Luxury 12-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia traveling east to Gabrovo, Shumen, Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv

Your luxury holiday in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach the city of Sofia, where you'll be staying for 3 nights. There, you’ll pick up the luxury rental vehicle of your choice and hit the roads!

Make Borisova Gradina Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,346 reviews.

Tonight, you will be treated to a stay at one of the best luxury hotels in Sofia. We have picked out three of the most exclusive luxury lodging and hotel options for you to choose from.

After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Sofia. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divaka, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day luxury vacation in Bulgaria and look forward to more fantastic days to come!

Day 2 of your luxury road trip in Bulgaria begins and concludes in the city of Sofia. Set out by car to explore incredible attractions in the nearby area. After a day filled with sightseeing, you'll return to Sofia, where you still have 2 nights nights remaining.

Journey into the unknown at Sofia Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,962 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, South Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,763 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Sofia is National Palace of Culture. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,510 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Sofia offers an experience you will remember.

Holy Trinity Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Sofia. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,768 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on North Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,850 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

After exploring the unique sights of Bulgaria, savor a delicious meal or get refreshed with a drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended restaurants and bars in the city of Sofia for you so you can browse their menus in advance and make a reservation.

Savor the flavors at Face bar & dinner, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Art Club Museum beckons with its unique menu offerings.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lime Cafe & Cocktails, known for its lively atmosphere.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Day 3 of your luxury road trip in Bulgaria begins and concludes in the city of Sofia. Set out by car to explore incredible attractions in the nearby area. After a day filled with sightseeing, you'll return to Sofia, where you still have 1 night nights remaining.

Drop by the renowned Eagles' Bridge. This popular stone bridge has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,196 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Knyazheska Garden. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,672 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker. This church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,034 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is St. Nedelya Church. This church and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,593 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ivan Vazov National Theater. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,760 travelers, this point of interest is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Sofia.

After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Sofia. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.

Enjoy a delicious meal at J. J. Murphy's, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant "Staria Chinar", another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Sofia, Bulgaria and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

Wake up to day 4 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Sofia and Reduta. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gabrovo. Your travel time is around 2 hours 35 min.

Make St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Vasil Levski Monument is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,259 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Park "Zaimov". This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,209 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Druzhba Park. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 8,509 previous visitors.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Reduta.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Park "Geo Milev". This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,324 reviews.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Gabrovo.

After a long day of exploring, it’s a great idea to relax with a lovely dinner or a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Gabrovo for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a highly-rated dining destination in Gabrovo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Strannopriemnitsa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vanilla coffee&food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Gabrovo this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at MODA BAR, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Wake up to day 5 of your luxury road trip holiday in Bulgaria! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Shumen, where you'll be staying for 1 night. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, and Boicheta.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dolni Varpishta. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael" your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this place of worship an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,938 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marno Pole Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 visitors.

Tsarevets Fortress is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,802 visitors.

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. Upon arrival in Boicheta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Ethno village Etar, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,151 reviews.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Shumen.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Shumen.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Механа "Хитър Петър", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Primo Bar & Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Minaliya Vek. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Shumen tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lavazza Coffee and Cocktails Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Zino Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Shumen. Arizona Lounge is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Balchik and Kavarna. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in Bulgaria.

Upon reaching Balchik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Balchik Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,545 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Balchik Botanic Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,424 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Balchik.

Journey into the unknown at Albena, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable seaside resort has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,519 reviews.

After soaking in Kavarna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Varna. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Varna, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ronnie James Dio monument. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 828 visitors.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Varna.

After exploring the unique sights of Bulgaria, savor a delicious meal or get refreshed with a drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended restaurants and bars in the city of Varna for you so you can browse their menus in advance and make a reservation.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Морска тераса, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mr Baba. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vogue cafe bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cuba Beach Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar PUNTA CANA provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Balchik, Bulgaria and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

Day 7 of your luxury road trip in Bulgaria begins and concludes in the city of Varna. Set out by car to explore incredible attractions in the nearby area. After a day filled with sightseeing, you'll return to Varna, where you still have 1 night nights remaining.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Dolphinarium Varna. This extraordinary aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,557 visitors.

Next, make your way to Sea Garden. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,289 reviews.

While in Varna, we also recommend a visit to Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,003 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Retro Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,851 travelers, this museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Varna.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Varna.

Make sure to reserve a table at Happy Bar & Grill, 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 El Kapan, 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 "Halbata" 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.

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

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in Bulgaria has plenty more in store for you.

Wake up to day 8 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Obzor and Nessebar. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Varna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Obzor may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Obzor, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Парк Обзор. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,925 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Obzor, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nessebar may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Sunny Beach. This extraordinary town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,830 visitors.

Next, make your way to Ancient Theatre. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,906 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Church of Saint Sophia. This church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,853 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,715 travelers.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Burgas.

After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Burgas. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.

Dine in style at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out IN BAR. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Burgas.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Billiard Club Hot Shot after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Target for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Bossa is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in Bulgaria has plenty more in store for you.

Wake up to day 9 of your luxury road trip holiday in Bulgaria! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Plovdiv, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Burgas and Ravadinovo.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Burgas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to The Clock. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,744 reviews.

Next up is The Sea Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,703 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Boris's Garden (Borisova Gradina). This park has been rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,195 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ravadinovo.

Kick off the day at Castle of Ravadinovo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,079 reviews.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Plovdiv.

In Plovdiv, delicious dining experiences are never far from reach. Take your pick and consider whether you need to book a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Rahat Tepe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ресторант "Старият Пловдив" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RESTAURANT Raia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Morado Bar & Dinner, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in Bulgaria has plenty more in store for you.

On day 10 of your luxury road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in the city of Plovdiv, but jump in the car to visit amazing attractions in the nearby area. After a day of sightseeing, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Youth Hill. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,014 visitors.

When you’re finished at Youth Hill, head to Alyosha Monument. This one-of-a-kind monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,433 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Museum of Natural Sciences. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,478 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bachkovo. This car ride takes around 38 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno" is a great place to start. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 13,019 visitors.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Asen's Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,063 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the best attractions, you’ll drive back to your luxury accommodation near the city of Plovdiv.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Plovdiv.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pri Ilyas (Brazilia) as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

Round off your dining experience by visiting ANYWAY Social Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Крилото Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cocktail Bar Noris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Plovdiv, Bulgaria and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

On day 11 of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Plovdiv. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in Bulgaria.

Sofia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Sofia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Singing Fountains, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,346 reviews.

Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,603 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Old Town of Plovdiv. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,329 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Nebet Tepe, a famous hill in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,910 travelers.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Sofia.

Discover a world of culinary delights in Sofia, where top-notch dining experiences await at every corner. Consider whether you need to make a reservation in advance to secure a table at your preferred restaurant.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taj Mahal Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in Bulgaria with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Today is the last day of your 12-day luxury holiday in Bulgaria and it’s soon time to start your journey home. This is your chance to get one last glimpse of Sofia before saying goodbye.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Bulgaria forever.

Treat yourself to a final feast. Savor the unique flavors of Sofia one last time before you head to the airport.

You will then say farewell to Sofia and begin your journey home. We wish you safe travels and a warm welcome home, with unforgettable memories and incredible photos from your luxury holiday in Bulgaria in your luggage!