6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 2 nights in Sofia, 2 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 Sofia, 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. Borisova Gradina Park and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, learn more about the unique “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno".

As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Veliko Tarnovo, and Lovech, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Borisova Gradina Park
Regional Ethnographic Museum PlovdivOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveAncient Stadium of PhilipopolisTsar Simeon GardenSinging Fountains
Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie BogorodichnoAsen's FortressAncient Theatre of PhilippopolisMuseum of Natural SciencesMonument of the Red Army "Alyosha"Youth Hill
Trapezitsa FortressHoly Forty Martyrs ChurchTsarevets FortressEthnographic Complex "Samovodska Charshiya"Monument of Mother Bulgaria
StrateshVasil Levski museumCovered BridgeAlley "Bash Bunar" Lovech
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • Borisova Gradina Park
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Say hello to Sofia! Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Sofia 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 Borisova Gradina 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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Singing Fountains
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Sofia. Your adventure starts at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Old Town Of Plovdiv. This worthwhile historical landmark is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This historic archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is also worth visiting, along with Singing Fountain. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 73 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Museum of Natural Sciences
  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
  • Youth Hill
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Plovdiv for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Plovdiv. Begin your sightseeing with Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This notable monastery is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Asen's Fortress, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Plovdiv, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This interesting archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Museum Of Natural Sciences, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Alyosha Monument is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Youth Hill and uncover why it's recognized as one of the village's most beloved attractions.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sofra? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Central Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Trapezitsa Fortress
  • Holy Forty Martyrs Church
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Ethnographic Complex "Samovodska Charshiya"
  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Plovdiv on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved archeological site, Trapezitsa Fortress. Afterward, continue to Holy Forty Martyrs Church, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress. This well-known castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya", another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, an intriguing monument in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern "Petleto", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bell. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Famous Bar 2, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Grill Kolata is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 250 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Stratesh
  • Vasil Levski museum
  • Covered Bridge
  • Alley "Bash Bunar" Lovech
  • More

On day 5 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 Lovech. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Veliko Tarnovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. "stratesh" is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. Vasil Levski Museum, Lovech is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Veliko Tarnovo.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Covered Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Alley "bash Bunar" Lovech.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Urban Rebel 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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia - Departure day
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  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
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Day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Sofia 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a monumental church before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel ZOO Sofia is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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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