Cheap 9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Sofia, Gabrovo, Shumen, and Burgas

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Kickstart an unforgettable journey with this 9-day cheap road trip in Bulgaria, tailored for travelers on a budget. Explore Plovdiv, Sofia, Gabrovo, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, Shumen, Varna, Nessebar, Burgas, and Stara Zagora, where every turn is a new discovery.

Explore Bulgaria for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Bulgaria travel package promises an exhilarating 9-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 2 nights in Plovdiv, 3 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Gabrovo, 1 night in Shumen, and 1 night in Burgas. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Bulgaria and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. 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. Bulgaria offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in Bulgaria, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

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 affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 9-day vacation in Bulgaria. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 8 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.

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

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Day 1

Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night. 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. More than a city in Bulgaria, Plovdiv is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Drop by the renowned Youth Hill. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,086 visitors.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Bulgaria by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Plovdiv that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Salt & Pepper offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Rahat Tepe. Or, try KFC, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Rock Bar Download is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, North Star is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Morado Bar & Dinner, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Plovdiv, and Sofia

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 148 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria is another proof that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Plovdiv. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Sofia, where you'll be spending 3 nights.

Journey into the unknown at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Singing Fountain is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Plovdiv is Alyosha Monument. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Plovdiv offers an experience you will remember.

Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Plovdiv. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

While exploring Bulgaria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Sofia has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Sofia on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Sofia. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Hotel Forum, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Hotel ZOO Sofia - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Mamma Mia Ltd, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Cap off your dinner by heading to Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Sofia, and Rila Monastery

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • Rila Monastery
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Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Sofia on day 3 of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria. You’ll continue your stay in Sofia for an additional 2 nights. Explore more top attractions in Bulgaria, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Trinity Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,845 visitors.

Russian Monument Square is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,608 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Zaimov Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,334 reviews.

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.

Take the opportunity to see Rila Monastery. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,596 visitors.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Sofia. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Divaka, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Face bar & dinner - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Art Club Museum, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Sofia, and Reduta

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 27 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Zoo Sofia
  • National Palace of Culture (NPC)
  • More

Ready for day 4 of your road trip vacation in Bulgaria? Discover more of Sofia and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Druzhba Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sofia Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 travelers.

National Palace Of Culture is another must-visit attraction. This renowned convention center offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit National Theater "ivan Vazov". This well-loved point of interest boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 9,932 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Reduta may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Reduta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Geo Milev Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Reduta, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,414 visitors.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Sofia should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Sofia, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Ресторант VICTORIA България, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Park Hotel "MOSKVA", an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Bulgaria! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Sofia!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Sofia, and Gabrovo

  • Gabrovo
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 213 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • Eagles' Bridge
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Sofia. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Gabrovo, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 visitors.

Borisova Gradina Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Prince's Garden. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,695 reviews.

South Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, perhaps the most famous church in Sofia. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,088 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Gabrovo. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Gabrovo, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Gabrovo offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Bulgaria.

Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Strannopriemnitsa offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Vanilla coffee&food, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Moda Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Zahir - Bar & Dinner. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion", another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Gabrovo, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, and Shumen

  • Shumen
  • Boicheta
  • Dolni Varpishta
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 208 km, 3 hours 16 min

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Bulgaria, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, and Veliko Tarnovo. You'll stay in Shumen for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gabrovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Boicheta may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Boicheta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ethno Village Etar. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,399 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Boicheta and set your GPS to Dolni Varpishta. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Dolni Varpishta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael". This place of worship is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,058 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dolni Varpishta and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Tsarevets Fortress. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,913 visitors.

Park "sveta Gora" is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,821 travelers.

Shumen offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Shumen should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Shumen, try some of our top recommendations.

Discover the heart of Shumen through its culinary scene, starting with Механа "Хитър Петър". Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Tavern Oreha, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Primo Bar & Grill, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Zino Club, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Arizona Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Shumen!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Shumen, Varna, Nessebar, and Burgas

  • Burgas
  • Varna
  • Nesebar
  • More

Drive 233 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Sea Garden
  • Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral
  • Sunny Beach
  • More

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria will take you to the city of Burgas, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Burgas, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Bulgaria, including Varna, and Nessebar.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Varna, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Shumen to Varna may take around 1 hour 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Varna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Sea Garden. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,572 visitors.

When you’re finished at Sea Garden, head to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Set your GPS to Nessebar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nessebar beckons with new experiences!

Make Sunny Beach your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this town an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,959 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Church Of Saint Sophia. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,993 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.

While exploring Bulgaria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Burgas has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Burgas on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Bulgaria shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Burgas is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Hotel Bulgaria Burgas - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, IN BAR promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Billiard Club Hot Shot, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Target is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pillow also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

A road trip vacation in Varna can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Burgas, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv

  • Plovdiv
  • Burgas
  • Stara Zagora
  • More

Drive 275 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • The Sea Garden
  • More

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Burgas, and Stara Zagora. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to The Sea Garden. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,099 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stara Zagora. Your travel time is around 1 hour 48 min.

Kick off the day at “bedechka” Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,259 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Stara Zagora Zoo. Stara Zagora Zoo is a zoo with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,506 reviews.

Park “ayazmo“ is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,330 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly 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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Plovdiv is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Sofra offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Central Park is the perfect spot for you!

Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Bulgaria! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Plovdiv!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Plovdiv - departure day

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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Your budget road trip vacation in Bulgaria is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Plovdiv.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Plovdiv's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.

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 4,450 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Plovdiv, consider a top-rated restaurant like RESTAURANT Raia, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Restaurant Citizens Club is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Ресторант "Мегдана", which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories 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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