7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Varna

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a church, a monument, and a park. Start your adventure at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This captivating church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Eagles' Bridge located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Borisova Gradina Park. Its remarkable features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to South Park. Visitors usually appreciate the awe-inspiring features of this park. Next up is Boyana Church, a highly recommended church.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

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

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Plovdiv today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Roman Forum Of Philippopolis. This respected archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Alyosha Monument and learn what makes this breathtaking monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. After exploring the museum, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This intriguing historical landmark is a highlight in Plovdiv. As your day continues, stop by Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, known for its respected features.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Veliko Tarnovo. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern "Petleto" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Bell is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Continue your lively evening at Famous Bar 2, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Grill Kolata is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. 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 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This beloved monument is a breathtaking place to see in Veliko Tarnovo. Continue your discovery at Marno Pole Park, an instagrammable park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Veliko Tarnovo, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This often recommended monument offers a historic encounter with Veliko Tarnovo. Next, make your way to Park "sveta Gora" to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Tsarevets Fortress, a captivating castle that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Trapezitsa Fortress, a frequently visited archeological site in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Veliko Tarnovo.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Varna, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pizza Selena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Three Dolphins. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vogue Cafe Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cuba Beach Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Punta Cana. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Knyaz Boris I Boulevard is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Varna, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Varna, including a monastery, a museum, an aquarium, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Aladzha Monastery. This locally appreciated monastery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Archaeological Museum Varna, which may be one of the most standout 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 Dolphinarium Varna, an underrated aquarium in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Varna Zoo and Sea Garden.

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.

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.

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.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Varna, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Zapadna Krepostna Stena, a curiosity-inducing archeological site in the town. Then, head to The Windmill, Nessebar and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Varna, and when you are ready for more, go to Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This is one of the town’s most underrated respected spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the frequently visited Church Of Christ Pantokrator. Not far away, you'll also find Church Of Saint Sophia. This church is a symbolic highlight in Varna. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Ancient Theatre, a curiosity-inducing archeological site in the town.

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

As you explore more of Sofia, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

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.

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