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

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

Make time for Retro Museum, an underrated museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Archaeological Museum Varna, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Dolphinarium Varna. This aquarium 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 Varna Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to the captivating Sea Garden.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at di Wine, an iconic dining spot in Varna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of 100 Pizzas, a popular restaurant in Varna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Morska terasa, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. 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, Muffin Bar & Coffee stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Hey offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Deja Vu is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Veliko Tarnovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Veliko Tarnovo. This car ride takes around 2 hours 40 min.

Tsarevets Fortress is a popular castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Park "sveta Gora", an idyllic park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a picture-perfect monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Marno Pole Park, a photogenic and truly unique park. End your sightseeing at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a curiosity-inducing monument that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Gorna Oryahovitsa and Lyaskovets. With 1 night to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gorna Oryahovitsa. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Park „nikolaj Panayotov“ is an often recommended park we recommend visiting today.

Set your GPS to Lyaskovets and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lyaskovets beckons with new experiences!

Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul" is a curiosity-inducing monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bianko? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the evening going at Ristretto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Gallery, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tequila Bar Funky Monkey, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 43 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a captivating archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Old Town Of Plovdiv, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Next, explore Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the archeological site, make time to go to Youth Hill. This eye-catching park is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Singing Fountain, a captivating art installation you won’t want to miss.

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.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rock Bar Download, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out North Star, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 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 still have 1 night to spend in Plovdiv, there’s no need to rush. Experience Laki, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Laki. 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 40 min. Upon reaching Laki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall, a frequently visited waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Bachkovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Laki behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Bachkovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a locally renowned monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Asen's Fortress, an often recommended castle known for its visually striking features.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Anyway Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sofia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at National Palace Of Culture and explore the photogenic features. Next, make your way to Borisova Gradina Park, another highlight in Sofia. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Eagles' Bridge, a history-steeped monument.

Nearby, you will also find Zaimov Park. This captivating park is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a symbolic church that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Sofia is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Keep the evening going at Grijn Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cairo Relax Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar National, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varna, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Nessebar, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Nessebar may take around 3 hours 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nessebar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum 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 Ancient Theatre and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Church Of Saint Sophia, an up-and-coming church beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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.

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

Dine in style at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mr Baba boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Chuchura Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cubo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gossip Bar Max, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!