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

Day 2 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.

Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Sofia. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Sofia-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Make a stop at Boyana Church. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Borisova Gradina Park located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Its grand features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Regional History Museum Of Sofia. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this museum. Next up is South Park, a highly recommended park.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Sofia's bustling shopping hub, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Vitosha Boulevard offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Forum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Turquoise Restaurant. 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, Kathrine Cocktail - Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Urban Rebel is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Plovdiv are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Plovdiv. 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 1 hour 39 min. Upon reaching Plovdiv, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Nebet Tepe is an underrated archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a history-steeped historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a photogenic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a picture-perfect and truly unique archeological site. End your sightseeing at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a locally renowned park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rock Bar Download, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out North Star, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trigrad. This car ride takes around 2 hours 24 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Devil's Throat Cave, an underrated cave that everyone visiting Trigrad should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trigrad, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a locally renowned monastery in Bachkovo. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bachkovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Asen's Fortress, an underrated castle in Asenovgrad. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sofra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Central Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, 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: Veliko Tarnovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 43 min. When you arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Trapezitsa Fortress, an increasingly popular archeological site that everyone visiting Veliko Tarnovo should see. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress. This enchanting castle is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Park "sveta Gora", an awe-inspiring park popular among locals as well as travelers. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this often recommended monument before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Marno Pole Park, a picture-perfect park and a top attraction in the city.

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.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets. With 1 night to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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

Next, make your way to Park "children's Playground", another highlight in Gorna Oryahovitsa.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arbanassi. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Arbanassi is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, a curiosity-inducing church that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lyaskovets. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an up-and-coming monastery known for its stunning features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Bianko, 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 EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ristretto after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Gallery, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Ruse. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Ruse, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ruse. This car ride takes around 1 hour 36 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes, a frequently visited monument in Ruse. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Monument Of Liberty. This up-and-coming monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ecomuseum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most photogenic museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the increasingly popular Regional Historical Museum and discover what makes this museum unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Fountain At Freedom Square, a romantic public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Pontoon", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro "Lake" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Godfather. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ruse tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Varna. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna, where will spend 2 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Varna.

Varna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ruse behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min. Varna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Retro Museum, an underrated museum known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Archaeological Museum Varna, a worthwhile museum.

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 Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral and uncover the details of this stunning church. Make sure to also explore Yunashki Salon, a locally appreciated point of interest.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at Pizza Selena, 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 Three Dolphins. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Varna tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vogue Cafe Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cuba Beach Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Varna. Bar Punta Cana is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 9 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Varna is brimming with adventures.

Start your day at Aladzha Monastery. This instagrammable monastery is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Evksinograd Palace. If visually striking sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dolphinarium Varna. This picture-perfect aquarium is a favorite among visitors.

Varna offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Varna Zoo is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the zoo, don’t forget to check out the idyllic Sea Garden. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular park. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Varna's top attractions with a visit to Casino Black Sea.

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 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.

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, Morska terasa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Burgas. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, 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 Burgas. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 30 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit St. Anastasia Island, an often recommended point of interest 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 The Sea Garden and admire its peaceful features.

When you’re ready, continue to Archaeological Museum Burgas, an up-and-coming museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Natural History Museum Of Burgas, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find The Clock, a symbolic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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.

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.

Dine in style at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Burgas.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Billiard Club Hot Shot after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pillow, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Greet day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Burgas, 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 Sozopol.

Sozopol is brimming with adventures.

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

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Southern Fortress Wall And Tower, an intriguing archeological site 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 Sozopol Archaeological Museum and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Main Square Sozopol, an increasingly popular public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Harmanite Beach, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Kavatsite, a majestic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Chiplakov, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ten'ova kashta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Neptune. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

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

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

On day 12 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kazanlak are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kazanlak, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kazanlak, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Kazanlak may take around 2 hours 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kazanlak, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Ethnographic Museum "kulata". This underrated cultural center is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Rose Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Historical Museum “iskra”, an underrated museum.

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

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 Kazanlak, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizza Pub New York, a top-rated dining destination in Kazanlak. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cherry Land, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Complex Chiflika. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kazanlak this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Starata Kashta. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gardens Bar&café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

On day 13 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Kazanlak and Shipka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Shipka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shipka beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Pametnik Na Buzludzha, a beloved monument that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Shipka. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Thracian Tomb Shushmanets, an increasingly popular archeological site that everyone visiting Shipka should see. Next, head to Tomb Of Seuthes Iii. This symbolic archeological site is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Shipka Memorial Church, a historic church popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. One More Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Teos Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bsd 2 Ndk. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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