7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Sofia

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Dolphinarium Varna leaves a lasting impression. This aquarium is one of the most beloved places to visit in Varna. Next, head to Varna Zoo, an increasingly popular zoo, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Sea Garden. This mesmerizing park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral and Clock Tower Of Varna Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Retro Museum, a standout museum in Varna.

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.

Savor the flavors at di Wine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 100 Pizzas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Morska terasa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

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

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 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 1 night.

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 curiosity-inducing 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 notable 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 awe-inspiring park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the underrated 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 eye-catching park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / 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.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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 Veliko Tarnovo to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known archeological site 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 Old Town Of Plovdiv and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a worthwhile archeological site beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Singing Fountain, an instagrammable place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stob. Your travel time is around 2 hours 52 min.

Stob Earth Pyramids is an underrated rock formation we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rila, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stob to Rila may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rila, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a locally appreciated waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Rila, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dupnitsa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bistritsa Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall known for its mesmerizing features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, 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 Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant, 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 Grijn Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cairo Relax Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 6 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 Varna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This awe-inspiring church is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Palace Of Culture, another must-visit landmark and captivating convention center renowned for its instagrammable features.

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.

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.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!