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

Day 2 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.

Make sure to visit Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a popular street in Sofia. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today’s agenda in Sofia includes a church, a park, and a museum. Boyana Church is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Borisova Gradina Park, a locally renowned park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a historic 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 Sofia. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the up-and-coming Regional History Museum Of Sofia. If you’re looking for more, South Park is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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 Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Urban Rebel provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 3 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 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Sofia promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This history-steeped archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Old Town Of Plovdiv, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Alyosha Monument. This awe-inspiring monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an interesting park, and take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv's best restaurants.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rock Bar Download, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. North Star is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Plovdiv today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Museum Of The Rhodope Karst. This respected museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall and learn what makes this idyllic waterfall unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". After exploring the monastery, head to Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad. This increasingly popular museum is a highlight in Plovdiv. As your day continues, stop by Asen's Fortress, known for its inviting features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plovdiv.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sofra, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Central Park. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Qbar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Anyway Social Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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 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 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the worthwhile Trapezitsa Fortress, a standout archeological site in Plovdiv. Next, go to Tsarevets Fortress.

After visiting Trapezitsa Fortress and Tsarevets Fortress, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Park "sveta Gora". This idyllic 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 visually striking places to visit in Plovdiv. 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 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 lovely dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Bell. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your day with a visit to Park „nikolaj Panayotov“. This up-and-coming park is a must-visit in the town.

One of the best things about exploring Veliko Tarnovo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an underrated church in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul".

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bianko is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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

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

On day 7 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 Varna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Veliko Tarnovo covers several incredible sights, including a monastery, an aquarium, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Aladzha Monastery. This increasingly popular monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Dolphinarium Varna, a must-see aquarium in the city.

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 Varna Zoo. This beloved zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sea Garden, where you can take in detailed features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Varna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pizza Selena, a popular restaurant in Varna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Three Dolphins, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Varna. 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 well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Varna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Archaeological Museum Varna is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching museum before continuing your journey. Clock Tower Of Varna is your next stop. This intriguing monument is one of the best-rated sights in Varna.

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 Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This stunning church is a sight to behold.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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.

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at One More Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.