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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Dolphinarium Varna and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Varna Zoo, a visually striking zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sea Garden, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Roman Thermae Varna. When you're finished at the archeological site, Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral awaits your visit. This church is a monumental highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a museum - the locally appreciated Retro Museum.

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.

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.

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.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 38 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Park "sveta Gora", a worthwhile park in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This worthwhile monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya" is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect market in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the beloved Monkey House and discover what makes this historical landmark unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a culturally significant monument many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Famous Bar 2. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Grill Kolata, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Veliko Tarnovo, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lyaskovets, Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Veliko Tarnovo to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Check out the underrated archeological site, Trapezitsa Fortress. Afterward, continue to Holy Forty Martyrs Church, a church every traveler should visit. As you explore Veliko Tarnovo’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress. This notable castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Tower Of Baldwin, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lyaskovets. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul" and explore the picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyaskovets, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gorna Oryahovitsa. This drive usually takes around 13 min.

Park "children's Playground" is an up-and-coming playground we recommend visiting today.

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

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

Dine in style at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bianko boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

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!

Dive into day 5 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Veliko Tarnovo to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nebet Tepe, an often recommended archeological site known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Old Town Of Plovdiv, a worthwhile historical landmark.

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 Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv and uncover the details of this standout museum. Make sure to also explore Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, an interesting archeological site. For your last stop, consider “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a mesmerizing park that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. North Star is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Don’t miss Kapana Creative District today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the village’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This picture-perfect archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Museum Of Natural Sciences, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile museum renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Plovdiv by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Alyosha Monument. This breathtaking monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Plovdiv experience.

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bachkovo. Your travel time is around 38 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a locally renowned 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Asenovgrad. This car ride takes around 16 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Asen's Fortress, an increasingly popular castle in Asenovgrad. Explore its history-steeped features 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 Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Qbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Zlatovrah and Bansko. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Arapovo Monastery, an increasingly popular monastery that everyone visiting Zlatovrah should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bansko. This drive usually takes around 3 hours, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is City Park. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This worthwhile museum is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Holy Trinity Church. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to "neofit Rilski" House-museum, a worthwhile museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Monument Paisius Of Hilendar, known for its noteworthy features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Kasapinova Mehana, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Euphoria beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bansko tonight.

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

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 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bansko, where you have 1 night left to stay.

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 Bansko to Rila may take around 1 hour 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rila, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Rila Monastery, a captivating monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rila 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 33 min. Upon reaching Stob, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Stob is Stob Earth Pyramids, a curiosity-inducing rock formation that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stob and set your GPS to Blagoevgrad. 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 23 min. Upon reaching Blagoevgrad, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Blagoevgrad is Monument Of Gotse Delchev, a curiosity-inducing monument that draws attention for its symbolic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Regionalen Istoricheski Muzej Blagoevgrad, a heritage-rich museum that stands out in the region.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kabatsite, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern Matsurev Khan offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ethno Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bansko.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lion's Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pirin 75 is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Wine Bar 25 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Sofia. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 2 nights.

Sofia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bansko behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min. Sofia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. Spend some time admiring the inviting features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Zaimov Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, take your journey to South Park, a well-known park. Conclude your sightseeing at National Palace Of Culture, known for its visually striking features.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, 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 Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island 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.

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

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a popular street in Sofia. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Start your day at Boyana Church. This culturally significant church is an often recommended place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to National Museum Of History. If historic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Borisova Gradina Park. This majestic park is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the visually striking National Theater "ivan Vazov". Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended performing arts theater.

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 Sofia's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kathrine Cocktail - Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Urban Rebel, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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. Shumen and Madara are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay 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 Shumen. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, an increasingly popular monument 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 Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress and admire its respected features.

Set your GPS to Madara and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Madara beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Madara Horseman, an increasingly popular archeological site that everyone visiting Madara should see.

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.

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.

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.

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

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