7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo

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Photo of Burgas Beach in Burgas in Bulgaria by Виктор Сапожников
Photo of  old windmill in the ancient town of Nessebar, Burgas.
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas traveling west to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo
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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Burgas, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Kazanlak, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Shipka, and Sliven.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Burgas, 2 nights in Plovdiv, 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 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Burgas, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Kazanlak, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Shipka, and Sliven, 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, accommodations, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Burgas - Arrival day
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  • The Sea Garden
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Burgas and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Burgas, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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 delicious meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Burgas
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 257 km, 3 hours 27 min

  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Roman Forum of Philippopolis
  • 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 place, which are Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Burgas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, an increasingly popular archeological site that everyone visiting Plovdiv should see. Next, head to Alyosha Monument. This detailed monument is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Singing Fountain, a romantic art installation popular among locals as well as travelers. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, a picture-perfect archeological site and a top attraction in the city.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Salt & Pepper, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rahat Tepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider KFC. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rock Bar Download, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, North Star offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Plovdiv
  • Asenovgrad
  • Bachkovo
  • More

Drive 73 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Asen's Fortress
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
  • Youth Hill
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Experience Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known archeological site in the town. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This is one of the town’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the increasingly popular Youth Hill.

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 29 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Asen's Fortress, an up-and-coming castle in Asenovgrad. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bachkovo. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a captivating monastery known for its inviting features.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Qbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Anyway Social Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • Kazanlak
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 238 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Rose Museum
  • History Museum
  • Етнографски комплекс „Кулата“
  • Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
  • More

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

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kazanlak. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 38 min. When you arrive in Kazanlak, it's time to take a break from the road.

Rose Museum is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Historical Museum “iskra”, a standout museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ethnographic Museum "kulata", an instagrammable cultural center. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a heritage-rich and truly unique archeological site.

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

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Arbanassi
  • More

Drive 15 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Park "Sveta Gora
  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • Marno Pole Park
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Trapezitsa Fortress
  • St Nikolay the Miracleworker
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Veliko Tarnovo, there’s no need to rush. Experience Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Veliko Tarnovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Enjoy all that Park "sveta Gora" has to offer. This is an increasingly popular park you should not miss. Another must-see is Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a frequently visited monument in Veliko Tarnovo.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Marno Pole Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Tsarevets Fortress, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Trapezitsa Fortress, an awe-inspiring place of interest in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arbanassi. This drive usually takes around 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at St. Nikolay The Miracleworker and explore the respected features.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", an iconic dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bianko, a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of EGO pizza & grill The Old Town, a hidden gem nestled in Veliko Tarnovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ristretto offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Gallery is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tequila Bar Funky Monkey is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Shipka
  • Sliven
  • Burgas
  • More

Drive 327 km, 4 hours 56 min

  • Monument of Freedom, Saint Nicholas peak
  • Shipka Memorial Church
  • Паметник на Бузлуджа
  • House-museum of the Old Sliven Popular Customs
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Kazanlak, Shipka, and Sliven. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations 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 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Pametnik Na Buzludzha, another highlight in Kazanlak.

Shipka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Shipka Memorial Church. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sliven may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Sliven, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is House-museum Of The Old Sliven Popular Customs. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Chiplakov, 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 Ten'ova kashta, 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 Neptune, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Burgas - Departure day
  • More
  • The Clock
  • More

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 The Clock. This intriguing monument is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Burgas, Aleksandrovska Street is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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!

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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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