12-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Trigrad, Bansko, Pastra, Veliko Tarnovo, and Varna

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sofia and Pernik. With 1 night to stay in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Regional History Museum Of Sofia is an ideal stop early in the day. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sofia 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 National Palace Of Culture, a notable convention center in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for South Park and Boyana Church.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pernik. This drive usually takes around 47 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Vitosha Nature Park, an up-and-coming nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bachkovo and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bachkovo. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and explore the picture-perfect features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 36 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Plovdiv is Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, an interesting archeological site that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a visually striking historical landmark that stands out in the village.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an intriguing museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers.

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.

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.

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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rock Bar Download, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, North Star offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Borino, Iagodina, and Trigrad. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Trigrad, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Borino. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Yagodinska Cave, a worthwhile cave that everyone visiting Borino should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Iagodina. This car ride takes around 4 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Eagle's Eye, an increasingly popular observation deck that everyone visiting Iagodina should see.

Set your GPS to Trigrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trigrad beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Devil's Throat Cave, an intriguing cave in Trigrad. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Trigrad Gorge. This up-and-coming canyon is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Trigrad, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bansko. Your travel time is around 2 hours 36 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bansko is Bansko Ski Resort, a curiosity-inducing ski resort that draws attention for its picturesque features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Holy Trinity Church, a standout church that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to "neofit Rilski" House-museum, a worthwhile museum that offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bansko. Bansko 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 Bansko's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kasapinova Mehana, a highly-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're eager to try something different, consider Euphoria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Stob and Rila. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pastra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bansko and set your GPS to Stob. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 4 min. Upon reaching Stob, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stob Earth Pyramids, a worthwhile rock formation in Stob. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Rila’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stob behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Rila welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a curiosity-inducing waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stob and set your GPS to Rila. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Rila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rila Monastery, a captivating monastery known for its majestic features.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo, where will spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Veliko Tarnovo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pastra to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 3 hours 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Tsarevets Fortress, a popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Park "sveta Gora" and admire its enchanting features.

When you’re ready, continue to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a locally appreciated monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Marno Pole Park, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a breathtaking place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Famous Bar 2, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Gorna Oryahovitsa and Lyaskovets. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gorna Oryahovitsa. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Park „nikolaj Panayotov“, a beloved park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lyaskovets, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Gorna Oryahovitsa to Lyaskovets may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lyaskovets, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", a curiosity-inducing monastery in Lyaskovets. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bianko, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Ristretto is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Gallery, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Tequila Bar Funky Monkey. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Aksakovo.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aksakovo may take around 2 hours 19 min. Upon your arrival in Aksakovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (stone Forest), a curiosity-inducing rock formation that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Varna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varna beckons with new experiences!

Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is a beloved church we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Archaeological Museum Varna, an eye-catching museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Art Gallery Boris Georgiev, a heritage-rich art gallery.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pizza Selena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Three Dolphins. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Vogue Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cuba Beach Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Varna is brimming with adventures.

Make time for Aladzha Monastery, an often recommended monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Varna Zoo, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Sea Garden. This park is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Varna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Roman Thermae Varna. After exploring the archeological site, head to the worthwhile Retro Museum. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Asparuhov Park, a place of mesmerizing interest in Varna.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at di Wine, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Varna tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Muffin Bar & Coffee is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Hey, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Deja Vu. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

After soaking in Varna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nessebar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 38 min. When you arrive in Nessebar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a beloved museum known for its instagrammable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Ancient Theatre, a locally appreciated archeological site.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Church Of Saint Sophia and uncover the details of this UNESCO world heritage-listed church.

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

Sofia 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 Sofia.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to One More Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Teos Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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