Road Trips in Bulgaria

Bulgaria has a lot more to offer than a trip around the capital. However, most of the tourists choose Sofia as their first stop. The capital is extremely popular owing to great accommodation options, a plethora of historic landmarks, and beautiful parks. 

If you are fans of sport, it's worth directing your steps to such towns as Bansko, where you can spend hours on end on the ski slopes. In the summer season, the town is an ideal starting point for sightseeing and bicycle trips – at a stone's throw away, you'll find such attractions as the Rila Monastery, which is an important symbol of national revival.

You definitely won't get bored in Plovdiv. It is a city of museums, art galleries, and monuments where you'll feel the ambience of the past at every corner. Tourists will be delighted to admire a Roman amphitheatre, beautiful mosques, and a few Orthodox churches. Nearby, you'll also find the Bachkovo Monastery which is very interesting in terms of its architecture.

Nesebar is a gem of Eastern Bulgaria. You should definitely direct your steps to the Old Town which bustles with life throughout the day. Here, you'll find multiple restaurants offering local specialties and have an opportunity to try regional wine. Interestingly, the town is considered an archaeological reserve so it would be a pity to miss it! And since we're already talking about archaeology…while visiting Kazanlak, you'll have a chance to see a Thracian tomb dating back to the Hellenistic era.

The eastern coast is rich in spectacular beaches full of fine sand, and the most beautiful ones can be found near Varna, which has been very popular among tourists despite its short history as a holiday resort. The peaceful ambience, warm water, and kilometres of soft sand lure many visitors. 

While passing through Ruse, you can't miss Freedom Square, History Museum, or the Municipal Art Gallery. The lovers of history should also consider visiting Madara, which can boast interesting archaeological landmarks dating back to the period between the 8th and the 14th centuries. 

Veliko Tarnovo is in turn the pride of the north. Located on the banks of the Yantra River, the town is one of the oldest settlements in the country. It is an important cultural hub and an academic centre. 

You're already fed up with cities? It's high time you travel off the beaten track and headed to Ivanovo, where you'll find Orthodox churches carved in the rock filled with icons of saints. Owing to their location on a hillside, these will be also a perfect place to take holiday photos for your family album.

While discovering Bulgaria, you can't forget about the verdant town of Troyan, which, apart from the Craft Museum, offers the beautiful Troyan Monastery.

Suggested Road Trips in Bulgaria

• The Balkan Mountains: This road trip takes you through the stunning Balkan Mountains, where you can experience the rugged beauty of the region's peaks and valleys. The road winds through lush forests and traditional mountain villages, giving you a glimpse of traditional Bulgarian life. Along the way, you can visit historic monasteries, sample local cuisine, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.

• The Black Sea Coast: This scenic road trip takes you along the stunning Black Sea coast, offering breathtaking views of the coast and the sea. The route passes through charming seaside towns and villages, and you can take a break from the road to enjoy the warm waters of the sea and the long sandy beaches. Along the way, you can visit historic landmarks, such as the ancient city of Nessebar, and sample the region's famous seafood cuisine.

• The Rose Valley: This road trip takes you through the picturesque Rose Valley, where you can witness the production of Bulgaria's famous rose oil. The valley is dotted with traditional villages, and the road winds through rolling hills covered in fragrant rose gardens. Along the way, you can visit local workshops and factories where the rose oil is produced, and sample the region's famous rose-flavoured liqueurs and sweets.

In conclusion, these are three of the best road trips in Bulgaria, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there is a road trip in Bulgaria that is perfect for you.

In Bulgaria, there are numerous possibilities to rent a car. You can do it both at the airport, where the car rental offer is extremely rich and diversified, and in major Bulgarian cities, where the company owners will eagerly give you some tips on the choice of your dream vehicle and insurance.

However, there is one thing worth keeping in mind. Despite the fact that it is enough to be 18 years old to drive a car in Bulgaria, you have to be 21 years old to rent a vehicle. If you've already equipped yourself with a car, there's no reason for a delay. Buckle up and let's start your journey! 

Bulgaria follows right-hand traffic just like most of the countries around the world. Owing to that, less experienced motorists won't face any major problems in the new road environment. Talking on the phone is forbidden while driving, but you can use hads-free sets.

Regulations concerning fastened seatbelts are obligatory to follow for all passengers. Failing to do so can result in high penalty payments that can amount to €25-50 per person. Children who are older than 3 and younger than 12 can sit on rear seats, whereas toddlers who are younger than 3 have to be placed in a child seat.

While travelling along Bulgarian roads, it is vital to keep your dipped headlights on throughout the day. Additionally, it's best to avoid an excessive use of your horn. The only situation when it's allowed is when you want to avoid a road accident. In case of an emergency, dial 166 to reach police department or simply dial 112.

