Cheap 11-Day Bulgaria Road Trip Vacation from Plovdiv traveling west to Bansko, Samokov, Sofia, and Veliko Tarnovo

Photo of aerial view of the Bulgarian city Plovdiv.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
11 days & 10 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
10 nights included
Car rental
11 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Bring out the adventurer in you and embark on an exciting 11-day road trip through Bulgaria! Travel to Plovdiv, Bansko, Samokov, Pernik, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Balchik, Varna, and Burgas with this cheap holiday package!

Explore Bulgaria for less with this 11-day self-drive package. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country. See the stunning Borisova Gradina Park, the captivating St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and marvel at the uniqueness of each attraction. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Bulgaria and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. Lastly, this travel plan allows you to stay and feel comfortable at a top-rated budget hotel for 2 nights in Plovdiv, 2 nights in Bansko, 1 night in Samokov, 3 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo, and 1 night in Varna.

This customizable and cheap Bulgaria travel package promises non-stop adventure. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Bulgaria at the lowest price!

On arrival in Plovdiv, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Bulgaria. Explore the magnificent South Park to see its unique features. Visit the fascinating Sea Garden and take in its distinct atmosphere. Bulgaria offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your journey, you'll have the pleasure of staying at top-rated budget accommodations, each selected for their exceptional value, comfort, and positive guest reviews. Each stop along your carefully planned route has been chosen to enhance your travel experience, offering you a blend of convenience, comfort, and a touch of local culture, ensuring a restful retreat after a day of adventures.

Choosing the handpicked recommendations gives you easy access to popular places of interest in Bulgaria. With accommodation conveniently located in a downtown area, you can explore its surroundings at your leisure. Here, you can sample the country’s culinary delicacies and buy keepsakes of your travels in Bulgaria.

This cheap holiday package will bring you close to many picture-perfect destinations in Bulgaria, like the stunning Rila Monastery. You'll visit the incredible Balchik Palace to make lasting memories. You'll also have the chance to admire the outstanding The Sea Garden up close.

Your camera will be full of memories you can share with friends and family or on social media. By the end of your 11-day road trip, you'll leave Bulgaria happy and inspired to go on another unique and budget-friendly adventure.

This affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 11-day vacation in Bulgaria. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 10 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Bulgaria with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Bulgaria travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Bulgaria and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Bulgaria’s famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions There’s no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Bulgaria offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place. More importantly, the price of your 11-day self-drive package to Bulgaria includes all taxes.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Bulgaria with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours to Bulgaria fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

Read more

Included

Hotel, 10 nights
Rental car, 11 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of aerial view of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Plovdiv / 2 nights
Photo of Saint Anastasia Island in Burgas bay, Black Sea, Bulgaria. Lighthouse tower and old wooden buildings on rocky coast.Burgas
Перник -  in BulgariaPernik
Photo of aerial view of The Cathedral of the Assumption and Varna city at amazing sunset, Bulgaria.Varna / 1 night
Велико Търново -  in BulgariaVeliko Tarnovo / 1 night
Банско -  in BulgariaBansko / 2 nights
Photo of panoramic aerial view of Samokov, Bulgaria.Samokov / 1 night
Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia / 3 nights
Razlog
Photo of Balchik Palace of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coastline, Balchik, Bulgaria.Balchik

