14-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Sofia

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Burgas. You’ll stay in Burgas for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Aleko Bogoridi Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

No visit to Burgas is complete without The Clock. This beloved monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Archaeological Museum Burgas, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Burgas, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Natural History Museum Of Burgas. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Burgas, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Chiplakov, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ten'ova kashta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Neptune. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Bossa, known for its inviting atmosphere. Malibu is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Saxa Beach provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Sozopol.

As you explore Sozopol’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Sozopol is Southern Fortress Wall And Tower, an increasingly popular archeological site that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Sozopol Archaeological Museum, a heritage-rich museum that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Main Square Sozopol, a worthwhile public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Harmanite Beach, a nearby beach, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gracia Pizzeria, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? JaV-KA food bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Romance Pizza. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Barabar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Playground, Mall Galleria offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Baywatch Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Varna. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, where you'll spend 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Varna may take around 2 hours 13 min. Upon your arrival in Varna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Varna Zoo is an often recommended zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Sea Garden, a masterful park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Archaeological Museum Varna, a photogenic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a breathtaking and truly unique church.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizza Selena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Three Dolphins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vogue Cafe Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Punta Cana 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!

Wake up to day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Balchik and Kavarna. With 1 night to stay in Varna, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Balchik and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Balchik beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Albena, an up-and-coming beach known for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Balchik. 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 38 min. Upon reaching Balchik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Balchik Palace, an interesting palace that everyone visiting Balchik should see. Next, head to Balchik Botanic Garden. This idyllic botanical garden is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kavarna, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Balchik to Kavarna may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kavarna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ronnie James Dio Monument and explore the detailed features.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at di Wine, 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 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Hey, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Deja Vu, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 40 min. Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tsarevets Fortress. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Tower Of Baldwin. This frequently visited castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Park "sveta Gora". Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, take your journey to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a curiosity-inducing monument. Conclude your sightseeing at Marno Pole Park, known for its visually striking features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

After soaking in Veliko Tarnovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gorna Oryahovitsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Gorna Oryahovitsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

Arbanassi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gorna Oryahovitsa behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Arbanassi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an intriguing church in Arbanassi. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Lyaskovets’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arbanassi behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Lyaskovets welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an increasingly popular monastery known for its stunning features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bianko, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ristretto offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Gallery is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tequila Bar Funky Monkey is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 2 hours 37 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nebet Tepe, a locally appreciated archeological site in Plovdiv. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Old Town Of Plovdiv. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the captivating Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and discover what makes this archeological site unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an eye-catching park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Rahat Tepe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at KFC. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

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

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Plovdiv. You have 2 nights left in Plovdiv. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Kapana Creative District, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Alyosha Monument. This historic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Museum Of Natural Sciences. After exploring the museum, head to Monument Of Unification. This underrated monument is a highlight in Plovdiv. As your day continues, stop by Plovdiv Regional History Museum, known for its photogenic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Enjoy exploring this incredible archeological site at your own pace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Qbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Anyway Social Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Plovdiv, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bachkovo and Asenovgrad.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and explore the stunning features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Asenovgrad. This car ride takes around 15 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Metokha. Then, head to Asen's Fortress. This worthwhile castle is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at RESTAURANT Raia, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

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

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Sofia, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Sofia may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sofia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Zaimov Park, a captivating park 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and admire its breathtaking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, a frequently visited church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find National Theater "ivan Vazov", a visually striking place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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.

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.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Grijn Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cairo Relax Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Bar National is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 12 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Sofia.

Experience Borisova Gradina Park, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Eagles' Bridge and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Prince's Garden. This is one of the city’s most intriguing eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the locally appreciated Boyana Church. Not far away, you'll also find National Museum Of History. This museum is a photogenic highlight in Sofia. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to National Palace Of Culture, a popular convention center in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Sofia 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 Sofia.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 13 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas, where will spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Stob’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. Stob welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Stob Earth Pyramids, a curiosity-inducing rock formation known for its eye-catching features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stob, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rila. This drive usually takes around 11 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

Dupnitsa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rila behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Dupnitsa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bistritsa Waterfall. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

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

Burgas 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 Burgas.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ethno Restaurant Burgas, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kapana Seafront Fish Shack, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Romance Pub & Pizza. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caribe, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Fabric Club Burgas offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Papagala Coffee Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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