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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Varna.

To truly experience Varna, make sure to drop by Roman Thermae Varna. This frequently visited archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Archaeological Museum Varna, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Aladzha Monastery, one of the most often recommended places to see in Varna. This monastery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dolphinarium Varna. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this aquarium offers. Then, head to Varna Zoo, a top-rated zoo that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the well-known Sea Garden, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at di Wine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 100 Pizzas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Morska terasa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Muffin Bar & Coffee. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Hey offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Deja Vu, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Trapezitsa Fortress, an up-and-coming archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Tsarevets Fortress, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Next, explore Park "sveta Gora", yet another intriguing place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This awe-inspiring monument is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Marno Pole Park, a beloved park you won’t want to miss.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tavern "Petleto" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Bell. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gorna Oryahovitsa. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Savor the day by heading to Park „nikolaj Panayotov“, an up-and-coming park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Gorna Oryahovitsa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arbanassi. Your travel time is around 7 min.

Savor the day by heading to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, a worthwhile church that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arbanassi and set your GPS to Lyaskovets. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Lyaskovets, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an underrated monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bianko, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ristretto after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Gallery, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Gabrovo, Boicheta, Shipka, and Kazanlak. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Gabrovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Gabrovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo, an underrated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Park „markoteya“ and admire its idyllic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Pametnik Na Racho Kovacha, a frequently visited monument beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking in Gabrovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Boicheta. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Boicheta, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ethno Village Etar, an interesting museum in Boicheta. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Shipka, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Boicheta to Shipka may take around 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Shipka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Shipka Memorial Church and explore the majestic features.

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

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Moda Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Zahir - Bar & Dinner offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion", another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Asen's Fortress, a curiosity-inducing castle that everyone visiting Asenovgrad should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Spend some time admiring the monumental features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Youth Hill, a beloved park that everyone visiting Plovdiv should see. Next, head to Singing Fountain. This instagrammable art installation is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a mesmerizing park popular among locals as well as travelers. Roman Forum Of Philippopolis is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this worthwhile archeological site before you continue your journey.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Rahat Tepe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at KFC. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner 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 Bulgaria.

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood in Plovdiv. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Museum Of Natural Sciences makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile museum is an instagrammable place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a photogenic museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Nebet Tepe. This intriguing archeological site offers a visually striking encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a popular archeological site that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Old Town Of Plovdiv, an often recommended historical landmark in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. 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 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.

Say good night to Plovdiv and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 places, which are Stob and Rila. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pastra, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Stob, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Stob may take around 2 hours 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stob, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stob Earth Pyramids, a curiosity-inducing rock formation in Stob. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Rila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a beloved waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Rila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila beckons with new experiences!

Rila Monastery is a captivating monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Malyovitsa, an awe-inspiring mountain range that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

Pastra 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 Pastra.

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

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Pastra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sofia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sofia is Boyana Church, an intriguing church that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to National Museum Of History, a visually striking museum that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to South Park, a popular park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore National Palace Of Culture, a nearby convention center, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a picture-perfect church and the perfect final attraction in Sofia.

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

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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Grijn Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar National. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Sofia. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Prince's Garden leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Eagles' Bridge, an interesting monument, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Borisova Gradina Park. This serene park is a highly recommended experience.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mr Baba? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chuchura Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.

Continue your lively evening at Cubo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gossip Bar Max is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cafe-bar Vogue ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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