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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s agenda in Varna includes a museum, a church, a monument, an aquarium, a zoo, a park and much more! Retro Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a beloved church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Clock Tower Of Varna, a respected monument, 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 up-and-coming Dolphinarium Varna. If you’re looking for more, Varna Zoo is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Sea Garden, a place of peaceful 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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try 100 Pizzas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Morska terasa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

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

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

On day 3 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 Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Varna includes an archeological site, a castle, a park, a monument and much more! Trapezitsa Fortress is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Tsarevets Fortress, a popular castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Park "sveta Gora", a picturesque 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 Monument To The Assen Dynasty. If you’re looking for more, Marno Pole Park is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a place of detailed interest in the city.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Famous Bar 2. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Grill Kolata, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / 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 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, featuring family-friendly attractions, wallet-friendly activities, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Park "children's Playground", an up-and-coming playground in the town. Then, head to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped church.

There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo. This is one of the town’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the worthwhile Pametnik Na Racho Kovacha. Not far away, you'll also find Park „markoteya“. This park is a picturesque highlight in Veliko Tarnovo. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Ethno Village Etar, an interesting museum in the town.

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

As you explore more of Veliko Tarnovo, 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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Ristretto. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Gallery offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 5 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Veliko Tarnovo allows for both. Start by heading to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This intriguing archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Museum Of Natural Sciences, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Alyosha Monument, an intriguing monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Singing Fountain. Round off your day at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another gem in Veliko Tarnovo with idyllic features to discover.

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 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to North Star for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Morado Bar & Dinner is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today's adventure in Plovdiv promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This historic monastery is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Asen's Fortress, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, one of the village’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Old Town Of Plovdiv. This history-steeped historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Nebet Tepe, a worthwhile archeological site, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Youth Hill before you head back to your hotel.

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

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

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

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the increasingly popular Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, a history-steeped church in Plovdiv. Next, go to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky.

After visiting Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Eagles' Bridge. This symbolic monument offers a unique experience. Borisova Gradina Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to National Palace Of Culture, 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 South Park.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!