9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Burgas, Stara Zagora, and Sofia and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Plovdiv, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Sofia, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 4 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, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad, 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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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Bar Download, known for its lively atmosphere. North Star is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner 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!
Day 2 – Plovdiv, and Burgas
- Burgas
- Plovdiv
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Drive 258 km, 3 hours 1 min
On day 2 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 Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Singing Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,640 visitors.
When you’re finished at Singing Fountain, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 visitors.
To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This famous sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 travelers.
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.
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.
Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider IN BAR. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Target, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pillow provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Burgas, and Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stara Zagora, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Sea Garden, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,099 reviews.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Burgas, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nessebar may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Kick off the day at Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,788 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Church Of Saint Sophia. Church Of Saint Sophia is a church with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,993 reviews.
Sunny Beach is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 visitors.
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.
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.
Make sure to book a table at The Fat Chef, a popular restaurant in Stara Zagora. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Stara Zagora at At The Admiral, 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 Restaurant Uniqato. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Stara Zagora tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Beer Kolobars Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brothers' Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hello Cafe is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 4 – Stara Zagora, and Sofia
- Sofia
- Stara Zagora
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 8 min
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Stara Zagora, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Samara Flag Monument. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,749 reviews.
“bedechka” Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,259 reviews.
Another attraction you won't want to miss is Stara Zagora Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,506 reviews.
Park “ayazmo“ is another outstanding experience in Stara Zagora. Around 8,330 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
If you long for more, Artileriyski Park is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,637 reviews.
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.
Dine in style at Hotel Forum, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mamma Mia Ltd. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Halbite Beer Hall after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Lime Cafe & Cocktails for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 5 – Sofia, and Rila Monastery
- Sofia
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Rila Monastery
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.
Make Holy Trinity Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,845 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,691 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.
Zaimov Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 visitors.
Rila Monastery’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 40 min. Rila Monastery welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Rila Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 18,596 visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Divaka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Face bar & dinner beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Art Club Museum. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 6 – Sofia
- Sofia
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Drive 18 km, 59 min
- Eagles' Bridge
- Zoo Sofia
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Day 6 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 2 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Borisova Gradina Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 visitors.
Eagles' Bridge is another popular attraction you could visit today. This stone bridge has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 visitors.
Prince's Garden is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 visitors.
Sofia Zoo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,237 reviews.
Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is South Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 travelers.
Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this 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 7 – Sofia, and Reduta
- Sofia
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Drive 19 km, 58 min
Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Druzhba Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 visitors.
Next, make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This top attraction is a church with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,088 visitors.
We also recommend a visit to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,066 travelers.
If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit National Theater "ivan Vazov". This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Reduta. This car ride takes around 12 min.
Kick off the day at Geo Milev Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated 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 delicious dinner at Hotel Jasmin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? J. J. Murphy's offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.
Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 8 – Sofia, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
- Bachkovo
- Asenovgrad
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Drive 223 km, 3 hours 44 min
- National Palace of Culture (NPC)
- Asen's Fortress
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Sofia, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Kick off the day at North Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,004 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Russian Monument Square. Russian Monument Square is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,608 reviews.
National Palace Of Culture is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Previous visitors have rated this place of worship an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,211 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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
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 9 – Plovdiv - departure day
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Day 9 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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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.
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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