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

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

Visiting Singing Fountain is always a good idea. This captivating art installation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the peaceful wonders of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a must-see park 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 Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This locally appreciated archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, where you can take in history-steeped features.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Sofia.

To truly experience Sofia, make sure to drop by Druzhba Park. This intriguing park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Sofia Zoo, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out South Park, one of the most captivating places to see in Sofia. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Then, head to North Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your 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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set aside time today to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Catch National Palace Of Culture before the crowds roll in. This instagrammable convention center is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, an up-and-coming church. For a change of scene, check out National Theater "ivan Vazov", known for its romantic features.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, 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 Hotel ZOO Sofia, 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 Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. 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, One More Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bsd 2 Ndk is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Sofia and Reduta. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lovech, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the up-and-coming Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a monumental church in Sofia. Next, go to Zaimov Park.

After visiting Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya and Zaimov Park, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Eagles' Bridge. This standout monument offers a unique experience. Borisova Gradina Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Set your GPS to Reduta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Reduta beckons with new experiences!

Geo Milev Park is a notable park we recommend visiting today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

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

Keep the evening going at Bar Varosha, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Kraft (kraft Craft Beer Bar), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 2 destinations, including Veliko Tarnovo and Madara. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Experience Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a locally appreciated monument in the city. Then, head to Marno Pole Park and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic park.

There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Tsarevets Fortress. This is one of the city’s most well-known romantic spots of interest.

Madara’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min. Madara welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Madara Horseman, an often recommended archeological site that everyone visiting Madara should see. Next, head to Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This breathtaking archeological site is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Varna, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pizza Selena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Three Dolphins. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 8 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.

A top thing to do today is to explore Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a must-see street in Varna. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This historic church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sea Garden, another must-visit landmark and well-known park 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 Dolphinarium Varna. This picture-perfect aquarium is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Varna experience.

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 Varna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at di Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Morska terasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Hey provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Deja Vu offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Varna and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Balchik and Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Burgas, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Balchik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Varna behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Balchik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Balchik Botanic Garden is a locally renowned botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour to Balchik Palace, an instagrammable palace that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Balchik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nessebar. Your travel time is around 2 hours 16 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Church Of Saint Sophia, a worthwhile church known for its inviting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at "holy Mother Eleusa" Church, an intriguing church.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Burgas. Burgas 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 Burgas's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Billiard Club Hot Shot after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Pillow for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hashtagpavilion is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Burgas and Stara Zagora are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

The Clock makes a great addition to your morning plans. This curiosity-inducing monument is a photogenic place to see in Burgas. Continue your discovery at The Sea Garden, a masterful park with stories to tell.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Stara Zagora, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Stara Zagora may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stara Zagora, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is “bedechka” Park. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Park “ayazmo“. This up-and-coming park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Artileriyski Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Qbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar 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!