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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. 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.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a majestic, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a standout, a symbolic, and a remarkable! Start at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a well-known park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Singing Fountain, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Alyosha Monument. This monument is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. After exploring the archeological site, head to the interesting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This archeological site will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at West Park. This enchanting park is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Russian Monument Square, a curiosity-inducing public square.

Rila’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. Rila welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Rila Monastery, a notable monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 2 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s agenda in Sofia includes a zoo, a park, a monument, a convention center and much more! Sofia Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Borisova Gradina Park, a popular park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Eagles' Bridge, a serene monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Sofia. If you’re looking for more, Prince's Garden is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss National Palace Of Culture, a popular gem to see in the city.

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 Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel ZOO Sofia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar & Dinner Relax. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at One More Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 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.

Today’s route brings a peaceful, an enchanting, a visually striking, a historic, a culturally significant, a majestic, and a romantic. The first attraction of today is North Park. This interesting park is an idyllic place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Zaimov Park, a beautiful park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This popular church offers a picture-perfect encounter with Sofia. Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

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 Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Corner after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gaba, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, K. E. B. A. Also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring a photogenic, a historically significant, a stunning, a majestic, a romantic, a serene, and a breathtaking. Start at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a worthwhile church in the city. Then, head to South Park and soak in the ambiance of this serene park.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia and when you are ready for more, go to Druzhba Park. This is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Reduta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at National Museum Of Military History, an often recommended military museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Geo Milev Park and admire its enchanting features.

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 Lovech. Lovech 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 Lovech. 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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Varosha. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Kraft (kraft Craft Beer Bar), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 7 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 Troyan, Boicheta, and Dolni Varpishta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Troyan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Troyan beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Troyan Monastery. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Boicheta, 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 Troyan to Boicheta may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Boicheta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Boicheta, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dolni Varpishta may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Dolni Varpishta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", an up-and-coming monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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 delightful dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern "Petleto"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Bell as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Famous Bar 2 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Grill Kolata, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo and Madara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Veliko Tarnovo promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This picture-perfect monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Marno Pole Park, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Tsarevets Fortress, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo and set your GPS to Madara. 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 2 hours 2 min. Upon reaching Madara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, a worthwhile archeological site that draws attention for its masterful features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Madara Horseman, a culturally significant archeological site that stands out in the city.

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

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 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vogue Cafe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cuba Beach Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Punta Cana also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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!

Sea Garden is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Balchik. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Head to Albena, an up-and-coming beach in Balchik. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Varna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Balchik may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Balchik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Balchik Palace and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Balchik Botanic Garden, another highlight in the region.

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

Make your way to Kaliakra, a popular cliff that draws attention for its serene features.

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

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.

Dine in style at di Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 100 Pizzas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Morska terasa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Muffin Bar & Coffee, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Hey is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Deja Vu offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Varna and Nessebar, 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a gorgeous, a visually striking, a historic, an inviting, and a majestic. Whether you decide to explore Varna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this grand church before continuing your journey. Retro Museum is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Varna.

Set your GPS to Nessebar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nessebar beckons with new experiences!

Head to Church Of Saint Sophia, an intriguing church in Nessebar. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Burgas. Burgas 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 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.

Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Billiard Club Hot Shot, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Pillow offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Burgas. Hashtagpavilion is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Burgas and 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.

Today’s route brings a picture-perfect, a respected, a majestic, a romantic, a serene, a stunning, and a detailed. The first attraction of today is The Clock. This increasingly popular monument is a culturally significant place to see in Burgas. Continue your discovery at The Sea Garden, an idyllic park with stories to tell.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stara Zagora. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is “bedechka” Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Park “ayazmo“. This curiosity-inducing park is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Artileriyski Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Sofra, 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 Central Park. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.

Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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