12-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
12 days & 11 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
11 nights included
Car rental
12 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 12-day road trip through Bulgaria.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Bulgaria. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 4 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo, 3 nights in Varna, 1 night in Stara Zagora, and 2 nights in Plovdiv, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Bulgaria. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Sofia, Troyan, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Balchik, Nesebar, Burgas, Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, Plovdiv, and Samokov. We'll help you experience the best 12 days in Bulgaria you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Sofia, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Bulgaria, including the stunning Borisova Gradina Park and St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Bulgaria. From the magnificent South Park to the breathtaking Sea Garden and Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. Make sure to marvel at the remarkable Balchik Palace and learn more about the unique The Sea Garden to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Troyan, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Balchik, Nesebar, Burgas, Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, Plovdiv, and Samokov, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Bulgaria. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Bulgaria.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Bulgaria.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Bulgaria has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Bulgaria. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 11 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 11 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Bulgaria extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Bulgaria today!

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Included

Hotel, 11 nights
Rental car, 12 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia / 4 nights
Photo of Saint Anastasia Island in Burgas bay, Black Sea, Bulgaria. Lighthouse tower and old wooden buildings on rocky coast.Burgas
Photo of aerial view of The Cathedral of the Assumption and Varna city at amazing sunset, Bulgaria.Varna / 3 nights
Велико Търново -  in BulgariaVeliko Tarnovo / 1 night
Photo of beautiful and famous Monastery located in the city of Troyan ,Bulgaria.Troian
Photo of panoramic aerial view of Samokov, Bulgaria.Samokov
Photo of aerial view of the ancient seaside town, Nessebar, Bulgaria.Nesebar
Photo of aerial view of Assen Fortress (Asenova krepost, Petrich), Asenovgrad, Rhodope mountains, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Asenovgrad
Стара Загора -  in BulgariaStara Zagora / 1 night
Photo of aerial view of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Plovdiv / 2 nights
Photo of Balchik Palace of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coastline, Balchik, Bulgaria.Balchik

Map

Attractions

The Sea Garden, Burgas, BulgariaThe Sea Garden
Photo of Varna spring time, beautiful aerial view above sea garden, Bulgaria.Sea Garden
South Park
Borisova Gradina Park
Photo of Balchik Palace Castle of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coast.Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
Balchik Botanic Garden
Sofia Zoo, R-7276261, R-186382, R-4283101Sofia Zoo
Photo of sunset aerial view of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria.National Palace of Culture
Tsar Simeon Garden
Park "Zaimov"
Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
Tsarevets Fortress
Photo of detail of a church situated inside of the Troyan Monastery in Bulgaria.Troyan Monastery
Singing Fountains
Photo of Medieval ruins on Cape Kaliakra, Black Sea, Bulgaria.Cape Kaliakra
Rila National Park, Samokov, Sofia, BulgariaRila National Park
Photo of Eagles' bridge in Sofia, Bulgaria.Eagles' Bridge
Church of Saint Sophia
Ivan Vazov" National Theater
Park "Geo Milev
Druzhba Park
Holy Trinity Park
Park “Ayazmo“
Photo of the Church of the Holy Mother of God inside of the Asen's Fortress in Rhodopes mountain, Asenovgrad, Bulgaria.Asen's Fortress
Photo of the Cathedral of the Assumption in Varna, Bulgaria. Completed in 1886, and also known as the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral.Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
Knyazheska Garden
Dolphinarium Varna
Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
Photo of beautiful Sunny Beach with umbrellas and sunbeds in Nesebar, Bulgaria.Sunny Beach
Photo of toy cars with pedals, sleds, bicycles from the USSR in retro museum, Varna, Bulgaria.Retro Museum
Photo of ruins of a late antiquity fortress with religious complex "Tsari Mali Grad" from the 6th century, Bulgaria.Tsari Mali Grad
Bedechka Park
Russian Monument Square
photo of view of Sofia's cityscape, blending old-world charm with modernity, featuring the iconic lion bridge, Bulgaria.Lions' Bridge
Park "Sveta Gora
Marno Pole Park
Artilereeski Park
photo of view of Aerial drone view of Albena sandy beach resort, Bulgaria. Summer tourism.,Obrochishte Bulgaria.Albena
Monument of Mother Bulgaria
The Clock
City Park by the river Iskar
Trapezitsa Fortress
Zip Line Topola Skies

Travel details

Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travelers

Rooms

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 - Sofia - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 - Sofia - arrival day

  • Sofia - Arrival Day
  • More
  • Russian Monument Square
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 4 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Sofia has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Russian Monument Square. This attraction is a must-see tourist destination and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,387 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

