7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Plovdiv and Sofia
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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 3 nights in Burgas, 1 night in Plovdiv, and 2 nights in Sofia. 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 Burgas, 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 South Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Borisova Gradina Park, learn more about the unique Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rila Monastery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Burgas, Plovdiv, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, and Arbanassi, 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
- Burgas - Arrival day
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- The Sea Garden
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Say hello to Burgas! 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 Burgas for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Burgas 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 The Sea Garden, 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 Burgas. 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 Burgas, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Billiard Club Hot Shot offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pillow is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hashtagpavilion is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Burgas
- More
Drive 45 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Natural History Museum of Burgas
- Археологически музей Бургас Archaeological Museum Burgas
- The Clock
- St. Anastasia Island
- Aleko Bogoridi Street
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Burgas has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Burgas by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
A top thing to do today is to explore Aleko Bogoridi Street, a must-see street in Burgas. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Begin your adventure at Natural History Museum Of Burgas. This is an underrated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Archaeological Museum Burgas, an underrated museum in Burgas.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to The Clock. From there, take a leisurely stroll to St. Anastasia Island, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Chiplakov, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ten'ova kashta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Neptune. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Bossa, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Malibu offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Burgas. Saxa Beach is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Burgas
- Plovdiv
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- More
On day 3 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 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Burgas today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This breathtaking archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv and learn what makes this standout museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Old Town Of Plovdiv. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Alyosha Monument. This locally appreciated monument is a highlight in Burgas. As your day continues, stop by “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, known for its standout features.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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Drive 397 km, 5 hours 35 min
- Rila Monastery
- Boyana Church
- Park "Zaimov"
- Lions' Bridge
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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 Rila and Sofia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Rila Monastery. This locally renowned monastery is a historic place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Boyana Church, a photogenic church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Zaimov Park. This notable park offers an eye-catching encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Lions' Bridge to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.
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.
As you explore more of Sofia, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Grijn Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cairo Relax Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar National ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Sofia
- More
Drive 17 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Eagles' Bridge
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Regional History Museum Sofia
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- More
Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sofia, including a park, a monument, a church, a museum, a convention center and much more! Start your day with a visit to Borisova Gradina Park. This interesting park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eagles' Bridge, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Sofia 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a notable church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Regional History Museum Of Sofia and National Palace Of Culture. End your day with a visit to South Park, a well-known park that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
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 explore more of Sofia, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Urban Rebel offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Sofia
- Burgas
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Drive 449 km, 5 hours 39 min
- Ascension Cathedral
- Tsarevets Fortress
- St Nikolay the Miracleworker
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension, an up-and-coming church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Tsarevets Fortress, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. This church is one of the city’s most beloved spots.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Burgas. Burgas offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Burgas. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Gracia Pizzeria, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider JaV-KA food bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Romance Pizza. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Barabar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Playground, Mall Galleria is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Baywatch Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Burgas - Departure day
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- Ship - Attraction "Anastasia"
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Day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Burgas 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 Ship - Attraction "anastasia", a stunning historic ship before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Burgas’s shopping center, the lively Mall Galleria Burgas. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Burgas.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ethno Restaurant Burgas, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kapana Seafront Fish Shack? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Burgas. 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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