One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Veliko Tarnovo
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Plovdiv, Stob, Bansko, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, Lyaskovets, Kazanlak, and Shipka. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Plovdiv, 2 nights in Bansko, and 2 nights 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. Rila Monastery and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, learn more about the unique Singing Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tsarevets Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Stob, Bansko, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, Lyaskovets, Kazanlak, and Shipka, 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
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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- Kapana Creative District
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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 2 nights 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 Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood, and 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rock Bar Download, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, North Star offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Nebet Tepe
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Singing Fountains
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum, a park, an art installation, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Nebet Tepe. This frequently visited archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this park. Next up is Singing Fountain, a highly recommended art installation. For a change of pace, head to Alyosha Monument. As one of the most beloved attractions in Plovdiv, this monument is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at Plovdiv as you explore Markovo Tepe Mall. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Markovo Tepe Mall offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Qbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar 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.
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Bansko
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Drive 375 km, 5 hours 9 min
- Rila Monastery
- Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
- City Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Rila, Stob, and Bansko, 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 Bansko. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Plovdiv allows for both. Start by heading to Rila Monastery. This captivating monastery provides an insightful glimpse into the region's identity. Next, discover Stob Earth Pyramids, a picturesque rock formation, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to City Park, an intriguing park.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bansko. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bansko's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kasapinova Mehana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Euphoria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bansko.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Nova Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Penguins Bar & Dinner, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Amigo Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to Bansko and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Bansko
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Lake Muratovo
- Вихрен
- Baikushev's pine
- "Neofit Rilski" House-Museum
- Holy Trinity Church
- House Museum of Nikola Vaptsarov
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bansko for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bansko and Kresna.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Bansko on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile lake, Lake Muratovo. Afterward, continue to Vihren, a summit every traveler should visit.
As you explore Bansko’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Baikushev's Pine. This intriguing tree is an essential stop. Following that, head to "neofit Rilski" House-museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Holy Trinity Church, a beloved church in the town. Finally, end your day with a visit to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov, a heritage-rich museum that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bansko.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bansko's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Kabatsite, a highly-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tavern Matsurev Khan, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ethno Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Lion's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Pirin 75, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Wine Bar 25 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Bansko
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 386 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Trapezitsa Fortress
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Marno Pole Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Bansko’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Trapezitsa Fortress. This historic archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Tsarevets Fortress, a must-visit castle in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, an underrated monument. For a change of scene, check out Marno Pole Park, known for its eye-catching features.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Famous Bar 2 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Grill Kolata, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 28 km, 42 min
- Park "Children's Playground"
- St Nikolay the Miracleworker
- Lyaskovets Monastery "Sv. Sv. Peter and Paul"
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On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Veliko Tarnovo for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, budget-friendly activities, and picturesque spots. Next, go to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker.
After visiting Park "children's Playground" and St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, have a stroll along Veliko Tarnovo's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul". This breathtaking monastery offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Veliko Tarnovo and your accommodation.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bianko, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ristretto, known for its lively atmosphere. The Gallery is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 242 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
- History Museum
- Rose Museum
- Monument of Freedom, Saint Nicholas peak
- Shipka Memorial Church
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kazanlak and Shipka. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Veliko Tarnovo includes an archeological site, a museum, a monument, a church and much more! Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Historical Museum “iskra”, an intriguing museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rose Museum, a photogenic museum, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Veliko Tarnovo. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the intriguing Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak. If you’re looking for more, Shipka Memorial Church is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
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 could also check for a table at Restorant "Megdana". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kriloto Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cocktail Bar Noris is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Fabrik offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 8
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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Day 8 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a picture-perfect archeological site before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Plovdiv’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Kapana District. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Italianski restorant Pikantino, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ruski Restorant Petar I offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel.
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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