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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Varna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Varna. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Varna!

Make time for Aladzha Monastery, an intriguing monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Roman Thermae Varna. This archeological site is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Varna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church "saint Athanasius". After exploring the church, head to the locally appreciated Asparuhov Park.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Varna.

Enjoy a delicious meal at di Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Morska terasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Bulgaria.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Hey is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Deja Vu also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Varna, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Varna, and meet locals along the way!

Retro Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This beloved museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Varna on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Archaeological Museum Varna, an often recommended museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Monastery "saints Constantine And Helena".

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Varna offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Varna offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Happy Bar & Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out El Kapan. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Nargile House Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Brick Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Varna as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Nessebar and drive in the direction of Burgas for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Burgas, where you’ll stay for 2 nights.

Nessebar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Varna behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. Nessebar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Sunny Beach, a locally appreciated beach that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-listed surroundings.

Next, explore Ancient Theatre, yet another beloved place to see in the area. After the archeological site, make time to go to Church Of Saint Sophia. This inviting church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to "holy Mother Eleusa" Church, an underrated church you won’t want to miss.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Burgas. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Burgas.

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 Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Burgas and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Billiard Club Hot Shot, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Pillow is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Burgas as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll explore the area around Burgas, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Burgas will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Bulgaria.

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.

The Sea Garden is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to The Clock, an often recommended monument, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Set your GPS to Ravadinovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ravadinovo beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Castle Of Ravadinovo, an increasingly popular castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Sozopol and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sozopol beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Harmanite Beach, a locally appreciated beach in Sozopol. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Burgas has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Chiplakov, a top-rated dining spot in Burgas. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ten'ova kashta, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Neptune. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Burgas.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Bulgaria.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

After soaking in Burgas’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stara Zagora. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 47 min. When you arrive in Stara Zagora, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit “bedechka” Park, a worthwhile 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 Stara Zagora Zoo and admire its visually striking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Park “ayazmo“, an often recommended park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Artileriyski Park, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

You'll be staying in Plovdiv on this laid-back road trip through Bulgaria. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Plovdiv has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Plovdiv. The bars in Plovdiv make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Plovdiv. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Plovdiv. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Plovdiv!

A top thing to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood in Plovdiv. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Whatever your travel style is, Youth Hill is an essential stop in Plovdiv. This often recommended park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Singing Fountain, a visually striking art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a locally renowned park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Plovdiv, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sofra is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Central Park. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Plovdiv’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Qbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures.

Catch Alyosha Monument before the crowds roll in. This historic monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Museum Of Natural Sciences, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, an interesting archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Old Town Of Plovdiv, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Nebet Tepe. This archeological site is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Plovdiv, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Citizens Club, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restorant "Megdana". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Plovdiv and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Cocktail Bar Noris. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Fabrik, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Kazanlak and end it in Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay in Veliko Tarnovo for 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Bulgaria.

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

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Kazanlak is Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a curiosity-inducing monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Boicheta, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kazanlak to Boicheta may take around 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Boicheta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ethno Village Etar and explore the picture-perfect features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dolni Varpishta. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael" is an intriguing monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Bacho Kiro Cave, a history-steeped cave that’s well-regarded in the area.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Veliko Tarnovo. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Veliko Tarnovo. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

On day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo, and meet locals along the way!

Visiting Hotnitsa Waterfall is always a good idea. This increasingly popular waterfall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Monastery Of The Holy Transfiguration Of God, a must-see monastery in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Tsarevets Fortress. This locally renowned castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Trapezitsa Fortress, where you can take in instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Kapinovo Monastery "st Nicholas" These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Varna. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Varna that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Bulgaria more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Veliko Tarnovo to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bianko beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Veliko Tarnovo and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ristretto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gallery provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Bulgaria.

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Veliko Tarnovo!

Whether you decide to explore Veliko Tarnovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Experience Marno Pole Park, a beloved park in the city. Then, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the locally appreciated State Art Gallery "boris Denev". Not far away, you'll also find Park "sveta Gora". This park is an instagrammable highlight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Veliko Tarnovo offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Malkiya inter (The small inter), a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Skala offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Ego 1 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Veliko Tarnovo. The bars in Veliko Tarnovo make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Famous, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Lino Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Klub 7. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 13 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Bulgaria lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Shumen. By evening, drive toward the Varna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Shumen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 52 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shumen beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Park Kyoshkovete. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This beloved monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Madara Horseman, a worthwhile archeological site in Madara. Explore its masterful features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria as you make your way to Varna. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Varna offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cuban Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try "Halbata" Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Makalali Beach. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Varna.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Cafe Bar Soho, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Beach Bar Menthol offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Garden Bar. 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 toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria!