11-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling west to Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, Sofia, and Bansko

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Varna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences in the charming city of Varna. Your adventure starts at Dolphinarium Varna, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Varna Zoo. This worthwhile zoo is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Varna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Sea Garden. This noteworthy park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is also worth visiting, along with Clock Tower Of Varna. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Retro Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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, Pfohe 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, Pfohe Mall offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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

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 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 Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Varna, including an archeological site, a castle, a park, a monument and much more! Start your day at Trapezitsa Fortress. This breathtaking archeological site is a locally appreciated place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Tsarevets Fortress. If enchanting sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Park "sveta Gora". This gorgeous park is a favorite among visitors.

Varna offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Monument To The Assen Dynasty is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Marno Pole Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended park. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Varna's top attractions with a visit to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.

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.

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Famous Bar 2, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Grill Kolata, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, wallet-friendly activities, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Park "children's Playground". This underrated playground is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, one of the town’s best highlights.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bianko offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Ristretto, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Gallery, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tequila Bar Funky Monkey likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. 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 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Veliko Tarnovo on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated park, Youth Hill. Afterward, continue to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, an archeological site every traveler should visit.

As you explore Veliko Tarnovo’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Roman Forum Of Philippopolis. This underrated archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation in the city.

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

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 dining experience at Salt & Pepper, 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 Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Day 6 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Plovdiv. You have 1 night left in Plovdiv. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Plovdiv covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a museum, an archeological site, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Alyosha Monument. This curiosity-inducing monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Museum Of Natural Sciences, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This locally renowned archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv and Nebet Tepe. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a museum, a park, a convention center and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Boyana Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, National Museum Of History, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to South Park, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned National Palace Of Culture. When you're finished at the convention center, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky awaits your visit. This church is a historic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the well-known Zaimov Park.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, 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 Bansko. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This up-and-coming church is a heritage-rich place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Eagles' Bridge, a symbolic monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Borisova Gradina Park. This interesting park offers a symbolic encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Prince's Garden to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit National Theater "ivan Vazov", an underrated performing arts theater that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kasapinova Mehana, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Euphoria offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bansko.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Nova Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Penguins Bar & Dinner, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Amigo Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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