One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Burgas, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, and Sofia and surrounding area

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Rahat Tepe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at KFC. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rock Bar Download, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to North Star. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Burgas, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

Singing Fountain is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,510 reviews.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another outstanding experience in Plovdiv. Around 7,842 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is not far away. This point of interest is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Bulgaria Burgas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at IN BAR as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Billiard Club Hot Shot after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Target for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pillow is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

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.

Make The Clock one of your first sightseeing stops in Burgas. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

The Sea Garden is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,099 reviews.

Set your GPS to Nessebar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nessebar beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,788 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Church of Saint Sophia is a recommended place to visit. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,993 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Nessebar is Sunny Beach. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Nessebar offers an experience you will remember.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pizza Selena is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Three Dolphins. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Vogue cafe bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar PUNTA CANA ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 4 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 Varna, and Madara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,169 visitors.

Sea Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,572 travelers.

Varna is also the home of Retro Museum. Around 7,087 people have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in Varna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Madara. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 48 min. When you arrive in Madara, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Madara Horseman is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,528 visitors.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Famous Bar 2, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Grill Kolata, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo, and Lukovit. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,801 visitors.

Next, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,913 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lukovit, 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 Veliko Tarnovo to Lukovit may take around 1 hour 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lukovit, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Panega Eco Trail. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,509 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Forum, 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 Hotel ZOO Sofia, 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 Mamma Mia Ltd, 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 going to a bar or two. Halbite Beer Hall is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Lime Cafe & Cocktails, offering a different kind of charm.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 6 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Reduta. You have 1 night left in Reduta. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the hamlet.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Sofia Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,237 reviews.

Continue your journey at South Park. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of National Palace of Culture. This convention center has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at National Theater "Ivan Vazov". Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,932 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 delicious meal at Divaka, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Face bar & dinner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Art Club Museum. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

Continue your journey at Borisova Gradina Park. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Zaimov Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on North Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,004 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Qbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. ANYWAY Social Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Old Town of Plovdiv is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,450 visitors.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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!