Documents that you need to carry at all times include: registration document, vehicle technical inspection certificate, and liability insurance. The obligatory equipment includes a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a spare tyre, a car jack, a reflective vest, and a warning triangle.

You thought that Bulgarian roads are governed by insubordination? Well, you were wrong. The speed limit that has to be observed in built-up areas is 50 km/h. In rural areas, you can drive as fast as 90 km/h and on motorways, you can drive at a speed of 140 km/h. Not following the speed limits results in speeding fines.  

In Bulgaria, there exist a number of toll roads; thus, it's best to carry some Bulgarian coins which will be useful when passing the gates. Despite the fact that Bulgarian road system has been improving by the year, in some places you'll see many imperfections - these can be most often encountered away from large cities. Roads are bumpy, covered in low-quality asphalt, and very often lack appropriate road signs. In such places, it's best to stay extra cautious. Additionally, some Bulgarians quickly lose their cool and are pretty hectic while driving... therefore; you need to have eyes in the back of your head and you'll surely have a peaceful trip!

When taking a road trip in Bulgaria, it's important to keep a few things in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Plan ahead: Make sure to research your route and plan your stops in advance, taking into account factors such as driving times, distance, and road conditions. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unexpected road closures or detours.

• Drive safely: Bulgarian roads can be challenging, with narrow roads, steep inclines, and winding turns. Drive at a safe speed, take breaks when necessary, and always wear your seatbelt.

• Respect local customs and laws: Bulgarian drivers tend to be aggressive, so it's important to be aware of local driving customs and laws, such as speed limits and road signs. You should also carry your driver's license and other necessary documents, such as insurance papers, at all times.

• Be prepared for road conditions: Weather conditions in Bulgaria can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast before you set out and pack accordingly. During the winter months, it's important to be prepared for snow and icy roads.

• Explore local culture: A road trip in Bulgaria is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and heritage. Take the time to stop at traditional villages, sample the local cuisine, and visit historic landmarks and museums.

In conclusion, by following these tips and taking the time to plan and prepare, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Bulgaria.

The best time to take a road trip in Bulgaria depends on your personal preferences and travel goals. Generally, the most popular time to visit Bulgaria is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. However, if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, the spring and autumn months of April to May and September to October are great times to visit. The winter months of November to March can also be a great time to take a road trip in Bulgaria, especially if you're interested in skiing and winter sports, as the country is home to some great ski resorts.

Regardless of the time of year, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on your road trip, as the weather in Bulgaria can be unpredictable, and some roads may be impacted by inclement weather.

Bulgaria is a beautiful country with many interesting places to explore. The cost of a road trip in Bulgaria can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences.

In terms of accommodation, there are many options available to suit different budgets. Hostels and guesthouses are affordable and can cost around $10-20 per night. Mid-range hotels can cost around $30-50 per night, and luxury hotels can cost upwards of $100 per night.

Food and drink in Bulgaria is generally quite affordable, with many traditional Bulgarian dishes available at reasonable prices. You can expect to pay around $5-10 for a basic meal at a local restaurant or street food stall, and around $20-30 for a more upscale dining experience.

When it comes to transportation, renting a car can be a good option for a road trip in Bulgaria. Rental car prices can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the rental company you use. Generally, you can expect to pay around $25-50 per day to rent a basic car, with prices increasing for more luxurious or high-end options.

In addition to car rental, you can also consider using public transportation to get around. The bus and train networks in Bulgaria are extensive and affordable, with fares usually ranging from $1-5 per journey.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Bulgaria will depend on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to undertake. However, as a relatively affordable destination, Bulgaria can be a great option for travelers on a budget.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Bulgaria:

• "Bulgaria (Bradt Travel Guide)" by Annie Kay and Chris Deliso. This guidebook provides an in-depth overview of Bulgaria's history, culture, and attractions and practical information for travelers, such as accommodation and restaurant recommendations.

• "Lonely Planet Bulgaria" by Lonely Planet. This guidebook provides a comprehensive overview of Bulgaria's history, culture, and natural beauty, with a focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

• "Bulgaria Insight Guide" by Insight Guides. This guidebook is produced by Insight Guides and provides a detailed overview of Bulgaria's attractions and activities, including national parks, cultural sites, and adventure sports.

• For road maps, you can check out the "Bulgaria Road Map" by Marco Polo Maps, which provides detailed maps of the country's roads, highways, and major attractions. You can also find online maps from Google Maps or other online mapping services.

Remember to always double-check information from different sources and to take note of any changes or updates to road conditions or attractions.