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

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Varna. You have 1 night left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s agenda in Varna includes an aquarium, a zoo, a park, an archeological site, a church, a museum and much more! Dolphinarium Varna is must-visit aquarium and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Varna Zoo, a worthwhile zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sea Garden, a serene park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Varna. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Roman Thermae Varna. If you’re looking for more, Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Retro Museum, a place of historic interest 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.

Bring home unique finds from Varna's bustling shopping hub, Grand Mall Varna. 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, Grand Mall Varna offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at di Wine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? 100 Pizzas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Morska terasa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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.

Varna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a monument, a market, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Park "sveta Gora" and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a breathtaking monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya", one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Monkey House. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Monument Of Mother Bulgaria awaits your visit. This monument is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the beloved Marno Pole Park.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern "Petleto" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Bell is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Famous Bar 2, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Grill Kolata is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 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 Lyaskovets, Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Veliko Tarnovo. You still have 1 night left in Veliko Tarnovo.

Today’s itinerary in Veliko Tarnovo covers several incredible sights, including a monastery, a playground, an archeological site, a church, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul". This underrated monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Trapezitsa Fortress. This up-and-coming archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Holy Forty Martyrs Church, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Tsarevets Fortress and Tower Of Baldwin. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Nebet Tepe, a curiosity-inducing archeological site in the city. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This is one of the city’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the interesting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Not far away, you'll also find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is a standout highlight in Veliko Tarnovo. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

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

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Bachkovo. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today’s agenda in Plovdiv includes a monastery, a castle, an archeological site, a museum, a monument and much more! Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" is must-visit monastery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Asen's Fortress, an often recommended castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a picture-perfect archeological site, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Plovdiv. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Museum Of Natural Sciences. If you’re looking for more, Alyosha Monument is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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 highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zlatovrah and Bansko. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Arapovo Monastery, a beloved monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find City Park, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This museum is one of the village’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Holy Trinity Church. After exploring the church, head to the curiosity-inducing "neofit Rilski" House-museum. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Monument Paisius Of Hilendar, a place of photogenic interest in Plovdiv.

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.

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

Dine in style at Kasapinova Mehana, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Euphoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bansko.

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

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

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Bansko, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming region of Bansko. Your adventure starts at Rila Monastery, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Stob Earth Pyramids. This curiosity-inducing rock formation is known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bansko's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Monument Of Gotse Delchev. This noteworthy monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Regionalen Istoricheski Muzej Blagoevgrad is also worth visiting.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bansko. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lion's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pirin 75, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Wine Bar 25 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Bansko covers several incredible sights, including a church, a museum, a park, a convention center and much more! Start your adventure at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This underrated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Regional History Museum Of Sofia, 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 Zaimov Park. This interesting park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to South Park, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Palace Of Culture and Ancient Orthodox Rounda Church "saint George" (4th Century). These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Saffron Indian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Island Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Grijn Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cairo Relax Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar National likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Start by visiting Boyana Church, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Museum Of History, another must-visit landmark and often recommended museum renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Borisova Gradina Park. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Sofia experience. We also recommend visiting Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a well-known church. Nearby, you'll also find National Theater "ivan Vazov", ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

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

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

On day 11 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 Shumen and Madara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Sofia. Begin your sightseeing with Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This curiosity-inducing monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Sofia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Madara Horseman. This up-and-coming archeological site is a traveler-favorite.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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