5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling west to Shumen and Burgas
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Varna, 1 night in Shumen, and 1 night in Burgas. 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 Church Of Saint Sophia, learn more about the unique Dolphinarium Varna, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Shumen, Madara, Burgas, Nessebar, and Obzor, 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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Welcome to Varna, 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 Varna's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Find your way to your hotel in Varna. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Varna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pizza Selena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Three Dolphins. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.
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 a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Varna
- Shumen
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Drive 114 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Asparuhov park
- Dolphinarium Varna
- Retro Museum
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On day 2 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 Varna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Shumen, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Varna, including a church, a park, an aquarium, a museum and much more! Start your day at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This historic church is an often recommended place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Asparuhov Park. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dolphinarium Varna. This photogenic aquarium is a favorite among visitors.
Varna offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Retro Museum is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Shumen. Shumen 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 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.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Zino Club provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Arizona Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Shumen
- Burgas
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Madara Horseman
- Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
- The Sea Garden
- The Clock
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Madara and Burgas. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Shumen covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a park, and a monument. Start your adventure at Madara Horseman. This often recommended archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, a must-see archeological site in the village.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to The Sea Garden. This interesting park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to The Clock, where you can take in photogenic features.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Burgas's best restaurants.
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 Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Billiard Club Hot Shot. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Pillow offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Hashtagpavilion, another top-rated bar in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Burgas
- Varna
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Drive 139 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Archaeological Museum
- Ancient Theatre
- Church of Saint Sophia
- Sunny Beach
- Парк Обзор
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Nessebar and Obzor. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Burgas on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Nesebar Archaeological Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Ancient Theatre is your next stop. This underrated archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Burgas.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Church Of Saint Sophia. This romantic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Sunny Beach and Park Obzor.
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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 100 Pizzas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Morska terasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Hey is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Deja Vu also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Varna - Departure day
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- Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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Day 5 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.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a street that captures the true essence of Varna. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Varna’s shopping center, the lively Pfohe Mall. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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