11-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Veliko Tarnovo, Gabrovo, Plovdiv, Pastra, 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.

Roman Thermae Varna is must-visit archeological site and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Archaeological Museum Varna, a worthwhile museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Aladzha Monastery, an instagrammable monastery, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Varna. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the up-and-coming Dolphinarium Varna. If you’re looking for more, Varna Zoo is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Sea Garden, a place of detailed interest in the city.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at di Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, 100 Pizzas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Morska terasa. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 2 hours 37 min. Upon your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Trapezitsa Fortress, a frequently visited archeological site in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Tsarevets Fortress. This interesting castle is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern "Petleto"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Bell as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the evening going at Famous Bar 2, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Grill Kolata, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Veliko Tarnovo, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arbanassi. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an up-and-coming church that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lyaskovets. This car ride takes around 8 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an often recommended 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’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo.

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 Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bianko offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ristretto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gallery provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey 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!

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Gabrovo, Boicheta, Shipka, and Kazanlak. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gabrovo, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Gabrovo’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 41 min. Gabrovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Park „markoteya“, an underrated park.

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 Pametnik Na Racho Kovacha and uncover the details of this historic monument.

After soaking in Gabrovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Boicheta. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Boicheta, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ethno Village Etar and explore the picture-perfect features.

When you’ve had your share of Boicheta, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Shipka. Your travel time is around 43 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Shipka Memorial Church, an intriguing church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, an iconic dining spot in Gabrovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Strannopriemnitsa, a popular restaurant in Gabrovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vanilla coffee&food, a hidden gem nestled in Gabrovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moda Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Zahir - Bar & Dinner is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv, where will spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Gabrovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 38 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Asen's Fortress and explore the inviting features.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Spend some time admiring the historic features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 46 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Youth Hill and explore the serene features. Next, make your way to Singing Fountain, another highlight in Plovdiv. When you’re done exploring the art installation, continue to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a romantic park.

Nearby, you will also find Roman Forum Of Philippopolis. This increasingly popular archeological site is a top place to see in the area.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. 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 Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night.

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.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Museum Of Natural Sciences. This visually striking museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Nebet Tepe. After exploring the archeological site, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This frequently visited archeological site is a highlight in Plovdiv. As your day continues, stop by Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, known for its breathtaking features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the underrated Old Town Of Plovdiv. Enjoy exploring this incredible historical landmark at your own pace.

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.

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.

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.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Stob and Rila. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Pastra, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stob. This car ride takes around 2 hours 52 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Stob Earth Pyramids, a locally appreciated rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stob and set your GPS to Rila. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Rila, 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 village's best attractions, visit “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stob and set your GPS to Rila. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Rila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rila Monastery, a popular monastery known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Malyovitsa, a frequently visited mountain range.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pastra. Pastra 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 Pastra, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Sofia. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Sofia, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pastra to Sofia may take around 1 hour 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sofia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Boyana Church, an up-and-coming church that everyone visiting Sofia should see. Next, head to National Museum Of History. This visually striking museum is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on South Park, an idyllic park popular among locals as well as travelers. National Palace Of Culture is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned convention center before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a historic church and a top attraction in the city.

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.

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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. Sofia are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

No visit to Sofia is complete without Prince's Garden. This increasingly popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eagles' Bridge, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Sofia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Borisova Gradina Park. This locally renowned park is a traveler-favorite.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cubo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gossip Bar Max is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe-bar Vogue is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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