11-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Kavarna, Shumen, Burgas, and Sveti Vlas and surrounding area

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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Varna, Kavarna, Dobrich, Shumen, Madara, Burgas, Kiten, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Sveti Vlas, Nessebar, Goritsa, Provadia, and Devnya. 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 4 nights in Varna, 1 night in Kavarna, 1 night in Shumen, 2 nights in Burgas, and 2 nights in Sveti Vlas. 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 Balchik Palace, learn more about the unique Balchik Botanic Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kaliakra.

As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Kavarna, Dobrich, Shumen, Madara, Burgas, Kiten, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Sveti Vlas, Nessebar, Goritsa, Provadia, and Devnya, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Sea Garden
Asparuhov parkDormition of the Theotokos CathedralVarna ZooAladzha Monastery
Retro MuseumArchaeological Museum VarnaVarna Roman BathsDolphinarium Varna
Aquapark AquamaniaBalchik Dvoretsa Palace and ParkBalchik Botanic Garden
KaliakraShabla LighthouseMuseum Old DobrichPark "Sveti Georgi
Founders of the Bulgarian State MonumentPark KyoshkoveteHistorical and archaeological reserve Shumen FortressMadara National Historical and Archaeological ParkMadara Horseman

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Varna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Varna for 3 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.

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, or just taking a stroll in the city center. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizza Selena? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Three Dolphins as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.

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 to the start of your 11-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 48 km, 1 hour 18 min

  • Asparuhov park
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Varna Zoo
  • Aladzha Monastery
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Varna. Begin your sightseeing with Asparuhov Park. This intriguing park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Varna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Varna Zoo. This often recommended zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Aladzha Monastery, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at di Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 100 Pizzas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Morska terasa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Muffin Bar & Coffee offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Hey is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Deja Vu is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 16 km, 38 min

  • Retro Museum
  • Archaeological Museum Varna
  • Varna Roman Baths
  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • More

On day 3 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.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Retro Museum. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Archaeological Museum Varna, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Roman Thermae Varna, one of the most intriguing places to see in Varna. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dolphinarium Varna. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this aquarium offers.

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 lovely meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mr Baba is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Chuchura Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Varna
  • Kavarna
  • More

Drive 59 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Aquapark Aquamania
  • Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
  • Balchik Botanic Garden
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Balchik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kavarna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the intriguing Aquapark Aquamania, an instagrammable water park in Varna. Next, go to Balchik Palace.

After visiting Aquapark Aquamania and Balchik Palace, take time to explore Varna's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Balchik Botanic Garden. This romantic botanical garden offers a unique experience.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kavarna. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at corner ltd, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Balgarka is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pizza & Dinner "Morelli". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kavarna tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Kavarna
  • Shumen
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Kaliakra
  • Shabla Lighthouse
  • Museum Old Dobrich
  • Park "Sveti Georgi
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kavarna, Kariya, and Dobrich. 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.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Kaliakra. This notable cliff is an eye-catching place to see in Kavarna. Continue your discovery at Shabla Lighthouse, an enchanting lighthouse with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Kavarna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Old Dobrich. This up-and-coming museum offers a visually striking encounter with Kavarna. Next, make your way to Park "sveti Georgi" to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kavarna.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mehana "Hitar Petar", a top-rated dining destination in Shumen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Oreha, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Primo Bar & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shumen this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zino Club is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Arizona Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Shumen
  • Burgas
  • More

Drive 190 km, 3 hours 9 min

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

On day 6 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 Shumen and Madara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Shumen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a park, and an archeological site. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. Just a short distance away is Park Kyoshkovete, a serene park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. Last up on today’s itinerary is an archeological site. Make your way to Madara Horseman for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Shumen.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Billiard Club Hot Shot. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Pillow, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Burgas
  • More

Drive 136 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Beglik Tash
  • Primorsko North Beach
  • Atliman Beach
  • Castle of Ravadinovo
  • Harmanite Beach
  • More

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Burgas, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Burgas is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at Beglik Tash, an increasingly popular archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Primorsko North Beach, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Atliman Beach. This beach is one of the region’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Burgas at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Castle Of Ravadinovo. After exploring the castle, head to the worthwhile Harmanite Beach. This beach will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the region.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Chiplakov, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ten'ova kashta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Neptune. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Bossa stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Malibu offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Saxa Beach is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Burgas
  • Sveti Vlas
  • More

Drive 49 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Boris's garden (Borisova gradina)
  • The Clock
  • The Sea Garden
  • Aviomuseum Burgas
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Burgas. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sveti Vlas. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Boris's Garden (borisova Gradina) is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to The Clock, a frequently visited monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to The Sea Garden, a heritage-rich park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Burgas. If you’re looking for more, Museum Of Aviation is also an intriguing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sveti Vlas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Sveti Vlas
  • More

Drive 34 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • Sunny Beach
  • Ancient Theatre
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • Archaeological Museum
  • Camel Park Sunny Beach
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Nessebar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Sveti Vlas by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Sunny Beach. This often recommended beach is a mesmerizing place to see in Sveti Vlas. Continue your discovery at Ancient Theatre, a culturally significant archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sveti Vlas, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Saint Sophia. This locally appreciated church offers a romantic encounter with Sveti Vlas. Next, make your way to Nesebar Archaeological Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Camel Park Sunny Beach, an often recommended safari park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sveti Vlas.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sveti Vlas. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Sveti Vlas
  • Varna
  • More

Drive 155 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Zoo Gorica
  • Ovech Fortress
  • Museum Of Mosaics
  • Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (Stone Forest)
  • More

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Goritsa, Provadia, Devnya, and Aksakovo, 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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sveti Vlas, including a zoo, a castle, a museum, a rock formation and much more! Start your day with a visit to Zoo Gorica. This often recommended zoo is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ovech Fortress, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sveti Vlas on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Museum Of Mosaics, Devnya, a locally appreciated museum in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (stone Forest).

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Happy Bar & Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Kapan. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Nargile House Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Brick Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

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Day 11

Day 11

  • Varna - Departure day
  • More
  • Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship
  • More

Day 11 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Monument Of The Bulgarian-soviet Friendship. This increasingly popular monument is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Varna’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Pfohe Mall. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cuban Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, "Halbata" Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.

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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