Sofia also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 12-day vacation in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 2 - Sofia

Day 2

Day 2 - Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 4 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Knyazheska Garden
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Sofia. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the town of Sofia, like the extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park. This attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,952 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular Eagles' Bridge. This attraction is a stone bridge and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,677 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing Knyazheska Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,458 visitors.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is another stop you might want to add to your itinerary. This church is a popular destination among visitors in Sofia. Rated at an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,076 visitors, it’s one many travelers find worthy a visit.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, then consider Ivan Vazov National Theater. Ivan Vazov National Theater is a must-see tourist destination and popular attraction in Sofia. More than 9,201 visitors have rated this place an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Your discovery of Sofia does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Sofia on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Bulgaria, be sure to eat at Restaurant "Staria Chinar", which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Sofia. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,717 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Sofia!

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Experiences

Day 3 - Sofia

Day 3

Day 3 - Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 28 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Druzhba Park
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • Sofia Zoo
  • South Park
  • National Palace of Culture
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria is another day in the magnificent Sofia. You now have 2 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Sofia offers plenty for you to see and do, and your hotel will be conveniently located near several of the area's best attractions.

One of the best travel destinations you can travel to in the town of Sofia is the stunning Druzhba Park. This has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,323 visitors.

You could also spend some time visiting the spectacular Park "Geo Milev" in the town of Sofia. This attraction is a park and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,902 visitors.

Another attraction you could visit in the town of Sofia is the incredible South Park. This attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,055 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the fantastic National Palace of Culture. This convention center and travel destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,776 visitors.

Today you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a popular tour. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of options for top-rated tours and activities in Sofia you could sign up for on this day of your vacation. Choose among the best tours before or after booking.

When it’s time to eat, the city of Sofia has restaurants and bars to fit all budgets.

Toast to another amazing day in the city of Sofia!

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Experiences

Day 4 - Sofia, Troyan, and Veliko Tarnovo

Day 4

Day 4 - Sofia, Troyan, and Veliko Tarnovo

  • Troian
  • Sofia
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 274 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Park "Zaimov"
  • Holy Trinity Park
  • Troyan Monastery
  • More

Rise and shine on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you'll wake up in Sofia and embark on a scenic drive to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 1 night. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Sofia before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Sofia. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful Holy Trinity Park. This attraction is a park that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,629 visitors.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Troyan Monastery. This attraction is a monastery that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,462 visitors.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like VkusoteriA. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 993 customers.

Locals also recommend Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One"), another of the best restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo. Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One") is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,818 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Restaurant Ego 1. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,561 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.

After dinner, visit Bianko to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Veliko Tarnovo, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,466 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Lino Bar. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Lino Bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,358 customers.

Tequila Bar Funky Monkey is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 493 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Bulgaria, and look forward to more great days to come!

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Experiences

Day 5 - Veliko Tarnovo and Varna

Day 5

Day 5 - Veliko Tarnovo and Varna

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Varna
  • More

Drive 225 km, 3 hours 23 min

  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • Marno Pole Park
  • Park "Sveta Gora
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Trapezitsa Fortress
  • More

As you rise to greet the dawn on day 5 of your epic road trip in Bulgaria, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Veliko Tarnovo. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 3 nights. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Veliko Tarnovo’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Veliko Tarnovo, start your day with a visit to the amazing Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This much-appreciated must-see tourist destination and attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,628 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Marno Pole Park. This park and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,458 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular Park "Sveta Gora" to make the most of your road trip across Bulgaria. The spectacular Park "Sveta Gora" is a park that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,681 visitors.

The lovely Tsarevets Fortress is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 11,511 visitors have left this must-see tourist destination average ratings of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you feel like visiting another type of sight or don’t want to jump into the car quite yet, spend some time at the spectacular Trapezitsa Fortress. This attraction is a must-see tourist destination rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,071 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Veliko Tarnovo has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Varna. Varna offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna). This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,318 reviews.

The remarkable Staria Chinar - Port Varna is another top restaurant in Varna we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,810 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous Staria Chinar Restaurant is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,178 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Varna, the fantastic Cubo. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,527 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, we recommend going to the wonderful The Garden Bar. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is The BRICK bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,387 customers, so don’t forget to check this one out as well!

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 6 - Balchik, Dobrich, and Varna

Day 6

Day 6 - Balchik, Dobrich, and Varna

  • Varna
  • Balchik
  • More

Drive 158 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Albena
  • Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
  • Balchik Botanic Garden
  • Zip Line Topola Skies
  • Cape Kaliakra
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Varna, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

One of the best travel destinations is Albena. This amazing attraction is a seaside resort and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,516 visitors.

