Bulgaria is a widely preferred summertime destination, no matter the type of tourism you prefer. The country has a beautiful coastline, spectacular mountain sceneries, precious cultural heritage, and plenty of annual events that can make your summer break one to remember.
Given the relatively small territory of the country, all of its gems are no further than a few-hour ride with a rented car. All you need to do is book the vehicle upon arrival and start exploring all Bulgaria has to offer.
Speaking of, we have a few ideas for you…
The Seven Rila Lakes
Top Destinations to Visit in Bulgaria with a Rented Car
The Seven Rila Lakes are the most popular lake group in Bulgaria, situated between 2095 and 2535 meters above sea level. Of course, a rented car can’t take you all the way up there, but it can take you straight to the beginning of the trail or the nearest mountain lift.
Climbing up to the highest lake and down again to your rented car can take up to five hours, so make sure you arrive early to enjoy your hike safely and comfortably.
Zheravna
Zheravna is a perfect showcase of old-style Bulgarian architecture and the perfect day trip off the beaten track. The town is small, rustic, and amazingly tranquil, set on the foot of the mountain. It still preserves that little pinch of magic, lost in the days of old - and it tells a tale you will fall in love with!
At the end of August, Zheravna hosts the festival of the National costume. It includes wearing authentic clothing, using no modern devices, and trying some of the best local cuisine picks. And yes - you will be expected to leave your rented car outside the festival campgrounds.
Koprivshtitsa
The little mountain town of Koprivshtica is a protected national monument. Not a part of it. The whole of it! The reason is that Koprivshtica is itself a showcase of the Bulgarian National Revival movement, along with its art, its architecture, and its inbound spirit.
Traveling to Koprivshtica from Sofia will take you about two hours with a rented car. Meanwhile, Plovdiv is 1h 45min away, and Varna is about 5 hours away with a rented car.
Nessebar
Top Destinations to Visit in Bulgaria with a Rented Car - Yes Rent A Car
Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s often referred to as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”. The town was originally a Thracian settlement called Mesembria, but later on it became a part of Ancient Greece and the Eastern Roman Empire.
Nessebar holds a precious heritage from the Hellenistic period, including an acropolis, a few temples, and an agora. All of it is set on the beautiful shores of the Black sea, and can be reached in less than two hours with a rent a car Varna service.
Bansko
Last but not least, the resort town of Bansko will give you all the diversity of experiences you can probably imagine during summer. From guided mountain hikes, through horseback riding and paintball, to luxury SPA resorts and adrenaline sports - the town’s main niche is tourism, and it shows.
Bansko is only two hours away from Sofia with a rented car, and you can head there if you need all the opportunities for a fine summer break. Because Bulgaria is all about bringing all worlds together, placed in the palm of your hand!