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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night.

No visit to Varna is complete without Retro Museum. This frequently visited museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Archaeological Museum Varna, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Varna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dolphinarium Varna. This worthwhile aquarium is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Varna Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Sea Garden is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 Pfohe Mall, the top shopping destination in Varna. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Pfohe Mall has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at di Wine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? 100 Pizzas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Morska terasa. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Hey, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Deja Vu likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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.

Catch Tsarevets Fortress before the crowds roll in. This visually striking castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Park "sveta Gora", a must-visit park 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 Monument To The Assen Dynasty, an up-and-coming monument. For a change of scene, check out Marno Pole Park, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Famous Bar 2, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 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 and Lyaskovets to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Gorna Oryahovitsa on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Park „nikolaj Panayotov“ is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Park "children's Playground", a frequently visited playground, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", a standout monastery, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bianko, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ristretto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gallery provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Make a stop at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This notable archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv located in Veliko Tarnovo for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Youth Hill. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this park. Next up is Singing Fountain, a highly recommended art installation. For a change of pace, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. As one of the most well-known attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, this park is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to North Star for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Morado Bar & Dinner is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Laki, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad.

Enjoy all that Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall has to offer. This is a frequently visited waterfall you should not miss. Another must-see is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a captivating monastery in Plovdiv.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Asen's Fortress.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Qbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Sofia are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Make time for National Palace Of Culture, a popular convention center that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Borisova Gradina Park, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Eagles' Bridge. This monument is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Zaimov Park. After exploring the park, head to the captivating Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov", a place of standout interest in Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Saffron Indian Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Island Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Grijn Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar National is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Nessebar. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a beloved museum in the town. Then, head to Ancient Theatre and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of Saint Sophia. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming UNESCO world heritage-listed spots of interest.

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

Varna is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Varna.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cubo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gossip Bar Max is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.