11-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Varna traveling west to Shumen, Gabrovo, Sofia, Plovdiv, and Burgas

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Varna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Varna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Varna. 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 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 delightful dining experience at Sweet Parmy while you’re in Varna. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 645 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Varna is Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna). Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 8,318 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

While in Varna, enjoy Happy Bar & Grill’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 7,456 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in Varna. Cubo is a popular option, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,527 customers.

Continue your evening at Beach Bar Menthol. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,430 customers.

The Garden Bar is another place you could check out tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Varna and Shumen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Shumen. Shumen will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Archaeological Museum Varna. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,157 reviews.

Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,003 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Aladzha Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,866 reviews.

Retro Museum is another outstanding experience in Varna. Around 6,851 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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 Shumen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 1 min.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Shumen, 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 Shumen.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Primo Bar & Grill. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Shumen boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 1,308 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Shumen is Vienna garden. It has garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,079 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Popsheytanov's House, in Shumen. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 840 satisfied customers.

BACARDI CLUB is one of the best bars you can visit in Shumen tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,210 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Zino Club. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 646 customers.

Alternatively, try СПОРТЕН БАР И ГРИЛ "РЕФЕРИТЕ". СПОРТЕН БАР И ГРИЛ "РЕФЕРИТЕ" is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 285 customers.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Madara, Veliko Tarnovo, and Gabrovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Veliko Tarnovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Shumen behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 3 min. Veliko Tarnovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Trapezitsa Fortress your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,182 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Tsarevets Fortress. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,802 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Marno Pole Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,637 visitors.

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 Gabrovo. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

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

Reserve a table at PIZZA TEMPO - Gabrovo, a renowned restaurant in Gabrovo. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,151 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Strannopriemnitsa while in Gabrovo. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 1,192 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Gabrovo at Rest, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,047 customers.

Experience the local nightlife scene. Kafe-club Alfrida is a highly recommended bar with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 589 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar among locals like Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion". This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 209 bar-goers.

ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner is another great bar that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 168 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Boicheta, Gabrovo, Lovech, and Sofia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Музей на хумора и сатирата, Габрово. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,676 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lovech, 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 Gabrovo to Lovech may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Covered Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,683 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Alley "Bash Bunar" Lovech is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 319 reviews.

After soaking in Lovech’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 2 hours 19 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

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.

Reserve your spot at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, a popular local restaurant in Sofia. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Restaurant "Staria Chinar" during your stay in Sofia. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,717 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Art Club Museum, a popular local gem in Sofia. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 satisfied guests.

Bar Friday is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 3,410 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Sofia we recommend is The Cocktail Bar, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers.

One More Bar is also one of the best places to go to unwind and chat with locals. Over 2,228 bar-goers have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

You can learn more about Sofia today by going on a tour. Sofia offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Don't miss out on experiencing The Wrong Bar, a renowned dining spot in Sofia. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Taj Mahal Restaurant while immersing yourself in Sofia. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,423 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Luciano, a beloved dining establishment within Sofia. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 satisfied customers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Halbite Beer Hall, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Halbite Beer Hall is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,280 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Lime Cafe & Cocktails. Around 1,223 customers have rated their experience at Lime Cafe & Cocktails an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

5 Corners Pub also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Sofia, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,463 bar-goers.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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.

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.

Reserve a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, a renowned restaurant in Sofia. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,252 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Island Restaurant while in Sofia. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 1,035 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Sofia at Марайа Класик / Maraia Classic, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,002 customers.

After dinner, visit K. E. B. A. To enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,055 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like By the Way. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. By the Way has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 909 customers.

Грийн бар is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Sofia on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Book a table at Esterhasi Restaurant, a famous dining establishment in Sofia. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 731 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Sofia is Restaurant "Panchetata", which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.5 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 626 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Sofia’s Divaka for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 4,532 satisfied diners.

After dinner, visit BSD 2 NDK, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Sofia. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 838 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Kathrine Cocktail - Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 769 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend bilkova bar. This bar, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 757 customers, is one of the best bars in the city of Sofia.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Bistritsa, Samokov, and Plovdiv, 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 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bistritsa may take around 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Bistritsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to City Park by the river Iskar. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,225 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Samokov, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 47 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

Make a reservation at Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, a popular dining spot in Plovdiv. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,229 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Happy Bar & Grill Novotel while indulging in the charm of Plovdiv. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, cherished by 4,350 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Torro Grande / Торро Гранде, a treasured establishment in Plovdiv. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,651 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Rahat Tepe, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,984 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Club Fargo. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers.

Котка и Мишка, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,070 customers.

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

On day 9 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 Plovdiv, Burgas, and Burgas. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Singing Fountains, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,362 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,346 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Plovdiv is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,603 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Plovdiv offers an experience you will remember.

Set your GPS to Burgas and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Burgas beckons with new experiences!

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Burgas.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Happy Bar & Grill, an acclaimed dining establishment in Burgas. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 6,335 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Happy Bar & Grill while experiencing the best of Burgas. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 5,139 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Romance Pub & Pizza, an elegant culinary destination in Burgas. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,070 previous guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at a bar. Papa Beer - Craft Beer Bar is a great place to continue your night. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 981 customers.

If you want to know where locals go, check out Caribe. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,358 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is Ti Bar & Kitchen - ресторант и бар в Бургас. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 835 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Nessebar and Varna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna. Varna will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nessebar. This car ride takes around 40 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Nesebar Archaeological Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,715 reviews.

Ancient Theatre is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,906 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Church of Saint Sophia. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,853 reviews.

Sunny Beach is another outstanding experience in Nessebar. Around 6,830 travelers have rated this town an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Varna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nessebar behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. Varna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Staria Chinar - Port Varna, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 4,810 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Godzila Sevastopol during your stay in Varna. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 4,248 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Staria Chinar Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Varna. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,178 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Varna. Muffin bar & coffee is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,718 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out The BRICK bar. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,387 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Bar PUNTA CANA. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,540 customers.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Varna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Varna’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Varna. 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!