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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Varna, including an aquarium, a zoo, a park, an archeological site, a church, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Dolphinarium Varna. This frequently visited aquarium is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Varna Zoo located in Varna for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sea Garden. Its remarkable features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Roman Thermae Varna. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this archeological site. Next up is Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a highly recommended church. For a change of pace, head to Retro Museum. As one of the most intriguing attractions in Varna, this museum is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Varna's bustling shopping hub, Varna Mall. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Varna Mall offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Muffin Bar & Coffee after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Hey for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Deja Vu is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo, 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 well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. 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. Park "sveta Gora" is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking park before continuing your journey. Monument To The Assen Dynasty is your next stop. This up-and-coming 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 Museum Of The Revival And Constituent Assembly. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Monkey House and Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. If time allows, end your day with Marno Pole Park, a visually striking park that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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.

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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Famous Bar 2, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Veliko Tarnovo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Waterfall Kartala is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching waterfall before continuing your journey. Tower Of Baldwin is your next stop. This often recommended castle is one of the best-rated sights in Veliko Tarnovo.

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 Tsarevets Fortress. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Holy Forty Martyrs Church and Trapezitsa Fortress. If time allows, end your day with St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, a photogenic church that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", an iconic dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bianko, a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of EGO pizza & grill The Old Town, a hidden gem nestled in Veliko Tarnovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ristretto, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Gallery is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey 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 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 3 nights.

Veliko Tarnovo is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a captivating archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Youth Hill, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Alyosha Monument. This monument is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Veliko Tarnovo at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Singing Fountain. After exploring the art installation, head to the popular “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, a place of instagrammable interest in Veliko Tarnovo.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at Salt & Pepper, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rahat Tepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider KFC. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Rock Bar Download is an excellent place to start. You could also check out North Star, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

A top thing to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood in Plovdiv. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s agenda in Plovdiv includes a museum, a historical landmark, an archeological site, a monastery and much more! Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an increasingly popular historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Hindliyan's House, a culturally significant museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Plovdiv. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. If you’re looking for more, Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sofra is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Central Park. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Qbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Plovdiv promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Orfeevi Rocks Pamporovo. This peaceful rock formation is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Yagodinska Cave, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Devil's Throat Cave, one of the city’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Shumen and Madara. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including a monument and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This up-and-coming monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Madara Horseman. Its historic features will captivate you.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", 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 Mr Baba, 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 Chuchura Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cubo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gossip Bar Max, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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