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

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Photo of aerial view of the Bulgarian city Plovdiv.
Photo of roman theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo
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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Plovdiv, Sofia, Lukovit, Veliko Tarnovo, Dolni Varpishta, and Boicheta.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Plovdiv, 3 nights in Sofia, and 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 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. South Park and Borisova Gradina Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Sofia, Lukovit, Veliko Tarnovo, Dolni Varpishta, and Boicheta, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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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 Alyosha Monument. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Plovdiv. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to North Star, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 146 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Check out the locally renowned art installation, Singing Fountain. Afterward, continue to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This beloved archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a popular archeological site in the city.

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.

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Grijn Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cairo Relax Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar National. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 31 km, 1 hour 32 min

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Sofia and Reduta. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

National Palace Of Culture is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This visually striking convention center is sure to impress. Next on your list is South Park, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned park renowned for its mesmerizing features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Sofia Zoo. This instagrammable zoo is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Sofia experience. We also recommend visiting Druzhba Park, an intriguing park.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Reduta. This drive usually takes around 12 min.

Savor the day by heading to Geo Milev Park, a popular park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Urban Rebel also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 19 min

  • North Park
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Sveta Nedelya Church
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Sofia.

Awaiting your discovery is the interesting North Park, an eye-catching park in Sofia. Next, go to Zaimov Park.

After visiting North Park and Zaimov Park, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This historic church offers a unique experience. Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov", one of the most romantic places to visit in Sofia.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar & Dinner Relax as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. One More Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Teos Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bsd 2 Ndk. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Sofia
  • Lukovit
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 249 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Knyazheska Garden
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Panega Eco Trail
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Sofia and Lukovit. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Sofia, make sure to drop by Prince's Garden. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Eagles' Bridge, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Borisova Gradina Park, one of the most interesting places to see in Sofia. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Lukovit. 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 1 hour 24 min. Upon reaching Lukovit, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Panega Eco Trail, a frequently visited hiking area in Lukovit. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Famous Bar 2, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Dolni Varpishta
  • Boicheta
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 193 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Marno Pole Park
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Dryanovo monastery "St Archangel Michael
  • Ethno village Etar
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Veliko Tarnovo, Dolni Varpishta, and Boicheta are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Marno Pole Park brings Veliko Tarnovo's character to life. This picture-perfect park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Tsarevets Fortress, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dolni Varpishta. This drive usually takes around 35 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dolni Varpishta is Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", an increasingly popular monastery that draws attention for its stunning features.

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.

Ethno Village Etar is an interesting museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sofra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Central Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Qbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
  • More
  • Youth Hill
  • More

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 Youth Hill. This worthwhile park is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Plovdiv, we recommend the lively Markovo Tepe Mall. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Citizens Club is another top choice with a popular menu.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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