FROM SOFIA TO THE SEA: CLASSIC BULGARIA SELF-DRIVE

Overview

A classic self-drive journey across Bulgaria, from the capital city of Sofia to the Black Sea coast. This itinerary combines UNESCO heritage, mountain scenery, historic towns and seaside landscapes, with highlights including Rila Monastery, Bansko, Plovdiv, Nessebar, Varna and Veliko Tarnovo.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Price per person: 695 € (for 2 adults, 0 children)

Itinerary

• Day 1: Sofia / Arrival – Arrival at Sofia International Airport. Pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a first walk in Bulgaria’s capital.
• Day 2: Sofia – Rila Monastery – Bansko – Drive towards the Rila Mountains and visit the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s most iconic spiritual and architectural landmark. Continue to Bansko, a charming town at the foot of the Pirin Mountains.
• Day 3: Bansko – Plovdiv – Departure for Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Explore its Roman heritage, colourful Old Town and lively Kapana creative district.
• Day 4: Plovdiv – Burgas – Drive east towards the Black Sea coast and arrive in Burgas, a pleasant seaside city known for its Sea Garden, relaxed atmosphere and coastal views. Enjoy free time by the waterfront.
• Day 5: Burgas – Nessebar – Varna – Travel north along the Black Sea coast with a stop in Nessebar, a UNESCO-listed ancient town famous for its churches, cobbled streets and maritime charm. Continue to Varna, Bulgaria’s maritime capital.
• Day 6: Varna – Veliko Tarnovo – Leave the coast and drive inland towards Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital. Explore the impressive Tsarevets Fortress, the old streets and the panoramic views over the Yantra River.
• Day 7: Veliko Tarnovo – Sofia – Drive back to Sofia. Depending on your schedule, enjoy free time for museums, shopping, restaurants or a final evening in the capital.
• Day 8: Sofia / Departure – Return the rental car and depart from Sofia International Airport.

Included in the Price

• 7 nights in 3/4-star hotels, in standard rooms
• 7 breakfasts
• Rental car from Day 1 to Day 8: Renault Clio or similar, manual transmission, unlimited mileage
• Top Protection insurance (valid only upon presentation of a police report)

Not Included in the Price

• Meals and drinks (except breakfasts)
• Fuel and parking costs
• Entrance fees and visits
• Refundable security deposit for the rental car
• Any services not mentioned in the program
• Personal expenses and tips

Traveler Information

This package is priced for 2 adults (0 children) sharing one room. Child age options are available for up to 4 children, with adjustable ages (1–15 years).