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

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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, Stob, Rila, and Sofia. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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, 1 night in Plovdiv, and 1 night in Sofia. 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky 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 National Palace Of Culture.

As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, Stob, Rila, and Sofia, 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
Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
Dolphinarium VarnaVarna ZooSea GardenDormition of the Theotokos CathedralClock Tower of VarnaRetro Museum
Trapezitsa FortressTsarevets FortressPark "Sveta GoraMonument to the Assen DynastyMarno Pole ParkMonument of Mother Bulgaria
Ancient Theatre of PhilippopolisOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveAncient Stadium of PhilipopolisTsar Simeon GardenSinging Fountains
Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entryBohemia Falls EcotrailBistritsa Waterfall
St Alexander Nevsky CathedralNational Palace of Culture
Archaeological Museum Varna

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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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 2 nights 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 Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Varna. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Dine in style at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizza Selena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Three Dolphins. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Vogue Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cuba Beach Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Varna
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Drive 12 km, 50 min

  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • Varna Zoo
  • Sea Garden
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Clock Tower of Varna
  • Retro Museum
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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.

Today’s agenda in Varna includes an aquarium, a zoo, a park, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Dolphinarium Varna is must-visit aquarium and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Varna Zoo, an intriguing zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sea Garden, a serene park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Varna. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. If you’re looking for more, Clock Tower Of Varna is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Retro Museum, a place of heritage-rich interest in the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at di Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 100 Pizzas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Morska terasa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

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!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Varna
  • Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 227 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Trapezitsa Fortress
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Park "Sveta Gora
  • Monument to the Assen Dynasty
  • Marno Pole Park
  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home 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 Trapezitsa Fortress, a locally appreciated archeological site in the city. Then, head to Tsarevets Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this majestic castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Varna, and when you are ready for more, go to Park "sveta Gora". This is one of the city’s most intriguing eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the increasingly popular Monument To The Assen Dynasty. Not far away, you'll also find Marno Pole Park. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Varna. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a frequently visited monument in the city.

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 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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Singing Fountains
  • More

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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a park, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This captivating archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv located in Veliko Tarnovo for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this park. Next up is Singing Fountain, a highly recommended art installation.

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.

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

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rock Bar Download, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, North Star is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
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Drive 388 km, 5 hours 52 min

  • Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
  • Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
  • Bistritsa Waterfall
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Plovdiv. Begin your sightseeing with Stob Earth Pyramids. This increasingly popular rock formation is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Plovdiv, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bistritsa Waterfall. This intriguing waterfall is a traveler-favorite.

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 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.

Dine in style at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Saffron Indian Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Island Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia
  • Varna
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Drive 445 km, 5 hours 39 min

  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • National Palace of Culture
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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.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating church, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Afterward, continue to National Palace Of Culture, a convention center every traveler should visit.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mr Baba offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chuchura Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Cubo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gossip Bar Max is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe-bar Vogue is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Varna - Departure day
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  • Archaeological Museum Varna
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Day 7 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Archaeological Museum Varna, a heritage-rich museum before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Varna’s shopping center, the lively Varna Mall. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Happy Bar & Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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