7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv, Sofia, and Veliko Tarnovo

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Nebet Tepe. This increasingly popular archeological site is a history-steeped place to see in Burgas. Continue your discovery at Old Town Of Plovdiv, an instagrammable historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Burgas, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This often recommended museum offers a historic encounter with Burgas. Next, make your way to Roman Forum Of Philippopolis to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a captivating park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Burgas.

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.

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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rock Bar Download stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, North Star offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Morado Bar & Dinner is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Stob Earth Pyramids, a curiosity-inducing rock formation that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Bistritsa Waterfall. This waterfall is one of the village’s most intriguing spots.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Saffron Indian Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Island Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Grijn Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cairo Relax Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar National is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Boyana Church. This often recommended church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is National Palace Of Culture, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Regional History Museum Of Sofia, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Sofia. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Zaimov Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the notable South Park, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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 lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kathrine Cocktail - Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Urban Rebel, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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 Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sofia, including an archeological site, a castle, a park, a monument and much more! Start your day at Trapezitsa Fortress. This instagrammable archeological site is an up-and-coming place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Tsarevets Fortress. If symbolic sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Park "sveta Gora". This idyllic park is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Monument To The Assen Dynasty is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Marno Pole Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated park 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 Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Famous Bar 2, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Grill Kolata is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Arbanassi, Kazanlak, and Shipka, 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.

Today’s agenda in Veliko Tarnovo includes a church, a monument, an archeological site, a museum and much more! St. Nikolay The Miracleworker is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a worthwhile monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Shipka Memorial Church, a stunning church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Veliko Tarnovo. If you’re looking for more, Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Historical Museum “iskra”, an intriguing gem to see in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Burgas. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Burgas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Bossa, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Malibu offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Saxa Beach. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!