12-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Lovech, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv

Welcome to Sofia, 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 Sofia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Sofia 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 Holy Trinity Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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 Hotel Forum, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Mamma Mia Ltd is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like North Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,004 visitors.

Next, make your way to Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,066 reviews.

While in Sofia, we also recommend a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Zaimov Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Sofia.

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

As you explore more of Sofia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Don’t miss out on dining at Divaka, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Face bar & dinner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Art Club Museum. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Sofia Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 15,237 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is South Park. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,319 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Prince's Garden. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Theater "Ivan Vazov". With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers, this point of interest is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Sofia.

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 Sofia. 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 Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Park Hotel "MOSKVA". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sofia, and Karlukovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lovech, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Russian Monument Square, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,608 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, National Palace of Culture is a recommended place to visit. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,569 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Sofia is Borisova Gradina Park. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Sofia offers an experience you will remember.

Druzhba Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Sofia. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Karlukovo, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Karlukovo may take around 1 hour 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Karlukovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Prohodna, a remarkable cave where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 8,894 reviews.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Strugat, Boicheta, and Dolni Varpishta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Strugat. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Troyan Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 11,064 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Strugat, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Boicheta may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Boicheta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Ethno village Etar, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,399 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.

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.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo, and Madara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,801 visitors.

Park "Sveta Gora" is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,821 travelers.

Veliko Tarnovo is also the home of Tsarevets Fortress. Around 11,913 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in Veliko Tarnovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Madara. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 2 min. When you arrive in Madara, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,534 visitors.

Next, make your way to Madara Horseman. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,528 reviews.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vogue cafe bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cuba Beach Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar PUNTA CANA 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.

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 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Balchik, Kavarna, and Dobrich to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Balchik. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Balchik Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,803 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Balchik Botanic Garden. Balchik Botanic Garden is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,545 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kavarna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dobrich. This drive usually takes around 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kaliakra. This nature reserve is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kavarna, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,615 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kavarna and set your GPS to Dobrich. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Dobrich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ronnie James Dio monument. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 834 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Морска тераса. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Muffin bar & coffee. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar HEY offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Deja Vu, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Varna, and Nessebar, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Continue your journey at Retro Museum. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,087 travelers from near and far.

Varna is also the home of Sea Garden. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Church of Saint Sophia is a great place to start. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,993 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a popular restaurant in Burgas. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Burgas at Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is IN BAR. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Burgas tonight.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Burgas, and Stara Zagora. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Make The Clock your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,766 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at The Sea Garden. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,099 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Stara Zagora’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Burgas behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min. Stara Zagora welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see “Bedechka” Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,259 visitors.

The Dog Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,198 travelers.

Stara Zagora is also the home of Park “Ayazmo“. Around 8,330 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Salt & Pepper, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rahat Tepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider KFC. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Singing Fountain. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Next up is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Alyosha Monument. This monument has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,510 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno". This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,211 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Bachkovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Asen's Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,157 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Sofra, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Central Park. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. ANYWAY Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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

Make Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis one of your first sightseeing stops in Plovdiv. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Old Town of Plovdiv is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Nebet Tepe. This hill has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,913 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 17,893 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Youth Hill. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,086 local and international travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sofia. Sofia 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Jasmin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try J. J. Murphy's? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“ as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Sofia 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 Lions' Bridge. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,469 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Staria Chinar", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Taj Mahal Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss CLUB 35.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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!