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

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 6-day road trip in Bulgaria! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Sofia, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Veliko Tarnovo, and Lovech.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. 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 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.

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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

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 discovering what to see in Sofia 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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Grijn Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cairo Relax Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

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
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 1 hour 40 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a worthwhile museum in Plovdiv. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Old Town Of Plovdiv. This intriguing historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect archeological site in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the interesting “tsar Simeon Garden” Park and discover what makes this park unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Singing Fountain, a romantic art installation many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

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 Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Plovdiv
  • Bachkovo
  • Asenovgrad
  • More

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
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Plovdiv, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Experience Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a captivating archeological site in the village. Then, head to Museum Of Natural Sciences and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Alyosha Monument. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing historic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the beloved Youth Hill.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Bachkovo. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 38 min. Upon reaching Bachkovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a popular monastery in Bachkovo. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Bachkovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Asen's Fortress, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Plovdiv and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Qbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 215 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Trapezitsa Fortress
  • Holy Forty Martyrs Church
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Ethnographic Complex "Samovodska Charshiya"
  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 43 min. Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Trapezitsa Fortress, an intriguing archeological site that everyone visiting Veliko Tarnovo should see. Next, head to Holy Forty Martyrs Church. This culturally significant church is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Tsarevets Fortress, a visually striking castle popular among locals as well as travelers. Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya" is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated market before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a historic monument and a top attraction in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Check in and relax 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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Say good night to Veliko Tarnovo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Lovech
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 250 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Stratesh
  • Vasil Levski museum
  • Covered Bridge
  • Alley "Bash Bunar" Lovech
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Lovech. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Veliko Tarnovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lovech. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Lovech, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to "stratesh", a beloved park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Vasil Levski Museum, Lovech, where you can soak in the respected surroundings.

Next, explore Covered Bridge, yet another beloved place to see in the area. After the historical landmark, make time to go to Alley "bash Bunar" Lovech. This serene street is well worth the visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Urban Rebel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Sofia - Departure day
  • More
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • More

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, begin at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This popular church is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Sofia, we recommend the lively Paradise Center. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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