Cheap One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Burgas to Stara Zagora, Gabrovo, Shumen, and Varna and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Burgas, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Burgas and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

Burgas is a popular cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Bulgaria, Burgas is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Sea Garden is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,703 visitors.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Bulgaria by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Burgas that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Hotel Bulgaria Burgas. Or, try IN BAR, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Bar Target, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Bar Bossa, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria will take you to the city of Stara Zagora, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Stara Zagora, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Bulgaria, including Burgas, Sozopol, and Ravadinovo.

Set your GPS to Ravadinovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ravadinovo beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Boris's Garden (Borisova Gradina), a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,195 reviews.

Sozopol’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ravadinovo behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Sozopol welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cape Agalina. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 1,043 reviews.

Sozopol’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ravadinovo behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Sozopol welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Harmanite Beach. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,134 visitors.

Stara Zagora offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Stara Zagora, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

The Fat Chef offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to At The Admiral. Or, try Restaurant Uniqato, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beer Kolobars Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Brothers' cafe offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stara Zagora. Hello Cafe is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria is another proof that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Plovdiv. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Gabrovo, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,603 reviews.

Next up is Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,705 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,346 reviews.

Singing Fountains is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,362 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Youth Hill. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,014 reviews.

While exploring Bulgaria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Gabrovo has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Gabrovo on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Gabrovo, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Strannopriemnitsa offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Vanilla coffee&food, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cap off your dinner by heading to MODA BAR, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

Day 4 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, and Boicheta. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Shumen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dolni Varpishta. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael". This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,938 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dolni Varpishta and set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,802 reviews.

Next up is Park "Sveta Gora". This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,790 visitors.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Boicheta.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ethno village Etar is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,151 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Shumen. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Shumen, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Shumen offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Bulgaria.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Механа "Хитър Петър", where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Primo Bar & Grill, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Hotel Minaliya Vek, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Keep the evening going at Lavazza Coffee and Cocktails Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Zino Club, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Arizona Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Bulgaria, you’ll tour 2: Balchik and Kavarna. You'll stay in Varna for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you arrive in Balchik, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Balchik Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,545 visitors.

Balchik Botanic Garden is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,424 visitors.

When you arrive in Balchik, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Albena. This extraordinary seaside resort has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,519 visitors.

Upon reaching Kavarna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Kaliakra, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This nature reserve is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,418 reviews.

Varna offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Varna should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Varna, try some of our top recommendations.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Морска тераса - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Mr Baba, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vogue cafe bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cuba Beach Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar PUNTA CANA is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

A road trip vacation in Balchik can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria!

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Bulgaria. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Varna! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Varna and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Drop by the renowned Dolphinarium Varna. This popular aquarium has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,557 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Sea Garden. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,289 visitors, this urban park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,003 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Retro Museum. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,851 local and international travelers.

Touring the best attractions in Bulgaria offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Bulgaria you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Bulgaria.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Varna, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Happy Bar & Grill, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is El Kapan, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss "Halbata" Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Muffin bar & coffee and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Bar HEY is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Deja Vu, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Obzor and Nessebar. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Burgas, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varna 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 53 min. Upon reaching Obzor, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Парк Обзор, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,925 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Sunny Beach one of your first sightseeing stops in Nessebar. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,830 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Ancient Theatre is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,906 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Church of Saint Sophia. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,853 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Nesebar Archaeological Museum. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 3,715 previous visitors.

While exploring Bulgaria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Burgas has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Burgas on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Burgas has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your foodie adventure at Теньова къща, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Neptune, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Gracia Pizzeria, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Malibu, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Saxa Beach, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Barabar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Bulgaria! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Burgas!

Your budget road trip vacation in Bulgaria is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Burgas.

As you approach the end of your journey in Bulgaria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Burgas’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Bulgaria, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Bulgaria with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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 have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Burgas, consider a top-rated restaurant like Romance Pizza, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Romance Pub & Pizza is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Кинг Конг Бургер, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Burgas.

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!