One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Visiting Boyana Church is always a good idea. This up-and-coming church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the majestic 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 Borisova Gradina Park. This well-known park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, where you can take in grand features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov" These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Visiting Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is always a good idea. This worthwhile museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Old Town Of Plovdiv, a must-see historical landmark 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 Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This locally appreciated archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rock Bar Download offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, North Star is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Morado Bar & Dinner is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Plovdiv, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Asen's Fortress, a symbolic castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, one of the village’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Museum Of Natural Sciences. When you're finished at the museum, Alyosha Monument awaits your visit. This monument is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the underrated Youth Hill.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Plovdiv and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kazanlak, Shipka, and Veliko Tarnovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Rose Museum is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This photogenic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing archeological site renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Plovdiv by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Shipka Memorial Church. This stunning church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Plovdiv experience. We also recommend visiting Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, an often recommended monument. Nearby, you'll also find Marno Pole Park, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria and wrap up your day with its picture-perfect appeal.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Veliko Tarnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa. With 1 night to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

No visit to Veliko Tarnovo is complete without Park "sveta Gora". This beloved park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to State Art Gallery "boris Denev", another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Holy Forty Martyrs Church, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Trapezitsa Fortress is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Park "children's Playground" and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most underrated attractions.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a highly-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bianko, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Ristretto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Gallery, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.