Balchik Palace is another popular attraction you could visit. As one of the best-rated attractions in the area, Balchik Palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,217 visitors.

To make your time more memorable, we recommend you visit Balchik Botanic Garden. This outstanding attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,288 visitors.

If you’re up for something incredible, then consider a visit to the outstanding Zip Line Topola Skies. More than 63 visitors have rated this place an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

You can also make your new day in Bulgaria more epic with one of the most popular tours you can take part in today. The tour allows travelers to experience the enjoyment of exploring some of Bulgaria’s most popular attractions and hidden treasures. Make sure to check out all options below to find the perfect adventure for you.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation near the city of Varna.

When you arrive, we recommend eating at a restaurant that locals enjoy, like El Kapan. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,370 customers.

Stariyat chinar Preslav is one of the top restaurants in the city of Varna. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,788 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Varna is Mr Baba. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,420 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city of Varna, Bar PUNTA CANA. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,540 customers.

If you’d prefer one of the top bar experiences that locals enjoy in the city of Varna, we recommend the cocktails at Cuba Beach Bar. This bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,018 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Varna is Cuba Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 617 customers.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day in the city of Varna!

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Experiences

Day 7 - Varna

Day 7

Day 7 - Varna

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 12 km, 46 min

  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • Sea Garden
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Retro Museum
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll have the perfect day exploring the wonderful city of Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night, meaning you have plenty of time to discover the best things to see and do in the area.

We recommend you stay at the Havana Hotel Casino & SPA, one of the best 4-star hotels in the city of Varna. This hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,080 guests.

The best luxury hotel option in the city of Varna is the 5-star Grand Hotel London. The hotel is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,053 guests.

One of the best hotels we recommend in the city of Varna is the 3-star Hotel Exotica. This 3-star hotel has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 510 guests.

Our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best alternatives if these hotels are not available.

You'll have easy access to popular travel destinations in the city of Varna, like the outstanding Sea Garden. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,686 visitors.

Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral is another popular attraction you could visit in the city of Varna. This incredible attraction is an eastern orthodox cathedral and has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,705 visitors.

One of the best attractions you could visit in the city of Varna is the extraordinary Retro Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,327 reviews.

Come to Varna prepared by adding some tours and tickets to your vacation package. Book a popular and budget-friendly activity you can do on this day in Varna.

After a day of exploring, try one of the best restaurants in the city of Varna.

We recommend you eat at a delicious restaurant that locals enjoy, like Captain Cook Varna, after your day of exploring the city of Varna. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,043 customers.

"Halbata" Restaurant is another of the best restaurants in the city of Varna. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,580 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Varna is 100 Pizzas. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 735 customers.

Locals recommend Kultura Speakeasy Bar, one of the best bars in the city of Varna, for a refreshing evening drink to finish your day. This bar is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 366 customers.

Alternatively, you could choose another of the most popular bars in the city of Varna, Cafe Bar Soho. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 136 customers.

Gossip Bar Max is also one of the best bars in the city of Varna. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 452 customers.

It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy another amazing evening in Bulgaria.

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Experiences

Day 8 - Nessebar, Burgas, and Stara Zagora

Day 8

Day 8 - Nessebar, Burgas, and Stara Zagora

  • Burgas
  • Nesebar
  • Stara Zagora
  • More

Drive 314 km, 4 hours 33 min

  • Sunny Beach
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • The Sea Garden
  • The Clock
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip through Bulgaria is your chance to discover two places in one day, the city of Nessebar and the city of Burgas. Get ready to experience some of the most famous attractions in the area!

One of the best places to visit in the city of Nessebar is the amazing Sunny Beach. This attraction is a town and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,756 visitors.

You could also go sightseeing at the incredible Church of Saint Sophia. This church and travel destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,769 visitors.

Joining a top-rated tour in Nessebar is another excellent way to spend your new day in Bulgaria. The best tours in this travel destination will take you on an exploration to some of Bulgaria’s most well-known attractions and best-kept secrets.

With this tour, you’ll set out on a journey to Bulgaria’s most interesting sights. As you go along this remarkable tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Bulgaria’s scenic spots.

You could then travel to the amazing The Sea Garden in the city of Burgas for some sightseeing. This popular attraction is a park and has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,044 visitors.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the city of Burgas is the outstanding The Clock. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,624 visitors, this top-tier point of interest deserves a spot on travelers' bucket lists.

You’ll also have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Stara Zagora.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Restaurant Uniqato, one of the best restaurants in the city of Stara Zagora. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,988 customers.

Locals also recommend Shtastlivetsa as one of the best restaurants in the city of Stara Zagora. Shtastlivetsa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,681 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Stara Zagora is Restorant "Kiparis". This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 845 customers.

