10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Plovdiv, Sofia, and Arbanassi

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Burgas. You’ll stay in Burgas for 2 nights.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Aleko Bogoridi Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Natural History Museum Of Burgas is an ideal stop early in the day. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Archaeological Museum Burgas, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Burgas on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to The Clock, a frequently visited monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St. Anastasia Island.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Bossa, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Malibu offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Saxa Beach provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Ravadinovo and Sozopol.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ravadinovo may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Ravadinovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Castle Of Ravadinovo, an underrated castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ravadinovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sozopol. This drive usually takes around 11 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Main Square Sozopol. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Sozopol Archaeological Museum. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Southern Fortress Wall And Tower. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gracia Pizzeria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, JaV-KA food bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Romance Pizza. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.

Keep the evening going at Barabar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Playground, Mall Galleria, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Baywatch Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Plovdiv are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 27 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known archeological site in Plovdiv. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Old Town Of Plovdiv. This beloved historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most instagrammable museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the often recommended Alyosha Monument and discover what makes this monument unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a romantic park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Stob and Rila. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stob. This car ride takes around 2 hours 52 min.

Stob Earth Pyramids is a worthwhile rock formation we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Rila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Rila is Rila Monastery, an interesting monastery that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stob, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rila. This drive usually takes around 33 min.

“bohemia Falls” Ecotrail is an underrated waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Grijn Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cairo Relax Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar National also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Burgas. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top thing to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a must-see street in Sofia. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Boyana Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, National Palace Of Culture, an eye-catching convention center that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Prince's Garden. When you're finished at the park, Eagles' Bridge awaits your visit. This monument is a photogenic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the captivating Borisova Gradina Park.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Sofia is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Urban Rebel provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Arbanassi, where will spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 45 min. Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress, another highlight in Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Trapezitsa Fortress, a historic archeological site.

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

Arbanassi is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Arbanassi.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Arbanassi, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Veliko Tarnovo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Arbanassi to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Veliko Tarnovo is Marno Pole Park, a curiosity-inducing park that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a detailed monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a beloved monument that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore State Art Gallery "boris Denev", a nearby art gallery, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Arbanassi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Kazanlak and Shipka. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kazanlak. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Ethnographic Museum "kulata", an up-and-coming cultural center that everyone visiting Kazanlak should see. Next, head to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This photogenic archeological site is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Kazanlak, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Shipka. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Shipka Memorial Church and explore the monumental features.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ethno Restaurant Burgas, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kapana Seafront Fish Shack? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Romance Pub & Pizza as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Caribe is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Fabric Club Burgas, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Papagala Coffee Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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