Two-Week Relaxed Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv, and meet locals along the way!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Singing Fountains. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

Continue your journey at “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 travelers from near and far.

Plovdiv is also the home of Ледена пързалка Пловдив. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 728 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Sveta Marina church. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 716 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this point of interest.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Plovdiv, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria.

Exploring the food culture in Plovdiv 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pri Ilyas (Brazilia). With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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.

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

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

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Bulgaria is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Veliko Tarnovo for 5 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lukovit. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Zlaten Park. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,150 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Riverside Landscape Park "Panega". Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,258 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Геопарк Искър-Панега. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 220 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Panega Eco Trail. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,406 local and international travelers.

In the city of Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Bulgaria.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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 The Bell, 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 Burger and Sweets "Асеневци", 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.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Famous Bar 2, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Veliko Tarnovo!

On day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 4 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!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Hotnitsa Waterfall. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,453 reviews.

Next up is Waterfall Kartala. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 201 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Kapinovo Monastery "St Nicholas". This place of worship has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,902 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 10 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Veliko Tarnovo itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring the food culture in Veliko Tarnovo 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 Bianko, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, EGO pizza & grill The Old Town boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Малкия интер (The small inter). Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

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

Keep the evening going at Ristretto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Gallery, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Veliko Tarnovo!

Take the opportunity to see Marno Pole Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 visitors.

Monument of Mother Bulgaria is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,765 travelers.

Veliko Tarnovo is also the home of Monument to the Assen Dynasty. Around 1,635 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is State Art Gallery "Boris Denev". With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 253 reviews, a visit to this art gallery is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Veliko Tarnovo is also your chance to admire Park "Sveta Gora". This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,790 reviews.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Veliko Tarnovo, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria.

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

Savor the flavors at VkusoteriA, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, EGO Pizza & Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant RAYA Garden. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sammy's Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cybar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

On day 13 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Archaeological Museum, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 174 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Museum of the Revival and Constituent Assembly. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 291 travelers.

Monkey House is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 341 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Monastery of the Holy Transfiguration of God. This well-loved place of worship boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,708 reviews.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Veliko Tarnovo. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Veliko Tarnovo 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!

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Boliari Tavern, a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizzeria "SPS", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Shtastliveca ("The Lucky One"). Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Day 14 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Bulgaria will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Bulgaria, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Set your GPS to Stara Zagora and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stara Zagora beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to “Bedechka” Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Stara Zagora, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,214 visitors.

Stara Zagora Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,389 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Park “Ayazmo“. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,233 reviews.

Artileriyski Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,601 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Plovdiv. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Bulgaria by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hemingway Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Rio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Petit Paris is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Plovdiv.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like бар Фабрик, known for its lively atmosphere. Club Fargo is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Но сенс клуб offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!