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

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Plovdiv is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, an often recommended archeological site that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Alyosha Monument, a culturally significant monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, a standout archeological site and the perfect final attraction in Plovdiv.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Plovdiv's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Salt & Pepper, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rahat Tepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider KFC. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rock Bar Download, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out North Star, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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 Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

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 Old Town Of Plovdiv and learn what makes this visually striking historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. After exploring the museum, head to Youth Hill. This often recommended park is a highlight in Plovdiv.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 29 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Asen's Fortress, an intriguing castle known for its majestic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bachkovo may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sofra is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Central Park. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Kazanlak. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Kazanlak and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kazanlak beckons with new experiences!

Rose Museum is an up-and-coming museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Historical Museum “iskra”, a heritage-rich museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ethnographic Museum "kulata", a heritage-rich cultural center. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a heritage-rich and truly unique archeological site.

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

Veliko Tarnovo is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "Ethno", an iconic dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern "Petleto", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Bell, a hidden gem nestled in Veliko Tarnovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Head back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi.

No visit to Veliko Tarnovo is complete without Park "sveta Gora". This intriguing park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Marno Pole Park. This beloved park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tsarevets Fortress, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Trapezitsa Fortress is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arbanassi, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Veliko Tarnovo to Arbanassi may take around 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arbanassi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bianko, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Kazanlak, Shipka, and Sliven. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas, where will spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kazanlak. This car ride takes around 1 hour 10 min.

Savor the day by heading to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, an up-and-coming monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Pametnik Na Buzludzha, where you can soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Set your GPS to Shipka and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shipka beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Shipka Memorial Church, an intriguing church in Shipka. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Kazanlak, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sliven. Your travel time is around 1 hour 34 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit House-museum Of The Old Sliven Popular Customs, a locally appreciated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Chiplakov, an iconic dining spot in Burgas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ten'ova kashta, a popular restaurant in Burgas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Neptune, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. 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 Bar Bossa after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Malibu, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Saxa Beach also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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