6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling west to Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv

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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 2 nights in Varna, 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo, and 2 nights 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. The Sea Garden and Sea Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, learn more about the unique “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ethno Village Etar.

As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Boicheta, Plovdiv, Burgas, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Sea Garden
Dormition of the Theotokos CathedralDolphinarium VarnaRetro Museum
Marno Pole ParkTsarevets FortressHotnitsa WaterfallEthno village Etar
Youth HillSinging FountainsTsar Simeon GardenAncient Stadium of PhilipopolisAncient Theatre of Philippopolis
The Sea GardenChurch "Dormition of Theotokos"Church of Saint Sophia
Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Varna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizza Selena, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Three Dolphins. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Varna
  • Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • Retro Museum
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Varna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a breathtaking place to see in Varna. Continue your discovery at Dolphinarium Varna, a picture-perfect aquarium with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Varna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Retro Museum. This up-and-coming museum offers a visually striking encounter with Varna.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Boicheta
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Marno Pole Park
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Hotnitsa Waterfall
  • Ethno village Etar
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo and Boicheta. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Veliko Tarnovo today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Marno Pole Park. This picture-perfect park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Tsarevets Fortress and learn what makes this enchanting castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Hotnitsa Waterfall.

Set your GPS to Boicheta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Boicheta beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ethno Village Etar. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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 delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to North Star, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Youth Hill
  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the up-and-coming Youth Hill, an idyllic park in Plovdiv. Next, go to Singing Fountain.

After visiting Youth Hill and Singing Fountain, take time to explore Plovdiv's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This eye-catching park offers a unique experience. Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, one of the most historic places to visit in Plovdiv.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, known for its inviting atmosphere. Qbar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv
  • Burgas
  • Nesebar
  • Varna
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Drive 388 km, 4 hours 57 min

  • The Sea Garden
  • Church "Dormition of Theotokos"
  • Church of Saint Sophia
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On day 5 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 Burgas and Nessebar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Burgas. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to The Sea Garden, a well-known park that draws visitors from near and far.

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 Nessebar. Your travel time is around 36 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Church "dormition Of Theotokos", a curiosity-inducing church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Church Of Saint Sophia, where you can soak in the history-steeped surroundings.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Varna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at di Wine, 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 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Varna tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Muffin Bar & Coffee, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Hey is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Deja Vu is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Varna and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Varna - Departure day
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  • Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship
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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.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Varna’s popular marketplace, Pfohe Mall. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Varna, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Monument Of The Bulgarian-soviet Friendship, an up-and-coming monument in the city.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mr Baba? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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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