5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas and Stara Zagora

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Photo of aerial view of the Bulgarian city Plovdiv.
Photo of roman theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas and Stara Zagora
5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas and Stara Zagora
5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas and Stara Zagora
5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas and Stara Zagora
5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas and Stara Zagora
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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Plovdiv, 1 night in Burgas, and 1 night in Stara Zagora. 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 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. The Sea Garden and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo, 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, accommodations, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Youth Hill
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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 Youth Hill. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Plovdiv. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

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!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Burgas
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Drive 257 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • More

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

Your adventure in Plovdiv is only getting started when you visit Singing Fountain, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This captivating park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This instagrammable archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is also worth visiting.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pillow provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Burgas
  • Nesebar
  • Stara Zagora
  • More

Drive 245 km, 3 hours 19 min

  • The Sea Garden
  • Archaeological Museum
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • Sunny Beach
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Burgas and Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Stara Zagora, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to Burgas is complete without The Sea Garden. This popular park is one of the top attractions in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nessebar. Your travel time is around 37 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in Nessebar. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Church Of Saint Sophia. This beloved church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Sunny Beach is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most eye-catching beach in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Stara Zagora. Stara Zagora 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Stara Zagora, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Fat Chef, a top-rated dining spot in Stara Zagora. If you're in the mood for something new, try At The Admiral, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Uniqato. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Stara Zagora.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Beer Kolobars Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Brothers' Cafe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hello Cafe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Stara Zagora
  • Asenovgrad
  • Bachkovo
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 140 km, 2 hours 47 min

  • Bedechka Park
  • Park “Ayazmo“
  • Artilereeski Park
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Stara Zagora, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Catch “bedechka” Park before the crowds roll in. This serene park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the awe-inspiring features of Park “ayazmo“, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Artileriyski Park, an often recommended park.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Asen's Fortress, a worthwhile castle known for its inviting features.

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!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Plovdiv is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Sofra, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Central Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Qbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
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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 Old Town Of Plovdiv. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a hotspot among locals.

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 vacation.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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