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

Welcome to Sofia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Sofia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Sofia 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 Russian Monument Square or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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 Hotel Forum, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mamma Mia Ltd. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Halbite Beer Hall, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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 Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Zaimov Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.

Holy Trinity Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,845 visitors.

Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors.

Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,066 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is National Theater "Ivan Vazov". This sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Divaka, 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 Face bar & dinner, 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 Art Club Museum. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

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

Day 3 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Druzhba Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at National Palace of Culture. This convention center has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 travelers.

Prince's Garden is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Eagles' Bridge. This well-loved stone bridge boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 10,319 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Borisova Gradina Park awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 previous visitors.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sofia, and Reduta. 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Saint Nedelya. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,691 reviews.

Next up, make your way to South Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Sofia Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Geo Milev Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,414 visitors.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Strannopriemnitsa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vanilla coffee&food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gabrovo.

Continue your lively evening at MODA BAR, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 5 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 Gabrovo, Boicheta, and Dolni Varpishta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Музей на хумора и сатирата, Габрово. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,765 reviews.

Upon reaching Boicheta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Ethno village Etar your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,399 reviews.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", 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 The Bell. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Veliko Tarnovo, and Madara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Veliko Tarnovo, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,801 visitors.

Marno Pole Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,692 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,913 reviews.

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 Madara may take around 1 hour 58 min. Upon your arrival in Madara, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Madara Horseman, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,528 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,534 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Varna. Varna 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.

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Vogue cafe bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cuba Beach Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar PUNTA CANA. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Retro Museum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,087 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This top attraction is an eastern orthodox cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,169 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Dolphinarium Varna. This aquarium is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,727 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Sea Garden. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 travelers.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at di Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Морска тераса. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Muffin bar & coffee. Alternatively, go to Bar HEY, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Deja Vu provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Nessebar, and Burgas, 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.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nessebar. Your travel time is around 1 hour 33 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sunny Beach. This town is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Nessebar, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 visitors.

Church of Saint Sophia is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,993 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Nesebar Archaeological Museum. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,788 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Nessebar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Burgas. Your travel time is around 41 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Clock. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 visitors.

Next, make your way to The Sea Garden. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Bulgaria Burgas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss IN BAR. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Stara Zagora. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Burgas and set your GPS to Stara Zagora. 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 1 hour 47 min. Upon reaching Stara Zagora, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to “Bedechka” Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,259 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stara Zagora Zoo. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,506 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Park “Ayazmo“. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,330 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Artileriyski Park. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,637 travelers.

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.

As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Make Singing Fountain one of your first sightseeing stops in Plovdiv. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,640 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

“Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Old Town of Plovdiv. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 4,450 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 local and international travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sofia. Sofia 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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 Hotel Jasmin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, J. J. Murphy's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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 Sofia 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 Sofia’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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to North Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,004 reviews.

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

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Taj Mahal Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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!