13-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Varna to Burgas, Plovdiv, Sofia, Gabrovo, and Shumen

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Retro Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,087 visitors.

Varna Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,341 visitors.

Dolphinarium Varna is also highly recommended by travelers. This aquarium has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,727 visitors.

You can learn more about Varna today by going on a tour. Varna offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at di Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 100 Pizzas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Морска тераса is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nessebar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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.

Make Sunny Beach one of your first sightseeing stops in Nessebar. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Church Of Saint Sophia is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,993 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ancient Theatre. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,941 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Church Of St John Aliturgetos. A trip to this popular church building is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 150 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This museum enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,788 local and international travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Burgas. Burgas offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider IN BAR. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Target, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pillow provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Burgas, and Stara Zagora, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Clock. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Burgas, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 visitors.

The Sea Garden is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,099 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stara Zagora. This car ride takes around 1 hour 46 min.

Drop by the renowned Artileriyski Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,637 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 “bedechka” Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,259 reviews.

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.

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Nebet Tepe. This hill has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,913 visitors.

Bachkovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Bachkovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,211 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Bachkovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 16 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Asen's Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,157 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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.

Savor the flavors at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Qbar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Anyway Social Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 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 Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Kick off the day at Singing Fountain, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Youth Hill, a famous park in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,086 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sofia, 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 Sofia's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Forum, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mamma Mia Ltd as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Halbite Beer Hall after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Lime Cafe & Cocktails for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Golden Bridges. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,232 reviews.

Continue your journey at Russian Monument Square. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,608 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of National Palace Of Culture. This convention center has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,691 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this church.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Kick off the day at North Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,004 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Lions' Bridge. Lions' Bridge is a footbridge with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,469 reviews.

Druzhba Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Sofia Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 15,237 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Reduta. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Reduta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Geo Milev Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Hotel Jasmin, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at J. J. Murphy's, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 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 Gabrovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Zaimov Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Borisova Gradina Park. The park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Prince's Garden. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 reviews.

National Theater "ivan Vazov" is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this sightseeing destination, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Gabrovo. Gabrovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Gabrovo. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a top-rated dining destination in Gabrovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Strannopriemnitsa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vanilla coffee&food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gabrovo this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Moda Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Zahir - Bar & Dinner provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Shumen, Madara, and Balchik. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,314 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Shumen, 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 31 min.

Make Madara Horseman your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,528 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,534 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Varna, 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 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.

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

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

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