11-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Sofia, Gabrovo, Shumen, Varna, and Burgas

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Plovdiv is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Youth Hill or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Plovdiv. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Alyosha Monument. Previous visitors have rated this monument an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,510 reviews.

Museum of Natural Sciences is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,598 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,946 reviews.

Old Town of Plovdiv is another outstanding experience in Plovdiv. Around 4,450 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Nebet Tepe is not far away. This hill is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,913 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 Plovdiv, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 3 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews.

Next up is Roman aqueduct. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 153 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This point of interest has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bachkovo. Your travel time is around 36 min.

Take the opportunity to see Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno". This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,211 visitors.

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 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 book a table at Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Mamma Mia Ltd. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned North Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Holy Trinity Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,845 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker. This church and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,066 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Theater "Ivan Vazov". With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers, this point of interest is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Sofia.

Your discoveries in Sofia do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Sofia on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Divaka, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Face bar & dinner offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Art Club Museum is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Druzhba Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Sofia Zoo is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This zoo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by South Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to National Palace of Culture. A trip to this popular convention center is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 14,569 previous visitors.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 explore more of Sofia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Savor the flavors at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Gabrovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Cathedral of Saint Nedelya, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,691 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Eagles' Bridge. Eagles' Bridge is a stone bridge with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 reviews.

Borisova Gradina Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Prince's Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Zaimov Park, a famous park in Sofia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Gabrovo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Gabrovo. 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 delicious meal at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a highly-rated dining destination in Gabrovo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Strannopriemnitsa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vanilla coffee&food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Gabrovo this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting MODA BAR, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Shumen, where you’ll be staying 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 Boicheta.

Take the opportunity to see Ethno village Etar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,399 visitors.

Dolni Varpishta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gabrovo behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Dolni Varpishta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael" one of your first sightseeing stops in Dolni Varpishta. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,058 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Shumen. Shumen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Shumen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Механа "Хитър Петър", a top-rated dining destination in Shumen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Oreha, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Primo Bar & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shumen this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lavazza Coffee and Cocktails Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Zino Club provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Arizona Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Balchik, and Kavarna. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Balchik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Albena is a great place to start. This seaside resort is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,524 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Balchik.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Balchik Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,803 visitors.

When you’re finished at Balchik Palace, head to Balchik Botanic Garden. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,545 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Varna, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Varna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pizza Selena, a popular restaurant in Varna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Three Dolphins, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vogue cafe bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cuba Beach Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar PUNTA CANA is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Varna, and Nessebar, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this eastern orthodox cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Varna Zoo is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 7,341 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Sea Garden. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,572 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Varna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nessebar may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Church of Saint Sophia. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,993 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Burgas, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider IN BAR. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Billiard Club Hot Shot is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Target, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pillow. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 10 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 Burgas, and Stara Zagora. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The Clock. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,766 reviews.

Continue your journey at The Sea Garden. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 travelers from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Burgas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stara Zagora. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make “Bedechka” Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,259 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Park “Ayazmo“. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,330 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Artileriyski Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,637 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at RESTAURANT Raia, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Citizens Club, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ресторант "Мегдана", a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Крилото Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cocktail Bar Noris is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, бар Фабрик offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Plovdiv’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ruski Restorant Petar І? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!