Map

Attractions

The Sea Garden, Burgas, BulgariaThe Sea Garden
Photo of Varna spring time, beautiful aerial view above sea garden, Bulgaria.Sea Garden
South Park
Borisova Gradina Park
Photo of Balchik Palace Castle of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coast.Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Photo of Beautiful view of the Orthodox Rila Monastery, a famous tourist attraction and cultural heritage monument in the Rila Nature Park mountains in Bulgaria.Rila Monastery
Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
Tsar Simeon Garden
Balchik Botanic Garden
Park "Zaimov"
Sofia Zoo, R-7276261, R-186382, R-4283101Sofia Zoo
Photo of sunset aerial view of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria.National Palace of Culture
Singing Fountains
Tsarevets Fortress
Vitosha
Park "Geo Milev
Photo of Eagles' bridge in Sofia, Bulgaria.Eagles' Bridge
Druzhba Park
Holy Trinity Park
Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
Knyazheska Garden
Photo of the Cathedral of the Assumption in Varna, Bulgaria. Completed in 1886, and also known as the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral.Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
Photo of ruins of a late antiquity fortress with religious complex "Tsari Mali Grad" from the 6th century, Bulgaria.Tsari Mali Grad
Russian Monument Square
Sveta Nedelya Church
Парк за танцуващи мечки Белица Dancing Bears Park, Belitsa, Blagoevgrad, BulgariaПарк за танцуващи мечки Белица Dancing Bears Park
Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
Marno Pole Park
Photo of aerial view of the Alyosha soldier monument in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Alyosha Monument
Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
Park "Razlog"
photo of view of Stock Photo ID: 323530922  Bliznaka (Twin) Lake in Rila mountain, Bulgaria,Bistritsa Bulgaria.Rila
City Park by the river Iskar
photo of view of Path along the Stob Pyramids Rock Formations in Bulgaria.,Stob Bulgaria.Stob Earth Pyramids
photo of  view of Ovcharchenski Waterfall,Ovchartsi bulgaria.Ovcharchenski Waterfall
Living Water Spring
Sarafska House Museum

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
  • More
  • Singing Fountains
  • More

Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Plovdiv and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

Plovdiv is a popular cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria with something to offer every traveler. When you're ready to explore the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Plovdiv and get this road trip adventure rolling.

A trip to the amazing Singing Fountains will make your cheap holiday in Bulgaria truly special. This attraction is a fascinating park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,815 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best budget-friendly hotels or places to stay in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv. An excellent example is the popular Aylyakriya / Aylyakria Restaurant. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,229 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Bulgaria is Pavaj. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,861 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the city's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Rahat Tepe. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,984 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Club Fargo is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 1,132 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Plovdiv we recommend is Kotka i Mishka, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,070 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 2 – Plovdiv and Bansko

Day 2

Day 2 – Plovdiv and Bansko

  • Plovdiv
  • Bansko
  • More

Drive 159 km, 3 hours 19 min

  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Alyosha Monument
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience two places in one day. You’ll start your day in Plovdiv and end your day in the city of Bansko, where you'll stay for 2 nights. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you.

One of the best places to visit in Plovdiv is the amazing Alyosha Monument. This travel destination is a monument that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,259 visitors.

This day is also your chance to stop at the incredible Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,228 travelers, a visit to this well-known best-rated sightseeing destination and sightseeing spot in Plovdiv is likely to make your vacation in Bulgaria even more memorable.

Another unforgettable sight in Plovdiv is the outstanding Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This top-tier point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,047 visitors.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Bulgaria. To have the best affordable travel experience in Bulgaria, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Bulgaria unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Bansko. Bansko is another cheap travel destination in Bulgaria where you have access to hotels, restaurants, bars, and other conveniences.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best attractions a budget vacation in Bulgaria can afford, treat yourself to a hearty meal. You’ll find many great restaurants in Bansko that offer delicious food to help keep you going.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Bansko is "Five M" Restaurant & Good Bar. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 657 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Bansko, Restaurant Victoria Bansko is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,271 diners.

Many locals and cheap holiday goers in Bansko enjoy dining at this restaurant.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bansko’s best bars to celebrate this day of your road trip vacation in Bulgaria. For example, you can visit Amigo Pub. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,227 customers, this bar is considered a favorite in the area.

Another great place to have a refreshing, celebratory drink is Pirin 75. This popular bar in Bansko has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 746 bar-goers.

