12-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, and Nessebar

On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Sofia, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia and Rila to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Let Borisova Gradina Park set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is your next stop. This interesting church is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Boyana Church. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church is a sight to behold.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia 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 1 hour 34 min. Upon reaching Rila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Rila Monastery is a popular monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect 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 Sofia.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Urban Rebel also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

Dive into day 3 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nebet Tepe, a frequently visited archeological site in Plovdiv. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Old Town Of Plovdiv. This frequently visited historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the well-known Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and discover what makes this archeological site unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Hindliyan's House, a symbolic museum many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Plovdiv, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Alyosha Monument and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a serene park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Singing Fountain, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bachkovo. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a popular monastery known for its picture-perfect features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Asenovgrad. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Asen's Fortress, an up-and-coming castle.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sofra? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Central Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Qbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Boicheta, Kazanlak, and Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Boicheta. This car ride takes around 2 hours 20 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ethno Village Etar. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kazanlak, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Boicheta to Kazanlak may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kazanlak, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Pametnik Na Buzludzha and explore the breathtaking features.

After soaking in Kazanlak’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Tarnovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 45 min. When you arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Veliko Tarnovo is Marno Pole Park, a worthwhile park that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a culturally significant monument that stands out in the village.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Famous Bar 2 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Grill Kolata, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / 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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, 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.

No visit to Veliko Tarnovo is complete without Park "sveta Gora". This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tsarevets Fortress, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Holy Forty Martyrs Church. This locally appreciated church is a traveler-favorite.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arbanassi. This drive usually takes around 4 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Arbanassi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gorna Oryahovitsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Gorna Oryahovitsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Park "children's Playground", an increasingly popular playground that everyone visiting Gorna Oryahovitsa should see.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a highly-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bianko, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ristretto, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Gallery is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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

Set your GPS to Varna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varna beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Dolphinarium Varna, an underrated aquarium known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Varna Zoo, an underrated zoo.

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 Sea Garden and uncover the details of this serene park. Make sure to also explore Clock Tower Of Varna, an increasingly popular monument.

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

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vogue Cafe Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cuba Beach Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Varna.

Aladzha Monastery brings Varna's character to life. This breathtaking monastery is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Evksinograd Palace, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Archaeological Museum Varna, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museum Of National Revival. This standout museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Roman Thermae Varna, a locally appreciated archeological site, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Detski Kat Varna before you head back to your hotel.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

On day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Nessebar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nessebar, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, 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 1 hour 33 min.

Savor the day by heading to Sunny Beach, an underrated beach that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Church Of Saint Sophia, where you can soak in the history-steeped surroundings.

Next, explore Church Of Christ Pantokrator, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This history-steeped museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Zapadna Krepostna Stena, an underrated archeological site you won’t want to miss.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Boutique Restaurant "Kanela", a top-rated dining spot in Nessebar. If you're in the mood for something new, try White Rose, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dionis. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nessebar.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The White Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Harp Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Eco-bar By Michael is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nessebar, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Ravda on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ravda may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Ravda, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aquapark Nessebar | Akvapark Nesebar. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the water park before you continue to your next stop.

Burgas’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ravda behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Burgas 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 Catholic Church Virgin Mary, a curiosity-inducing church that everyone visiting Burgas should see. Next, head to The Clock. This photogenic monument is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on History Museum Burgas, a historic museum popular among locals as well as travelers. The Sea Garden is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned park before you continue your journey.

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

Nessebar 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 Nessebar.

Enjoy a lovely meal at “Neptun” Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Nessebar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Familia Fish & Grill. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nessebar tonight.

Keep the evening going at Extreme Surf School Nesebar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Wine Shop & Bar Region, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Mexo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Kazanlak and Skobelevo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Nessebar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kazanlak. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 23 min. When you arrive in Kazanlak, it's time to take a break from the road.

Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak is a frequently visited archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rose Museum, a history-steeped museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Kazanlak, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Skobelevo. Your travel time is around 24 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Damascena Ethnographic Complex. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the cultural center before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at One More Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Teos Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk 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!