One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Sofia, Lovech, Shumen, and Burgas and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Old Town of Plovdiv or 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Rahat Tepe, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RESTAURANT Raia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. Morado Bar & Dinner is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sofia, 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 Plovdiv to Sofia may take around 1 hour 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sofia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Singing Fountains. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,362 visitors.

“Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 travelers.

Plovdiv is also the home of Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. Around 7,705 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 17,603 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Plovdiv is also your chance to admire Youth Hill. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,014 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sofia. Sofia 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 Sofia, 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 Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divaka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Face bar & dinner. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Halbite Beer Hall, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Lime Cafe & Cocktails, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Reduta for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kick off the day at North Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,850 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit National Palace of Culture. National Palace of Culture is a convention center with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 reviews.

South Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,763 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Sofia Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,962 visitors.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Reduta on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As you explore more of Sofia, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Art Club Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider J. J. Murphy's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant "Staria Chinar". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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 Sofia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lovech, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lovech. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This church is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 visitors.

Park "Zaimov" is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Borisova Gradina Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,346 reviews.

Eagles' Bridge is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a stone bridge rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,196 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Ivan Vazov National Theater, perhaps the most famous sightseeing destination in Sofia. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,760 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lovech, 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lovech's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ponte Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Колор клуб? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at restaurant ONYX as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lovech.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, БАР Вароша offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Бар КРАФТ (KRAFT Craft Beer Bar) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Lovech and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 1 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo. 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.

Set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Veliko Tarnovo beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Marno Pole Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,637 visitors.

Next, make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension. This top attraction is a church with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 224 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Tsarevets Fortress. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,802 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Trapezitsa Fortress. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,182 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Shumen, 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 Shumen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Механа "Хитър Петър", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Primo Bar & Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Minaliya Vek. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Shumen.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lavazza Coffee and Cocktails Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Zino Club for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Arizona Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Varna and Nessebar. 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Shumen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Varna may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Varna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Sea Garden. This extraordinary urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,289 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,003 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nessebar, 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 Varna to Nessebar may take around 1 hour 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nessebar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Sunny Beach one of your first sightseeing stops in Nessebar. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,830 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Church of Saint Sophia is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,853 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Burgas. Burgas 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.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at IN BAR. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Target provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Bossa offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Stara Zagora and Burgas, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Stara Zagora’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Burgas behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min. Stara Zagora welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at “Bedechka” Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,214 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Park “Ayazmo“. Park “Ayazmo“ is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,233 reviews.

Artileriyski Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,601 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stara Zagora. This car ride takes around 1 hour 48 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at The Clock. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,744 visitors.

When you’re finished at The Clock, head to The Sea Garden. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,703 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Plovdiv, 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 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.

Dine in style at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Pri Ilyas (Brazilia). Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at ANYWAY Social Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Крилото Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cocktail Bar Noris. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Bulgaria, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Bulgaria home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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 to try something new, consider Restaurant Rio, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!