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

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Plovdiv 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 Old Town of Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv. 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 delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Singing Fountain. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 visitors.

Next, make your way to “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

While in Plovdiv, we also recommend a visit to Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Plovdiv.

Make your way to Youth Hill, perhaps the most famous park in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,086 reviews.

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hotel Forum, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel ZOO Sofia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Halbite Beer Hall offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 3 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Druzhba Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Continue your journey at Sofia Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 15,237 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of South Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Golden Bridges. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,232 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

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 reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to North Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 visitors.

Next, make your way to Lions' Bridge. This top attraction is a footbridge with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,469 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cathedral of Saint Nedelya. This church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,691 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,066 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at National Theater "Ivan Vazov". This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,932 travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ресторант VICTORIA България, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Holy Trinity Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,845 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Russian Monument Square. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,608 travelers.

National Palace of Culture is another must-visit attraction. This renowned convention center offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Kambanite (The Bells) Park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 5,476 reviews.

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 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.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. 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.

Kick off the day at Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Prince's Garden. Prince's Garden is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 reviews.

Eagles' Bridge is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Borisova Gradina Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Zaimov Park, a famous park in Sofia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 travelers.

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.

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

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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like БАР Вароша, known for its lively atmosphere. Бар КРАФТ (KRAFT Craft Beer Bar) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends 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!

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 4 vibrant destinations - Lovech, Devetaki, Boicheta, and Dolni Varpishta. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Covered Bridge. This bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lovech, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,817 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Devetaki, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Devetaki, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Devetashka cave. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,225 visitors.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. 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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 8 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 Veliko Tarnovo, and Madara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,801 visitors.

When you’re finished at Monument of Mother Bulgaria, head to Marno Pole Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,692 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Tsarevets Fortress. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,913 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Tarnovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Madara. Your travel time is around 1 hour 58 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Madara Horseman. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,528 visitors.

When you’re finished at Madara Horseman, head to Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,534 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.

Dine in style at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizza Selena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Three Dolphins. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Balchik, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the region. Since you will return to Varna for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Balchik, Kavarna, and Dobrich to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Balchik, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Balchik, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Albena. This popular seaside resort has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,524 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Balchik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Balchik Palace. This popular palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,803 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Balchik Botanic Garden. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,545 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kavarna.

Kick off the day at Kaliakra, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This nature reserve is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,615 reviews.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try 100 Pizzas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Морска тераса. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to 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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Varna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dolphinarium Varna. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,727 visitors.

Sea Garden is another popular attraction you could visit today. This urban park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 visitors.

Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. This eastern orthodox cathedral has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,169 visitors.

Retro Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,087 reviews.

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 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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mr Baba, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Chuchura Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

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

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Obzor, 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Obzor, 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 Varna to Obzor may take around 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Obzor, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Парк Обзор. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,971 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Obzor, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nessebar may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sunny Beach is a great place to start. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ancient Theatre. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,941 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Church of Saint Sophia. The church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,993 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,788 reviews.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Bulgaria Burgas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at IN BAR as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.

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

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

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Burgas, and Stara Zagora. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Clock is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is The Sea Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,099 travelers.

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.

Drop by the renowned “Bedechka” Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,259 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Park “Ayazmo“. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,330 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Artileriyski Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,637 reviews.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sofra, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Qbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, ANYWAY Social Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

Day 13 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Plovdiv’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Alyosha Monument. This much-appreciated monument is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,510 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Citizens Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ресторант "Мегдана".

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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!