7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling west to Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Kazanlak, and Gabrovo. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Varna, 2 nights in Veliko Tarnovo, and 2 nights in Plovdiv. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Varna, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. Sea Garden and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, learn more about the unique Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Singing Fountain.
As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Plovdiv, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Kazanlak, and Gabrovo, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.
Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!
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Day 1
- Varna - Arrival day
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- Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Varna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Varna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sea Garden, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Varna. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Varna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pizza Selena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Three Dolphins. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.
Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Varna
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 225 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Holy Forty Martyrs Church
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Ethnographic Complex "Samovodska Charshiya"
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Marno Pole Park
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Varna is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Holy Forty Martyrs Church, a locally appreciated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Tsarevets Fortress, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya". This market is one of the city’s most beloved spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Varna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Monument To The Assen Dynasty. After exploring the monument, head to the increasingly popular Marno Pole Park. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a place of historic interest in Varna.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", 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 The Bell. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Famous Bar 2, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Grill Kolata, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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.
Day 3
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 17 km, 46 min
- St Nikolay the Miracleworker
- Trapezitsa Fortress
- Sarafkinata Kashta Museum
- Archaeological Museum
- Tower of Baldwin
- Park "Sveta Gora
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an intriguing church in the village. Then, head to Trapezitsa Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Sarafkina House Museum. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing standout spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the curiosity-inducing Archaeological Museum. Not far away, you'll also find Tower Of Baldwin. This castle is an instagrammable highlight in Veliko Tarnovo. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Park "sveta Gora", a frequently visited park in the village.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Veliko Tarnovo and your accommodation.
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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ristretto, known for its lively atmosphere. The Gallery is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Say good night to Veliko Tarnovo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Plovdiv
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Youth Hill
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Roman Forum of Philippopolis
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Singing Fountains
- More
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 2 nights.
Start by visiting Youth Hill, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, another must-visit landmark and intriguing archeological site renowned for its historic features.
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 Roman Forum Of Philippopolis. This awe-inspiring archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Veliko Tarnovo experience. We also recommend visiting “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an interesting park. Nearby, you'll also find Singing Fountain, ready to add charm to your journey.
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.
As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, 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 Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rock Bar Download offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, North Star is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Morado Bar & Dinner is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Plovdiv
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Drive 63 km, 1 hour 39 min
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Asen's Fortress
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Nebet Tepe
- More
On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Plovdiv for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming village of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Asen's Fortress. This up-and-coming castle is known for its monumental appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This historic archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is also worth visiting, along with Old Town Of Plovdiv. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Nebet Tepe. This underrated archeological site provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plovdiv.
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.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Qbar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Anyway Social Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 6
- Plovdiv
- Varna
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Drive 452 km, 6 hours 10 min
- Rose Museum
- History Museum
- Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
- Паметник на Рачо ковача
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kazanlak and Gabrovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Plovdiv’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Rose Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of Historical Museum “iskra”, a must-visit museum in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a beloved archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Pametnik Na Racho Kovacha, known for its historic features.
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.
Dine in style at di Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 100 Pizzas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Morska terasa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Muffin Bar & Coffee is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Hey, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Deja Vu. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 7
- Varna - Departure day
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- Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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Day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Varna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a street that captures the true essence of Varna. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Varna’s shopping center, the lively Grand Mall Varna. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.
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.
You’ll then say farewell to Varna. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!
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