13-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv, Smolyan, Bansko, Sofia, Pazardzhik, Pleven, Blagoevgrad, Lovech, and Veliko Tarnovo

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 Burgas. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like The Clock. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,766 visitors.

Next, make your way to Archaeological Museum Burgas. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 392 reviews.

While in Burgas, we also recommend a visit to Museum Of Aviation. This aviation museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,246 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Парк "минерални Бани". With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,688 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Burgas.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Plovdiv, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set your GPS to Stara Zagora and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stara Zagora beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Park “ayazmo“. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,330 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is “bedechka” Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,259 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stara Zagora, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Asenovgrad may take around 1 hour 22 min. Upon your arrival in Asenovgrad, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Asen's Fortress. This fortress is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Asenovgrad, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,157 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Asenovgrad, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bachkovo. Your travel time is around 16 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This much-appreciated place of worship is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,211 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Kyustendil, and Bistritsa, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Kyustendil and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kyustendil beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Sandanski Archaeological Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 574 visitors.

Next, make your way to Park "st. Vrach". This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,762 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bistritsa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Rila, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,975 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sofia, 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 Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Forum, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mamma Mia Ltd. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

On day 7 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 Sofia, and Musagenitsa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pazardzhik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,691 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Prince's Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 travelers.

Eagles' Bridge is another must-visit attraction. This renowned stone bridge offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Borisova Gradina Park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 27,635 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Musagenitsa. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Muzeiko one of your first sightseeing stops in Musagenitsa. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,751 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Тука Е Така, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? FRANGO offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Хюга Ресторант / Hygge Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pazardzhik.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Coffee "corleone". Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Paradise Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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 Sofia, and Reduta. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pleven, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sofia. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Kick off the day at Druzhba Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sofia Zoo. Sofia Zoo is a zoo with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 reviews.

South Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 visitors.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Reduta. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Reduta, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Geo Milev Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,414 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 Pleven. Pleven 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 you explore more of Pleven, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at КОМПЛЕКС "ЗАМЪКЪТ", a top-rated dining destination in Pleven. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizzeria Cantonata, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Дежа Вю Пица & Ресторант. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pleven this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Momento Bar & Pizza, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sky Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Кафе-бар Бораго provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 10 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 Lovech, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Blagoevgrad, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sofia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Trinity Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,845 visitors.

Lions' Bridge is another popular attraction you could visit today. This footbridge has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,469 visitors.

National Palace Of Culture is also highly recommended by travelers. This convention center has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

Russian Monument Square is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,608 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is North Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,004 travelers.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lovech. 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 Ponte Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Колор клуб boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out restaurant ONYX. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lovech.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Бар Вароша, known for its lively atmosphere. Бар Крафт (kraft Craft Beer Bar) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Lovech, Devetaki, Strugat, and Cherni Osam, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Covered Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,817 reviews.

Set your GPS to Devetaki and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Devetaki beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Devetashka Cave. This extraordinary cave has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,225 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 Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern "Petleto", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bell. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Famous Bar 2. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, another top-rated bar in the area.

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