5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
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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 Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo. 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 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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Say hello to Sofia! 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 Sofia for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Grijn Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cairo Relax Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar National offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This notable church is a stunning place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Borisova Gradina Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace Of Culture. This popular convention center offers a picture-perfect encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Boyana Church to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an interesting park in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.
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 explore more of Plovdiv, 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.
Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rock Bar Download, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, North Star is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Old Town Of Plovdiv, an intriguing historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Tsarevets Fortress. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the frequently visited Monument To The Assen Dynasty.
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.
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.
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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Sofia
- More
Drive 460 km, 5 hours 53 min
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
- Marno Pole Park
- Rila Monastery
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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.
Veliko Tarnovo is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a beloved monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Marno Pole Park, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Rila Monastery. This monastery is one of the city’s most captivating spots.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise 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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Urban Rebel provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
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
- 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, begin at Zaimov Park. This locally renowned park is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
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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