12-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, Stara Zagora, and Sofia

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Varna. You have 1 night left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Immerse yourself in Varna’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Aladzha Monastery. This inviting monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Archaeological Museum Varna, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Dolphinarium Varna, a frequently visited aquarium. For a change of scene, check out Varna Zoo, known for its picture-perfect features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Dine in style at di Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 100 Pizzas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Morska terasa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Muffin Bar & Coffee stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Hey offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Deja Vu 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. 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 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the frequently visited Trapezitsa Fortress, a picture-perfect archeological site in Varna. Next, go to Tsarevets Fortress.

After visiting Trapezitsa Fortress and Tsarevets Fortress, take time to explore Varna's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Park "sveta Gora". This picturesque park offers a unique experience. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Marno Pole Park, one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Varna.

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

As you explore more of Veliko Tarnovo, 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 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Famous Bar 2, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Grill Kolata offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Head back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo and get some rest in preparation 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 Veliko Tarnovo, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets. You still have 1 night left in Veliko Tarnovo.

Start your day at Park „nikolaj Panayotov“. Then, wander over to Park "children's Playground". Nearby, you’ll also find St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. This monumental church is a favorite among visitors.

Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul" is a worthwhile spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bianko? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ristretto, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Gallery. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Veliko Tarnovo’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Youth Hill. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Alyosha Monument, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a frequently visited archeological site. For a change of scene, check out “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, known for its eye-catching features.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Plovdiv for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Plovdiv on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular monastery, Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Afterward, continue to Asen's Fortress, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This interesting archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv, an underrated historical landmark in the village. Finally, end your day with a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an enchanting historical landmark that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

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.

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

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.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Kazanlak and Shipka, 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 Stara Zagora. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, an archeological site, a church, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Rose Museum. Just a short distance away is Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a heritage-rich archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Shipka Memorial Church, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Stara Zagora. Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Fat Chef, an iconic dining spot in Stara Zagora. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of At The Admiral, a popular restaurant in Stara Zagora. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Uniqato, a hidden gem nestled in Stara Zagora. 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, Beer Kolobars Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brothers' Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hello Cafe 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!

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Stara Zagora. You’ll stay in Stara Zagora for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Stara Zagora is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Neolithic Dwellings Museum. , an underrated museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Antique Forum, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Stara Zagora Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Stara Zagora at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Park “ayazmo“. After exploring the park, head to the beloved “bedechka” Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bistro Nik-Nay, a popular restaurant in Stara Zagora. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Stara Zagora at Beer House, 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 Golden Serbian Grill Pri Vledo - 3. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Stara Zagora tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Brothers' Cafe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Belle Vue is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Drums is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Stara Zagora. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a convention center, a park, a performing arts theater and much more! Begin your adventure at Boyana Church. This is an increasingly popular church you should not miss. Another must-see is National Palace Of Culture, a well-known convention center in Stara Zagora.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Borisova Gradina Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another of the city’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at National Theater "ivan Vazov", a history-steeped place of interest in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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

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

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Rila Monastery. This historic monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Vitosha Nature Park and learn what makes this mesmerizing nature reserve unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Regional History Museum Of Sofia. After exploring the museum, head to South Park. This notable park is a highlight in Sofia.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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 Nessebar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a worthwhile museum in the town. Then, head to Ancient Theatre and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of Saint Sophia. This is one of the town’s most underrated spots.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mr Baba boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Chuchura Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cubo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gossip Bar Max is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe-bar Vogue also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!