7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo
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Description
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, Sofia, Lukovit, Veliko Tarnovo, Dolni Varpishta, and Boicheta.
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, 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 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. South Park and Borisova Gradina Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, learn more about the unique Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
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, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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, 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.
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.
Keep the evening going at Rock Bar Download, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to North Star, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Morado Bar & Dinner, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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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
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Plovdiv on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting 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 worthwhile 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, an interesting archeological site in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Grijn Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Sofia
- More
Drive 31 km, 1 hour 32 min
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- Sofia Zoo
- Park "Geo Milev
- Druzhba Park
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is National Palace Of Culture. This visually striking convention center will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to South Park and learn what makes this mesmerizing park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Sofia Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to Geo Milev Park. This interesting park is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by Druzhba Park, known for its enchanting features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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.
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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
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
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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.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views in Sofia. Begin your sightseeing with North Park. This popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Zaimov Park, 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This interesting church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. National Theater "ivan Vazov" is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bar & Dinner Relax. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to One More Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Teos Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 5
- Sofia
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Knyazheska Garden
- Eagles' Bridge
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Panega Eco Trail
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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 Sofia and Lukovit. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sofia, including a park, a monument, and a hiking area. Start your day with a visit to Prince's Garden. This beloved park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eagles' Bridge, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Sofia on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Borisova Gradina Park, an interesting park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Panega Eco Trail.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern "Petleto", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bell. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Famous Bar 2, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Grill Kolata, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 193 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Marno Pole Park
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Dryanovo monastery "St Archangel Michael
- Ethno village Etar
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Veliko Tarnovo, Dolni Varpishta, and Boicheta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities in Veliko Tarnovo. Begin your sightseeing with Marno Pole Park. This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tsarevets Fortress, 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 Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael". This locally appreciated monastery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Ethno Village Etar, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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 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 Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 7
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Youth Hill
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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, we recommend visiting Youth Hill, a romantic park before you head out.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Plovdiv's best shopping area, Kapana District. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Citizens Club, another premier location with a delectable 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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