You can also go to Cafe Eliz as an alternative. More than a bar, the popular Cafe Eliz is also a place for fun or relaxation. Around 663 customers have given this city bar an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 3 – Blagoevgrad and Bansko

Day 3

Day 3 – Blagoevgrad and Bansko

  • Bansko
  • Razlog
  • More

Drive 104 km, 2 hours 57 min

  • Park "Razlog"
  • Парк за танцуващи мечки Белица Dancing Bears Park
  • More

Today's agenda is to explore Blagoevgrad and discover what this fabulous and cheap holiday destination offers. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Bansko.

You’ll begin this day’s adventure with a visit to the top-rated Baikushev's pine. This incredible attraction is a tree that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 2,192 visitors.

Another highlight of this cheap holiday package is a trip to the fascinating Banderishka meadow. This spectacular top-tier point of interest and tourist destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,068 reviews.

It’s hard to pass up the chance to see the famous Park "Razlog" during a vacation in Blagoevgrad. Ranking high up on many travelers’ bucket lists, the amazing Park "Razlog" has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,540 reviews.

This day of your road trip in Bulgaria is also the perfect opportunity to see the outstanding BEAR SANCTUARY Belitsa. This popular place of interest in Blagoevgrad is a valued best-rated sightseeing destination that has a rating of 4.7 out of a 5-star rating from 4,853 visitors.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package to make your road trip in Bulgaria more special. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

After taking in the best of Blagoevgrad, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Bansko for a well-deserved rest. When you’re ready to eat, indulge yourself to a nice meal at one of the top-rated restaurants in the city.

The House is an excellent example. Here you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,083 customers.

Baryakova mehana is another great restaurant option for budget travelers in Bansko. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,169 customers.

After a lovely dinner at one of the best places to eat in Bansko, visit one of the most popular drinking spots in the city. Relax, grab a drink or two, chat with friendly locals, and enjoy the rest of your evening in Bansko.

Happy End is a fantastic bar many locals in Bansko recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 707 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at Smokey Mountain Bar & Grill, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 505 customers.

Raise your glass and savor every moment of your cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 4 – Kyustendil and Samokov

Day 4

Day 4 – Kyustendil and Samokov

  • Samokov
  • More

Drive 197 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Stob Earth Pyramids
  • Rila Monastery
  • Rila
  • Ovcharchenski Waterfall
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience two places in one day. You’ll start your day in Kyustendil and end your day in the city of Samokov, where you'll stay for 1 night. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you.

One of the best places to visit in Kyustendil is the amazing Stob Earth Pyramids. This travel destination is a rock formation that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,105 visitors.

This day is also your chance to stop at the incredible Rila Monastery. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 17,257 travelers, a visit to this well-known monastery and sightseeing spot in Kyustendil is likely to make your vacation in Bulgaria even more memorable.

Another unforgettable sight in Kyustendil is the outstanding Rila. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,931 visitors.

To make the most of your day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria, drop by the popular Ovcharchenski Waterfall. This attraction, an amazing waterfall, has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 893 travelers.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Bulgaria. To have the best affordable travel experience in Bulgaria, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Bulgaria unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Samokov. Samokov is another cheap travel destination in Bulgaria where you have access to hotels, restaurants, bars, and other conveniences.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best attractions a budget vacation in Bulgaria can afford, treat yourself to a hearty meal. You’ll find many great restaurants in Samokov that offer delicious food to help keep you going.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Samokov is The Old House Restaurant. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,207 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Samokov, Kaymakanova house is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 829 diners.

Another restaurant worth trying is Pri Sote Traditional Restaurant. Many locals and cheap holiday goers in Samokov enjoy dining at this restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,699 customers.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Samokov’s best bars to celebrate this day of your road trip vacation in Bulgaria. For example, you can visit Delight bar & dinner. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 382 customers, this bar is considered a favorite in the area.

