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

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Plovdiv. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Alyosha Monument. This extraordinary monument has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,510 visitors.

Next, make your way to Singing Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

While in Plovdiv, we also recommend a visit to “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 travelers, this sightseeing destination is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Plovdiv.

Make your way to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, perhaps the most famous sightseeing destination in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Qbar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, ANYWAY Social Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Zlatovrah. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv.

Asenovgrad’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Asenovgrad welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Asen's Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,157 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Paleontological Museum of Asenovgrad is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 611 reviews.

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

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 13,211 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Zlatovrah. This car ride takes around 19 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Arapovo Monastery. This monastery is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Zlatovrah, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,910 visitors.

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

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 reserve a table at RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Ресторант "Мегдана", a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Крилото Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cocktail Bar Noris, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, бар Фабрик provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 4 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 Karlovo, Troyan, and Strugat. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lovech, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Karlovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Karlovo beckons with new experiences!

Make Vasil Levski National Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Karlovo. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,665 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Suchurum Waterfall is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,271 reviews.

When you're ready to see some sights, Central Balkan National Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 3,515 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lovech, 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 Lovech. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at БАР Вароша, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Бар КРАФТ (KRAFT Craft Beer Bar). This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lovech, Devetaki, 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.

Take the opportunity to see Covered Bridge. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,817 visitors.

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

Journey into the unknown at Devetashka cave, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable cave has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,225 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.

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Famous Bar 2, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Grill Kolata, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo, and Madara, 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 Varna. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,801 visitors.

Next, make your way to Park "Sveta Gora". This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,821 reviews.

While in Veliko Tarnovo, we also recommend a visit to Tsarevets Fortress. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,913 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Tarnovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Madara. Your travel time is around 1 hour 58 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 6,528 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 4,534 travelers.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizza Selena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Three Dolphins is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vogue cafe bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar PUNTA CANA provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Varna, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balchik. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Balchik Palace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,803 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Balchik Botanic Garden. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,545 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Upon reaching Kavarna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Kaliakra, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable nature reserve has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,615 reviews.

Set your GPS to Varna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varna beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Park "Sveti Georgi". This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,349 visitors.

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

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try 100 Pizzas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Морска тераса. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

Continue your lively evening at Muffin bar & coffee, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar HEY is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Deja Vu 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.

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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dolphinarium Varna, a remarkable aquarium where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,727 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sea Garden. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 travelers.

Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral is another must-visit attraction. This renowned eastern orthodox cathedral offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,169 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Retro Museum. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 7,087 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mr Baba? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chuchura Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Cubo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gossip Bar Max, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cafe-Bar Vogue. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Primorsko, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nessebar. This car ride takes around 1 hour 33 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sunny Beach. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,959 visitors.

Nesebar Archaeological Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,788 visitors.

Ancient Theatre is also highly recommended by travelers. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,941 visitors.

Church of Saint Sophia is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,993 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Primorsko, 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 Primorsko. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Capri Pizza Bar & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Stamopolu Lux beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Beerhouse Hladno. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Primorsko tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Primorsko, Kiten, Ravadinovo, and Burgas. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stara Zagora. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kiten.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Atliman Beach. This natural feature is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,553 reviews.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beer Kolobars Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Brothers' cafe offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stara Zagora. Hello Cafe 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!

On day 11 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 Stara Zagora, Kazanlak, and Shipka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Park “Ayazmo“. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,330 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is “Bedechka” Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,259 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

Kick off the day at Monument of Freedom, Saint Nicholas peak, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 6,911 reviews.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, 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 Ruski Restorant Petar І, 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 Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Old Town of Plovdiv. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 visitors.

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

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!