9-Day Bulgaria road trip from Burgas to Plovdiv, Sofia, Lovech, and Veliko Tarnovo

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 1 night immersing yourself in Burgas's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Burgas is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 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.

Don't forget to book a table at Happy Bar & Grill, a well-known eatery in Burgas. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 6,335 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Happy Bar & Grill while exploring Burgas. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 5,139 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Romance Pub & Pizza, a popular restaurant in Burgas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,070 discerning diners.

Make your way to Papa Beer - Craft Beer Bar. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 981 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at Caribe? This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 1,358 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is Ti Bar & Kitchen - ресторант и бар в Бургас. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 835 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Burgas, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv. Plovdiv will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at The Clock, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,744 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Archaeological Museum Burgas is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 378 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ravadinovo. This car ride takes around 30 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Castle of Ravadinovo. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,079 reviews.

After soaking in Ravadinovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sozopol. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Sozopol, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Plovdiv, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Plovdiv has received a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from around 1,229 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Happy Bar & Grill Novotel should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Plovdiv, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,350 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Torro Grande / Торро Гранде. This highly regarded restaurant in Plovdiv has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 4,651 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Rahat Tepe, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,984 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Club Fargo. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers.

Котка и Мишка, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,070 customers.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Plovdiv, Bachkovo, 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 3 nights.

Kick off the day at Singing Fountains, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,346 reviews.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,705 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,603 visitors.

Set your GPS to Sofia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sofia beckons with new experiences!

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

Reserve a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, a renowned restaurant in Sofia. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Restaurant "Staria Chinar" while in Sofia. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 2,717 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Sofia at Art Club Museum, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 customers.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Bar Friday, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,410 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is The Cocktail Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers.

One More Bar is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 customers.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Make a reservation at The Wrong Bar, a popular dining spot in Sofia. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Taj Mahal Restaurant while indulging in the charm of Sofia. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, cherished by 1,423 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Luciano, a treasured establishment in Sofia. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Halbite Beer Hall is a popular option with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,280 customers.

Another top option is Lime Cafe & Cocktails. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,223 customers.

5 Corners Pub is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,463 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

You can learn more about Sofia today by going on a tour. Sofia offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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.

Don't forget to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, a well-known eatery in Sofia. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,252 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Island Restaurant while exploring Sofia. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,035 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Марайа Класик / Maraia Classic, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,002 discerning diners.

K. E. B. A. Is one of the best bars in Sofia and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,055 customers.

You may also want to check out By the Way, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. By the Way is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 909 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Грийн бар. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Sofia and Lovech. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lovech. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make St. Nedelya Church your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,593 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Knyazheska Garden. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,672 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Eagles' Bridge is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,196 visitors.

When you’re finished at Eagles' Bridge, the perfect next stop is Borisova Gradina Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,346 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Park "Zaimov". This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lovech, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Lovech may take around 2 hours 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lovech. Lovech offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lovech.

Make a reservation at Ачевата механа, a popular dining spot in Lovech. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,337 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Drakata while indulging in the charm of Lovech. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, cherished by 1,743 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Tavern Varosha, a treasured establishment in Lovech. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 930 satisfied guests.

An excellent example is Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends, which has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 661 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Бар КРАФТ (KRAFT Craft Beer Bar). This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 153 customers.

Locals also enjoy Пицария "Версай", and you might too. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 174 customers, an after-dinner drink at Пицария "Версай" is the perfect way to end this day.

Say good night to Lovech and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Strugat, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lovech, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Troyan may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Troyan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Troyan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Boicheta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Ethno village Etar your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,151 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

Don't miss out on experiencing Restaurant Asenevtsi, a renowned dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,457 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at VkusoteriA while immersing yourself in Veliko Tarnovo. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 993 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One"), a beloved dining establishment within Veliko Tarnovo. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 8,818 satisfied customers.

After dinner, visit Bianko, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,466 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Lino Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,358 customers.

Alternatively, check out Tequila Bar Funky Monkey. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 493 customers.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

On day 8 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 Burgas. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,765 visitors.

Next, make your way to Marno Pole Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,637 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Tsarevets Fortress. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,802 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Park "Sveta Gora". This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,790 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Monument to the Assen Dynasty. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,635 travelers.

Burgas’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Burgas welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Neptune, an iconic dining spot in Burgas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,122 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Flora Bar & Grill Burgas while in Burgas. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,536 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Incanto restaurant, a favorite in Burgas. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,786 discerning guests.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Bulgaria. One of the best bars in the city is Malibu. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 909 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Burgas, we recommend the cocktails at Cardamon Soul Food & Drinks 🌿. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 716 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Burgas is Bar Bossa. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 596 customers.

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

Day 9 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.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Burgas’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

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

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!