Relaxed 11-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Varna to Burgas, and Shumen

Your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Varna, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Varna and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Varna Seaport Lighthouse. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 590 visitors.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Varna.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pizza Selena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Three Dolphins. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Varna.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vogue Cafe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cuba Beach Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Bulgaria. Enjoy your first taste of Varna as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Retro Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,087 visitors.

Varna Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,341 visitors.

Dolphinarium Varna is also highly recommended by travelers. This aquarium has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,727 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Varna by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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 Varna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to book a table at di Wine, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at 100 Pizzas, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Морска тераса. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Varna tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Varna.

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.

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Varna, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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 Varna, and meet locals along the way!

Kick off the day at Asparuhov Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,231 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Archaeological Museum Varna. Archaeological Museum Varna is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,230 reviews.

Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,169 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Clock Tower Of Varna. This clock tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 610 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Roman Thermae Varna, a famous sightseeing destination in Varna. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,755 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Varna itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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 Varna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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.

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

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

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

Make Evksinograd Palace one of your first sightseeing stops in Varna. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,279 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,641 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Monastery "saints Constantine And Helena". This place of worship has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,646 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Дендрологичен Маршрут - Природен Парк Златни Пясъци. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 486 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Aladzha Monastery. This monastery enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,987 local and international travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Bulgaria.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ресторант Къщата на Ви Варна, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Happy Bar & Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Kapan. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Bulgaria.

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Burgas for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Bulgaria.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Nessebar. 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 1 hour 33 min. Upon reaching Nessebar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Sunny Beach, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,959 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Nesebar Archaeological Museum. Nesebar Archaeological Museum is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,788 reviews.

Ancient Theatre is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,941 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Church Of Saint Sophia. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,993 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on "holy Mother Eleusa" Church, a famous sightseeing destination in Nessebar. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,206 travelers.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Burgas in this laid-back road trip in 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 Burgas.

Savor the flavors at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Bulgaria Burgas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider IN BAR. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

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

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

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Bulgaria will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Bulgaria, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Make The Clock one of your first sightseeing stops in Burgas. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

The Sea Garden is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,099 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Boris's Garden (borisova Gradina). This park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,220 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ravadinovo. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Castle Of Ravadinovo is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,164 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sozopol, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ravadinovo to Sozopol may take around 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sozopol, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Harmanite Beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,202 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Bulgaria at Shumen. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 Shumen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to book a table at Механа "Хитър Петър", a popular restaurant in Shumen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Shumen at Tavern Oreha, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Primo Bar & Grill. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Shumen tonight.

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Zino Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Shumen.

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

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Shumen and visit amazing attractions in Shumen, and Madara destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Shumen. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Drop by the renowned Park Kyoshkovete. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,448 visitors.

Set your GPS to Madara and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Madara beckons with new experiences!

Make Madara Horseman one of your first sightseeing stops in Madara. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,528 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,534 reviews.

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

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 Shumen.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Minaliya Vek, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Дом на Архитекта is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Chinese restaurant "Beijing". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Shumen tonight.

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, Arizona Lounge offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bacardi Club is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Shumen. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Shumen. 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 Shumen!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,443 reviews.

Continue your journey at Shumen Plateau Nature Park. This nature park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 162 travelers from near and far.

Shumen is also the home of Biserna Cave (zandana). This point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 348 visitors.

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

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

Dine in style at Green Garden, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern Thrace boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Otto Pizza Napoletana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Shumen.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Shumen, 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 Shumen, and meet locals along the way!

Journey into the unknown at Kurshun Faucet, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 226 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Historical Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 518 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Shumen is Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,314 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Shumen offers an experience you will remember.

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

Exploring the food culture in Shumen 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 Popsheytanov's House, an iconic dining spot in Shumen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Voyage Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Shumen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Choli BBQ Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Shumen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 10 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Veliki Preslav. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Varna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Veliki Preslav’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Shumen behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Veliki Preslav welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Preslav Fortress. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,753 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veliki Preslav and set your GPS to Pliska. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Pliska, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Archaeological Museum "professor Rasho Rashev". Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,078 reviews.

Pliska Fortress is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This archaeological reserve is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,399 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Двор На Кирилицата. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,789 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Varna. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Bulgaria by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Varna 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cuban Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider "Halbata" Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Makalali Beach. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Varna and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Bar Soho, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Beach Bar Menthol, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Garden Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Varna.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Varna is the remarkable Sea Garden. This urban park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Varna or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Varna and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.