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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night.

Retro Museum makes a great addition to your morning plans. This curiosity-inducing museum is a historic place to see in Varna. Continue your discovery at Archaeological Museum Varna, a standout museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Varna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Dolphinarium Varna. This underrated aquarium offers an instagrammable encounter with Varna. Next, make your way to Varna Zoo to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Sea Garden, an interesting park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Varna.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Hey, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Deja Vu likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Veliko Tarnovo.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 40 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Tsarevets Fortress, a popular castle in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Park "sveta Gora". This beloved park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Monument To The Assen Dynasty is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most respected monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the worthwhile Marno Pole Park and discover what makes this park unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a remarkable monument many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Famous Bar 2, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Grill Kolata offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Gorna Oryahovitsa and Lyaskovets. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gorna Oryahovitsa, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Veliko Tarnovo to Gorna Oryahovitsa may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gorna Oryahovitsa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Park „nikolaj Panayotov“. Then, head to Park "children's Playground". This increasingly popular playground is a traveler-favorite in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lyaskovets. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an underrated monastery known for its respected features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo.

Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo.

Savor the flavors at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bianko beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ristretto, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Gallery offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll 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 Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a locally renowned archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a romantic historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a culturally significant archeological site. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Youth Hill, a romantic and truly unique park. End your sightseeing at Singing Fountain, a well-known art installation that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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.

Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rock Bar Download, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, North Star is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Laki, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. With 1 night to stay in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Laki may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Laki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall and explore the eye-catching features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Laki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 7 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bachkovo is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a captivating monastery that draws attention for its stunning features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Asenovgrad, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bachkovo to Asenovgrad may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Asenovgrad, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Asen's Fortress, a beloved castle 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’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Plovdiv and your accommodation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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.

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sofia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 48 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sofia is National Palace Of Culture, a locally renowned convention center that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Borisova Gradina Park, a detailed park that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Eagles' Bridge, a captivating monument that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Zaimov Park, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a picture-perfect church and the perfect final attraction in Sofia.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Grijn Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cairo Relax Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nessebar. This car ride takes around 3 hours 54 min.

Savor the day by heading to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Ancient Theatre, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Next, explore Church Of Saint Sophia, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area.

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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cubo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gossip Bar Max provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe-bar Vogue offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!