One-Week 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.

Catch Dolphinarium Varna before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching aquarium is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Varna Zoo, a must-visit zoo 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 Sea Garden, an interesting park. For a change of scene, check out Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, known for its symbolic features. We also recommend visiting Clock Tower Of Varna. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Retro Museum, yet another locally appreciated attraction 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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try 100 Pizzas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Morska terasa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

Continue your lively evening at Muffin Bar & Coffee, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Hey is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Deja Vu ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Trapezitsa Fortress, a worthwhile archeological site in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Tsarevets Fortress. This popular 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 peaceful park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming 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, a photogenic 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.

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv, where will spend 1 night.

As you explore Plovdiv’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 43 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a captivating archeological site that everyone visiting Plovdiv should see. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This visually striking historical landmark is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a picture-perfect archeological site popular among locals as well as travelers. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Singing Fountain, an enchanting art installation and a top attraction in 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.

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.

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.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Borovets, Samokov, and Dupnitsa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Borovets. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dvorets " Tsarska Bistrica " Vhod. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Tsarska Bistritsa. This beloved palace is a traveler-favorite in the village.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Borovets, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Samokov. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is City Park By The River Iskar. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Dupnitsa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Samokov behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. Dupnitsa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bistritsa Waterfall. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching 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 Sofia. Sofia 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 Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Grijn Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Sofia.

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

Your adventure in Sofia is only getting started when you visit Borisova Gradina Park, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eagles' Bridge. This interesting monument is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This picture-perfect church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. National Palace Of Culture is also worth visiting, along with South Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Samokov are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Samokov’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min. Samokov welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Belyova Church, an increasingly popular 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.

When you’re ready, continue to Samokov Convent "pokrov", an increasingly popular monastery beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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.

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

Dine in style at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mr Baba boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Chuchura Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

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.

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