9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling south to Shumen and Burgas

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Varna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Varna, including a park, a church, and a museum. Start your day at Asparuhov Park. This serene park is a frequently visited place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. If stunning sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Archaeological Museum Varna. This respected museum 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 often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", an iconic dining spot in Varna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mr Baba, a popular restaurant in Varna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Chuchura Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Varna. 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, Cubo stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gossip Bar Max offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe-bar Vogue is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pliska and Veliki Preslav. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Shumen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures await you in Varna on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved museum, Archaeological Museum "professor Rasho Rashev". Afterward, continue to Pliska Fortress, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Varna’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Dvor Na Kirilicata. This locally appreciated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Preslav Fortress, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Shumen's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mehana "Hitar Petar", a top-rated dining spot in Shumen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern Oreha, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Primo Bar & Grill. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Shumen.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Zino Club, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Arizona Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Shumen and Madara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Burgas, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Shumen is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, a worthwhile monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This archeological site is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Shumen at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Madara Horseman.

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.

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 delicious meal 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.

Keep the evening going at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Pillow, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hashtagpavilion, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 7 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, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, and Burgas to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Burgas, including a beach, a castle, a park, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Veleka River Mouth. This frequently visited beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Castle Of Ravadinovo located in Burgas for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Harmanite Beach. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the village with a visit to The Sea Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this park. Next up is The Clock, a highly recommended monument.

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

As you explore more of Burgas, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Chiplakov, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ten'ova kashta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Neptune as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Bossa after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Malibu, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Saxa Beach also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Burgas and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 8 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Burgas is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, an archeological site, a church, a beach and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Nesebar Archaeological Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ancient Theatre, a breathtaking archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of Saint Sophia, one of the town’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Sunny Beach. When you're finished at the beach, Plazh Irakli awaits your visit. This beach is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cuban Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, "Halbata" Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Makalali Beach is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

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

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