After dinner, visit Pri Kmeta, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Stara Zagora. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,871 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Drums. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,465 customers.

Alternatively, Brothers' cafe is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Stara Zagora. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 914 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 9 - Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv

Day 9

Day 9 - Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv

  • Asenovgrad
  • Stara Zagora
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 148 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Artilereeski Park
  • Park “Ayazmo“
  • Bedechka Park
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the city of Stara Zagora and the city of Asenovgrad. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights.

One of the best places to explore in the city of Stara Zagora today is Artileriyski Park. This excellent attraction is a park that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,474 visitors.

We also recommend you visit the amazing Park “Ayazmo“, an outstanding park, in the city of Stara Zagora. Around 7,912 travelers rated this attraction with 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit in the city of Stara Zagora is “Bedechka” Park. This amazing attraction is a park and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,024 visitors.

To experience the local culture, see more of Bulgaria, and meet new people at the same time, we highly recommend you go on a tour. You’ll find many top-rated and popular tours in the city, offering unique experiences that will inspire you. On this tour, you can go on an epic adventure to some of the best places to visit in Bulgaria. You also get to admire popular places of interest.

You could then travel to Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno" for some unforgettable sightseeing experience in the city of Asenovgrad. This popular attraction is a place of worship and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,464 visitors.

This outstanding fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,777 travelers.

You’ll have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Plovdiv.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Plovdiv, Aylyakriya / Aylyakria Restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,229 customers.

Locals recommend Pavaj as one of the best restaurants in the city of Plovdiv. Pavaj is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,861 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Plovdiv is Rahat Tepe. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,984 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in the city of Plovdiv, Club Fargo. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers.

You could also relax with a drink at a popular bar like Kotka i Mishka, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,070 customers.

Be sure to celebrate another day of your incredible road trip adventure through Bulgaria with a toast!

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Experiences

Day 10 - Plovdiv

Day 10

Day 10 - Plovdiv

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • More

On day 10 of your road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll have the perfect day exploring the wonderful city of Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night, meaning you have plenty of time to discover the best things to see and do in the area.

We recommend you stay at the SPS, one of the best 4-star hotels in the city of Plovdiv. This hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 452 guests.

The best luxury hotel option in the city of Plovdiv is the 5-star Hotel Residence City Garden. The hotel is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 608 guests.

One of the best hotels we recommend in the city of Plovdiv is the 3-star Philippopolis Hotel. This 3-star hotel has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 182 guests.

Our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best alternatives if these hotels are not available.

You'll have easy access to popular travel destinations in the city of Plovdiv, like the outstanding Singing Fountains. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,815 visitors.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another popular attraction you could visit in the city of Plovdiv. This incredible attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,228 visitors.

One of the best attractions you could visit in the city of Plovdiv is the extraordinary Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This must-see tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,047 reviews.

Come to Plovdiv prepared by adding some tours and tickets to your vacation package. Book a popular and budget-friendly activity you can do on this day in Plovdiv.

After a day of exploring, try one of the best restaurants in the city of Plovdiv.

We recommend you eat at a delicious restaurant that locals enjoy, like Hemingway Restaurant, after your day of exploring the city of Plovdiv. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,363 customers.

R-nt , Mal'k Bunardzhik" is another of the best restaurants in the city of Plovdiv. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,166 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Plovdiv is PASA Restaurant. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,284 customers.

Locals recommend Rock Bar Download, one of the best bars in the city of Plovdiv, for a refreshing evening drink to finish your day. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 845 customers.

Alternatively, you could choose another of the most popular bars in the city of Plovdiv, Bar The Post. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 425 customers.

It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy another amazing evening in Bulgaria.

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Experiences

Day 11 - Samokov and Sofia

Day 11

Day 11 - Samokov and Sofia

  • Samokov
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 395 km, 6 hours 53 min

  • City Park by the river Iskar
  • Rila National Park
  • Tsari Mali Grad
  • More

Day 11 of your road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Samokov and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Sofia. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Samokov is the amazing City Park by the river Iskar. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,123 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible park, Rila National Park. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 9,075 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Samokov is the outstanding Tsari Mali Grad. This popular fortress and travel destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,546 visitors.

You can make the most of your new day in Samokov by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Sofia, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Taj Mahal Restaurant, one of the best restaurants in the city of Sofia. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,423 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 12 - Sofia - departure day

Day 12

Day 12 - Sofia - departure day

  • Sofia - Departure Day
  • More
  • Lions' Bridge
  • More

Day 12 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Sofia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Lions' Bridge is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Sofia. This footbridge and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,977 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Sofia and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Bulgaria.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

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