6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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, 2 nights 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. Borisova Gradina Park and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, learn more about the unique “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno".
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Veliko Tarnovo, and Lovech, 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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- Borisova Gradina 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 Borisova Gradina 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Saffron Indian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Island Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Grijn Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cairo Relax Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar National provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 7 min
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Singing Fountains
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This curiosity-inducing museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Old Town Of Plovdiv, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Sofia. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Singing Fountain, a top-rated art installation that adds another dimension to your day.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Rock Bar Download is an excellent place to start. You could also check out North Star, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Plovdiv
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Drive 73 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Asen's Fortress
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Museum of Natural Sciences
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Youth Hill
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Plovdiv on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic monastery before continuing your journey. Asen's Fortress is your next stop. This beloved castle is one of the best-rated sights in Plovdiv.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This awe-inspiring archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museum Of Natural Sciences and Alyosha Monument. If time allows, end your day with Youth Hill, an awe-inspiring park that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plovdiv.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Plovdiv's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sofra, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Central Park. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Qbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Trapezitsa Fortress
- Holy Forty Martyrs Church
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Ethnographic Complex "Samovodska Charshiya"
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. 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.
Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an archeological site, a church, a castle, a market, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Trapezitsa Fortress and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Holy Forty Martyrs Church, a stunning church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Tsarevets Fortress, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya". When you're finished at the market, Monument Of Mother Bulgaria awaits your visit. This monument is a picture-perfect highlight on today's 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 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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Famous Bar 2. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Grill Kolata, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Sofia
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Stratesh
- Vasil Levski museum
- Covered Bridge
- Alley "Bash Bunar" Lovech
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Lovech, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the often recommended "stratesh", a mesmerizing park in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Vasil Levski Museum, Lovech.
After visiting "stratesh" and Vasil Levski Museum, Lovech, have a stroll along Veliko Tarnovo's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Covered Bridge. This instagrammable historical landmark offers a unique experience. Alley "bash Bunar" Lovech is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Urban Rebel also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Sofia - Departure day
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- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
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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 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a breathtaking church 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel ZOO Sofia is another top choice with a popular 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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