7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Plovdiv and Sofia
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Burgas, Plovdiv, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, and Arbanassi. 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 3 nights in Burgas, 1 night in Plovdiv, and 2 nights in Sofia. 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 Rila Monastery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Burgas, Plovdiv, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, and Arbanassi, 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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Day 1
- Burgas - Arrival day
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- The Sea Garden
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Welcome to Burgas, 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 Burgas's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.
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 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Burgas
- More
Drive 45 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Natural History Museum of Burgas
- Археологически музей Бургас Archaeological Museum Burgas
- The Clock
- St. Anastasia Island
- Aleko Bogoridi Street
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Burgas for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Don’t miss Aleko Bogoridi Street in Burgas today, a must-see street 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.
Burgas is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Natural History Museum Of Burgas, an intriguing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Archaeological Museum Burgas, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at The Clock. This monument 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 St. Anastasia Island.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Chiplakov, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ten'ova kashta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Neptune is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Burgas.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Bossa, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Malibu is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Saxa Beach also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Burgas
- Plovdiv
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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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 - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Burgas. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most popular places to visit in Burgas. Next, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an intriguing museum, known for its heritage-rich features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This romantic historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Alyosha Monument and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rock Bar Download, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, North Star is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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Drive 397 km, 5 hours 35 min
- Rila Monastery
- Boyana Church
- Park "Zaimov"
- Lions' Bridge
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Rila and 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Plovdiv. Begin your sightseeing with Rila Monastery. This well-known monastery is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Boyana Church, 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 Zaimov Park. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Lions' Bridge, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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 explore more of Sofia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Saffron Indian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Island Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.
Keep the evening going at Grijn Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cairo Relax Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar National, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Sofia
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Eagles' Bridge
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Regional History Museum Sofia
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- More
Day 5 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Borisova Gradina Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most well-known places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Eagles' Bridge, a popular monument, known for its heritage-rich features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This breathtaking church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Regional History Museum Of Sofia and National Palace Of Culture. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to South Park, a romantic park in Sofia.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 6
- Sofia
- Burgas
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Drive 449 km, 5 hours 39 min
- Ascension Cathedral
- Tsarevets Fortress
- St Nikolay the Miracleworker
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On day 6 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 Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Sofia includes a church and a castle. Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Tsarevets Fortress, an interesting castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, a photogenic church, also available for your discovery today.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Burgas's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gracia Pizzeria, an iconic dining spot in Burgas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of JaV-KA food bar, a popular restaurant in Burgas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Romance Pizza, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. 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. Barabar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Playground, Mall Galleria, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Baywatch Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Burgas - Departure day
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- Ship - Attraction "Anastasia"
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Day 7 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 Ship - Attraction "anastasia". This underrated historic ship is a popular place to see in the city.
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.
Dine in style at Ethno Restaurant Burgas, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kapana Seafront Fish Shack boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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