Relaxed 14-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Burgas, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Varna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Varna. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Varna!

Enjoy all that Aladzha Monastery has to offer. This is a frequently visited monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna, a beloved botanical garden in Varna.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Roman Thermae Varna. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Church "saint Athanasius", another of the city’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Asparuhov Park, a mesmerizing place of interest in the city.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Varna has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Varna’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Hey, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Deja Vu provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Varna as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Varna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Visiting Retro Museum is always a good idea. This locally appreciated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the monumental wonders of Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Archaeological Museum Varna. This beloved museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Monastery "saints Constantine And Helena", where you can take in breathtaking features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Varna offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Varna.

Dine in style at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Happy Bar & Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out El Kapan. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Varna. The bars in Varna make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Vault Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nargile House Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Brick Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Bulgaria.

Day 5 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Bulgaria lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Nessebar. By evening, drive toward the Burgas, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Nessebar, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Varna to Nessebar may take around 1 hour 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nessebar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sunny Beach, an increasingly popular beach in Nessebar. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ancient Theatre is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect archeological site in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the frequently visited Church Of Saint Sophia and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the town, head to "holy Mother Eleusa" Church, a heritage-rich church many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

In Burgas, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria.

Exploring the food culture in Burgas offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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 dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Billiard Club Hot Shot offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pillow is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hashtagpavilion is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Burgas and visit amazing attractions in Ravadinovo, Sozopol, and Burgas, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Burgas, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Aleko Bogoridi Street, a street that captures the true essence of Ravadinovo. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally renowned The Sea Garden, a mesmerizing park in Burgas. Next, go to The Clock.

When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ravadinovo. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Savor the day by heading to Castle Of Ravadinovo, a locally appreciated castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Harmanite Beach, an increasingly popular beach known for its eye-catching features.

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

Exploring the food culture in Burgas offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Chiplakov, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ten'ova kashta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Neptune. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Burgas.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Bulgaria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Bulgaria tomorrow with new energy.

On day 7 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

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

Savor the day by heading to “bedechka” Park, a worthwhile park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Stara Zagora Zoo, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Park “ayazmo“, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Artileriyski Park. This picturesque park is well worth the visit.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria as you make your way to Plovdiv. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Plovdiv has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Plovdiv as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Plovdiv. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Plovdiv. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Plovdiv!

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Plovdiv. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Make a stop at Youth Hill. This often recommended park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Singing Fountain located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Its standout features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this archeological site.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Varna. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Varna that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Bulgaria more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Plovdiv to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Plovdiv. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Plovdiv, and meet locals along the way!

Experience Alyosha Monument, an underrated monument in the city. Then, head to Museum Of Natural Sciences and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This is one of the city’s most captivating instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the underrated Old Town Of Plovdiv. Not far away, you'll also find Nebet Tepe. This archeological site is a romantic highlight in Plovdiv.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Plovdiv, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Bulgaria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Bulgaria tomorrow with new energy.

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Kazanlak and end it in Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay in Veliko Tarnovo for 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Bulgaria.

Set your GPS to Kazanlak and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kazanlak beckons with new experiences!

Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak is an up-and-coming monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kazanlak, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Boicheta. This drive usually takes around 26 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Ethno Village Etar, a popular museum 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 Boicheta and set your GPS to Dolni Varpishta. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Dolni Varpishta, 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 region's best attractions, visit Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", an up-and-coming 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. Next, head to Bacho Kiro Cave and admire its picturesque features.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Veliko Tarnovo. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tavern "Petleto" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Bell. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Veliko Tarnovo and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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 celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 11 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Veliko Tarnovo, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Catch Hotnitsa Waterfall before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching waterfall is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Monastery Of The Holy Transfiguration Of God, a must-visit monastery 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 Tsarevets Fortress, a well-known castle. For a change of scene, check out Trapezitsa Fortress, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting Kapinovo Monastery "st Nicholas". This monastery is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Veliko Tarnovo, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Veliko Tarnovo and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Veliko Tarnovo can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Bulgaria!

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Veliko Tarnovo!

Awaiting your discovery is the worthwhile Marno Pole Park, an instagrammable park in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.

After visiting Marno Pole Park and Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, have a stroll along Veliko Tarnovo's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This picture-perfect monument offers a unique experience. State Art Gallery "boris Denev" is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Park "sveta Gora", one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Veliko Tarnovo offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Veliko Tarnovo has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Malkiya inter (The small inter), a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Skala offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Ego 1 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Veliko Tarnovo and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Famous, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lino Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Klub 7 is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Veliko Tarnovo!

Day 13 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Shumen and drive in the direction of Madara for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Varna, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Shumen. This car ride takes around 1 hour 52 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Park Kyoshkovete and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, another highlight in Shumen.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Madara. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Madara Horseman, a curiosity-inducing archeological site known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, a locally appreciated archeological site.

You'll be staying in Varna on this laid-back road trip through Bulgaria. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Varna.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cuban Bar, an iconic dining spot in Varna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of "Halbata" Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Varna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Makalali Beach, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Bulgaria.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Bulgaria.