5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Sofia

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Sofia. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Burgas and set your GPS to Sofia. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 40 min. Upon reaching Sofia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Boyana Church and explore the UNESCO world heritage-designated features. Next, make your way to Borisova Gradina Park, another highlight in Sofia. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Eagles' Bridge, a respected monument.

Nearby, you will also find Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This well-known church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Zaimov Park, a beautiful park that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Grijn Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cairo Relax Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Bar National is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Rila, Stob, and Dupnitsa. With 1 night to stay in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Rila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila beckons with new experiences!

Rila Monastery is a popular monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Stob and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stob beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stob Earth Pyramids. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the rock formation before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dupnitsa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Bistritsa Waterfall is a curiosity-inducing waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Urban Rebel offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Tarnovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 7 min. When you arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a worthwhile monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Monument To The Assen Dynasty and admire its historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Tsarevets Fortress, a locally renowned castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Set your GPS to Arbanassi and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arbanassi beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an underrated church in Arbanassi. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Burgas. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Chiplakov, a top-rated dining spot in Burgas. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ten'ova kashta, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Neptune. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Burgas.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Bossa, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Malibu offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Saxa Beach. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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