9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv, Blagoevgrad, Sofia, and Gabrovo

Say hello to Burgas! 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 Burgas for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Burgas 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 The Clock 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 Burgas. 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 Burgas. 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 ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at IN BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Billiard Club Hot Shot, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Target is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Bossa offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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 - Burgas. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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 34,703 visitors.

When you’re finished at The Sea Garden, head to Chengene Skele Culture and Tourist Complex. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 741 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Museum of Aviation. This aviation museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,213 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Парк "Минерални бани". This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,653 visitors.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Rahat Tepe, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RESTAURANT Raia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Rock Bar Download is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Morado Bar & Dinner, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bachkovo and set your GPS to Asenovgrad. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Asenovgrad, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Karadzhov kamak. This popular megalith has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 895 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bachkovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno". This popular place of worship has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 13,019 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Asen's Fortress is a great place to start. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,063 visitors.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pri Ilyas (Brazilia) is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at ANYWAY Social Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Крилото Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Cocktail Bar Noris is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 4 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 Blagoevgrad. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Singing Fountains. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,362 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,705 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Youth Hill. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,014 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Plovdiv.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Blagoevgrad. Blagoevgrad 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Blagoevgrad. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Tchsasovnika, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar All Stars boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Verde. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Blagoevgrad.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting BeFree, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Swing is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Найс плейс also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Melnik, Rozhen, and Kyustendil. 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 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Melnik. This car ride takes around 1 hour 16 min.

Make Kordopulov House your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this building an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,312 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rozhen. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rozhen Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,415 visitors.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, 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 Divaka, 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 Face bar & dinner. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Halbite Beer Hall, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Borisova Gradina Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,346 reviews.

Eagles' Bridge is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,196 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Park "Zaimov". This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,209 reviews.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is another outstanding experience in Sofia. Around 19,648 travelers have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Ivan Vazov National Theater is not far away. This sightseeing destination is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,760 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Bulgaria that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Sofia has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Bulgaria by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Art Club Museum, 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 J. J. Murphy's, 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 Restaurant "Staria Chinar", a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Sofia and Reduta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like National Palace of Culture. This extraordinary convention center has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 visitors.

Next, make your way to South Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,763 reviews.

While in Sofia, we also recommend a visit to Holy Trinity Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,768 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to North Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,850 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Sofia.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Reduta.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Park "Geo Milev". This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,324 visitors.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, an iconic dining spot in Gabrovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Strannopriemnitsa, a popular restaurant in Gabrovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vanilla coffee&food, a hidden gem nestled in Gabrovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at MODA BAR, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion", which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Gabrovo and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 8 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 Boicheta and Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, 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 Boicheta.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ethno village Etar. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Boicheta, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,151 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Veliko Tarnovo. This car ride takes around 50 min.

Journey into the unknown at Marno Pole Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Tsarevets Fortress is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,802 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Veliko Tarnovo is Park "Sveta Gora". Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,790 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Veliko Tarnovo offers an experience you will remember.

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.

As you explore more of Burgas, 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 Теньова къща, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Neptune, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gracia Pizzeria. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Malibu, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Saxa Beach offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Barabar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Burgas before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Burgas’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Bulgaria. Keep the spirit of your trip to Bulgaria alive with these special souvenirs.

Take the opportunity to see Boris's Garden (Borisova Gradina). This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,195 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Burgas.

You’ll then say farewell to Burgas. 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!