7-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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Varna, including an aquarium, a zoo, a park, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Dolphinarium Varna. This curiosity-inducing aquarium is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Varna Zoo, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Varna 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 Sea Garden, an interesting park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral and Clock Tower Of Varna. End your day with a visit to Retro Museum, a beloved museum that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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.

Visit Pfohe Mall in Varna for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Pfohe Mall has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at di Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 100 Pizzas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Morska terasa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Muffin Bar & Coffee after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Hey for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Deja Vu 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 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 1 night.

Today's adventure in Varna promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Trapezitsa Fortress. This picture-perfect archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Tsarevets Fortress, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Park "sveta Gora", one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This historic monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Marno Pole Park, a beloved park, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Monument Of Mother Bulgaria before you head back to your hotel.

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.

As you explore more of Veliko Tarnovo, 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 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.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Veliko Tarnovo. Begin your sightseeing with Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This well-known archeological site is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Old Town Of Plovdiv, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This worthwhile archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Singing Fountain is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. 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 Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rock Bar Download, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, North Star offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Stob Earth Pyramids, an intriguing rock formation in the village. Then, head to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching waterfall.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Bistritsa Waterfall. This is one of the village’s most intriguing eye-catching spots of interest.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Saffron Indian Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Island Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Grijn Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar National 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 exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church and a convention center. Begin your adventure at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This is a notable church you should not miss. Another must-see is National Palace Of Culture, an interesting convention center in Sofia.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mr Baba offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chuchura Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cubo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gossip Bar Max is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe-bar Vogue also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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