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

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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Burgas, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Zlatovrah, Sofia, Lovech, and Veliko Tarnovo. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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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Say hello to Burgas! 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 Burgas for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Burgas. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Billiard Club Hot Shot after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Pillow for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hashtagpavilion is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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

Burgas is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Boris's Garden (borisova Gradina), an underrated park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Chengene Skele Culture And Tourist Complex, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Museum Of Aviation. This aviation museum is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Burgas at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Park "mineralni Bani".

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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Rock Bar Download is an excellent place to start. You could also check out North Star, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 190 km, 3 hours 56 min

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including a ski resort, a monastery, and a castle. Start your adventure at Pamporovo Ski Resort. This up-and-coming ski resort is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Asen's Fortress. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the region with a visit to Arapovo Monastery. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this monastery.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
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Drive 154 km, 2 hours 28 min

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Singing Fountain. This popular art installation is an enchanting place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This locally appreciated archeological site offers a breathtaking encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Youth Hill, an increasingly popular 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 Plovdiv.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. 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 Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sofia and Reduta. You still have 1 night left in Sofia.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at North Park, a well-known park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find National Palace Of Culture, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at South Park. This park is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Sofia Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to the captivating Geo Milev Park.

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

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

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, 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 Lovech. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Sofia covers several incredible sights, including a church, a park, a monument, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your adventure at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This locally renowned church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the idyllic wonders of Zaimov 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 Borisova Gradina Park. This locally renowned park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Eagles' Bridge, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov". These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lovech's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ponte Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kolor klub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at restaurant ONYX as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight 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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lovech and Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Lovech includes a historical landmark, a park, and a castle. Covered Bridge is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Marno Pole Park, a locally appreciated park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Park "sveta Gora", an instagrammable park, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Chiplakov, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ten'ova kashta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Neptune. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

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

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

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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, begin at The Clock. This curiosity-inducing monument is a popular place to see in the city.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

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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