10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Varna

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

Boyana Church leaves a lasting impression. This church is one of the most underrated places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to South Park, a captivating park, known for its romantic 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 Borisova Gradina Park. This serene park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Eagles' Bridge and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Regional History Museum Of Sofia, an eye-catching museum in Sofia.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Paradise Center, the top shopping destination in Sofia. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Paradise Center has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Urban Rebel also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Plovdiv. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Plovdiv, it's time to take a break from the road.

Nebet Tepe is a locally appreciated archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an enchanting historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a photogenic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a historic and truly unique archeological site. End your sightseeing at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a locally renowned park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rock Bar Download, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to North Star. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Laki, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. With 1 night to stay in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Laki. 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 40 min. Upon reaching Laki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bachkovo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Laki to Bachkovo may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bachkovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a captivating monastery in Bachkovo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Asenovgrad. This car ride takes around 16 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Asen's Fortress. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite in the region.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sofra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Central Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Trapezitsa Fortress, a frequently visited archeological site that everyone visiting Veliko Tarnovo should see. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress. This history-steeped castle is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Park "sveta Gora", a scenic park popular among locals as well as travelers. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated monument before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Marno Pole Park, a picture-perfect park and a top attraction in the city.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern "Petleto" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Bell is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Famous Bar 2, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Grill Kolata is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Veliko Tarnovo, there’s no need to rush. Experience Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gorna Oryahovitsa may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Gorna Oryahovitsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Park „nikolaj Panayotov“, an up-and-coming park in Gorna Oryahovitsa. This increasingly popular playground is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gorna Oryahovitsa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arbanassi. This drive usually takes around 7 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an increasingly popular church known for its eye-catching features.

When you’ve had your share of Arbanassi, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lyaskovets. Your travel time is around 8 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", a locally appreciated monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Veliko Tarnovo and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bianko? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the evening going at Ristretto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Gallery, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Varna. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Varna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varna beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Retro Museum, a beloved museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Dolphinarium Varna and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, an underrated church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Roman Thermae Varna, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizza Selena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Three Dolphins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vogue Cafe Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cuba Beach Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 Bulgaria.

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make a stop at Aladzha Monastery. This locally appreciated monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Evksinograd Palace located in Varna for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Art Gallery Boris Georgiev. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the art gallery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Archaeological Museum Varna. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this museum. Next up is Varna Zoo, a highly recommended zoo. For a change of pace, head to Sea Garden. As one of the most locally renowned attractions in Varna, this park is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Varna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at di Wine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 100 Pizzas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Morska terasa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Hey is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Deja Vu ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Madara and Lovech are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Madara. This drive usually takes around 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, a curiosity-inducing archeological site known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Madara Horseman, an increasingly popular archeological site.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lovech, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Madara to Lovech may take around 3 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lovech, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lovech is Covered Bridge, an underrated historical landmark that draws attention for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at One More Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Teos Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!