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

Day 2 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.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Plovdiv is Kapana Creative District. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including a monument, an art installation, a park, an archeological site, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Alyosha Monument. This worthwhile monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Singing Fountain, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring 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 “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a captivating park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis and Old Town Of Plovdiv.

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.

Elevate your experience in Plovdiv with a visit to the city's premier shopping location, Kapana District. Explore unique boutique shops and uncover hidden gems along the way. For a cultural touch, look for artisan crafts that perfectly capture the charm of Bulgaria. After shopping, enjoy nearby attractions or simply people-watch and capture memorable photos.

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Qbar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Anyway Social Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 3 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 Kazanlak, Shipka, and Boicheta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Rose Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile archeological site renowned for its symbolic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Plovdiv by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Shipka Memorial Church. This majestic church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Plovdiv experience. We also recommend visiting Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, an increasingly popular monument. Nearby, you'll also find Ethno Village Etar, ready to add charm to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", 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 The Bell. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Famous Bar 2 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Grill Kolata, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Veliko Tarnovo for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Veliko Tarnovo and Lyaskovets to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Veliko Tarnovo, including a park, a market, a castle, a monastery and much more! Start your day with a visit to Park "sveta Gora". This intriguing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Marno Pole Park, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Veliko Tarnovo 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 Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya", an often recommended market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Tsarevets Fortress and Monastery Of The Holy Transfiguration Of God. End your day with a visit to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an intriguing monastery that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

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

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.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Aksakovo and Varna, 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 Varna. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Veliko Tarnovo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a rock formation, a museum, a lighthouse, an archeological site and much more! Begin your adventure at Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (stone Forest). This is an intriguing rock formation you should not miss. Another must-see is Retro Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in Veliko Tarnovo.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Archaeological Museum Varna. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Varna Seaport Lighthouse, another of the region’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Roman Thermae Varna, a heritage-rich place of interest in the region.

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

Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizza Selena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Three Dolphins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vogue Cafe Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Punta Cana is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Varna, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Aladzha Monastery, an underrated monastery in the city. Then, head to Evksinograd Palace and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Varna, and when you are ready for more, go to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular stunning spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the frequently visited Dolphinarium Varna. Not far away, you'll also find Varna Zoo. This zoo is an eye-catching highlight in Varna. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Sea Garden, an interesting park 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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Varna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at di Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 100 Pizzas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Morska terasa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Muffin Bar & Coffee stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Hey offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Deja Vu is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nessebar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Varna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a church, an archeological site, a museum, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Sunny Beach and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Church Of Saint Sophia, a romantic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of Christ Pantokrator, one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Ancient Theatre. When you're finished at the archeological site, Nesebar Archaeological Museum awaits your visit. This museum is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a monument - the often recommended The Windmill, Nessebar.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nessebar, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Nessebar, 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 meal at Boutique Restaurant "Kanela", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, White Rose is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Dionis. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nessebar tonight.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sliven, Stara Zagora, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. 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 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Nessebar on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited monument, Monument Of Hagi Dimitar. Afterward, continue to Artileriyski Park, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Nessebar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This captivating monastery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Asen's Fortress, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant "Megdana". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kriloto Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cocktail Bar Noris is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Fabrik is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!