10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Kavarna, and Sveti Vlas and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Plovdiv. You have 1 night left in Plovdiv. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Plovdiv. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Youth Hill is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This culturally significant archeological site offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Visit Kapana District in Plovdiv for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home, including artisan crafts. After shopping, explore what Kapana District has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Sofra, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Central Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Anyway Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Zlatovrah. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Asenovgrad. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Asenovgrad, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Metokha, an underrated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Asen's Fortress, where you can soak in the inviting surroundings.

When you arrive in Bachkovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a popular monastery in Bachkovo. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Zlatovrah’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Asenovgrad behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Zlatovrah welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Arapovo Monastery, a worthwhile monastery in Zlatovrah. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Grijn Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar National is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a monument, and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Druzhba Park. Just a short distance away is Eagles' Bridge, an eye-catching monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sofia Zoo, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known South Park.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Reduta may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Reduta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Geo Milev Park, a well-known park in Reduta. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Urban Rebel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at North Park. This picturesque park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Russian Monument Square, a curiosity-inducing public square.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at One More Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Teos Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bsd 2 Ndk is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known convention center, National Palace Of Culture. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Borisova Gradina Park. A visit to this park is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Prince's Garden. This locally appreciated park is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Zaimov Park and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most interesting attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Famous Bar 2, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo and Balchik, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kavarna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Veliko Tarnovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Tsarevets Fortress is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this symbolic castle before continuing your journey. Park "sveta Gora" is your next stop. This increasingly popular park is one of the best-rated sights in Veliko Tarnovo.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Veliko Tarnovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Balchik may take around 3 hours 4 min. Upon your arrival in Balchik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Balchik Palace, an interesting palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Balchik Botanic Garden and admire its stunning features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kavarna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kavarna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at corner ltd, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Balgarka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pizza & Dinner "Morelli". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kavarna.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kavarna and Varna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sveti Vlas, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kavarna. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await.

When you’ve had your share of Kavarna, 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 13 min.

Make your way to Retro Museum, a locally appreciated museum that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Sea Garden, a masterful park that stands out in the region. Next, visit Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, an intriguing church that offers a unique experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sveti Vlas, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sveti Vlas. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Head back to your accommodation in Sveti Vlas and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!