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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Varna.

No visit to Varna is complete without Retro Museum. This beloved museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Varna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Clock Tower Of Varna. This intriguing monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dolphinarium Varna, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Varna Zoo is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Sea Garden and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most locally renowned attractions.

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.

Varna 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 Varna.

Enjoy a delicious meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Morska terasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Muffin Bar & Coffee, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Hey is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Deja Vu provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Veliko Tarnovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Veliko Tarnovo. This car ride takes around 2 hours 37 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Trapezitsa Fortress, a locally appreciated archeological site known for its breathtaking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Tsarevets Fortress, an interesting castle.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Park "sveta Gora" and uncover the details of this instagrammable park. Make sure to also explore Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a worthwhile monument. For your last stop, consider Marno Pole Park, a picture-perfect park that many travelers find worth the detour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Famous Bar 2, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Grill Kolata is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, Gabrovo, and Boicheta.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Tarnovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gorna Oryahovitsa. Your travel time is around 13 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Park "children's Playground", an often recommended playground in Gorna Oryahovitsa.

Arbanassi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gorna Oryahovitsa behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Arbanassi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, a locally appreciated church known for its photogenic features.

After soaking in Arbanassi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gabrovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Gabrovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo, an increasingly popular museum in Gabrovo. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Pametnik Na Racho Kovacha. This locally appreciated monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Park „markoteya“ is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting park in the region.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bianko, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ristretto, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Gallery. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Plovdiv and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Plovdiv beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Museum Of Natural Sciences. This underrated museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Alyosha Monument. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Singing Fountain, an interesting art installation. Conclude your sightseeing at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, known for its standout features.

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.

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

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.

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

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv. With 1 night to stay in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis leaves a lasting impression. This archeological site is one of the most popular places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Nebet Tepe. This awe-inspiring archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Youth Hill Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bachkovo may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery known for its stunning features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Asen's Fortress and explore the history-steeped 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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Sofra, 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 Central Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Sofia. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. Upon reaching Sofia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, an intriguing church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, where you can soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Next, explore Eagles' Bridge, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Borisova Gradina Park. This eye-catching park is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to National Palace Of Culture, a notable convention center you won’t want to miss.

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 a true cultural experience.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Grijn Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar National. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!