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 Varna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Varna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a church, a monument, an aquarium, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Retro Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a breathtaking church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Clock Tower Of Varna, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Dolphinarium Varna. When you're finished at the aquarium, Varna Zoo awaits your visit. This zoo is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the well-known Sea Garden.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at di Wine, 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 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Hey is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Deja Vu also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home 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", an instagrammable 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 often recommended 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 historic interest in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern "Petleto"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Bell as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

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.

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

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

Start by visiting Park "children's Playground", a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited church renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Veliko Tarnovo by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo. This picture-perfect museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Veliko Tarnovo experience. We also recommend visiting Pametnik Na Racho Kovacha, an intriguing monument. Nearby, you'll also find Park „markoteya“, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Ethno Village Etar and wrap up your day with its eye-catching appeal.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bianko offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, EGO pizza & grill The Old Town is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ristretto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gallery provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Veliko Tarnovo, including an archeological site, a museum, a monument, an art installation, a park and much more! Start your day at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This culturally significant archeological site is a beloved place to see in Veliko Tarnovo. Then, wander over to Museum Of Natural Sciences. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Alyosha Monument. This culturally significant monument is a favorite among visitors.

Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Singing Fountain is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art installation, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable park.

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.

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

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Plovdiv for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the locally renowned Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a historic monastery in Plovdiv. Next, go to Asen's Fortress.

After visiting Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and Asen's Fortress, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This eye-catching archeological site offers a unique experience. Old Town Of Plovdiv is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Nebet Tepe, one of the most romantic places to visit in Plovdiv. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Youth Hill.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures await you in Plovdiv on today’s itinerary. First up is the up-and-coming church, Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. Afterward, continue to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Eagles' Bridge. This captivating monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Borisova Gradina Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by National Palace Of Culture, a captivating convention center in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to South Park, a mesmerizing park that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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 you explore more of Sofia, 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 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.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!