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

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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Varna, including a museum, an aquarium, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Retro Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Archaeological Museum Varna located in Varna for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Dolphinarium Varna. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the aquarium, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Varna Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this zoo. Next up is Sea Garden, a highly recommended 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.

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

Savor the flavors at di Wine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 100 Pizzas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Morska terasa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Muffin Bar & Coffee, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Hey is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Deja Vu offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Varna. Your adventure starts at Tsarevets Fortress, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Park "sveta Gora". This often recommended park is known for its history-steeped 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 Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This historic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Marno Pole Park is also worth visiting, along with Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "Ethno", 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 Tavern "Petleto", 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 The Bell, 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 meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Famous Bar 2, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, wallet-friendly activities, and scenic views await you in Veliko Tarnovo on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited park, Park „nikolaj Panayotov“. Afterward, continue to Park "children's Playground", a playground 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 town. Next, make your way to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul". This increasingly popular monastery is an essential stop.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bianko offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, EGO pizza & grill The Old Town is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ristretto, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Gallery is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 5 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 Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Veliko Tarnovo on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned archeological site, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Afterward, continue to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a historical landmark 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 Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This worthwhile archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Youth Hill, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Singing Fountain, an interesting art installation in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an eye-catching park that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Greet day 6 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 Laki, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall in the region. Then, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking monastery.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Asen's Fortress. This is one of the region’s most beloved romantic spots of interest.

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

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

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.

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.

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

Dive into day 7 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Plovdiv covers several incredible sights, including a convention center, a park, a monument, a church, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your adventure at National Palace Of Culture. This captivating convention center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Borisova Gradina Park, a must-see park 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 Eagles' Bridge. This notable monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Zaimov Park, where you can take in picturesque features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and National Theater "ivan Vazov". These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. 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 Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Grijn Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 9 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 Varna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, an archeological site, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Nesebar Archaeological Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ancient Theatre, a historic archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of Saint Sophia, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

As you explore more of Varna, 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 delicious meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cubo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gossip Bar Max, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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