7-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling east to Burgas, Varna, Shumen, and Gabrovo

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Varna, Balchik, Shumen, Madara, Veliko Tarnovo, Gabrovo, Dolni Varpishta, Boicheta, and Stara Zagora. 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 2 nights in Plovdiv, 1 night in Burgas, 1 night in Varna, 1 night in Shumen, and 1 night in Gabrovo. 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 Sea Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Varna, Balchik, Shumen, Madara, Veliko Tarnovo, Gabrovo, Dolni Varpishta, Boicheta, and Stara Zagora, 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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Day 1

Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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Say hello to Plovdiv! 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 Plovdiv for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Plovdiv. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Plovdiv, and Burgas

  • Burgas
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 258 km, 3 hours 1 min

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 Burgas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Singing Fountain. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 visitors.

Next, make your way to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

While in Plovdiv, we also recommend a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,450 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Plovdiv.

Make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, perhaps the most famous point of interest in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews.

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 IN BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Keep the evening going at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Target, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pillow, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Burgas and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Burgas, Nessebar, and Varna

  • Varna
  • Burgas
  • Nesebar
  • More

Drive 139 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • The Sea Garden
  • Sunny Beach
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Burgas, and Nessebar, 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 Varna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see The Clock. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,766 visitors.

The Sea Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 travelers.

After soaking in Burgas’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nessebar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 37 min. When you arrive in Nessebar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Nesebar Archaeological Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,788 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Church Of Saint Sophia. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,993 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.

Sunny Beach is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This town has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vogue Cafe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cuba Beach Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Punta Cana provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Varna, Balchik, and Shumen

  • Shumen
  • Varna
  • Balchik
  • More

Drive 181 km, 2 hours 51 min

  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Sea Garden
  • Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Varna, and Balchik. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Shumen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Asparuhov Park. Asparuhov Park is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,231 reviews.

Sea Garden is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,572 visitors.

Set your GPS to Balchik and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Balchik beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Balchik Botanic Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,545 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Balchik Palace. This palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,803 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Shumen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Shumen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Механа "Хитър Петър", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern Oreha offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Primo Bar & Grill is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Shumen.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Zino Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Shumen. Arizona Lounge is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 – Shumen, Madara, Veliko Tarnovo, and Gabrovo

  • Gabrovo
  • Madara
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 230 km, 3 hours 24 min

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Madara, and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Shumen and set your GPS to Madara. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Madara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,534 visitors.

Next, make your way to Madara Horseman. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,528 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Veliko Tarnovo, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Madara to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 2 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Trapezitsa Fortress. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,202 reviews.

Tsarevets Fortress is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,913 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Marno Pole Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,692 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Gabrovo, 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 Gabrovo. 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.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Moda Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Zahir - Bar & Dinner is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" 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!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Gabrovo, Dolni Varpishta, Boicheta, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv

  • Plovdiv
  • Dolni Varpishta
  • Boicheta
  • Stara Zagora
  • More

Drive 219 km, 3 hours 42 min

On day 6 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 Dolni Varpishta, Boicheta, and Stara Zagora. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Dolni Varpishta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dolni Varpishta beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael". This popular place of worship has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,058 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Boicheta. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Ethno Village Etar one of your first sightseeing stops in Boicheta. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,399 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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 Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Qbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Anyway Social Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Plovdiv - departure day

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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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.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,510 reviews.

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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