6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Varna, 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo, and 1 night in Plovdiv. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Varna, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. Sea Garden and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, learn more about the unique Balchik Botanic Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno".
As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Balchik, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Kazanlak, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Nessebar, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.
Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!
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Day 1
- Varna - Arrival day
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- Sea Garden
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Say hello to Varna! Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Varna for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Varna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sea Garden, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Varna. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Varna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Staria Chinar Restaurant, 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 Pizza Selena, 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 Three Dolphins, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Vogue Cafe Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cuba Beach Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Punta Cana likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Varna
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Archaeological Museum Varna
- Varna Zoo
- Aladzha Monastery
- Balchik Botanic Garden
- Kaliakra
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Varna, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s itinerary in Varna covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a zoo, a monastery, a botanical garden, a cliff and much more! Start your adventure at Archaeological Museum Varna. This increasingly popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Varna Zoo, a must-see zoo 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 Aladzha Monastery. This intriguing monastery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Balchik Botanic Garden, where you can take in serene features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Kaliakra. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Varna.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Varna's best restaurants.
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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Hey, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Deja Vu provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Varna
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Park "Sveta Gora
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
- Marno Pole Park
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Park "Children's Playground"
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On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Veliko Tarnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start by visiting Park "sveta Gora", a prime spot to begin your journey. This picturesque park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Monument To The Assen Dynasty, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited monument renowned for its picture-perfect features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Varna by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This culturally significant monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Varna experience. We also recommend visiting Marno Pole Park, an underrated park. Nearby, you'll also find Tsarevets Fortress, ready to add charm to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Famous Bar 2, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Grill Kolata is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Monument of Unification
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kazanlak and Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Veliko Tarnovo, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a monument, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This increasingly popular archeological site is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Veliko Tarnovo 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 Old Town Of Plovdiv, a beloved historical landmark in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Monument Of Unification and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Plovdiv, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Plovdiv, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rock Bar Download offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, North Star is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Morado Bar & Dinner is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Plovdiv
- Varna
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Drive 414 km, 5 hours 40 min
- Asen's Fortress
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Archaeological Museum
- Church of Christ Pantokrator
- Church of Saint Sophia
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Plovdiv’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Asen's Fortress. This visually striking castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a must-visit monastery in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a frequently visited museum. For a change of scene, check out Church Of Christ Pantokrator, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting Church Of Saint Sophia. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Varna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Varna. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cubo, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gossip Bar Max. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe-bar Vogue, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Varna - Departure day
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- Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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Day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Varna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a street that captures the true essence of Varna. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.
Savor the flavors at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Happy Bar & Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Varna. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!
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