14-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Arbanassi, Plovdiv, Stoikite, 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 2 nights.

One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Retro Museum. This instagrammable museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral and learn what makes this stunning church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Clock Tower Of Varna. After exploring the monument, head to Archaeological Museum Varna. This often recommended museum is a highlight in Varna. As your day continues, stop by Sea Garden, known for its eye-catching features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the underrated Varna Zoo. Enjoy exploring this incredible zoo 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.

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 di Wine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? 100 Pizzas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Morska terasa. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Muffin Bar & Coffee is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Hey, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Deja Vu. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Balchik and Kavarna. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Varna, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Balchik may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Balchik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Albena, an up-and-coming beach that everyone visiting Balchik should see.

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 Balchik. Your travel time is around 38 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Balchik Palace, a well-known palace known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Balchik Botanic Garden, a notable botanical garden.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kavarna, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Balchik to Kavarna may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kavarna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kaliakra, a captivating cliff known for its standout features.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mr Baba beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Chuchura Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Arbanassi, where will spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Veliko Tarnovo beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trapezitsa Fortress. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Holy Forty Martyrs Church. This underrated church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Tsarevets Fortress. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle. Next, take your journey to Tower Of Baldwin, an increasingly popular castle. Conclude your sightseeing at Marno Pole Park, known for its instagrammable features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Arbanassi, 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 Arbanassi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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

Dive into day 6 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 Arbanassi to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Museum Of Natural Sciences is a worthwhile museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a historic archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, a breathtaking archeological site. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an eye-catching and truly unique park. End your sightseeing at Singing Fountain, a popular art installation that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Plovdiv.

Make a stop at Nebet Tepe. This intriguing archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this museum. Next up is Retro Photo Old Plovdiv, a highly recommended museum. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. As one of the most locally renowned attractions in Plovdiv, this archeological site is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sofra, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Central Park. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Qbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Anyway Social Bar 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!

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Laki. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stoikite, where you'll spend 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Asenovgrad may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Asenovgrad, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Asen's Fortress, an enchanting castle that stands out in the town.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Asenovgrad and set your GPS to Bachkovo. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Bachkovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" is a locally renowned monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 8 min. Upon your arrival in Laki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Stoikite. Stoikite 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 Stoikite. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Wake up to day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Borino, Iagodina, and Trigrad. With 1 night to stay in Stoikite, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stoikite, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Borino. This drive usually takes around 59 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Yagodinska Cave, an often recommended cave known for its visually striking features.

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

Eagle's Eye is an underrated observation deck we recommend visiting today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Iagodina, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Trigrad. This drive usually takes around 21 min.

Devil's Throat Cave is a worthwhile cave we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Trigrad Gorge, an eye-catching canyon that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Sofia, where you will stay for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stoikite, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sofia. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 17 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at National Palace Of Culture and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Borisova Gradina Park, another highlight in Sofia. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Eagles' Bridge, an instagrammable monument.

Nearby, you will also find Prince's Garden. This beloved park is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, a photogenic church that is perfect for some final exploring 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Saffron Indian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Island Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Grijn Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cairo Relax Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar National is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 12 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Whatever your travel style is, Boyana Church is an essential stop in Sofia. This locally appreciated church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover National Museum Of History, a historic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Russian Monument Square, an up-and-coming public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. Not far away from the church, you will find the picturesque Zaimov Park, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another gem in Sofia with breathtaking features to discover.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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