7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Burgas, Stara Zagora, and Sofia and surrounding area

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Bachkovo, and Sofia.

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 Plovdiv, 1 night in Burgas, 1 night in Stara Zagora, 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 Plovdiv, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Bachkovo, and Sofia, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Youth Hill
Singing FountainsTsar Simeon GardenAncient Stadium of PhilipopolisAncient Theatre of Philippopolis
The Sea GardenArchaeological MuseumChurch of Saint SophiaSunny Beach
Bedechka ParkPark “Ayazmo“Regional Museum of History Stara ZagoraBachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
North ParkNational Palace of CultureSouth ParkSofia ZooPark "Geo Milev
St Alexander Nevsky CathedralPark "Zaimov"Borisova Gradina ParkIvan Vazov" National Theater
Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Youth Hill
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Welcome to Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Burgas
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Drive 257 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • More

On day 2 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 Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Singing Fountain, a well-known art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This archeological site is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Billiard Club Hot Shot, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pillow is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Burgas
  • Stara Zagora
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 19 min

  • The Sea Garden
  • Archaeological Museum
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • Sunny Beach
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Burgas and Nessebar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stara Zagora. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Burgas promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at The Sea Garden. This serene park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Nesebar Archaeological Museum, another UNESCO world heritage-designated attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Church Of Saint Sophia, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its enchanting features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Sunny Beach. This serene beach is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

As you explore more of Stara Zagora, 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 delicious dinner at The Fat Chef, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? At The Admiral offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Uniqato. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stara Zagora.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Stara Zagora
  • Sofia
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Drive 282 km, 4 hours 11 min

  • Bedechka Park
  • Park “Ayazmo“
  • Regional Museum of History Stara Zagora
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stara Zagora and Bachkovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Stara Zagora is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, and a monastery. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved “bedechka” Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Park “ayazmo“, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Regional Museum Of History Stara Zagora, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno".

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.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Grijn Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar National is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sofia
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • North Park
  • National Palace of Culture
  • South Park
  • Sofia Zoo
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia and Reduta to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in Sofia. Begin your sightseeing with North Park. This captivating park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to National Palace Of Culture, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Sofia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to South Park. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Sofia Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Geo Milev Park is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a park, and a performing arts theater. Begin your adventure at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This is an interesting church you should not miss. Another must-see is Zaimov Park, a captivating park in Sofia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Borisova Gradina Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Theater "ivan Vazov", another of the city’s intriguing attractions.

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 in Plovdiv. 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.

Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
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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 Plovdiv 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 Old Town Of Plovdiv. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Plovdiv’s popular marketplace, Markovo Tepe Mall. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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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