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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the frequently visited Dolphinarium Varna, a picture-perfect aquarium in Varna. Next, go to Varna Zoo.

After visiting Dolphinarium Varna and Varna Zoo, have a stroll along Varna's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Sea Garden. This eye-catching park offers a unique experience. Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Clock Tower Of Varna, one of the most standout places to visit in Varna. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Retro Museum.

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.

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

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Hey, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Deja Vu also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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 stunning archeological site is an intriguing place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Tsarevets Fortress. If history-steeped sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Park "sveta Gora". This eye-catching 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 an underrated 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 photogenic Marno Pole Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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

On day 4 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 1 night.

Start by visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Old Town Of Plovdiv, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated historical landmark renowned for its romantic 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 Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This culturally significant 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, a locally renowned park. Nearby, you'll also find Singing Fountain, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rock Bar Download, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to North Star. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated place in the area.

Say good night to Plovdiv and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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, a worthwhile rock formation in the village. Then, head to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing 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 increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest.

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 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.

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.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this picture-perfect convention center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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

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 lovely meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mr Baba is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Chuchura Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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

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.