Luxury One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Gabrovo, Shumen, Sveti Vlas, and Stara Zagora

Your luxury holiday in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach the city of Sofia, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. There, you’ll pick up the luxury rental vehicle of your choice and hit the roads!

Tonight, you will be treated to a stay at one of the best luxury hotels in Sofia. We have picked out three of the most exclusive luxury lodging and hotel options for you to choose from.

After a full day of exploring, we recommend you try one of the best places to eat in Sofia. Enjoy the local flavors, unwind, and reflect on the day's adventures.

Reserve a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, a renowned restaurant in Sofia. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Restaurant "Staria Chinar" while in Sofia. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 2,717 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Sofia at Art Club Museum, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 customers.

Go back to your hotel, take a stroll through the city, or head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day of your luxury vacation in Sofia.

Celebrate this wonderful day with sumptuous cocktails at Bar Friday, a terrific bar to unwind after a busy day. Around 3,410 customers rated this bar with an impressive average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

You can continue your amazing night of celebration at The Cocktail Bar. This bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers, and is an excellent place to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Transform your evening at One More Bar. This popular bar rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 customers, offers great cocktails, good service, and a lovely atmosphere.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day luxury vacation in Bulgaria and look forward to more fantastic days to come!

On day 2 of your exciting luxury holiday across Bulgaria, you will continue exploring the city of Sofia. You still have 1 night left in the city. Enjoy your break from the road and spend this day sightseeing and eating at some of the best restaurants in Sofia. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions in the city.

This activity is one of many you can add to your luxury travel plan to make your vacation in Bulgaria truly memorable.

After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Sofia. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Wrong Bar, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Taj Mahal Restaurant while in Sofia. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,423 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Luciano, a favorite in Sofia. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 discerning guests.

As your first day in Sofia is coming to an end, retreat to a bar for some celebration. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling a signature cocktail or regional specialty.

Cap off the evening at Halbite Beer Hall. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,280 customers and is one of the best bars in Sofia.

Another popular place to go for refreshing drinks and delicious bites is Lime Cafe & Cocktails. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,223 customers, this spot offers customers an unforgettable bar experience.

5 Corners Pub is a great bar with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,463 customers. With this impressive average rating, 5 Corners Pub is certainly a great place to indulge in an exquisite glass of a cold, bubbly drink.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Sofia, Bulgaria and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

Wake up to day 3 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Sofia, Reduta, and Gabrovo. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries. Your stay of 1 night at a luxury hotel in Gabrovo adds a touch of comfort to your journey.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at St. Nedelya Church. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,593 visitors.

When you’re finished at St. Nedelya Church, head to South Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,763 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit National Palace of Culture. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,510 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Borisova Gradina Park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,346 visitors.

Gabrovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 34 min. Gabrovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Gabrovo.

After exploring the unique sights of Bulgaria, savor a delicious meal or get refreshed with a drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended restaurants and bars in the city of Gabrovo for you so you can browse their menus in advance and make a reservation.

According to reviews, PIZZA TEMPO - Gabrovo is one of the absolute best places to eat in Gabrovo. This restaurant offers a fantastic menu and impeccable service, deserving of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,151 reviews.

Alternatively, if you’re curious to try a local favorite, check out Strannopriemnitsa. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,192 customers and guarantees you a nice dining experience to end your day.

If your taste buds call for something different, book a table at Rest. This popular restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,047 customers.

When you’ve finished your dinner at the best restaurant of your choice, and you’re in the mood for a drink, check out some of the best bars in the city.

To have one of the best bar experiences in Gabrovo, we recommend going to the wonderful Kafe-club Alfrida. This bar offers a variety of phenomenal dishes and drinks and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 589 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, check out Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion". This is a favorite place to hang out among locals, and an excellent place to visit if you wish to make new acquaintances while enjoying a refreshing drink. Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 209 customers.

Yet another excellent option is the popular ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 168 customers, so be sure to check out whether this is the place to celebrate tonight.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Sofia, Bulgaria and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

On day 4 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, and Shumen. The day's journey will conclude in Shumen, a city that offers you comfort and relaxation for 1 night. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in Bulgaria.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gabrovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dolni Varpishta may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Dolni Varpishta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael" your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this place of worship an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,938 reviews.

Veliko Tarnovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dolni Varpishta behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Veliko Tarnovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marno Pole Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 visitors.

Tsarevets Fortress is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,802 visitors.

Shumen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min. Shumen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Shumen.

After a long day of discovering the unique quirks of Bulgaria, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in the city so you can check out the menus and make advance reservations.

Check out Primo Bar & Grill. This restaurant offers a fantastic menu and impeccable service, deserving of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,308 reviews.

Locals also recommend Vienna garden as one of the best restaurants to have dinner at in Shumen. Vienna garden is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,079 customers, including locals as well as travelers.

Alternatively, for another culinary experience you will remember, book a table at Popsheytanov's House. This popular restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 840 customers.

Shumen also has several great bars that will fit every travel budget.

Whether you’d like to relax with a drink or you’re in the mood for some celebration, BACARDI CLUB is a great place to end your evening at. Not sure whether this is a bar worth checking out? Then the average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,210 in reviews might help make your mind up.

