12-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Veliko Tarnovo, Ruse, and Varna

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Plovdiv is Kapana Creative District. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Nebet Tepe, an underrated archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Town Of Plovdiv, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This museum is one of the city’s most frequently visited 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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 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 Bachkovo and Asenovgrad.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a monastery, a museum, and a castle. Start your day at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This breathtaking monastery is a well-known place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Asen's Fortress. This inviting castle is a favorite among visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at RESTAURANT Raia, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

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

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.

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Plovdiv for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Kazanlak and Shipka to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a frequently visited archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Historical Museum “iskra”, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Rose Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most up-and-coming 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 Shipka Memorial Church. After exploring the church, head to the frequently visited Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Italianski restorant Pikantino, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ruski Restorant Petar I offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Amadeus Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Planet Edition, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Club Fargo likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Plovdiv. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Trapezitsa Fortress is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress, a well-known castle, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Park "sveta Gora". This scenic park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Monument To The Assen Dynasty and Marno Pole Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a breathtaking monument in Plovdiv.

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.

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Famous Bar 2. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Grill Kolata, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Veliko Tarnovo. Begin your sightseeing with St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Park "children's Playground", another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Park „nikolaj Panayotov“. This underrated park is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bianko offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, EGO pizza & grill The Old Town is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Ristretto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Gallery, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the locally renowned Ethno Village Etar, a historic museum in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael".

After visiting Ethno Village Etar and Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", have a stroll along Veliko Tarnovo's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bacho Kiro Cave. This visually striking cave offers a unique experience.

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

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

Dine in style at Malkiya inter (The small inter), a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Skala boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Ego 1. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Famous stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Lino Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Klub 7 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ruse. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ruse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Veliko Tarnovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ecomuseum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich museum before continuing your journey. Regional Historical Museum is your next stop. This increasingly popular museum is one of the best-rated sights in Veliko Tarnovo.

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 Monument Of Liberty. This remarkable monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes and Fountain In Front Of The Opera House.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ruse, 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 Ruse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Pontoon", a highly-rated dining destination in Ruse. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bistro "Lake", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Godfather. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ruse this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Black & White, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Frame, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bowling likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Madara and Shumen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ruse, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Madara Horseman, a curiosity-inducing archeological site in the village. Then, head to Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this standout archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Ruse, and when you are ready for more, go to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing historic spots of interest.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizza Selena, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Three Dolphins. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vogue Cafe Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Punta Cana is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Don’t miss Knyaz Boris I Boulevard in Varna today, a must-see street 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Clock Tower Of Varna, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Roman Thermae Varna, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Varna. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Sea Garden. Wander around and soak in the noteworthy atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Varna Zoo, a top-rated zoo that adds another dimension to your day.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at di Wine, 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 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. 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 Muffin Bar & Coffee. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Hey, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Deja Vu provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Varna and Balchik. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Varna. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a monastery, and a botanical garden. Begin your adventure at Archaeological Museum Varna. This is an often recommended museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Aladzha Monastery, an often recommended monastery in Varna.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Balchik Botanic Garden.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Nobel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Aylyakriya / Aylyakria Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Efir 100 seafood and barbecue. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Keep the evening going at Secrets Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to No Sens Klub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar The Post, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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