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

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Varna. You have 1 night left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Varna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an aquarium, a zoo, a park, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Dolphinarium Varna and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Varna Zoo, a visually striking zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sea Garden, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, Clock Tower Of Varna awaits your visit. This monument is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a museum - the intriguing Retro Museum.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at di Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Morska terasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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.

Say good night to Varna and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 - Veliko Tarnovo. 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the frequently visited Trapezitsa Fortress, a picture-perfect archeological site in Varna. Next, go to Tsarevets Fortress.

After visiting Trapezitsa Fortress and Tsarevets Fortress, have a stroll along Varna's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Park "sveta Gora". This scenic park offers a unique experience. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Marno Pole Park, one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Varna. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Famous Bar 2, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Grill Kolata, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Veliko Tarnovo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a historical landmark, a park, an art installation and much more! Begin your adventure at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This is a popular archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Town Of Plovdiv, an underrated historical landmark in Veliko Tarnovo.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. From there, take a leisurely stroll to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another of the city’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Singing Fountain, a stunning place of interest in the city.

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.

Savor the flavors at Salt & Pepper, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rahat Tepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider KFC. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Rock Bar Download, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. North Star is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Morado Bar & Dinner ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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 Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. 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.

Today’s itinerary in Plovdiv covers several incredible sights, including a rock formation and a waterfall. Start your adventure at Stob Earth Pyramids. This underrated rock formation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a must-see waterfall in the village.

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 Bistritsa Waterfall. This curiosity-inducing waterfall offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia 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 Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Saffron Indian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Island Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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

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

On day 6 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 Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to National Palace Of Culture, a well-known convention center, known for its photogenic features.

Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cubo, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gossip Bar Max offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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