Alternatively, check out Zino Club, a place many locals consider their favorite in Shumen. Zino Club offers plenty of drink options for every taste and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,210 guests.

If you want to continue your celebrations at another bar, try СПОРТЕН БАР И ГРИЛ "РЕФЕРИТЕ". This bar is one of the best drinking spots in Shumen and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 285 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria!

Wake up to day 5 of your luxury road trip holiday in Bulgaria! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Sveti Vlas, where you'll be staying for 1 night. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Varna and Sveti Vlas.

When you’ve had your share of Shumen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Varna. Your travel time is around 1 hour.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Retro Museum, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,851 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Varna Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,104 travelers.

Sea Garden is another must-visit attraction. This renowned urban park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,289 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This well-loved eastern orthodox cathedral boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 7,003 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nessebar. Your travel time is around 1 hour 28 min.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Sveti Vlas.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Sveti Vlas.

At the top-rated restaurant Familia Fish & Grill, you can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of both food and drinks. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,421 customers.

If you feel like having something else, Vaya beach is another great option. This fantastic restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,214 customers.

A third restaurant you could check out is Plakamoto. Plakamoto offers a menu of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your hunger. We’ll let its excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,639 customers speak for itself.

After dinner, visit some of the best bars in the city of Sveti Vlas. Strike up a conversation with the friendly locals to end the day perfectly.

Celebrate this wonderful day with sumptuous cocktails at ECO-Bar By Michael, a terrific bar to unwind after a busy day. Around 1,157 customers rated this bar with an impressive average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

You can continue your amazing night of celebration at Caramel - Music Hall. This bar has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 966 customers, and is an excellent place to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Transform your evening at Bar Mexo. This popular bar rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 870 customers, offers great cocktails, good service, and a lovely atmosphere.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in Bulgaria has plenty more in store for you.

Wake up to day 6 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Nessebar, Burgas, and Stara Zagora. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries. Your stay of 1 night at a luxury hotel in Stara Zagora adds a touch of comfort to your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nessebar and set your GPS to Sveti Vlas. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 12 min. Upon reaching Sveti Vlas, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burgas. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set your GPS to Stara Zagora and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stara Zagora beckons with new experiences!

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Stara Zagora.

Treat yourself after a day of exploration. Make a reservation at the finest dining and drinking spots in Stara Zagora.

At the top-rated restaurant Golden Serbian Grill Pri Vlado, you can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of both food and drinks. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,263 customers.

If you feel like having something else, Restaurant Uniqato is another great option. This fantastic restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,988 customers.

A third restaurant you could check out is Shtastlivetsa. Shtastlivetsa offers a menu of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your hunger. We'll let its excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,681 customers speak for itself.

After an incredible dinner, cap off the night with a glass of beer, cocktail, or any refreshing drink.

When an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit Pri Kmeta, one of the best bars in the city of Stara Zagora. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,871 customers.

Get drinks as good as this day's adventure at Drums. Considered one of the most popular bars in the city of Stara Zagora, this bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,465 customers.

Brothers' cafe is also a great bar where you can have nice chats over delicious bites. Brothers' cafe has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 914 customers.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

On day 7 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Plovdiv and Sofia. The day's journey will conclude in Sofia, a city that offers you comfort and relaxation for 1 night. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in Bulgaria.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stara Zagora to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,603 reviews.

Old Town of Plovdiv is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,329 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,705 reviews.

“Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another outstanding experience in Plovdiv. Around 15,346 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Singing Fountains is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sofia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 42 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Sofia.

After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Sofia. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.

According to reviews, Mamma Mia Ltd is one of the absolute best places to eat in Sofia. At this restaurant, you’ll enjoy a great atmosphere and a fantastic food and drinks menu. Mamma Mia Ltd is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,252 customers.

Alternatively, if you’re curious to try a local favorite, check out Island Restaurant. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,035 customers and guarantees you a nice dining experience to end your day.

When your taste buds call for something different, you may want to pay Марайа Класик / Maraia Classic a visit instead. This restaurant is a top recommendation often mentioned by both travelers and locals. Марайа Класик / Maraia Classic has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,002 customers.

After dinner, you can enjoy some downtime at your hotel or head out to a bar for a couple of drinks.

Many locals go to K. E. B. A. For an evening cocktail or glass of wine. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,055 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is By the Way. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 909 customers.

Грийн бар is another great option in Sofia, offering excellent drinks and a great atmosphere. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in Bulgaria has plenty more in store for you.

Today is the last day of your 8-day luxury holiday in Bulgaria and it’s soon time to start your journey home. This is your chance to get one last glimpse of Sofia before saying goodbye.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

Don’t travel hungry. Take the opportunity to savor the local cuisine in Sofia one last time before you head to the airport.

Check out Esterhasi Restaurant. This restaurant offers a fantastic menu and impeccable service, deserving of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 731 reviews.

Restaurant "Panchetata" is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 626 customers, including locals as well as travelers.

Alternatively, for another culinary experience you will remember, book a table at Divaka. This popular restaurant has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 4,532 customers.

You will then say farewell to Sofia and begin your journey home. We wish you safe travels and a warm welcome home, with unforgettable memories and incredible photos from your luxury holiday in Bulgaria in your luggage!