7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Sveti Vlas, Stara Zagora, and Burgas
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Varna, Dobrich, Sveti Vlas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Plovdiv, Burgas, Ravadinovo, and Sozopol.
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 Varna, 1 night in Sveti Vlas, 1 night in Stara Zagora, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, learn more about the unique “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Singing Fountain.
As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Dobrich, Sveti Vlas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Plovdiv, Burgas, Ravadinovo, and Sozopol, 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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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 2 nights immersing yourself in Varna's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Varna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
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.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizza Selena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Three Dolphins is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.
Continue your lively evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Beach Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Punta Cana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Varna
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour
- Asparuhov park
- Sea Garden
- Varna Zoo
- Dolphinarium Varna
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today's adventure in Varna promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Asparuhov Park. This mesmerizing park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Sea Garden, another remarkable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Varna Zoo, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Dolphinarium Varna. This instagrammable aquarium is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Hey, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Deja Vu likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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 3
- Varna
- Dobrich
- Sveti Vlas
- More
Drive 194 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Archaeological Museum Varna
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Retro Museum
- Park "Sveti Georgi
- More
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 Varna and Dobrich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sveti Vlas, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Archaeological Museum Varna. This underrated museum is a respected place to see in Varna. Continue your discovery at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a historic church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Varna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Retro Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum offers a standout encounter with Varna.
After soaking in Varna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dobrich. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Dobrich, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Park "sveti Georgi", a locally appreciated 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 Sveti Vlas. Sveti Vlas 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sveti Vlas's best restaurants.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Sveti Vlas
- Nesebar
- Stara Zagora
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Drive 214 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Sunny Beach
- Западна крепостна стена
- Archaeological Museum
- Ancient Theatre
- Church of Saint Sophia
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nessebar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stara Zagora, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Nessebar’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stara Zagora. This car ride takes around 2 hours 10 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Sunny Beach, a curiosity-inducing beach known for its eye-catching features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Zapadna Krepostna Stena, an increasingly popular archeological site that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Nesebar Archaeological Museum and uncover the details of this eye-catching museum. Make sure to also explore Ancient Theatre, a worthwhile archeological site that offers a unique experience. For your last stop, consider Church Of Saint Sophia, an UNESCO world heritage-listed church that many travelers find worth the detour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stara Zagora. 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 Stara Zagora. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at The Fat Chef, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, At The Admiral boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Uniqato. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Stara Zagora.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Beer Kolobars Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Brothers' Cafe for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hello Cafe is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Stara Zagora and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- 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
- More
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 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Burgas. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Burgas. Your travel time is around 2 hours 30 min.
Make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known archeological site that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Youth Hill, a serene park that stands out in the city. Next, visit Singing Fountain, a popular art installation that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a nearby park, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
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.
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 Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Billiard Club Hot Shot, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pillow is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Burgas
- Ravadinovo
- Sozopol
- Varna
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Drive 189 km, 3 hours 27 min
- The Clock
- The Sea Garden
- Castle of Ravadinovo
- Harmanite Beach
- More
Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Burgas, Ravadinovo, and Sozopol, 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 Varna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. 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. The Clock is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this symbolic monument before continuing your journey. The Sea Garden is your next stop. This well-known park is one of the best-rated sights in Burgas.
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 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Castle Of Ravadinovo, an often recommended castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking in Ravadinovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sozopol. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Sozopol, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Harmanite Beach, an often recommended beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Varna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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 satisfying 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Varna - Departure day
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- Casino Black Sea
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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 Varna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Varna’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Varna Mall. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.
Get ready for a day filled with exciting experiences in the charming city of Varna. Your adventure starts at Casino Black Sea, an up-and-coming local hot spot.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.
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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