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

Day 2 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 sure to visit Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a popular street in Sofia. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sofia allows for both. Start by heading to Boyana Church. This often recommended church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover South Park, a mesmerizing park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Borisova Gradina Park, a well-known park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Round off your day at National Theater "ivan Vazov", another gem in Sofia with enchanting features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kathrine Cocktail - Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Urban Rebel. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Dupnitsa, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sofia, including a waterfall, a monastery, and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Bistritsa Waterfall. This intriguing waterfall is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sofia 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 Asen's Fortress, an underrated castle in the region.

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.

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

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.

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

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kapana Creative District is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Plovdiv. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum, a park and much more! Start your day at Nebet Tepe. This visually striking archeological site is an often recommended place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Old Town Of Plovdiv. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Roman Forum Of Philippopolis is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the archeological site, don’t forget to check out the standout “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating park.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Qbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Park "sveta Gora". This beloved park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Monument To The Assen Dynasty, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya", one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Plovdiv. This market is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Marno Pole Park. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Famous Bar 2, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Veliko Tarnovo for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Arbanassi and Veliko Tarnovo.

Today’s agenda in Veliko Tarnovo includes a church, an archeological site, and a castle. St. Nikolay The Miracleworker is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Trapezitsa Fortress, an increasingly popular archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Holy Forty Martyrs Church, a historic church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Veliko Tarnovo. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Tsarevets Fortress. If you’re looking for more, Tower Of Baldwin is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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 lovely dining experience at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Bianko, 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 EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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 day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Varna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Don’t miss Knyaz Boris I Boulevard in Varna today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aladzha Monastery. This beloved monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Evksinograd Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Archaeological Museum Varna, one of the most beloved places to see in Varna. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Roman Thermae Varna, a top-rated archeological site that adds another dimension to your day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 Varna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at di Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 100 Pizzas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Morska terasa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

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

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

Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Varna, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Varna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, an archeological site, a museum, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Church Of Saint Sophia and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Church Of Christ Pantokrator, a stunning church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ancient Theatre, one of the town’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Nesebar Archaeological Museum. When you're finished at the museum, The Windmill, Nessebar awaits your visit. This monument is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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 lovely meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mr Baba is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Chuchura Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Madara and Shumen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Varna today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Madara Horseman. This remarkable archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument.

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 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 Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.