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

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Varna. You have 2 nights left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Varna, including an archeological site, a park, a zoo, an aquarium and much more! Start your day with a visit to Roman Thermae Varna. This frequently visited archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Sea Garden, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Varna 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 Varna Zoo, one of the city’s most up-and-coming zoo. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Dolphinarium Varna.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Varna. 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 lovely meal at di Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, 100 Pizzas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Morska terasa. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Varna. Begin your sightseeing with Retro Museum. This increasingly popular museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Archaeological Museum Varna, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Varna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Clock Tower Of Varna. This often recommended monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Varna's bustling shopping hub, Pfohe Mall. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Pfohe Mall offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", 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 Mr Baba, 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 Chuchura Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cubo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gossip Bar Max provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe-bar Vogue offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pliska and Madara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Pliska allows for both.

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 Pliska. Your travel time is around 53 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Dvor Na Kirilicata, an up-and-coming museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Madara, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pliska to Madara may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Madara, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Madara Horseman and explore the remarkable features. Next, make your way to Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, another highlight in the town.

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

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Veliko Tarnovo for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Veliko Tarnovo, including a waterfall, a park, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your day at Hotnitsa Waterfall. This majestic waterfall is a beloved place to see in Veliko Tarnovo. Then, wander over to Marno Pole Park. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This awe-inspiring monument is a favorite among visitors.

Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Park "sveta Gora" is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the history-steeped Tsarevets Fortress. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable castle in Veliko Tarnovo.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Keep the evening going at Ristretto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Gallery, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dolni Varpishta, Boicheta, and Kazanlak. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dolni Varpishta. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", an intriguing monastery known for its stunning features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Bacho Kiro Cave, an increasingly popular cave that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Boicheta. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Ethno Village Etar, a notable museum that everyone visiting Boicheta should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Boicheta, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kazanlak. Your travel time is around 27 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a curiosity-inducing monument that everyone visiting Kazanlak should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. 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.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including a park, an art installation, and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Youth Hill. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Singing Fountain located in Plovdiv for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Its standout features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This archeological site has a picture-perfect appeal.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Plovdiv. You have 1 night left in Plovdiv. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today's adventure in Plovdiv promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This eye-catching museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Old Town Of Plovdiv, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museum Of Natural Sciences. This instagrammable museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Alyosha Monument, a beloved monument, and take a stroll around the area.

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 RESTAURANT Raia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Citizens Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restorant "Megdana" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cocktail Bar Noris offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Bar Fabrik is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Stara Zagora 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.

Stara Zagora’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. Stara Zagora welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to “bedechka” Park, an increasingly popular park in Stara Zagora. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Park “ayazmo“. This intriguing park is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Artileriyski Park is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most stunning park in the region.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stara Zagora, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Burgas. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to The Sea Garden, a popular park that draws attention for its serene features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to The Clock, a heritage-rich monument that stands out in the city.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Billiard Club Hot Shot, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pillow is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 vibrant destinations - Nessebar. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nessebar, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Nessebar may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nessebar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, an up-and-coming museum that everyone visiting Nessebar should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Ancient Theatre. This historic archeological site is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Church Of Saint Sophia, a romantic church, popular among locals as well as travelers. "holy Mother Eleusa" Church is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this underrated church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Sunny Beach, a serene beach and top attraction in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Varna. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Happy Bar & Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Kapan. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Vault Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Nargile House Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Brick Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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