Cheap 9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Burgas to Stara Zagora, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, and Kavarna and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Burgas, where you'll stay for 2 nights. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Clock, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,744 reviews.

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.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Billiard Club Hot Shot, considered one of the best bars in Burgas. You can also enjoy drinks at Bar Target, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Bar Bossa, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Burgas.

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

On day 2 of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Burgas. You’ll stay in Burgas for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Bulgaria, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Burgas, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Tsarevo may take around 59 min. Upon your arrival in Tsarevo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Arapya Beach, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,973 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ravadinovo and set your GPS to Sozopol. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Sozopol, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Harmanite Beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,134 visitors.

When you’re finished at Harmanite Beach, head to Kavatsite. This one-of-a-kind bay is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,692 reviews.

After soaking in Sinemorets’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ravadinovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Ravadinovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Castle of Ravadinovo, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,079 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Burgas.

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.

Теньова къща 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, Neptune offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Gracia Pizzeria, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Malibu is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Saxa Beach is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Barabar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 3 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Bulgaria, including Plovdiv.

When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Plovdiv. Your travel time is around 2 hours 27 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Plovdiv, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,603 visitors.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,705 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Youth Hill. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,014 reviews.

Singing Fountains is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park, perhaps the most famous park in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 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.

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 Stara Zagora that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Beer Kolobars Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brothers' cafe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hello Cafe also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 Stara Zagora, Dolni Varpishta, and Boicheta. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Boicheta, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stara Zagora to Boicheta may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Boicheta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Artileriyski Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,601 visitors.

Next, make your way to Park “Ayazmo“. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,233 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to “Bedechka” Park. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,214 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dolni Varpishta, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Boicheta to Dolni Varpishta may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dolni Varpishta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael" is a great place to start. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,938 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Boicheta. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ethno village Etar. 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 Veliko Tarnovo. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Veliko Tarnovo, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places 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.

Discover the heart of Veliko Tarnovo through its culinary scene, starting with Restaurant "Ethno". 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 The Bell, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Burger and Sweets "Асеневци", renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Famous Bar 2, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Grill Kolata offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Veliko Tarnovo. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

After soaking in Veliko Tarnovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Madara. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 2 min. When you arrive in Madara, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Monument of Mother Bulgaria. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,765 reviews.

Marno Pole Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,637 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Tsarevets Fortress. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,802 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Madara. This car ride takes around 2 hours 2 min.

Make Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,479 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Madara Horseman. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,423 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

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

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Bulgaria shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Varna is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vogue cafe bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cuba Beach Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar PUNTA CANA. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Bulgaria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

Day 6 means another chance to make the best memories in Varna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Varna and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Retro Museum, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,851 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,003 travelers.

Sea Garden is another must-visit attraction. This renowned urban park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,289 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 Dolphinarium Varna. This well-loved aquarium boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 8,557 reviews.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Bulgaria sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Bulgaria. Bulgaria has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Bulgaria that will fill you with new inspiration.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Varna. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

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.

Muffin bar & coffee is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Bar HEY is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Deja Vu, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 7 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 3 wonderful destinations — Balchik, Dobrich, and Kavarna. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Kavarna, where you'll be spending 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Balchik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dobrich may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Dobrich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Balchik Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,545 reviews.

Continue your journey at Balchik Botanic Garden. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,424 travelers from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Balchik and set your GPS to Dobrich. 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 38 min. Upon reaching Dobrich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Park "Sveti Georgi". This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,314 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Balchik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dobrich may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Dobrich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Albena. This extraordinary seaside resort is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,519 visitors.

Kavarna 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 town.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Kavarna. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at corner ltd, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Restaurant Balgarka, 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 Pizza & Dinner "Morelli", an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the town of Kavarna!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kavarna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Sunny Beach. This much-appreciated town is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,830 reviews.

Next up is Church of Saint Sophia. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,853 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Church of Christ Pantokrator. This museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,483 reviews.

Nesebar Archaeological Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,715 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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Romance Pizza, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Romance Pub & Pizza is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Кинг Конг Бургер, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Bulgaria is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Burgas.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Burgas’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Bulgaria, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Bulgaria home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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 Zlatna ribka, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Happy Bar & Grill is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Grog, 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!