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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a church, and a performing arts theater. Begin your adventure at Borisova Gradina Park. This is a captivating park you should not miss. Another must-see is Zaimov Park, a well-known park in Sofia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, another of the city’s intriguing attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with an awe-inspiring performing arts theater. National Theater "ivan Vazov" is a truly remarkable place to visit in Sofia.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your adventure at Sofia Zoo. This well-known zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to South Park located in Sofia for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of National Palace Of Culture. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the convention center, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Holy Trinity Park. For a change of pace, head to North Park. As one of the most popular attractions in Sofia, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

Visit Vitosha Boulevard in Sofia for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Vitosha Boulevard has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 delicious meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 4 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 and Reduta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant church before continuing your journey. Prince's Garden is your next stop. This up-and-coming park 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 Eagles' Bridge. This heritage-rich monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Druzhba Park.

Upon your arrival in Reduta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Geo Milev Park, a captivating park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rock Bar Download, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, North Star offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This popular archeological site is known for its culturally significant appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Singing Fountain. This romantic art installation offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is also worth visiting, along with Youth Hill. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Qbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Burgas and Nessebar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Burgas. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 33 min. When you arrive in Burgas, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to The Sea Garden, a captivating park that draws attention for its noteworthy features.

When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nessebar. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Begin your journey at Church Of Saint Sophia and explore the inviting features. Next, make your way to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, another highlight in the city.

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 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.

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.

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

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 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Varna, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Varna includes a park, a zoo, a church, a museum and much more! Sea Garden is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Varna Zoo, an underrated zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a visually striking church, 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. If you’re looking for more, Retro Museum is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

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.

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.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, including a park, a castle, and a waterfall. Start your adventure at Marno Pole Park. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tsarevets Fortress located in Veliko Tarnovo for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Park "sveta Gora". Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Hotnitsa Waterfall. This waterfall has a romantic appeal.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esterhasi Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Da Massimo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Corner offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gaba is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. K. E. B. A. Is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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