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

On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Sofia, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia and Rila to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Check out the interesting park, Borisova Gradina Park. Afterward, continue to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a church every traveler should visit. As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Boyana Church. This increasingly popular church is an essential stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rila, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Rila may take around 1 hour 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rila, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rila Monastery, a notable monastery known for its stunning features.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

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 1 destination, including Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Nebet Tepe, an underrated archeological site 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 Old Town Of Plovdiv and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a frequently visited museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Hindliyan's House, a photogenic 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 Plovdiv. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

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.

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Plovdiv, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad.

No visit to Plovdiv is complete without Alyosha Monument. This often recommended monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Plovdiv, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Singing Fountain. This notable art installation is a traveler-favorite.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bachkovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Bachkovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a well-known monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Asenovgrad may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Asenovgrad, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Metokha is a worthwhile museum we recommend visiting today.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sofra? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Central Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Boicheta, Kazanlak, and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Boicheta. 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 2 hours 20 min. Upon reaching Boicheta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Ethno Village Etar is a notable museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Boicheta, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kazanlak. Your travel time is around 1 hour 3 min.

Savor the day by heading to Pametnik Na Buzludzha, an up-and-coming monument that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Kazanlak, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. Your travel time is around 1 hour 45 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Marno Pole Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This underrated monument is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Famous Bar 2 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Grill Kolata, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whatever your travel style is, Park "sveta Gora" is an essential stop in Veliko Tarnovo. This worthwhile park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Tsarevets Fortress, a culturally significant castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Forty Martyrs Church, a frequently visited church.

Set your GPS to Arbanassi and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 4 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arbanassi beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at St. Nikolay The Miracleworker and explore the heritage-rich features.

After soaking in Arbanassi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gorna Oryahovitsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Gorna Oryahovitsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Park "children's Playground".

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Varna. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Varna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varna beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Dolphinarium Varna and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Varna Zoo, another highlight in Varna. When you’re done exploring the zoo, continue to Sea Garden, a romantic park.

Nearby, you will also find Clock Tower Of Varna. This underrated monument is a top place to see in the area.

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

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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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.

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

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Aladzha Monastery is must-visit monastery and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Evksinograd Palace, an increasingly popular palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Archaeological Museum Varna, a respected museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Varna. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Museum Of National Revival. If you’re looking for more, Roman Thermae Varna is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Detski Kat Varna, a place of instagrammable interest in the city.

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 delicious meal at di Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Morska terasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Hey, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Deja Vu also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nessebar, where will spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sunny Beach, an often recommended beach in Nessebar. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Church Of Saint Sophia. This often recommended church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Church Of Christ Pantokrator is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most majestic church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the frequently visited Nesebar Archaeological Museum and discover what makes this museum unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the town, head to Zapadna Krepostna Stena, a culturally significant archeological site many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Boutique Restaurant "Kanela", an iconic dining spot in Nessebar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of White Rose, a popular restaurant in Nessebar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Dionis, a hidden gem nestled in Nessebar. 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 The White Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Harp Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Eco-bar By Michael is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Ravda and Burgas. With 1 night to stay in Nessebar, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

When you’ve had your share of Nessebar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ravda. Your travel time is around 9 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aquapark Nessebar | Akvapark Nesebar. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the water park before you continue to your next stop.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Catholic Church Virgin Mary. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to The Clock. This often recommended monument is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to History Museum Burgas. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to The Sea Garden, a locally renowned park.

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

Nessebar 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 Nessebar.

Make sure to reserve a table at “Neptun” Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Nessebar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Nessebar, a popular restaurant in Nessebar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Familia Fish & Grill, a hidden gem nestled in Nessebar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Extreme Surf School Nesebar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Wine Shop & Bar Region offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Mexo 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.

On day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kazanlak and Skobelevo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Nessebar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kazanlak. Your travel time is around 2 hours 23 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a frequently visited archeological site that everyone visiting Kazanlak should see. Next, head to Rose Museum. This photogenic museum is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Skobelevo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Skobelevo beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Damascena Ethnographic Complex, an intriguing cultural center known for its visually striking features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia 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 Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, 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, Bar & Dinner Relax is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

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