5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Plovdiv and 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo. 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. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", learn more about the unique Tsarevets Fortress, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Veliko Tarnovo, Kazanlak, and Shipka, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Plovdiv
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
- More
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- More
Welcome to Plovdiv, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Plovdiv's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.
Keep the evening going at Rock Bar Download, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to North Star, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Morado Bar & Dinner, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
- More
Drive 64 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Asen's Fortress
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Kapana Creative District
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv.
Don’t miss Kapana Creative District in Plovdiv today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum, a castle, a monastery and much more! Start your day at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This awe-inspiring archeological site is an up-and-coming place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Old Town Of Plovdiv. If visually striking sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This standout museum is a favorite among visitors.
Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Asen's Fortress is an often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the monumental Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting monastery.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plovdiv.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Qbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Veliko Tarnovo
- More
Drive 219 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Trapezitsa Fortress
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Park "Sveta Gora
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Marno Pole Park
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Trapezitsa Fortress, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Tsarevets Fortress. This popular castle is known for its gorgeous appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Park "sveta Gora". This instagrammable park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is also worth visiting, along with Marno Pole Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This increasingly popular monument provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Bell. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
- More
Drive 214 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
- Етнографски комплекс „Кулата“
- History Museum
- Rose Museum
- Tomb of Seuthes III
- Shipka Memorial Church
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Kazanlak and Shipka, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Veliko Tarnovo, including an archeological site, a cultural center, a museum, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This beloved archeological site is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ethnographic Museum "kulata", which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Veliko Tarnovo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Historical Museum “iskra”, an up-and-coming museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Rose Museum and Tomb Of Seuthes Iii. End your day with a visit to Shipka Memorial Church, a beloved church that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv's best restaurants.
Dine in style at RESTAURANT Raia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Citizens Club boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restorant "Megdana". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kriloto Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cocktail Bar Noris, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Fabrik. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Plovdiv - Departure day
- More
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- More
Day 5 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a stunning archeological site before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center, the lively Kapana District. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Bulgaria
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.