5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Veliko Tarnovo, Kazanlak, 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 3 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 Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", learn more about the unique Tsarevets Fortress, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Veliko Tarnovo, Kazanlak, 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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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 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.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
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Drive 64 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Asen's Fortress
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Kapana Creative District
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv.
A top thing to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood in Plovdiv. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum, a castle, a monastery and much more! Start your adventure at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This underrated archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Asen's Fortress. Visitors usually appreciate the inviting features of this castle. Next up is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a highly recommended monastery.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plovdiv.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Qbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Anyway Social Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Trapezitsa Fortress
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Park "Sveta Gora
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Marno Pole Park
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, 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.
Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an archeological site, a castle, a park, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Trapezitsa Fortress and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Tsarevets Fortress, an enchanting castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Park "sveta Gora", one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Monument To The Assen Dynasty. When you're finished at the monument, Marno Pole Park awaits your visit. This park is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a monument - the often recommended Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Famous Bar 2, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Say good night to Veliko Tarnovo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 214 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
- Етнографски комплекс „Кулата“
- History Museum
- Rose Museum
- Tomb of Seuthes III
- Shipka Memorial Church
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Kazanlak and Shipka, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Veliko Tarnovo’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This photogenic archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Ethnographic Museum "kulata", a must-visit cultural center in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Historical Museum “iskra”, an intriguing museum. For a change of scene, check out Rose Museum, known for its standout features. We also recommend visiting Tomb Of Seuthes Iii. This archeological site is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Shipka Memorial Church, yet another frequently visited attraction in Veliko Tarnovo.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Savor the flavors at RESTAURANT Raia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Citizens Club beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restorant "Megdana". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cocktail Bar Noris, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Fabrik likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 5
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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Day 5 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This captivating archeological site is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Plovdiv’s popular marketplace, Kapana District. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
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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