6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Shumen and Burgas and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Let Asparuhov Park set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is your next stop. This locally appreciated church is one of the best-rated sights in Varna.

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 Retro Museum. This history-steeped museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Dolphinarium Varna.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at di Wine, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try 100 Pizzas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Morska terasa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Muffin Bar & Coffee. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Hey, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Deja Vu provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Balchik and Kavarna. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Shumen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Balchik. 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 38 min. Upon reaching Balchik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Albena, an increasingly popular beach that everyone visiting Balchik should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna and set your GPS to Balchik. 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 38 min. Upon reaching Balchik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Balchik Botanic Garden is an interesting botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Balchik Palace, an enchanting palace that’s well-regarded in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Balchik and set your GPS to Kavarna. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Kavarna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kavarna is Kaliakra, a popular cliff that draws attention for its serene features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Shumen. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Shumen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Mehana "Hitar Petar", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern Oreha beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Primo Bar & Grill. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Shumen tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Zino Club is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Arizona Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Madara and Burgas. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Madara. This car ride takes around 20 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Madara Horseman. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This up-and-coming archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Burgas. This car ride takes around 2 hours 15 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to The Sea Garden, an interesting park that everyone visiting Burgas should see. Next, head to The Clock. This heritage-rich monument is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an iconic dining spot in Burgas. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, a popular restaurant in Burgas. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mladost Cafe & Patisserie, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Nessebar, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Nessebar may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nessebar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Nesebar Archaeological Museum is an underrated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Windmill, Nessebar, an enchanting monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ancient Theatre, a picture-perfect archeological site. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Church Of Saint Sophia, a grand and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Sunny Beach, a beloved beach that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the town.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Varna is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Varna.

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!