Cheap One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Varna traveling west to Burgas, Stara Zagora, Sofia, and Veliko Tarnovo

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
8 days & 7 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
7 nights included
Car rental
8 days included
Flights
Economy included
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Get ready for an exciting vacation without hitting your budget hard with this 8-day cheap road trip in Bulgaria. Venture into the heart of Varna, Burgas, Nessebar, Stara Zagora, Plovdiv, Sofia, Botevgrad, Veliko Tarnovo, and Madara, where every mile is packed with value and excitement. Embrace the freedom of the open road and make memories that last a lifetime, all within your budget.

Explore Bulgaria for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Bulgaria travel package promises an exhilarating 8-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 2 nights in Varna, 1 night in Burgas, 1 night in Stara Zagora, 2 nights in Sofia, and 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Bulgaria and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Bulgaria at the lowest price!

On arrival in Varna, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Bulgaria. Bulgaria offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in Bulgaria, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

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 affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 8-day vacation in Bulgaria. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 7 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Bulgaria with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Bulgaria travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Bulgaria and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Bulgaria's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Bulgaria offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Bulgaria with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Bulgaria fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

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Included

Flights, economy included
Hotel, 7 nights
Rental car, 8 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia / 2 nights
Стара Загора -  in BulgariaStara Zagora / 1 night
Photo of aerial view of the ancient seaside town, Nessebar, Bulgaria.Nesebar
Photo of aerial view of The Cathedral of the Assumption and Varna city at amazing sunset, Bulgaria.Varna / 2 nights
Madara
Велико Търново -  in BulgariaVeliko Tarnovo / 1 night
Botevgrad
Photo of aerial view of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Plovdiv
Photo of Saint Anastasia Island in Burgas bay, Black Sea, Bulgaria. Lighthouse tower and old wooden buildings on rocky coast.Burgas / 1 night

Map

Attractions

The Sea Garden, Burgas, BulgariaThe Sea Garden
Photo of Varna spring time, beautiful aerial view above sea garden, Bulgaria.Sea Garden
Photo of sunset aerial view of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria.National Palace of Culture (NPC)
Photo of Eagles' bridge in Sofia, Bulgaria.Eagles' Bridge
Photo of the Cathedral of the Assumption in Varna, Bulgaria. Completed in 1886, and also known as the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral.Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral
Photo of toy cars with pedals, sleds, bicycles from the USSR in retro museum, Varna, Bulgaria.Retro Museum
Photo of beautiful Sunny Beach with umbrellas and sunbeds in Nesebar, Bulgaria.Sunny Beach

Flights

Car

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Varna - arrival day

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Sea Garden
  • More

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

Varna is a popular cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Bulgaria, Varna 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Sea Garden, a remarkable urban park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,572 reviews.

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.

Discover the heart of Varna through its culinary scene, starting with Staria Chinar Restaurant. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Pizza Selena, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Three Dolphins, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Vogue Cafe Bar, considered one of the best bars in Varna. You can also enjoy drinks at Cuba Beach Bar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Bar Punta Cana, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Varna.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Varna, and Burgas

  • Burgas
  • Varna
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Drive 131 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral
  • Retro Museum
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Varna. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Burgas, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a remarkable eastern orthodox cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Roman Thermae Varna. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,755 travelers.

Dolphinarium Varna is another must-visit attraction. This renowned aquarium offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,727 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Retro Museum. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 7,087 reviews.

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

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Hotel Bulgaria Burgas is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to IN BAR.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Target, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pillow provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Burgas, Nessebar, and Stara Zagora

  • Stara Zagora
  • Burgas
  • Nesebar
  • More

Drive 245 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • The Sea Garden
  • Sunny Beach
  • More

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in Bulgaria, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Burgas, and Nessebar. You'll stay in Stara Zagora for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Clock is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,766 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is The Sea Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,099 travelers.

Set your GPS to Nessebar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nessebar beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Church Of Saint Sophia. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,993 visitors.

Sunny Beach is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This town has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,959 travelers.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Fat Chef, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? At The Admiral offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurant Uniqato is the perfect spot for you!

Keep the evening going at Beer Kolobars Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Brothers' Cafe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hello Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Stara Zagora, Plovdiv, and Sofia

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 247 km, 3 hours 23 min

Day 4 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 Sofia, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 1 hour 14 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 visitors.

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 visitors.

Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is also highly recommended by travelers. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 visitors.

“tsar Simeon Garden” Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Singing Fountain. This park has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 travelers.

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

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

Hotel Forum offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Hotel ZOO Sofia. Or, try Mamma Mia Ltd, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Halbite Beer Hall, known for its inviting atmosphere. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 6 km, 46 min

  • Eagles' Bridge
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Sofia, proving that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Sofia, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Borisova Gradina Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,635 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 travelers.

Prince's Garden is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This well-loved church boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 20,088 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, National Theater "ivan Vazov" awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a point of interest, this is a top pick rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,932 previous visitors.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Sofia. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

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

Discover the heart of Sofia through its culinary scene, starting with Divaka. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Face bar & dinner, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Art Club Museum, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Sofia, Reduta, Botevgrad, and Veliko Tarnovo

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Sofia
  • Botevgrad
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Drive 247 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • National Palace of Culture (NPC)
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Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria will take you to the city of Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Veliko Tarnovo, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Bulgaria, including Sofia, Reduta, and Botevgrad.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace Of Culture. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

South Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 visitors.

Zaimov Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Reduta.

Make Geo Milev Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Botevgrad may take around 52 min. Upon your arrival in Botevgrad, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Градски Парк Ботевград. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 963 reviews.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Veliko Tarnovo, 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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Tavern "Petleto", 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 The Bell, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Famous Bar 2, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Grill Kolata is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / 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!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Veliko Tarnovo, Madara, and Varna

  • Varna
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Madara
  • More

Drive 233 km, 3 hours 10 min

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

Drop by the renowned Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,801 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Marno Pole Park. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,692 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Tsarevets Fortress. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,913 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Madara. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Madara Horseman. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,528 reviews.

Continue your journey at Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,534 travelers from near and far.

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.

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. Varna has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your foodie adventure at di Wine, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to 100 Pizzas, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Морска тераса, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Varna!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Varna - departure day

  • Varna - Departure day
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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 Varna.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Varna’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Varna is the remarkable Casino Black Sea. This casino and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 529 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Varna, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Mr Baba features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Chuchura Restaurant is a highly recommended spot.

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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