6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Varna
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Plovdiv, Madara, Varna, Nessebar, and Burgas.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Plovdiv and 2 nights in Varna. 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 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 Sea Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Madara, Varna, Nessebar, and Burgas, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 or 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 Plovdiv. 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 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.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rock Bar Download offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, North Star is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Morado Bar & Dinner is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2 – Plovdiv
- Plovdiv
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Drive 12 km, 50 min
- Nebet Tepe
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a respected, a grand, and a romantic. Start at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a locally appreciated archeological site in the city. Then, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv and when you are ready for more, go to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This is one of the city’s most intriguing spots. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the frequently visited Nebet Tepe. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the worthwhile Lauta Park, a worthwhile park in the city.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.
Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Say good night to Plovdiv and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3 – Plovdiv, Madara, and Varna
- Plovdiv
- Madara
- Varna
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Drive 377 km, 4 hours 49 min
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Plovdiv and Madara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a park and an art installation. Start your day at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This eye-catching park is an interesting place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Singing Fountain. If romantic sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley.
After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Madara. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 44 min. When you arrive in Madara, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, an underrated archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Madara Horseman and admire its culturally significant features.
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 Varna. Varna 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 Varna, 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizza Selena? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Three Dolphins as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.
Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 4 – Varna
- Varna
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Drive 12 km, 46 min
- Sea Garden
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Retro Museum
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Day 4 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Varna. You have 1 night left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with an eye-catching, a romantic, a majestic, an enchanting, a noteworthy, a heritage-rich, a stunning, and a symbolic in the charming city of Varna. Your adventure starts at Dolphinarium Varna, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Sea Garden. This interesting park is known for its instagrammable appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Varna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This stunning church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Retro Museum is also worth visiting.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Varna's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at di Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 100 Pizzas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Morska terasa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Hey offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Deja Vu. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 5 – Varna, Nessebar, Burgas, and Plovdiv
- Varna
- Nesebar
- Burgas
- Plovdiv
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Drive 393 km, 5 hours 3 min
- Sunny Beach
- The Sea Garden
- Sea Garden
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On day 5 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 Nessebar and Burgas. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Sunny Beach, an intriguing beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Church Of Saint Sophia and admire its romantic features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Burgas, 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 Nessebar to Burgas may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Burgas, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to The Sea Garden, a popular park that everyone visiting Burgas should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kriloto Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cocktail Bar Noris is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Fabrik is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Plovdiv and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6 – Plovdiv - departure day
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Day 6 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.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
Prepare for a day full of a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a historic, a culturally significant, and a remarkable. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Alyosha Monument. This frequently visited monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
Savor the flavors at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ruski Restorant Petar I beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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