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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Sofia.

A visit to Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Make a stop at Boyana Church. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to South Park located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Borisova Gradina Park. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Visitors usually appreciate the symbolic features of this church. Next up is National Theater "ivan Vazov", a highly recommended performing arts theater.

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 lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Plovdiv is Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an often recommended museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a visually striking historical landmark that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a curiosity-inducing archeological site that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, a nearby archeological site, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a peaceful park and the perfect final attraction in Plovdiv.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

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

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Bachkovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Awaiting your discovery is the popular Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a picture-perfect archeological site in Plovdiv. Next, go to Museum Of Natural Sciences.

After visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and Museum Of Natural Sciences, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Alyosha Monument. This noteworthy monument offers a unique experience. Youth Hill is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 38 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", an interesting monastery that everyone visiting Bachkovo should see.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Asen's Fortress and explore the romantic features.

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

Plovdiv is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv.

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

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Kazanlak, Shipka, and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Kazanlak. 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 1 hour 38 min. Upon reaching Kazanlak, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rose Museum. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This beloved archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the town.

Upon reaching Shipka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Shipka Memorial Church, an increasingly popular church that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kazanlak. This car ride takes around 1 hour 38 min.

Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak is a worthwhile monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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

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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa.

Veliko Tarnovo is brimming with adventures.

No visit to Veliko Tarnovo is complete without Park "sveta Gora". This often recommended 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.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bianko, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ristretto. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gallery, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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