The roads in Bulgaria are sometimes inconsistent in quality, so people often ask us the best roads to take. The route to south has three different options. So, which is the best road to go to south for you? Well, it depends…

The Easiest Road to go south

The easiest road is Route 55 to Gurkovo. It is a relatively new road. It isn’t a motorway, but it is the next category down from a motorway. It is a truck route, so access is good for large vehicles. It can get busy, but there are long stretches with overtaking lanes and dual carriageways. It isn’t the prettiest route, but it is the most direct and easiest driving. The tarmac is smooth and without potholes.

When you arrive at Gurkovo you have a choice, You can continue south towards Nova Zagora or drive west in the direction of Kazanlak. The route south goes past Camping Emanuil is definitely the prettiest route. You drive on the edge of Lake Zhrebchevo and the scenery is lovely.

The E871 west towards Kazanlak is a bigger road, so if you have a very large vehicle, or you want to arrive quicker, this will be a better option.

The most fun road to go south

If you want to do sight-seeing and stop off at some view points the best choice is the Shipka Pass. This used to be the only route across the mountains, so it is suitable for car and caravan and for motorhomes. This route will definitely take you longer than Route 55, but it is one of the most iconic routes in Bulgaria and the views are not-to-be-missed!

Places you can stop off on the way

Dryanovo Monastery, Cave and Ecotrail – There is a great restaurant for lunch here too.

Bojentsi Village – typical Bulgarian style village. A super place to stretch your legs and great restaurants for lunch.

Etar Ethnographic Village – A lovely shaded water-powered village museum. Great restaurant for lu

Shipka Monument

Shipka Village Church – This is in the village itself in the valley below Shipka Pass Memorial.

Buzludzha – The Communist Headquarters

Summary

So, you have two great options for how to drive over the mountains to Kazanlak / Plovdiv and to head further down to Greece.

Happy Travels!