11-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo, Gabrovo, Kazanlak, and Sofia

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kapana Creative District is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Plovdiv, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Alyosha Monument. This awe-inspiring monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and learn what makes this historic archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. After exploring the museum, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This beloved historical landmark is a highlight in Plovdiv. As your day continues, stop by Nebet Tepe, known for its enchanting features.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Qbar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Anyway Social Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 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 Bachkovo and Asenovgrad.

No visit to Plovdiv is complete without Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This well-known monastery is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Metokha, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Plovdiv, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Asen's Fortress. This curiosity-inducing castle is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

Savor the flavors at RESTAURANT Raia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Citizens Club beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restorant "Megdana". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kriloto Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cocktail Bar Noris is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Fabrik is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Your adventure in Plovdiv is only getting started when you visit Trapezitsa Fortress, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Tsarevets Fortress. This popular castle is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Park "sveta Gora". This gorgeous park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is also worth visiting, along with Marno Pole Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This intriguing monument provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Famous Bar 2, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Grill Kolata is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, a photogenic church in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Park "children's Playground".

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a highly-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bianko, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ristretto. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gallery, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Tryavna and Boicheta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make a stop at Tryavna Clock Tower. This curiosity-inducing monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Daskalov House Museum located in Veliko Tarnovo for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ethno Village Etar. Its breathtaking features will captivate you.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Gabrovo, 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 Gabrovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a top-rated dining destination in Gabrovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Strannopriemnitsa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vanilla coffee&food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gabrovo this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Moda Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Zahir - Bar & Dinner for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing monument is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Shipka Memorial Church, which may be one of the most monumental places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Gabrovo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Pametnik Na Buzludzha, a locally appreciated monument in the region. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak and Rose Museum. End your day with a visit to Historical Museum “iskra”, a frequently visited museum that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizza Pub New York, a popular restaurant in Kazanlak. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kazanlak at Cherry Land, 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 Complex Chiflika. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kazanlak tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Starata Kashta is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gardens Bar&café, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 8 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.

Catch Boyana Church before the crowds roll in. This culturally significant church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of National Palace Of Culture, a must-visit convention center 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 Borisova Gradina Park, an interesting park. For a change of scene, check out Eagles' Bridge, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia 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 Sofia's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Grijn Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cairo Relax Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Sofia, there’s no need to rush. Experience Stob and Rila to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Check out the up-and-coming rock formation, Stob Earth Pyramids. Afterward, continue to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a waterfall every traveler should visit. As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Rila Monastery. This locally renowned monastery is an essential stop.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Koprivshtitsa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the intriguing Mausoleum-ossuary Of Koprivshtitsa, a symbolic monument in Sofia. Next, go to Lutova House Museum.

After visiting Mausoleum-ossuary Of Koprivshtitsa and Lutova House Museum, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to House Museum “todor Kableshkov”. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience.

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

Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ruski Restorant Petar I, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Amadeus Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Planet Edition, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Club Fargo provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!