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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 3 nights.

A visit to Kapana Creative District is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Nebet Tepe makes a great addition to your morning plans. This increasingly popular archeological site is a history-steeped place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Old Town Of Plovdiv, a history-steeped historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This intriguing museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Qbar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Anyway Social Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

To truly experience Plovdiv, make sure to drop by Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This notable monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Asen's Fortress, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Plovdiv. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kriloto Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cocktail Bar Noris is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Fabrik is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Kazanlak and Shipka. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated archeological site is a respected place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Historical Museum “iskra”, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rose Museum. This frequently visited museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Shipka Memorial Church to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, an intriguing monument that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

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

Plovdiv is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv.

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

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.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Veliko Tarnovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Trapezitsa Fortress is an ideal stop early in the day. This locally appreciated archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tsarevets Fortress, which may be one of the most grand places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Plovdiv on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Park "sveta Gora", a beloved park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Monument To The Assen Dynasty and Marno Pole Park. End your day with a visit to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, an intriguing monument that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. 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, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Arbanassi and Gorna Oryahovitsa. With 2 nights to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Catch St. Nikolay The Miracleworker before the crowds roll in. This heritage-rich church 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 Park „nikolaj Panayotov“, a locally appreciated park.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bianko beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Boicheta and Dolni Varpishta.

Ethno Village Etar brings Veliko Tarnovo's character to life. This awe-inspiring museum is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Bacho Kiro Cave, one of the village’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Malkiya inter (The small inter), a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Skala, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Ego 1. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Famous after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Lino Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Klub 7 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 place, which are Ruse. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ruse, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing Ecomuseum, a historic museum in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Regional Historical Museum.

After visiting Ecomuseum and Regional Historical Museum, have a stroll along Veliko Tarnovo's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Monument Of Liberty. This culturally significant monument offers a unique experience. Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ruse. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Ruse is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Ruse.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant "Pontoon", a popular restaurant in Ruse. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ruse at Bistro "Lake", 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 The Godfather. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ruse tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Black & White, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Frame is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bowling also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Madara and Shumen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Madara Horseman is an essential stop in Ruse. This worthwhile archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress, a historic archeological site, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, an up-and-coming monument.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizza Selena? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Three Dolphins as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Varna.

A top thing to do today is to explore Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a must-see street in Varna. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Make a stop at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Clock Tower Of Varna located in Varna for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Roman Thermae Varna. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Sea Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this park. Next up is Varna Zoo, a highly recommended zoo.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at di Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, 100 Pizzas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Morska terasa. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Varna and Balchik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Archaeological Museum Varna. This history-steeped museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Aladzha Monastery and learn what makes this breathtaking monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Balchik Botanic Garden.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Secrets Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out No Sens Klub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar The Post provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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