One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Burgas, Stara Zagora, and Sofia
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Sofia, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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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 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.
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
- Burgas
- Plovdiv
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Drive 258 km, 3 hours 1 min
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Take the opportunity to see Singing Fountain. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 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 15,537 travelers.
Plovdiv is also the home of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Around 7,842 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Old Town Of Plovdiv. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 4,450 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.
This day of your vacation in Plovdiv is also your chance to admire Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This must-visit sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Burgas's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Bulgaria Burgas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss IN BAR. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Billiard Club Hot Shot stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Target offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pillow is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Burgas and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3 – Burgas, Nessebar, and Stara Zagora
- Stara Zagora
- Burgas
- Nesebar
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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.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at The Sea Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 visitors.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,788 visitors.
When you’re finished at Nesebar Archaeological Museum, head to Church Of Saint Sophia. This one-of-a-kind church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,993 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Sunny Beach. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 visitors.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Stara Zagora, 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 Stara Zagora. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beer Kolobars Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Brothers' Cafe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hello Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
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.
Day 4 – Stara Zagora, and Sofia
- Sofia
- Stara Zagora
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 8 min
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Stara Zagora. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Make Samara Flag Monument one of your first sightseeing stops in Stara Zagora. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,749 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
“bedechka” Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,259 reviews.
Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Stara Zagora Zoo. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,506 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, head to Park “ayazmo“. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 8,330 previous visitors.
Another top place to visit is Artileriyski Park. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,637 local and international travelers.
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 Sofia. Sofia 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Mamma Mia Ltd. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace Of Culture. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,569 reviews.
Next up, make your way to South Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Sofia Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Druzhba Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Reduta. Your travel time is around 12 min.
Make Geo Milev Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Sofia and your accommodation.
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 wonderful meal at Divaka, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Face bar & dinner, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Art Club Museum. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at North Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 visitors.
When you’re finished at North Park, head to Holy Trinity Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,845 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Zaimov Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors.
To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to National Theater "ivan Vazov". This famous sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,932 travelers.
You can learn more about Sofia today by going on a tour. Sofia offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ресторант VICTORIA България, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 7 – Sofia, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
- Asenovgrad
- Bachkovo
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Drive 212 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Eagles' Bridge
- Asen's Fortress
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo, 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.
Kick off the day at Prince's Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,695 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Eagles' Bridge. Eagles' Bridge is a stone bridge with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 reviews.
Borisova Gradina 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 27,635 visitors.
Asenovgrad’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min. Asenovgrad welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Journey into the unknown at Asen's Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,157 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", 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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.
Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Plovdiv’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Alyosha Monument. Previous visitors have rated this monument an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,510 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
Dine in style at RESTAURANT Raia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Citizens Club boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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