10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Stoikite, Arbanassi, and Varna

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Kapana Creative District. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Visiting Nebet Tepe is always a good idea. This often recommended archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Old Town Of Plovdiv, a must-see historical landmark 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 Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This often recommended museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park and Singing Fountain These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Qbar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Anyway Social Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 3 places, which are Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Chepelare. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stoikite, where will spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Bachkovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Asen's Fortress is a curiosity-inducing castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Hram „uspenie Na Sveta Bogoroditsa – Zlatna Yabalka“, a historic church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad, an eye-catching museum.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chepelare. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Chepelare is Pamporovo Ski Resort, an often recommended ski resort that draws attention for its visually striking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Stoikite, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Stoikite, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Stoikite, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Trigrad, Devin, Iagodina, Borino, and Shiroka Laka.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trigrad. This car ride takes around 56 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trigrad Gorge. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Devil's Throat Cave. This increasingly popular cave is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Devin. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Valchi Kamak (wolf Rock), a beloved rock formation that everyone visiting Devin should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Iagodina may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Iagodina, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Eagle's Eye, an up-and-coming observation deck that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Jeep To Eagle Eye and admire its gorgeous features.

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

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 Stoikite, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Arbanassi, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Stoikite’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Tarnovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 57 min. When you arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Marno Pole Park, an underrated park that everyone visiting Veliko Tarnovo should see. Next, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This picture-perfect monument is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Trapezitsa Fortress, a respected archeological site popular among locals as well as travelers. Tsarevets Fortress is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this notable castle before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Park "sveta Gora", a visually striking park and a top attraction in the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Arbanassi. Arbanassi 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 Arbanassi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Varna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Varna, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Arbanassi to Varna may take around 2 hours 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Varna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Retro Museum, a locally appreciated museum in Varna. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Archaeological Museum Varna. This locally appreciated museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most majestic church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the often recommended Roman Thermae Varna and discover what makes this archeological site unique.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizza Selena, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Three Dolphins. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Vogue Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Punta Cana, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Varna.

Aladzha Monastery is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This historic monastery is sure to impress. Next on your list is University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated botanical garden renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Varna by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Art Gallery Boris Georgiev. This eye-catching art gallery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Varna experience. We also recommend visiting Dolphinarium Varna, a curiosity-inducing aquarium. Nearby, you'll also find Varna Zoo, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Sea Garden and wrap up your day with its detailed appeal.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at di Wine, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Varna tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Hey, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Deja Vu provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Madara and Shumen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Madara. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 54 min. Upon reaching Madara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, a beloved archeological site known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Madara Horseman, an often recommended archeological site.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Madara, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Shumen. This drive usually takes around 34 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Shumen is Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress, a frequently visited archeological site that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, a culturally significant monument that stands out in the village.

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 a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at RESTAURANT Raia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Citizens Club boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restorant "Megdana". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kriloto Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cocktail Bar Noris is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Fabrik is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!