Another great place to have a refreshing, celebratory drink is Defected Bar & Café. This popular bar in Samokov has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 146 bar-goers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 5 – Samokov, Pernik, and Sofia

Day 5

Day 5 – Samokov, Pernik, and Sofia

  • Pernik
  • Samokov
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 162 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • Sarafska House Museum
  • City Park by the river Iskar
  • Tsari Mali Grad
  • Vitosha
  • Living Water Spring
  • More

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to explore two popular cheap holiday destinations in one day. You’ll start your day in the city of Samokov and end your day in the city of Pernik.

Today's agenda features plenty of popular stops and allows you to stay in Sofia for 3 nights. How much time you want to spend in each area or attraction is up to you. This way, you’ll have all the time you want to take in the unique atmosphere of each location and make the most of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria.

While you’re in Samokov, it’s a good idea to visit the amazing City Park by the river Iskar. The fantastic City Park by the river Iskar is a popular park and a sightseeing hotspot. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,123 travelers.

Travelers usually have a splendid time at the incredible Tsari Mali Grad, a well-known fortress in the area. Currently, this spectacular destination enjoys a 4.5 out of a 5 star-rating from 6,546 travelers.

Once you’ve satisfied your wanderlust in Samokov, you’ll continue to your next road trip destination of the day, the city of Pernik.

Make Vitosha Nature Park your first stop. This popular park among locals and travelers alike has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,355 visitors.

Another unforgettable travel destination in Pernik is the outstanding Living Water Spring. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 375 visitors, this remarkable best-rated sightseeing destination and attraction deserves a spot on your Bulgaria travel bucket list.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the affordable tours you can join this day of your cheap holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the road trip experience of a lifetime.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget accommodations in the city of Sofia. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Sofia, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is a popular hangout spot among locals.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Bulgaria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 6 – Sofia

Day 6

Day 6 – Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 14 km, 44 min

  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Knyazheska Garden
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
  • National Palace of Culture
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip adventures in Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Sofia, and meet locals along the way!

Sofia offers an incredible variety of budget hotels and places to stay you can choose from and spend the night in.

We recommend you stay at the charming Casa Boyana Boutique to ensure a pleasant and affordable vacation in Sofia. This 5-star hotel offers guests comfort and convenience and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 249 guest reviews.

Another budget-friendly stay option you can check into is the cozy 4-star Best Western Terminus Hotel. This cheap hotel provides a ton of handy amenities perfect for travelers in Sofia. Best Western Terminus Hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,583 former guests.

Travelers looking forward to enjoying a cheap vacation in Sofia should also consider Gloria Palace. This 3-star hotel offers great value-for-money and is one of the best budget accommodations in the city. Gloria Palace has been rated by 348 guests with an average of 4 out of 5 stars.

Popular hotels and places to stay in Sofia offering low-cost accommodations get fully-booked fast. If any of these stay options are not available during your visit in the city, our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best budget alternatives.

One thing that makes Sofia the perfect cheap holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular attractions. For example, the outstanding park, Borisova Gradina Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,952 visitors.

The famous Knyazheska Garden is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. This incredible park and travel destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,458 visitors.

Sofia is also the home of the extraordinary St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Around 18,076 travelers have rated the spectacular St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 4,714 reviews, a visit to this wonderful church and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

This day of your road trip through Bulgaria is also your chance to admire the fantastic National Palace of Culture up close. This fascinating convention center and attraction is a must-visit. The marvelous National Palace of Culture enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,776 travelers.

Come to Sofia prepared by adding a tour to your budget vacation package to Bulgaria. If you’re up for a challenging, fun, or inspiring activity, check out the fantastic selection of tours and cheap holiday deals in Sofia.

After a day of exploring, reward yourself by dining at one of the best restaurants in Sofia, Restaurant "Staria Chinar". Locals enjoy eating at Restaurant "Staria Chinar" for its good food and ambiance. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,717 diners.

Curious about the nightlife in Sofia? Consider visiting some of the best bars in Sofia after dinner.

Raise a toast and enjoy celebrating this terrific day of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 7 – Sofia

Day 7

Day 7 – Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 28 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Holy Trinity Park
  • Russian Monument Square
  • South Park
  • Sofia Zoo
  • More

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Sofia, proving that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can be extraordinary.

