13-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Burgas to Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Shumen, Kavarna, and Varna and surrounding area

Welcome to Burgas, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Burgas's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Burgas is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Burgas. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Burgas. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at IN BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Target, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Bossa provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Burgas. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Clock is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,744 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is The Sea Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,703 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Museum of Aviation. The aviation museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,213 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Парк "Минерални бани". This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,653 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Savor the flavors at Rahat Tepe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ресторант "Старият Пловдив" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RESTAURANT Raia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Morado Bar & Dinner for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Alyosha Monument, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable monument has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,433 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,705 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Plovdiv is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,603 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Plovdiv offers an experience you will remember.

Singing Fountains is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Plovdiv. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Lauta Park. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,089 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Bulgaria that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Plovdiv has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Bulgaria by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pri Ilyas (Brazilia), a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at ANYWAY Social Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Крилото Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cocktail Bar Noris provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sofia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Borisova Gradina Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,346 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

South 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 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,763 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 visitors.

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.

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Bell boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Burger and Sweets "Асеневци". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Famous Bar 2 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Grill Kolata, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

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 Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Shumen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Shumen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shumen beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Monument of Mother Bulgaria. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,765 visitors.

Marno Pole Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 visitors.

Tsarevets Fortress is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,802 visitors.

Park "Sveta Gora" is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,790 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Shumen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Shumen. 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 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 Primo Bar & Grill, 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 Hotel Minaliya Vek. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Shumen tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lavazza Coffee and Cocktails Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Zino Club offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Arizona Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Shumen, Balchik, and Madara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kavarna. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Shumen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Balchik. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Balchik, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,260 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Shumen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Balchik. Your travel time is around 1 hour 20 min.

Make Balchik Botanic Garden one of your first sightseeing stops in Balchik. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,424 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Balchik Palace is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This palace is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,545 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Kavarna. Kavarna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kavarna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at corner ltd, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Balgarka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pizza & Dinner "Morelli" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kavarna.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Kavarna, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Kariya’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Tyulenovo behind. This drive usually takes around 4 min. Kariya welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Shabla Lighthouse. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,828 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rusalka.

Journey into the unknown at Rusalka Beach, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,368 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kavarna.

Make sure to book a table at bakery Dragomira 96, a popular restaurant in Kavarna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kavarna at Chestnuts, 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 2M RestoBar. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kavarna tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dobrich and Kavarna. 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 4 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dobrich, 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 Kavarna to Dobrich may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dobrich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Museum Old Dobrich, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 692 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Градски парк "Св. Георги" Добрич is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 428 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Dobrich is Park "Sveti Georgi". Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,314 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dobrich offers an experience you will remember.

Dobrich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kavarna behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Dobrich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ronnie James Dio monument. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 828 reviews.

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 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Морска тераса, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mr Baba. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

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

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Varna. You have 3 nights left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Clock Tower of Varna. This much-appreciated clock tower is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 606 reviews.

Next up is Sea Garden. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,289 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Varna Zoo. This zoo has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 7,104 reviews.

Dolphinarium Varna is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,557 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Varna on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Happy Bar & Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Kapan is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at "Halbata" Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Muffin bar & coffee, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar HEY is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Deja Vu provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Asparuhov park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,183 reviews.

Continue your journey at Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,003 travelers from near and far.

Varna is also the home of Archaeological Museum Varna. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,157 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Retro Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,851 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Varna has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Varna offers and add your favorites to your Bulgaria travel package below.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Makalali Beach, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Marché Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Godzila Sevastopol. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cubo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gossip Bar Max is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe-Bar Vogue also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Day 11 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aladzha Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,866 visitors.

University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,599 visitors.

Monastery "Saints Constantine and Helena" is also highly recommended by travelers. This place of worship has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,634 visitors.

Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,448 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Roman Thermae Varna. This sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,712 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna), a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Amici offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sweet Parmy is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

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, The BRICK bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe Bar Soho is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Obzor and Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Burgas, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Obzor. Your travel time is around 53 min.

Take the opportunity to see Парк Обзор. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,925 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Obzor, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nessebar may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sunny Beach is a great place to start. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,830 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ancient Theatre. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,906 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Church of Saint Sophia. The church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,853 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,715 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Burgas, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Теньова къща, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Neptune, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gracia Pizzeria. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Malibu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Saxa Beach is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Barabar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 13 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Burgas before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Bulgaria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Burgas’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Bulgaria, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Bulgaria with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Burgas.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Romance Pub & Pizza, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Burgas. 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!