7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Burgas to Varna, Shumen, and Stara Zagora and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Burgas, Sinemorets, Tsarevo, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Nessebar, Obzor, Varna, Balchik, Shumen, Yambol, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv. 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 3 nights in Burgas, 1 night in Varna, 1 night in Shumen, and 1 night in Stara Zagora. 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 Burgas, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Burgas, Sinemorets, Tsarevo, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Nessebar, Obzor, Varna, Balchik, Shumen, Yambol, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv, 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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Day 1
- Burgas - Arrival day
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- The Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Burgas and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Burgas for 2 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.
Burgas 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 The 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 Burgas. 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 Burgas, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
Keep the evening going at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Pillow, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hashtagpavilion, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Burgas
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Veleka River Mouth
- Arapya Beach
- Castle of Ravadinovo
- Harmanite Beach
- Kavatsite
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Burgas. Your adventure starts at Veleka River Mouth, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Arapya Beach. This up-and-coming beach is known for its serene appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Burgas's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Castle Of Ravadinovo. This enchanting castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Harmanite Beach is also worth visiting, along with Kavatsite. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Burgas and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Burgas. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Chiplakov, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ten'ova kashta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Neptune as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Burgas.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Bossa after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Malibu, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Saxa Beach also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Burgas
- Varna
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Drive 139 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Archaeological Museum
- Ancient Theatre
- Church of Saint Sophia
- Sunny Beach
- Парк Обзор
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Nessebar and Obzor, 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.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Ancient Theatre, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Church Of Saint Sophia, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Burgas. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Sunny Beach. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this beach offers. Then, head to Park Obzor, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.
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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pizza Selena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Three Dolphins. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vogue Cafe Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cuba Beach Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Punta Cana is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 4
- Varna
- Shumen
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
- Sea Garden
- Balchik Botanic Garden
- Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Varna and Balchik. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Shumen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Varna, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a worthwhile church in the city. Then, head to Sea Garden and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.
There are many interesting places to see in Varna, and when you are ready for more, go to Balchik Botanic Garden. This is one of the city’s most popular serene spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the locally renowned Balchik Palace.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Shumen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Shumen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mehana "Hitar Petar", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern Oreha? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Primo Bar & Grill as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Shumen.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Zino Club is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Arizona Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 5
- Shumen
- Stara Zagora
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Historical Museum
- Bezistena
- Central" park Yambol
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Shumen and Yambol. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stara Zagora, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Shumen covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a market, and a park. Start your adventure at Historical Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Bezistena, a must-see market in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to "central" Park Yambol. This worthwhile park offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Stara Zagora. Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Fat Chef, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, At The Admiral offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Uniqato is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stara Zagora.
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.
Say good night to Stara Zagora and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Stara Zagora
- Burgas
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Drive 367 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Youth Hill
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Burgas, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Stara Zagora on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable archeological site, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Afterward, continue to Youth Hill, a park every traveler should visit.
As you explore Stara Zagora’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Singing Fountain. This locally renowned art installation is an essential stop. Following that, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Burgas. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Burgas, 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.
Savor the flavors at Gracia Pizzeria, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, JaV-KA food bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Romance Pizza. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Barabar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Playground, Mall Galleria is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Baywatch Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Burgas - Departure day
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- The Clock
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Day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Burgas 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, we recommend visiting The Clock, a symbolic monument before you head out.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Burgas's best shopping area, Aleksandrovska Street. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Burgas.
Savor the flavors at Ethno Restaurant Burgas, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kapana Seafront Fish Shack beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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!
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