You'll begin sightseeing at the extraordinary Holy Trinity Park. This attraction is a park that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,629 travelers.

Another of the best travel destinations you can explore in this fun and cheap holiday destination is the spectacular Russian Monument Square. This popular place of interest is a stunning must-see tourist destination that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,387 visitors.

To make your trip to Sofia more memorable, spend time at the fascinating South Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,055 traveler reviews, it’s not surprising that the fantastic South Park is often mentioned in Bulgaria road trip itineraries.

Your discovery of Sofia does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Sofia on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Bulgaria.

After exploring some of the most remarkable sights in Bulgaria, you also have the chance to experience the country’s food culture.

Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers in the city.

When you’ve finished your meal, head to some of the most popular bars in Sofia for an after-dinner drink.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible road trip adventure in the magical Sofia!

Read more

Experiences

Day 8 – Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo

Day 8

Day 8 – Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo

  • Sofia
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 234 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Sveta Nedelya Church
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • Druzhba Park
  • More

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience two places in one day. You’ll start your day in Sofia and end your day in the city of Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you.

One of the best places to visit in Sofia is the amazing St. Nedelya Church. This travel destination is a church that has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,189 visitors.

This day is also your chance to stop at the incredible Eagles' Bridge. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,677 travelers, a visit to this well-known stone bridge and sightseeing spot in Sofia is likely to make your vacation in Bulgaria even more memorable.

Another unforgettable sight in Sofia is the outstanding Park "Geo Milev". This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,902 visitors.

To make the most of your day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria, drop by the popular Druzhba Park. This attraction, an amazing park, has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,323 travelers.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Bulgaria. To have the best affordable travel experience in Bulgaria, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Bulgaria unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo is another cheap travel destination in Bulgaria where you have access to hotels, restaurants, bars, and other conveniences.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best attractions a budget vacation in Bulgaria can afford, treat yourself to a hearty meal. You’ll find many great restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo that offer delicious food to help keep you going.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Veliko Tarnovo is VkusoteriA. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 993 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo, Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One") is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,818 diners.

Another restaurant worth trying is Restaurant Ego 1. Many locals and cheap holiday goers in Veliko Tarnovo enjoy dining at this restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,561 customers.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Veliko Tarnovo’s best bars to celebrate this day of your road trip vacation in Bulgaria. For example, you can visit Bianko. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,466 customers, this bar is considered a favorite in the area.

Another great place to have a refreshing, celebratory drink is Lino Bar. This popular bar in Veliko Tarnovo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,358 bar-goers.

You can also go to Tequila Bar Funky Monkey as an alternative. More than a bar, the popular Tequila Bar Funky Monkey is also a place for fun or relaxation. Around 493 customers have given this city bar an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 9 – Veliko Tarnovo, Balchik, and Varna

Day 9

Day 9 – Veliko Tarnovo, Balchik, and Varna

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Varna
  • Balchik
  • More

Drive 303 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Marno Pole Park
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
  • Balchik Botanic Garden
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit the wonderful Veliko Tarnovo and the enchanting Balchik, two of the most popular cheap holiday destinations in the country. You'll begin sightseeing in Veliko Tarnovo and end the day in Balchik, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Buckle up because day 9 of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria will take you to some of locals’ and travelers’ most recommended travel spots!

One place travelers keep coming back to in Veliko Tarnovo is the magnificent Marno Pole Park. Around 4,458 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Tsarevets Fortress on this leg of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known best-rated sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 11,511 travelers.

After capturing the beauty and rich culture of Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll get back behind the wheels and continue your road trip to the fantastic city of Balchik.

Start your sightseeing in this cheap holiday destination with a visit to the unforgettable Balchik Palace. This popular site is a valued palace in Balchik and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,217 visitors.

