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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Varna and Madara, 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 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Varna promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Archaeological Museum Varna. This eye-catching museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Madara. Your travel time is around 53 min.

Begin your journey at Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park and explore the masterful features. Next, make your way to Madara Horseman, another highlight in the city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

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.

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.

Day 4 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Veliko Tarnovo. You have 1 night left in Veliko Tarnovo. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Veliko Tarnovo. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Hotnitsa Waterfall is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, head to Marno Pole Park, an up-and-coming park, 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 Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This picture-perfect monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Park "sveta Gora" adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Tsarevets Fortress, a majestic castle in Veliko Tarnovo.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bianko offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

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.

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 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dolni Varpishta, Boicheta, and Kazanlak. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Dolni Varpishta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Dolni Varpishta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael" and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Bacho Kiro Cave, another highlight in the village.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Boicheta, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Dolni Varpishta to Boicheta may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Boicheta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Ethno Village Etar, a locally renowned museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kazanlak, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Boicheta to Kazanlak may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kazanlak, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, an underrated monument known for its awe-inspiring features.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Kapana Creative District is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Plovdiv, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many other must-see landmarks.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including an art installation, a park, and an archeological site. Start your day with a visit to Singing Fountain. This popular art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Plovdiv 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 Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing archeological site. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

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.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Stara Zagora and Burgas. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Stara Zagora. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stara Zagora. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to “bedechka” Park, an often recommended park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Park “ayazmo“, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings. Next, explore Artileriyski Park, yet another underrated place to see in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stara Zagora, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Burgas may take around 1 hour 45 min. Upon your arrival in Burgas, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to The Sea Garden, an interesting park in Burgas. Explore its noteworthy features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, The Clock. This intriguing monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Burgas. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pillow provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Nessebar and Obzor. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nessebar, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Nessebar may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nessebar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a beloved museum in Nessebar. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Ancient Theatre. This often recommended archeological site is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Church Of Saint Sophia is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most grand church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the increasingly popular Sunny Beach and discover what makes this beach unique.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nessebar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Obzor. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Park Obzor is a locally appreciated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 Varna. Varna 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 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.

Savor the flavors at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mr Baba beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Chuchura Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cubo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gossip Bar Max offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Varna. Cafe-bar Vogue is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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