5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2 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 Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Lauta Park. Then, wander over to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this archeological site will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Singing Fountain. This enchanting art installation is a favorite among visitors.

Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the culturally significant Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular archeological site in Plovdiv.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Grijn Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cairo Relax Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar National also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a park and a church. Start your adventure at South Park. This captivating park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Borisova Gradina Park located in Sofia for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Zaimov Park. This park has an idyllic appeal.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Veliko Tarnovo, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Bell. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Famous Bar 2 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Grill Kolata is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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

Set out on a day brimming with a visually striking, a charming, a breathtaking, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, and a serene. Start at the curiosity-inducing Marno Pole Park, an eye-catching park in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Tsarevets Fortress.

After visiting Marno Pole Park and Tsarevets Fortress, take time to explore Veliko Tarnovo's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Park "sveta Gora". This instagrammable park offers a unique experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stara Zagora, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Veliko Tarnovo to Stara Zagora may take around 1 hour 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stara Zagora, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is “bedechka” Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Park “ayazmo“. This beloved park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv. 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 delightful dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sofra? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Central Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Qbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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