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

On day 2 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 Sofia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a monument, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Just a short distance away is Eagles' Bridge, a photogenic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Borisova Gradina Park, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating South Park. Last up on today’s itinerary is a church. Make your way to Boyana Church for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Sofia.

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 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rock Bar Download stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, North Star offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Morado Bar & Dinner is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Roman Forum Of Philippopolis. This underrated archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Alyosha Monument, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, one of the most beloved places to see in Plovdiv. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Old Town Of Plovdiv. Wander around and soak in the history-steeped atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Then, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a top-rated archeological site that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Veliko Tarnovo includes a monument, a park, a castle, an archeological site and much more! Monument Of Mother Bulgaria is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Marno Pole Park, an intriguing park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a visually striking monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Veliko Tarnovo. If you’re looking for more, Park "sveta Gora" is also an intriguing attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Tsarevets Fortress, a locally renowned gem to see in the city.

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.

As you explore more of Varna, 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 Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizza Selena, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Three Dolphins. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

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

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.

At the top of the list of things to do today 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Varna. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Aladzha Monastery is the perfect place to start. This monastery is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Varna. Next, head to Archaeological Museum Varna, an often recommended museum, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Dolphinarium Varna. This eye-catching aquarium offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Varna Zoo adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Sea Garden, a serene park in Varna.

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 explore more of Varna, 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 di Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try 100 Pizzas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Morska terasa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Muffin Bar & Coffee, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Hey is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Deja Vu offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the often recommended Zapadna Krepostna Stena, a historic archeological site in Varna. Next, go to The Windmill, Nessebar.

After visiting Zapadna Krepostna Stena and The Windmill, Nessebar, take time to explore Varna's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This UNESCO world heritage-designated museum offers a unique experience. Church Of Christ Pantokrator is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Church Of Saint Sophia, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Varna.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kathrine Cocktail - Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Urban Rebel. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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