12-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling east to Lovech, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Burgas, and Stara Zagora

Welcome to Plovdiv, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Plovdiv's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Plovdiv is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Youth Hill or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Plovdiv. 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 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Rahat Tepe, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RESTAURANT Raia, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Morado Bar & Dinner for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,433 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Singing Fountains. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,362 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,346 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,705 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 visitors.

Your discoveries in Plovdiv do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Plovdiv on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Savor the flavors at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pri Ilyas (Brazilia). With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting ANYWAY Social Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Крилото Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cocktail Bar Noris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for 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.

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Plovdiv for your remaining 1 night 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 Zlatovrah, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zlatovrah. This drive usually takes around 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Arapovo Monastery. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,878 visitors.

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

Make Asen's Fortress your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,063 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Paleontological Museum of Asenovgrad. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 600 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

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

Make Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno" your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this place of worship an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,019 reviews.

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

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hemingway Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Rio, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Petit Paris. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at бар Фабрик, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Club Fargo provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Но сенс клуб offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Say good night to Plovdiv and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 3 vibrant destinations - Troyan, Karlovo, and Strugat. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lovech. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Upon your arrival in Troyan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Central Balkan National Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 3,499 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Karlovo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Vasil Levski National Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,596 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Suchurum Waterfall. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,229 travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ponte Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Колор клуб offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss restaurant ONYX. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lovech.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at БАР Вароша. Alternatively, go to Бар КРАФТ (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.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Dolni Varpishta, Devetaki, Lovech, and Boicheta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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 Dolni Varpishta. Your travel time is around 28 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael". This place of worship is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,938 reviews.

Set your GPS to Devetaki and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Devetaki beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Devetashka cave. This much-appreciated cave is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,123 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Bell, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Burger and Sweets "Асеневци". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Famous Bar 2, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Grill Kolata is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 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 3 nights.

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 1 hour 55 min. Upon reaching Madara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Marno Pole Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 visitors.

Tsarevets Fortress is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,802 travelers.

Veliko Tarnovo is also the home of Park "Sveta Gora". Around 4,790 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Madara. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Madara Horseman, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,423 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,479 travelers.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Морска тераса beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mr Baba. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vogue cafe bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cuba Beach Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar PUNTA CANA offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Balchik, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Varna for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Balchik, Dobrich, and Kavarna to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

When you arrive in Balchik, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Balchik Palace. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,545 reviews.

Balchik Botanic Garden is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,424 reviews.

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

Make Park "Sveti Georgi" one of your first sightseeing stops in Dobrich. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,314 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Upon your arrival in Balchik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Albena is a great place to start. This seaside resort is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,519 visitors.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Happy Bar & Grill, 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 El Kapan, 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 "Halbata" 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Muffin bar & coffee, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar HEY offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Varna. Deja Vu 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!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dolphinarium Varna. This much-appreciated aquarium is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,557 reviews.

Next up is Sea Garden. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,289 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,003 reviews.

Retro Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,851 reviews.

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 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 Makalali Beach, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Marché Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Godzila Sevastopol. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

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

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 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 Obzor and Nessebar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Obzor. This drive usually takes around 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Парк Обзор. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,925 visitors.

Nessebar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Obzor behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Nessebar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Sunny Beach. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,830 reviews.

Continue your journey at Ancient Theatre. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,906 travelers from near and far.

Nessebar is also the home of Church of Saint Sophia. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,853 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Nesebar Archaeological Museum. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,715 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Burgas. Burgas 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 you explore more of Burgas, 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 ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at IN BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Billiard Club Hot Shot. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Target offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Bossa, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Burgas, Sozopol, and Ravadinovo, 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 Stara Zagora. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ravadinovo. This car ride takes around 31 min.

Journey into the unknown at The Clock, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,744 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, The Sea Garden is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,703 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Ravadinovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sozopol. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kavatsite. This extraordinary bay is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,692 visitors.

Next, make your way to Harmanite Beach. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,134 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Stara Zagora, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Fat Chef, a top-rated dining destination in Stara Zagora. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider At The Admiral, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Uniqato. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stara Zagora this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Beer Kolobars Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brothers' cafe is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Hello Cafe 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!

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 - Stara Zagora and Kazanlak. 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.

Set your GPS to Kazanlak and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kazanlak beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Artileriyski Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,601 visitors.

Next, make your way to Park “Ayazmo“. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,233 reviews.

While in Stara Zagora, we also recommend a visit to “Bedechka” Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,214 reviews.

After soaking in Stara Zagora’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kazanlak. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Kazanlak, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Monument of Freedom, Saint Nicholas peak. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,783 visitors.

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 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at р-нт , Малък Бунарджик", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Torro Grande / Торро Гранде is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pavaj. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar The Post, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Винтидж хаус, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Bulgaria. Keep the spirit of your trip to Bulgaria alive with these special souvenirs.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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!