12-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Burgas, Stara Zagora, Veliko Tarnovo, and Sofia and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Don’t miss Kapana Creative District in Plovdiv today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Plovdiv on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking archeological site before continuing your journey. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is your next stop. This notable archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Plovdiv.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Old Town Of Plovdiv. This enchanting historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Nebet Tepe.

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.

Visit Markovo Tepe Mall in Plovdiv for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Markovo Tepe Mall has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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

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

On day 3 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 Sozopol. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Plovdiv. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, an art installation, a beach, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This is a locally renowned park you should not miss. Another must-see is Singing Fountain, a well-known art installation in Plovdiv.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to The Sea Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Harmanite Beach, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at The Clock, an eye-catching place of interest in the city.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Billiard Club Hot Shot after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pillow, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

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 1 vibrant destinations - Nessebar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stara Zagora. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Burgas’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the grand features of Church Of Christ Pantokrator, a must-visit church in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Church Of Saint Sophia, a locally appreciated church. For a change of scene, check out Sunny Beach, known for its peaceful features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stara Zagora. 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 Stara Zagora's best restaurants.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beer Kolobars Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Brothers' Cafe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hello Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Day 5 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Stara Zagora. You have 1 night left in Stara Zagora. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Stara Zagora, including a monument, a park, and a zoo. Start your day at Samara Flag Monument. This noteworthy monument is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Stara Zagora. Then, wander over to “bedechka” Park. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Stara Zagora Zoo. This eye-catching zoo is a favorite among visitors.

Stara Zagora offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Park “ayazmo“ 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 idyllic Artileriyski Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming park in Stara Zagora.

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 Stara Zagora. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bistro Nik-Nay, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Beer House offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Golden Serbian Grill Pri Vledo - 3 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stara Zagora.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Brothers' Cafe, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Belle Vue offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stara Zagora. Drums is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Shipka, Kazanlak, Boicheta, and Dolni Varpishta. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Stara Zagora is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a monument, a museum, a monastery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Shipka Memorial Church. Just a short distance away is Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a culturally significant monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ethno Village Etar, one of the town’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael".

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern "Petleto" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Bell is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Famous Bar 2, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Veliko Tarnovo and Lovech. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Veliko Tarnovo is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a worthwhile monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Marno Pole Park, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Tsarevets Fortress. This castle is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Veliko Tarnovo at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Park "sveta Gora". After exploring the park, head to the underrated Covered Bridge. This historical landmark will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Sofia, 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 Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

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

On day 8 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.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Sofia is Tsar Ivan Shishman Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Today’s agenda in Sofia includes a park, a monument, and a performing arts theater. Borisova Gradina Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Eagles' Bridge, a popular monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Prince's Garden, a heritage-rich park, 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, National Theater "ivan Vazov" is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sofia and Reduta.

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

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sofia Zoo, a well-known zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Geo Milev Park. Round off your day at Druzhba Park, another gem in Sofia with enchanting features to discover.

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

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

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night 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.

Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at North Park, a popular park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lions' Bridge, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This church is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. After exploring the church, head to the interesting Zaimov Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mamma Mia Ltd, 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 Esterhasi 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 Da Massimo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Corner, known for its lively atmosphere. Gaba is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, K. E. B. A. Offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia and Musagenitsa, 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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended church, Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. Afterward, continue to Russian Monument Square, a public square every traveler should visit.

As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to National Palace Of Culture. This popular convention center is an essential stop. Following that, head to Muzeiko, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Kambanite (the Bells) Park, a worthwhile park in the city.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. 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 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kriloto Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cocktail Bar Noris is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Fabrik is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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