Cheap 9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Varna traveling south to Burgas and Shumen

Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Varna, where you'll stay for 3 nights. 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.

Journey into the unknown at Sea Garden, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,289 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.

Staria Chinar Restaurant 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, Морска тераса offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Mr Baba, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Varna, Vogue cafe bar. Cuba Beach Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Bar PUNTA CANA, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

On day 2 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Varna and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Varna — 2 nights.

Make Asparuhov park one of your first sightseeing stops in Varna. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,183 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Retro Museum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,851 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Varna Zoo. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 7,104 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Aladzha Monastery. A trip to this popular monastery is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 4,866 previous visitors.

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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Varna is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Happy Bar & Grill 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, El Kapan offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at "Halbata" Restaurant, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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.

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

Day 3 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Varna, 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 Varna, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Take the opportunity to see Roman Thermae Varna. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,712 visitors.

Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This eastern orthodox cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,003 travelers.

Varna is also the home of Archaeological Museum Varna. Around 3,157 people have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Dolphinarium Varna. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from a total of 8,557 reviews, a visit to this aquarium is a great idea.

Your discovery of Varna does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Varna on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Bulgaria.

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

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

Cubo offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Varna, check out Gossip Bar Max. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Cafe-Bar Vogue.

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

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 — Nessebar. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Burgas, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nessebar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Sunny Beach. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,830 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ancient Theatre. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,906 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to "Holy Mother Eleusa" Church. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,185 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Church of Saint Sophia. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,853 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,715 visitors.

Burgas 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, 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 Hotel Bulgaria Burgas - 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 IN BAR, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Target offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Bossa. 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 5 of your exciting road trip across Bulgaria is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Burgas and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Burgas.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Burgas and set your GPS to Sinemorets. 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 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Sinemorets, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Veleka River Mouth. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,011 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Tsarevo. This car ride takes around 32 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Arapya Beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,973 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ravadinovo, 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 Tsarevo to Ravadinovo may take around 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ravadinovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Castle of Ravadinovo. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,079 visitors.

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

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Теньова къща, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Neptune offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Gracia Pizzeria is the perfect spot for you!

Visit Malibu, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Saxa Beach serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Burgas. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Barabar.

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

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Bulgaria, you’ll tour 1: Burgas. You'll stay in Shumen for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Kick off the day at The Clock, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,744 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit The Sea Garden. The Sea Garden is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,703 reviews.

Boris's Garden (Borisova Gradina) is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,195 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Museum of Aviation. This aviation museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,213 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Парк "Минерални бани", a famous park in Burgas. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,653 travelers.

While exploring Bulgaria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Shumen has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Shumen 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, Shumen 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.

Механа "Хитър Петър" offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Primo Bar & Grill. Or, try Hotel Minaliya Vek, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lavazza Coffee and Cocktails Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Zino Club, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Arizona Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Shumen, proving that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Shumen. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Historical and archaeological reserve Shumen Fortress. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Shumen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,421 visitors.

Park Kyoshkovete is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,435 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,260 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.

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

Discover the heart of Shumen through its culinary scene, starting with Дом на Архитекта. 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 Chinese restaurant "Beijing", where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Green Garden, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Visit BACARDI CLUB, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria will take you to the city of Varna, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Varna, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Bulgaria, including Veliki Preslav and Pliska.

After soaking in Shumen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliki Preslav. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Veliki Preslav, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Preslav Fortress. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,736 visitors.

Pliska’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliki Preslav behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Pliska welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pliska Fortress. This archaeological reserve is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,359 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Archaeological Museum "Professor Rasho Rashev". This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,058 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Двор на кирилицата. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,730 visitors.

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

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 Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna). 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 Amici, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Sweet Parmy, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting THE VAULT BAR, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The BRICK bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cafe Bar Soho likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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 Varna.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Varna’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Bulgaria forever.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Varna is the remarkable Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,448 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Varna, consider a top-rated restaurant like Kramer pastry, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Staria Chinar - Port Varna is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Старият чинар Преслав, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Varna.

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!