One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv, Sofia, and Lovech

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Burgas, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Zlatovrah, Sofia, Lovech, and Veliko Tarnovo.

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 Burgas, 2 nights in Plovdiv, 2 nights in Sofia, and 1 night in Lovech. 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 Burgas, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. The Sea Garden and South Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Borisova Gradina Park, learn more about the unique Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

As you hit the open road and drive through Burgas, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Zlatovrah, Sofia, Lovech, and Veliko Tarnovo, 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
The Sea Garden
Boris's garden (Borisova gradina)Chengene Skele Culture and Tourist ComplexAviomuseum BurgasПарк "Минерални бани
Pamporovo Ski ResortBachkovo Monastery "Uspenie BogorodichnoAsen's FortressArapovo Monastery
Singing FountainsTsar Simeon GardenAncient Stadium of PhilipopolisAncient Theatre of PhilippopolisYouth Hill
North ParkNational Palace of CultureSouth ParkSofia ZooPark "Geo Milev
St Alexander Nevsky CathedralPark "Zaimov"Borisova Gradina ParkEagles' BridgeIvan Vazov" National Theater
Covered BridgeMarno Pole ParkPark "Sveta GoraTsarevets Fortress
The Clock

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Burgas - Arrival day
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  • The Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Burgas and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Burgas for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Burgas 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 The Sea Garden, 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 Burgas. 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 Burgas, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a popular restaurant in Burgas. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Burgas at Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, 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 Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Burgas tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Pillow, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Burgas
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Boris's garden (Borisova gradina)
  • Chengene Skele Culture and Tourist Complex
  • Aviomuseum Burgas
  • Парк "Минерални бани
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Burgas. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Boris's Garden (borisova Gradina). Continue your discovery at Chengene Skele Culture And Tourist Complex, a breathtaking cultural center with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Burgas, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Aviation. This beloved aviation museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Burgas. Next, make your way to Park "mineralni Bani" to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Burgas.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 190 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Pamporovo Ski Resort
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Arapovo Monastery
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s itinerary in Plovdiv covers several incredible sights, including a ski resort, a monastery, and a castle. Start your adventure at Pamporovo Ski Resort. This up-and-coming ski resort is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a must-see monastery in the region.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Asen's Fortress. This often recommended castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Arapovo Monastery, where you can take in respected features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, known for its lively atmosphere. Qbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 154 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Youth Hill
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Plovdiv covers several incredible sights, including an art installation, a park, and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Singing Fountain. This locally renowned art installation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This intriguing archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, where you can take in standout features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Youth Hill. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Saffron Indian Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Island Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Grijn Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cairo Relax Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar National is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 32 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • North Park
  • National Palace of Culture
  • South Park
  • Sofia Zoo
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • More

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is North Park. This locally renowned park is a visually striking place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at National Palace Of Culture, an eye-catching convention center with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to South Park. This captivating park offers a majestic encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Sofia Zoo to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Geo Milev Park, a well-known park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

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

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

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

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia
  • Lovech
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Drive 166 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lovech, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a park, a monument, a performing arts theater and much more! Begin your adventure at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This is a well-known church you should not miss. Another must-see is Zaimov Park, a notable park in Sofia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Borisova Gradina Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Eagles' Bridge, another of the city’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at National Theater "ivan Vazov", a stunning place of interest in the city.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lovech. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ponte Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Lovech. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kolor klub, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at restaurant ONYX. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lovech.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Varosha, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Kraft (kraft Craft Beer Bar) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Lovech
  • Burgas
  • More

Drive 312 km, 4 hours 39 min

  • Covered Bridge
  • Marno Pole Park
  • Park "Sveta Gora
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Lovech and Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Lovech’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Covered Bridge. This enchanting historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Marno Pole Park, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Park "sveta Gora", a locally appreciated park. For a change of scene, check out Tsarevets Fortress, known for its history-steeped features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Burgas. Burgas 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 Burgas. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Chiplakov, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ten'ova kashta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Neptune. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Bossa offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Malibu is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Saxa Beach is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Burgas - Departure day
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  • The Clock
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Day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Burgas 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 The Clock, a respected monument before you head out.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Burgas’s popular marketplace, Aleksandrovska Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider JaV-KA food bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Burgas. 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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