Relaxed 7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Burgas

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Photo of panoramic view on Varna beach on Black sea in Bulgaria.
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Set out on this 7-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria, where Varna, Madara, Shumen, Burgas, Sinemorets, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Nessebar, and Obzor offer rich culture, beautiful views, and memorable experiences at every stop!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Bulgaria, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 4 nights in Varna and 2 nights in Burgas, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Bulgaria.

Your journey starts in Varna, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 7-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Bulgaria already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning The Sea Garden and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Sea Garden.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Bulgaria road trip itinerary for 7 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Bulgaria.

If you want to make your 7-day relaxed self-drive tour in Bulgaria even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Bulgaria includes 6 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 7 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 7-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Bulgaria today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Sea Garden
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Your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Varna, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Varna and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Varna. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas 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 Varna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizza Selena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Three Dolphins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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 as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Bulgaria. Enjoy your first taste of Varna as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 37 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Aladzha Monastery
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Archaeological Museum Varna
  • Retro Museum
  • More

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Varna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Varna. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Varna!

Aladzha Monastery is must-visit monastery and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, an often recommended church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Archaeological Museum Varna, a standout museum, also available for your discovery today.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Varna offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at di Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, 100 Pizzas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Morska terasa. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Varna and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Bulgaria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Bulgaria tomorrow with new energy.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 26 km, 58 min

  • Asparuhov park
  • Varna Roman Baths
  • Varna Zoo
  • Dolphinarium Varna
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Varna, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Varna, and meet locals along the way!

Catch Asparuhov Park before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Roman Thermae Varna, a must-visit archeological site in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Varna Zoo, an up-and-coming zoo. For a change of scene, check out Dolphinarium Varna, known for its instagrammable features.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Varna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Varna.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Varna
  • Madara
  • Shumen
  • Burgas
  • More

Drive 248 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
  • Madara Horseman
  • Park Kyoshkovete
  • Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument
  • More

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Madara and end it in Burgas. You’ll stay in Burgas for 2 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Bulgaria.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Madara may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Madara, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park is a worthwhile archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its detailed features before continuing your self-guided tour to Madara Horseman, a historic archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

After soaking in Madara’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Shumen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 30 min. When you arrive in Shumen, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Park Kyoshkovete. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This intriguing monument is a traveler-favorite in the village.

In Burgas, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Bulgaria Burgas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Burgas. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pillow. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Hashtagpavilion, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Burgas
  • Sinemorets
  • Ravadinovo
  • Sozopol
  • More

Drive 181 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Veleka River Mouth
  • Castle of Ravadinovo
  • Harmanite Beach
  • The Sea Garden
  • The Clock
  • More

Your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Bulgaria better by exploring the top attractions of Burgas and beyond. With 1 night left in Burgas, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Your adventure in Burgas is only getting started when you visit The Sea Garden, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is The Clock. This increasingly popular monument is known for its eye-catching appeal.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Sinemorets, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Burgas to Sinemorets may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sinemorets, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sinemorets is Veleka River Mouth, an intriguing beach that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

When you’ve had your share of Sinemorets, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ravadinovo. Your travel time is around 54 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Castle Of Ravadinovo, a frequently visited castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sozopol. This car ride takes around 8 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Harmanite Beach, a beloved beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Burgas has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Chiplakov, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ten'ova kashta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Neptune. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Burgas. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Bossa, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Malibu offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Saxa Beach provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Burgas
  • Nesebar
  • Obzor
  • Varna
  • More

Drive 139 km, 2 hours 47 min

  • Archaeological Museum
  • Ancient Theatre
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • Sunny Beach
  • Парк Обзор
  • More

On day 6 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Burgas and set your GPS to Nessebar. 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 40 min. Upon reaching Nessebar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a beloved museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Ancient Theatre, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated surroundings.

Next, explore Church Of Saint Sophia, yet another underrated place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Sunny Beach. This serene beach is well worth the visit.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nessebar and set your GPS to Obzor. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Obzor, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Park Obzor, an intriguing park known for its picturesque features.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria as you make your way to Varna. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Varna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Happy Bar & Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Kapan. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Bulgaria.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Vault Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Nargile House Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Brick Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Varna - Departure day
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  • Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Varna.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Varna, Grand Mall Varna is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a street that you shouldn't miss while in Varna. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Varna, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

If you're eager to try something different, consider "Halbata" Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Varna and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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