11-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Kavarna, Shumen, Burgas, and Sveti Vlas and surrounding area
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Included
Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Varna, Kavarna, Dobrich, Shumen, Madara, Burgas, Kiten, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Sveti Vlas, Nessebar, Goritsa, Provadia, and Devnya. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Varna, 1 night in Kavarna, 1 night in Shumen, 2 nights in Burgas, and 2 nights in Sveti Vlas. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Varna, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. The Sea Garden and Sea Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Balchik Palace, learn more about the unique Balchik Botanic Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kaliakra.
As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Kavarna, Dobrich, Shumen, Madara, Burgas, Kiten, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Sveti Vlas, Nessebar, Goritsa, Provadia, and Devnya, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.
Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Varna - Arrival day
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- Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Varna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Varna for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Varna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sea Garden, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Varna. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Varna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizza Selena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Three Dolphins. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.
Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Varna
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Drive 48 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Asparuhov park
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Varna Zoo
- Aladzha Monastery
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Varna is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Asparuhov Park, an often recommended park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its grand appeal. Continue your exploration at Varna Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Varna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Aladzha Monastery.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Varna. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at di Wine, 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 100 Pizzas, 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 Morska terasa, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Varna
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Drive 16 km, 38 min
- Retro Museum
- Archaeological Museum Varna
- Varna Roman Baths
- Dolphinarium Varna
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Varna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Retro Museum. This often recommended museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Archaeological Museum Varna, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Roman Thermae Varna, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Varna. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dolphinarium Varna. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this aquarium offers.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Experience shopping bliss at Varna as you explore Varna Mall. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Varna Mall offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Varna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Varna
- Kavarna
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Drive 59 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Aquapark Aquamania
- Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
- Balchik Botanic Garden
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Balchik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kavarna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Varna, including a water park, a palace, and a botanical garden. Start your day at Aquapark Aquamania. This instagrammable water park is a worthwhile place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Balchik Palace. If visually striking sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Balchik Botanic Garden. This romantic botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kavarna. Kavarna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kavarna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at corner ltd, a top-rated dining destination in Kavarna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Balgarka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizza & Dinner "Morelli". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kavarna this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Kavarna and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Kavarna
- Shumen
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Kaliakra
- Shabla Lighthouse
- Museum Old Dobrich
- Park "Sveti Georgi
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On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Kavarna, Kariya, and Dobrich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Shumen, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Kavarna on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known cliff, Kaliakra. Afterward, continue to Shabla Lighthouse, a lighthouse every traveler should visit.
As you explore Kavarna’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the region. Next, make your way to Museum Old Dobrich. This intriguing museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Park "sveti Georgi", another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Shumen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Shumen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mehana "Hitar Petar", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern Oreha offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Primo Bar & Grill. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Shumen.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Zino Club, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Arizona Lounge 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 in Bulgaria.
Day 6
- Shumen
- Burgas
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Drive 190 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument
- Park Kyoshkovete
- Historical and archaeological reserve Shumen Fortress
- Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
- Madara Horseman
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Shumen and Madara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Shumen, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, a locally appreciated monument in the city. Then, head to Park Kyoshkovete and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.
There are many interesting places to see in Shumen, and when you are ready for more, go to Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the frequently visited Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. Not far away, you'll also find Madara Horseman. This archeological site is a historic highlight in Shumen.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Burgas, 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 Burgas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a popular restaurant in Burgas. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Burgas at Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, 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 Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Burgas tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Billiard Club Hot Shot, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pillow is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Burgas
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Beglik Tash
- Primorsko North Beach
- Atliman Beach
- Castle of Ravadinovo
- Harmanite Beach
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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Burgas, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Get ready for an exciting day in Burgas. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a beach, and a castle. Begin your adventure at Beglik Tash. This is a curiosity-inducing archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Primorsko North Beach, a frequently visited beach in Burgas.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Atliman Beach. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Castle Of Ravadinovo, another of the region’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Harmanite Beach, a romantic place of interest in the region.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Burgas.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Chiplakov, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ten'ova kashta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Neptune. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Bossa stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Malibu offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Saxa Beach is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 8
- Burgas
- Sveti Vlas
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Drive 49 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Boris's garden (Borisova gradina)
- The Clock
- The Sea Garden
- Aviomuseum Burgas
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Burgas, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sveti Vlas. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in Burgas. Begin your sightseeing with Boris's Garden (borisova Gradina). This frequently visited park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to The Clock, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Burgas, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Sea Garden. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Museum Of Aviation, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sveti Vlas. Sveti Vlas offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sveti Vlas. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Say good night to Sveti Vlas and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 9
- Sveti Vlas
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 5 min
- Sunny Beach
- Ancient Theatre
- Church of Saint Sophia
- Archaeological Museum
- Camel Park Sunny Beach
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Day 9 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Nessebar. You have 1 night left in Sveti Vlas. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.
Today’s agenda in Sveti Vlas includes a beach, an archeological site, a church, a museum, a safari park and much more! Sunny Beach is must-visit beach and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ancient Theatre, a beloved archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of Saint Sophia, a visually striking church, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Sveti Vlas. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Nesebar Archaeological Museum. If you’re looking for more, Camel Park Sunny Beach is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sveti Vlas's best restaurants.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 10
- Sveti Vlas
- Varna
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Zoo Gorica
- Ovech Fortress
- Museum Of Mosaics
- Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (Stone Forest)
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Goritsa, Provadia, Devnya, and Aksakovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sveti Vlas today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Zoo Gorica. This photogenic zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ovech Fortress and learn what makes this historic castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Museum Of Mosaics, Devnya. After exploring the museum, head to Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (stone Forest). This curiosity-inducing rock formation is a highlight in Sveti Vlas.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Varna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Varna, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Vault Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Nargile House Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Brick Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 11
- Varna - Departure day
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- Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship
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Day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Varna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Monument Of The Bulgarian-soviet Friendship. This underrated monument is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Varna's best shopping area, Grand Mall Varna. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cuban Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try "Halbata" Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Varna. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!
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