11-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Veliko Tarnovo, Ruse, Varna, and Burgas

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

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Kapana Creative District is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Plovdiv. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Visiting Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is always a good idea. This often recommended museum 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 Hindliyan's House. This worthwhile museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

On day 3 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, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Visiting Museum Of Natural Sciences is always a good idea. This intriguing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Monument Of Unification, a must-see monument in the region.

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 Alyosha Monument. This worthwhile monument offers an enriching experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Laki. This car ride takes around 40 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bachkovo. This car ride takes around 7 min.

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bachkovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Asenovgrad is Asen's Fortress, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana", a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Kazanlak. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Kazanlak and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kazanlak beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rose Museum. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Historical Museum “iskra”. This beloved museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Ethnographic Museum "kulata". Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the cultural center. Next, take your journey to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a curiosity-inducing archeological site.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Marno Pole Park brings Veliko Tarnovo's character to life. This photogenic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its detailed features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Tsarevets Fortress. This enchanting castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Trapezitsa Fortress, an up-and-coming archeological site, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ristretto, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Gallery is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Ruse. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ruse, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo and set your GPS to Ruse. 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 1 hour 36 min. Upon reaching Ruse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes, a curiosity-inducing monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Monument Of Liberty, where you can soak in the remarkable surroundings.

Next, explore Fountain At Freedom Square, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Ecomuseum. This photogenic museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Regional Historical Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum you won’t want to miss.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Ruse. Ruse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go 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 Ruse, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Pontoon", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro "Lake" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Godfather. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ruse tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Black & White, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Frame is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bowling offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Varna. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 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 Varna.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Varna. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a locally appreciated church known for its breathtaking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Archaeological Museum Varna, an intriguing museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Evksinograd Palace and uncover the details of this history-steeped palace. Make sure to also explore Roman Thermae Varna, an intriguing archeological site.

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.

Varna 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 Varna.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizza Selena, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Three Dolphins. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Varna and Balchik. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Varna, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Aladzha Monastery is an ideal stop early in the day. This beloved monastery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Varna Zoo, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Varna on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Sea Garden, a well-known park in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Balchik. 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 26 min. Upon reaching Balchik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Balchik is Balchik Palace, a locally renowned palace that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Balchik Botanic Garden, a majestic botanical garden that stands out in the city.

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

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Muffin Bar & Coffee after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Hey for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Deja Vu is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 2 places, which are Burgas and Sozopol. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burgas. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Clock, a frequently visited monument in Burgas. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, The Sea Garden. This interesting park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, St. Anastasia Island is an excellent choice.

Set your GPS to Sozopol and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sozopol beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sozopol Archaeological Museum. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Southern Fortress Wall And Tower. This increasingly popular archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Main Square Sozopol. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Burgas, 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 Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an iconic dining spot in Burgas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, a popular restaurant in Burgas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mladost Cafe & Patisserie, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pillow. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Hashtagpavilion, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Stara Zagora are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stara Zagora may take around 1 hour 45 min. Upon your arrival in Stara Zagora, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Regional Museum Of History Stara Zagora and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Antique Forum, another highlight in Stara Zagora. When you’re done exploring the archeological site, continue to Neolithic Dwellings Museum. , a heritage-rich museum.

Nearby, you will also find Artileriyski Park. This locally appreciated park is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Park “ayazmo“, a romantic park 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 Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Dine in style at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ruski Restorant Petar I boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Amadeus Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Planet Edition is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Club Fargo is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!