One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Burgas, Stara Zagora, and Sofia and surrounding area
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Sofia, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo.
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, 1 night in Burgas, 1 night in Stara Zagora, and 3 nights in Sofia. 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. The Sea Garden and South Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Sofia, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo, 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
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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Welcome to Plovdiv, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Plovdiv's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2 – Plovdiv and Burgas
- Plovdiv
- Burgas
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Drive 258 km, 3 hours 1 min
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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings a charming, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a serene, a heritage-rich, and a culturally significant. The first attraction of today is Singing Fountain. This captivating art installation is an instagrammable place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a standout park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This beloved archeological site offers a breathtaking encounter with Plovdiv. Old Town Of Plovdiv is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Burgas. 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 Burgas's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pillow provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Say good night to Burgas and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3 – Burgas, Nessebar, and Stara Zagora
- Burgas
- Nesebar
- Stara Zagora
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 19 min
- The Sea Garden
- Sunny Beach
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Burgas and Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stara Zagora, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Burgas today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is The Sea Garden. This serene park will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nessebar. This car ride takes around 37 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nesebar Archaeological Museum. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Church Of Saint Sophia. This underrated church is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Sunny Beach. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the beach.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Stara Zagora. Stara Zagora offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Stara Zagora. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at The Fat Chef, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, At The Admiral boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Uniqato. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Stara Zagora.
Keep the evening going at Beer Kolobars Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Brothers' Cafe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hello Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 4 – Stara Zagora and Sofia
- Stara Zagora
- Sofia
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 8 min
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Stara Zagora. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with a stunning, an eye-catching, a respected, a culturally significant, a remarkable, a charming, and an idyllic in the charming city of Stara Zagora. Your adventure starts at Samara Flag Monument, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is “bedechka” Park. This frequently visited park is known for its historic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Stara Zagora's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Stara Zagora Zoo. This visually striking zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Park “ayazmo“ is also worth visiting, along with Artileriyski Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Grijn Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cairo Relax Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar National offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5 – Sofia and Reduta
- Sofia
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 32 min
- National Palace of Culture
- Sofia Zoo
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s itinerary in Sofia covers several incredible sights, including a convention center, a park, and a zoo. Start your adventure at National Palace Of Culture. This popular convention center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of South Park, a must-see park in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Sofia Zoo. This interesting zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Druzhba Park, where you can take in its instagrammable features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Reduta. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Reduta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Make your way to Geo Milev Park, a notable park that draws attention for its gorgeous features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Forum, 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 Turquoise 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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Urban Rebel is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6 – Sofia
- Sofia
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 15 min
Day 6 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Start by visiting North Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching park is sure to impress.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Zaimov Park. This beautiful park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky also adds charm to your journey, and National Theater "ivan Vazov" wraps up your day with its visually striking appeal.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel ZOO Sofia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar & Dinner Relax. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting One More Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Teos Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 7 – Sofia, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv
- Sofia
- Asenovgrad
- Bachkovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 212 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Eagles' Bridge
- Asen's Fortress
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On day 7 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, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Prince's Garden. Just a short distance away is Eagles' Bridge, a photogenic monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Borisova Gradina Park, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss.
Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!
Asen's Fortress is an increasingly popular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Asenovgrad, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bachkovo may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and explore the inviting features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sofra, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Central Park. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Qbar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Anyway Social Bar 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!
Day 8 – Plovdiv - departure day
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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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.
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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Plovdiv allows for both. Start by heading to Alyosha Monument. This often recommended monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.
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 eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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