Another must-visit in Balchik is the spectacular Balchik Botanic Garden. This outstanding park and sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 15,288 travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your self-drive tour across Bulgaria. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular and low-cost activities to choose from in Bulgaria. Make your cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria more memorable by doing something new, bold, or inspiring.

Varna offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. So anytime you need a break from your activities, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and affordable place to rest and stay in the city.

As this adventurous day progresses, satisfy your hunger at one of the best restaurants in the city. Many restaurants in Varna offer good food at even better prices, the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Bulgaria.

Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna) is a must try. This restaurant serves a mouthwatering selection of meals and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,318 diners.

Another popular eating spot in Varna is Staria Chinar - Port Varna, a local favorite. Serving diners fresh, delicious, and affordable meals, this restaurant has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,810 customers.

Staria Chinar Restaurant offers customers flavorful food and good ambiance, making it one of the best places to eat in Varna. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,178 customers, this restaurant can get packed very quickly. Make sure you get to the restaurant early to save yourself a seat.

When night has fallen and you feel like enjoying a drink, head to some of Varna’s best bars. There are plenty of bars in the city where you can order a few drinks without compromising your budget.

Cubo is an excellent example of a great bar in Varna offering drinks at reasonable prices. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,527 customers.

You can also hang out and have a drink at The Garden Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Varna. The Garden Bar is among the best city bars offering various beverages at different price points, with around 2,562 customers having rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

The BRICK bar is for you if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Varna. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 1,387 bar-goers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 10 – Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv

Day 10

Day 10 – Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv

  • Burgas
  • Varna
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 374 km, 4 hours 51 min

  • Sea Garden
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • The Sea Garden
  • More

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to explore two popular cheap holiday destinations in one day. You’ll start your day in the city of Varna and end your day in the city of Burgas.

Today's agenda features plenty of popular stops and allows you to stay in Plovdiv for 1 night. How much time you want to spend in each area or attraction is up to you. This way, you’ll have all the time you want to take in the unique atmosphere of each location and make the most of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria.

While you’re in Varna, it’s a good idea to visit the amazing Sea Garden. The fantastic Sea Garden is a popular urban park and a sightseeing hotspot. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,686 travelers.

Travelers usually have a splendid time at the incredible Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, a well-known eastern orthodox cathedral in the area. Currently, this spectacular destination enjoys a 4.7 out of a 5 star-rating from 6,705 travelers.

Once you’ve satisfied your wanderlust in Varna, you’ll continue to your next road trip destination of the day, the city of Burgas.

Make The Sea Garden your first stop. This popular park among locals and travelers alike has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,044 visitors.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the affordable tours you can join this day of your cheap holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the road trip experience of a lifetime.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget accommodations in the city of Plovdiv. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Plovdiv, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Hemingway Restaurant, one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,363 customers.

R-nt , Mal'k Bunardzhik" is yet another of the top places to eat in the city. R-nt , Mal'k Bunardzhik" is known for serving a variety of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,166 diners.

Locals and travelers enjoy dining at PASA Restaurant, another well-loved restaurant in Plovdiv. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,284 guests, this restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Bulgaria.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in Plovdiv, Rock Bar Download. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is a popular hangout spot among locals. In addition, this bar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 845 bar goers.

Bar The Post is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Plovdiv, with its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 425 customers.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Bulgaria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Day 11 – Plovdiv - departure day

Day 11

Day 11 – Plovdiv - departure day

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
  • More
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • More

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Bulgaria as your road trip vacation is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Plovdiv.

Depending on how much time you have before your flight back home, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing to make the most of your cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria.

If you'd rather pass time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Plovdiv is the remarkable Old Town of Plovdiv. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,806 visitors.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Plovdiv, consider a top-rated restaurant like Kotka i Mishka, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,070 customers.

RESTAURANT Raia is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 936 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is Kitchen of Raya / Kukhnyata na Raya. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 895 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Bulgaria and your fun memories in Plovdiv.

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable travel experiences in Bulgaria!

Read more

Experiences

Similar travel packages

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.