5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Sofia, 1 night 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 Sofia, 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. South Park and Borisova Gradina Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, learn more about the unique Rila Monastery, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo, 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!
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Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
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- South Park
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Welcome to Sofia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Sofia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Sofia 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 South 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Saffron Indian Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Island Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Grijn Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cairo Relax Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar National also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 43 min
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Borisova Gradina Park
- National Palace of Culture
- Boyana Church
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Sofia and Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This breathtaking church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Borisova Gradina Park, 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 National Palace Of Culture, an interesting convention center. For a change of scene, check out Boyana Church, known for its photogenic features. We also recommend visiting Singing Fountain. This art installation is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, yet another well-known attraction in Sofia.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to North Star, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 217 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Plovdiv. Begin your sightseeing with Old Town Of Plovdiv. This intriguing historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Plovdiv, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress. This popular castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Monument To The Assen Dynasty, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Sofia
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Drive 460 km, 5 hours 53 min
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
- Marno Pole Park
- Rila Monastery
- More
On day 4 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 Veliko Tarnovo and Rila. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Veliko Tarnovo, including a monument, a park, and a monastery. Start your day with a visit to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This locally appreciated monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Marno Pole Park, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Veliko Tarnovo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Rila Monastery, a well-known monastery in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Forum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Turquoise Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.
Day 5
- Sofia - Departure day
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- Park "Zaimov"
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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 Sofia 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, we recommend visiting Zaimov Park, a majestic park before you head out.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
Savor the flavors at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel ZOO Sofia beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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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