Take this self-drive tour and discover this beautiful country at your own pace. Start your trip exploring the capital of Bulgaria, a modern and buzzing town rich in history from Antiquity to the present. Continue to Veliko Tarnovo and be captivated by the magnificent views from the top of Tzarevetz Hill. Walk through the cobblestone streets to learn about the lives of wealthy merchants from the Bulgarian Medieval ages. Spend several days along the romantic Black Sea coast, visiting the Sea Capital Varna and the ancient towns of Nessebar and Sozopol. Immerse yourself in the countryside, experiencing the culture and traditions of rural Bulgaria. Stop in Plovdiv, the European City of Culture, and enjoy a visit with a local granny near the famous ski resort Bansko. Conclude your inspiring trip in Sofia, and leave with memories that will surely bring you back to this fascinating land.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Sofia: The capital and largest city of Bulgaria offers a great variety of attractions, from ancient ruins, rich museums, and typical architecture to a lively pedestrian zone filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

Veliko Tarnovo: The former Bulgarian capital will enchant you with breathtaking views from Tzarevetz Hill, the cobbled street of Samovodska Charshia, and the masterful crafts of local artisans.

Varna: Bulgaria’s Black Sea capital is a must-see. Enjoy scenic views from beachside restaurants, relax in the Sea Garden, or explore the Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s oldest processed gold.

Nessebar: Known as the “Pearl” of the Black Sea Coast, the Old Town of Nessebar will captivate you with its 13th-century churches and stunning sea views.

The Rose Valley: Experience the fragrant aroma of the famous Bulgarian rose, often called “Liquid Gold.”

Plovdiv: A city with a heritage of great civilizations, Plovdiv boasts ancient ruins, bohemian quarters, artistic cafes, and ateliers. Dive into the atmosphere of this Town of Culture.

Bansko: Discover the warmth of Bulgarian mountain hospitality as you’re welcomed into local homes and experience Bulgaria’s folklore and traditions firsthand.

The short itinerary

Day 1 : DEPARTURE NEW YORK
Day 2 : ARRIVAL SOFIA / CAR HIRE PICK-UP (10KM – 30MIN)
Day 3 : SOFIA
Day 4 : SOFIA – VELIKO TARNOVO
Day 5 : VELIKO TARNOVO – VARNA
Day 6 : VARNA
Day 7 : VARNA – BALCHIK – KALIAKRA – VARNA
Day 8 : VARNA – NESSEBAR – BURGAS
Day 9 : BURGAS – KAZANLAK – PLOVDIV
Day 10 : PLOVDIV – BANSKO
Day 11 : BANSKO – RILA – SOFIA
Day 12 : CAR HIRE DROP-OFF / DEPARTURE SOFIA

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

Please Note:

• Drivers under 23 years or with less than 3 years of driving experience must pay an additional “Young driver” fee. The required security deposit is double. The minimum required age to rent a vehicle is 21 years. Renters and additional drivers must have a valid driving license for a minimum of 3 years, which must be presented at the time of rental. Each driver must show photographic proof of identity and their passport at the start of the rental. Identity documents and driving licenses must be valid throughout the rental period.
• A deposit will be blocked by signing the rent-a-car agreement on the spot. The deposit for the ECONOMY (group B) car is 200EUR, and for the COMPACT (group C) car is 300EUR. A credit card, issued in the name of the main driver/renter, is mandatory for all rentals. Accepted credit cards are: Master/Eurocard and Visa.
• Accident/theft reporting must be notified immediately to the Police and the 24h support of the car hire company.
• Zero Excess Insurance covers damages only if a police protocol is available, with the return of the car keys and documents. It does not apply in cases involving drugs or alcohol usage.
• One rental day is calculated as 24 hours. An additional day will be charged if the rental exceeds this period by more than an hour.
• The car is hired for driving only within Bulgaria.
• Driving times and distances are estimated and can vary due to various factors, such as route, hotel location, traffic, weather, and road conditions.
• Hotel check-in is generally after 2:00 pm, and check-out is by 12:00 pm. These times may vary. We will confirm exact check-in and check-out times with each hotel upon reservation confirmation.
• We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical issues, or security reasons.
• Early check-in, late check-out, and connecting or adjoining rooms are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
• No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed.

What do I need to bring?

• Comfortable and warm clothing for the mountains and light summer clothing (including a swimsuit and hat) for the beach stay.
• Visitors should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings.
• Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Accommodation:

Photos