7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Varna, Shumen, and Stara Zagora and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Burgas, Sinemorets, Tsarevo, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Nessebar, Obzor, Varna, Balchik, Shumen, Yambol, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv. 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 3 nights in Burgas, 1 night in Varna, 1 night in Shumen, and 1 night in Stara Zagora. 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 Burgas, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Burgas, Sinemorets, Tsarevo, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Nessebar, Obzor, Varna, Balchik, Shumen, Yambol, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv, 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
- Burgas - Arrival day
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- The Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Burgas and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Burgas for 2 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.
Burgas 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 The Sea Garden or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Burgas. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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 Burgas, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Bulgaria Burgas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Billiard Club Hot Shot offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pillow is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hashtagpavilion is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Burgas
- Sinemorets
- Tsarevo
- Ravadinovo
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Veleka River Mouth
- Arapya Beach
- Castle of Ravadinovo
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On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Burgas for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sinemorets, Tsarevo, Ravadinovo, and Sozopol to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sinemorets. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.
Begin your journey at Veleka River Mouth and explore the romantic features.
Tsarevo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sinemorets behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Tsarevo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Arapya Beach is a curiosity-inducing beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tsarevo and set your GPS to Ravadinovo. 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 36 min. Upon reaching Ravadinovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Head to Castle Of Ravadinovo, an often recommended castle in Ravadinovo. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Burgas.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Burgas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Chiplakov, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ten'ova kashta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Neptune. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Burgas tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Bossa. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Malibu, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Saxa Beach provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Burgas
- Nesebar
- Obzor
- 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 3 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 Nessebar and Obzor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Burgas, 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 40 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Nesebar Archaeological Museum is an up-and-coming museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ancient Theatre, an UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Church Of Saint Sophia, an enchanting church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Sunny Beach, a serene and truly unique beach.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nessebar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Obzor. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Park Obzor, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at Pizza Selena, 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 Three Dolphins. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Varna tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vogue Cafe Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cuba Beach Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Varna. Bar Punta Cana is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Varna
- Balchik
- Shumen
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Sea Garden
- Balchik Botanic Garden
- Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Varna and Balchik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Shumen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Varna. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church and a park. Begin your adventure at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This is a locally appreciated church you should not miss. Another must-see is Sea Garden, a notable park in Varna.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Balchik. This drive usually takes around 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Balchik Botanic Garden. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Balchik Palace. This locally renowned palace is a traveler-favorite in the city.
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.
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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Zino Club, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Arizona Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 5
- Shumen
- Yambol
- Stara Zagora
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Historical Museum
- Bezistena
- Central" park Yambol
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 Yambol. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stara Zagora. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Historical Museum. This frequently visited museum is a heritage-rich place to see in Shumen.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Yambol, 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 Shumen to Yambol may take around 2 hours 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Yambol, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Begin your journey at Bezistena and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to "central" Park Yambol, another highlight in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Stara Zagora, 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 Stara Zagora, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Fat Chef, an iconic dining spot in Stara Zagora. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of At The Admiral, a popular restaurant in Stara Zagora. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Uniqato, a hidden gem nestled in Stara Zagora. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Beer Kolobars Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brothers' Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hello Cafe is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Stara Zagora
- Plovdiv
- Burgas
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Drive 367 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Youth Hill
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Plovdiv’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Burgas. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 30 min. When you arrive in Burgas, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a notable archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Youth Hill and admire its romantic features. When you’re ready, continue to Singing Fountain, a captivating art installation beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Burgas. Burgas offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Burgas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gracia Pizzeria, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try JaV-KA food bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Romance Pizza as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Barabar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Playground, Mall Galleria, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Baywatch Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Burgas - Departure day
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- The Clock
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Day 7 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 your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Burgas's best shopping area, Burgas Plaza. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
Start your adventure at The Clock. This curiosity-inducing monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
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 for something new, try Kapana Seafront Fish Shack, another premier location with a delectable 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!
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