One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Veliko Tarnovo
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Plovdiv, Stob, Bansko, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, Lyaskovets, Kazanlak, and Shipka. 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 Plovdiv, 2 nights in Bansko, and 2 nights 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. Rila Monastery and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, learn more about the unique Singing Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tsarevets Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Stob, Bansko, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, Lyaskovets, 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!
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Day 1
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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- Kapana Creative District
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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 Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv, 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.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Nebet Tepe
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Singing Fountains
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Nebet Tepe, an increasingly popular archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Town Of Plovdiv, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This museum is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. After exploring the park, head to the notable Singing Fountain. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Alyosha Monument, a place of picture-perfect interest in Plovdiv.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Plovdiv's bustling shopping hub, Kapana District. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs, including artisan crafts and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Kapana District offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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 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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Bansko
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Drive 375 km, 5 hours 9 min
- Rila Monastery
- Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
- City Park
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On day 3 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 Rila, Stob, and Bansko. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Rila Monastery, a captivating monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Stob Earth Pyramids, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at City Park. This park is one of the region’s most up-and-coming spots.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bansko, 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 Bansko. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Kasapinova Mehana, a popular restaurant in Bansko. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bansko at Euphoria, 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 OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bansko tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Nova Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Amigo Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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
- Bansko
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Lake Muratovo
- Вихрен
- Baikushev's pine
- "Neofit Rilski" House-Museum
- Holy Trinity Church
- House Museum of Nikola Vaptsarov
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On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Bansko, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Bansko for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bansko and Kresna to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Continue your journey to Baikushev's Pine, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing "neofit Rilski" House-museum. When you're finished at the museum, Holy Trinity Church awaits your visit. This church is a photogenic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a museum - the worthwhile House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bansko and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Bansko, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Kabatsite, an iconic dining spot in Bansko. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern Matsurev Khan, a popular restaurant in Bansko. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ethno Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bansko. 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 Lion's Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pirin 75 provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Wine Bar 25 offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Bansko
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 386 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Trapezitsa Fortress
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Marno Pole Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Trapezitsa Fortress. This underrated archeological site is an awe-inspiring place to see in Bansko. Continue your discovery at Tsarevets Fortress, a majestic castle with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bansko, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This increasingly popular monument offers a culturally significant encounter with Bansko. Next, make your way to Marno Pole Park 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 Bansko.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Famous Bar 2, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Grill Kolata is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 28 km, 42 min
- Park "Children's Playground"
- St Nikolay the Miracleworker
- Lyaskovets Monastery "Sv. Sv. Peter and Paul"
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Veliko Tarnovo for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets.
Get ready for an exciting day in Veliko Tarnovo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a playground, a church, and a monastery. Begin your adventure at Park "children's Playground". This is an often recommended playground you should not miss. Another must-see is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an up-and-coming church in Veliko Tarnovo.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul".
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bianko boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ristretto, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Gallery is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 242 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
- History Museum
- Rose Museum
- Monument of Freedom, Saint Nicholas peak
- Shipka Memorial Church
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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 Kazanlak and Shipka. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Veliko Tarnovo. Begin your sightseeing with Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This underrated archeological site is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Historical Museum “iskra”, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Rose Museum. This beloved museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Shipka Memorial Church is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cocktail Bar Noris, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Fabrik likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 8
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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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 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, begin at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This notable archeological site is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Plovdiv’s popular marketplace, Markovo Tepe Mall. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Ruski Restorant Petar I, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
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!
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