the home of Church of Saint Sophia. Around 9,993 people have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Sunny Beach. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 6,959 reviews, a visit to this town is a great idea.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Stara Zagora, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Stara Zagora. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Fat Chef, a top-rated dining destination in Stara Zagora. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider At The Admiral, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Uniqato. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stara Zagora this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Beer Kolobars Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brothers' cafe offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Hello Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.

Say good night to Stara Zagora and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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 Stara Zagora. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Artileriyski Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,637 reviews.

Next up is Stara Zagora Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,506 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Park “Ayazmo“. This park has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,330 reviews.

“Bedechka” Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,259 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Samara Flag Monument. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,749 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Jasmin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? J. J. Murphy's offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

Day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Sofia 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 Sofia’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

Drop by the renowned Lions' Bridge. This popular footbridge has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,469 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Mahal Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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!