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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Burgas has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Burgas by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make sure to visit Aleko Bogoridi Street, a popular street in Burgas. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Get ready for an exciting day in Burgas. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum and a monument. Begin your adventure at Natural History Museum Of Burgas. This is a beloved museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Archaeological Museum Burgas, a locally appreciated museum in Burgas.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to The Clock.

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 Burgas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Chiplakov, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ten'ova kashta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Neptune. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Burgas for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sozopol to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Burgas allows for both. Start by heading to Harmanite Beach. This curiosity-inducing beach provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Main Square Sozopol, a visually striking public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sozopol Archaeological Museum, an intriguing museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Southern Fortress Wall And Tower. Round off your day at Fortress Walls Of The Late Antique And Medieval Town Of Sozopol, V-xiv. , another gem in Burgas with breathtaking features to discover.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Burgas. 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 lovely meal at Gracia Pizzeria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, JaV-KA food bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Romance Pizza. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 4 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 Varna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Varna Zoo, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sea Garden, another must-visit landmark and captivating park renowned for its detailed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Burgas by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Archaeological Museum Varna. This standout museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Burgas experience. We also recommend visiting Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a beloved church.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Varna, 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 Varna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizza Selena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Three Dolphins is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vogue Cafe Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cuba Beach Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Punta Cana is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Varna, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Albena. This increasingly popular beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Balchik Palace, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out Balchik Botanic Garden, one of the most popular places to see in Varna. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Ronnie James Dio Monument. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Kaliakra, a top-rated cliff that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at di Wine, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Varna tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Muffin Bar & Coffee, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Hey is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Deja Vu is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 6 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Varna allows for both. Start by heading to Trapezitsa Fortress. This beloved archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Tsarevets Fortress, a symbolic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Park "sveta Gora", a worthwhile park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Monument To The Assen Dynasty. Not far away from the monument, you will find the culturally significant Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Marno Pole Park, another gem in Varna with picture-perfect features to discover.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tavern "Petleto" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Bell. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Gorna Oryahovitsa and Arbanassi. You still have 1 night left in Veliko Tarnovo.

Start by visiting Park „nikolaj Panayotov“, a prime spot to begin your journey.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Veliko Tarnovo by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. This heritage-rich church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Veliko Tarnovo experience.

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

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

Dine in style at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bianko boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ristretto after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Gallery for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 8 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 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a notable archeological site in the city. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Retro Photo Old Plovdiv. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the frequently visited Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Not far away, you'll also find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Veliko Tarnovo. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation in the city.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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

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

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Plovdiv 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 Bachkovo and Asenovgrad.

Continue your journey to Asen's Fortress, one of the village’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

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.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Plovdiv today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is National Palace Of Culture. This visually striking convention center will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Borisova Gradina Park and learn what makes this standout park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Eagles' Bridge. After exploring the monument, head to Zaimov Park. This notable park is a highlight in Plovdiv. As your day continues, stop by Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, known for its picture-perfect features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the curiosity-inducing National Theater "ivan Vazov". Enjoy exploring this incredible performing arts theater at your own pace.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Grijn Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cairo Relax Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar National provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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