4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Veliko Tarnovo
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Shipka. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 and 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo. 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. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Tsarevets Fortress, learn more about the unique Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Of Plovdiv.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Shipka, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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- Tsar Simeon Garden
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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 “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Bar Download, known for its lively atmosphere. North Star is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 213 km, 3 hours 11 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Plovdiv on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped archeological site before continuing your journey. Old Town Of Plovdiv is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Plovdiv.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This historic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Tsarevets Fortress and Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Famous Bar 2 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Grill Kolata, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 244 km, 4 hours 28 min
- St Nikolay the Miracleworker
- Park "Children's Playground"
- Monument of Freedom, Saint Nicholas peak
- Shipka Memorial Church
- Tomb of Seuthes III
- Паметник на Бузлуджа
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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 Arbanassi, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Kazanlak, and Shipka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Veliko Tarnovo is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a playground, a monument, an archeological site and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated St. Nikolay The Miracleworker and allow yourself time to explore.
Continue your journey to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Shipka Memorial Church. When you're finished at the church, Tomb Of Seuthes Iii awaits your visit. This archeological site is a symbolic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a monument - the underrated Pametnik Na Buzludzha.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Anyway Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to Plovdiv and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Kapana Creative District
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Day 4 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.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Plovdiv. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Plovdiv’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Markovo Tepe Mall. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
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!
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