One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling west to Sofia and Plovdiv

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Photo of panoramic view on Varna beach on Black sea in Bulgaria.
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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Varna, Sofia, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Perushtitsa, Kazanlak, and Shipka.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 3 nights in Varna, 2 nights in Sofia, 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 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 Borisova Gradina Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, learn more about the unique Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Sofia, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Perushtitsa, Kazanlak, and Shipka, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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Welcome to Varna, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Varna before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Varna. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizza Selena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Three Dolphins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 38 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Aladzha Monastery
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Clock Tower of Varna
  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • Varna Zoo
  • Sea Garden
  • More

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

Aladzha Monastery is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This breathtaking monastery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming church renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Varna by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Clock Tower Of Varna. This culturally significant monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Varna experience. We also recommend visiting Dolphinarium Varna, an underrated aquarium. Nearby, you'll also find Varna Zoo, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Sea Garden and wrap up your day with its eye-catching appeal.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at di Wine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? 100 Pizzas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Morska terasa. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice 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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Varna
  • Sofia
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Drive 441 km, 5 hours 39 min

  • Eagles' Bridge
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

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 place, which are Sofia. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 2 nights.

Enjoy all that Eagles' Bridge has to offer. This is a locally renowned monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a popular church in Varna.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Theater "ivan Vazov", another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

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

Sofia is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Sofia
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Drive 36 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • Boyana Church
  • National Museum of History
  • National Palace of Culture
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Sofia Zoo
  • More

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Let Boyana Church set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this photogenic church before continuing your journey. National Museum Of History is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit National Palace Of Culture. This visually striking convention center is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Borisova Gradina Park and Sofia Zoo.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Forum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Turquoise Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 8 min

  • Nebet Tepe
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Plovdiv are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Nebet Tepe is an essential stop in Sofia. This locally appreciated archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Old Town Of Plovdiv, a romantic historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an often recommended museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Round off your day at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another gem in Sofia with eye-catching features to discover.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 113 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Paleontological Museum of Asenovgrad
  • The Red Church
  • History Museum
  • Monument Of The Three Generations
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Perushtitsa. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" brings Plovdiv's character to life. This picture-perfect monastery is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Asen's Fortress, another inviting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Red Church. This monumental archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit History Museum, an up-and-coming museum, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Monument Of The Three Generations before you head back to your hotel.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Plovdiv and your accommodation.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Qbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Plovdiv
  • Varna
  • More

Drive 450 km, 6 hours 5 min

  • Rose Museum
  • Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
  • Shipka Memorial Church
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Kazanlak and Shipka. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Rose Museum is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a curiosity-inducing archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Shipka Memorial Church, an awe-inspiring church, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cubo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gossip Bar Max is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Varna - Departure day
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  • Archaeological Museum Varna
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Day 8 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, an eye-catching museum before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Varna, Pfohe Mall is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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 delicious dinner at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Happy Bar & Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Kapan.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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