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

On day 2 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 Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a historic, a charming, a majestic, a symbolic, and a detailed in the charming city of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Singing Fountain. This interesting art installation is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This standout park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is also worth visiting, along with Alyosha Monument. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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 an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a peaceful, an enchanting, a visually striking, a standout, a symbolic, and a remarkable! Start at Borisova Gradina Park, a well-known park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Prince's Garden, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Eagles' Bridge. This monument is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Sofia Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to the captivating South Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sofia allows for both. Start by heading to Holy Trinity Park. This beloved park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Russian Monument Square, an instagrammable public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a locally appreciated church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned National Palace Of Culture. Round off your day at National Theater "ivan Vazov", another gem in Sofia with visually striking features to discover.

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

As you explore more of Veliko Tarnovo, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Famous Bar 2. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Grill Kolata, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo and Balchik. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, featuring a picture-perfect, a charming, an enchanting, a historic, and a culturally significant. Start at Marno Pole Park, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Tsarevets Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this romantic castle.

Set your GPS to Balchik and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Balchik beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Balchik Palace, a locally renowned palace that everyone visiting Balchik should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Balchik Botanic Garden. This stunning botanical garden is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

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.

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

Dine in style at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizza Selena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Three Dolphins. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vogue Cafe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cuba Beach Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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