5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Don’t miss Kapana Creative District today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This culturally significant archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Old Town Of Plovdiv and learn what makes this stunning historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Asen's Fortress. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Bachkovo is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery that draws attention for its stunning features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Veliko Tarnovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Veliko Tarnovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min. Veliko Tarnovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trapezitsa Fortress. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Tsarevets Fortress. This locally renowned castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Park "sveta Gora". Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, take your journey to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a frequently visited monument. Conclude your sightseeing at Marno Pole Park, known for its instagrammable features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Kazanlak and Shipka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kazanlak, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Veliko Tarnovo to Kazanlak may take around 1 hour 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kazanlak, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak is a locally appreciated archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ethnographic Museum "kulata", a photogenic cultural center that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Historical Museum “iskra”, a historic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Rose Museum, an instagrammable and truly unique museum.

Set your GPS to Shipka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shipka beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Shipka is Tomb Of Seuthes Iii, an up-and-coming archeological site that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Shipka Memorial Church, a culturally significant church that stands out in the town.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kriloto Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cocktail Bar Noris, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Fabrik provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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