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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Say hello to Burgas! Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Burgas for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Burgas. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a top-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Billiard Club Hot Shot, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Pillow is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Hashtagpavilion is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Burgas. Begin your sightseeing with Veleka River Mouth. This intriguing beach is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Arapya Beach, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Burgas, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Castle Of Ravadinovo. This increasingly popular castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Harmanite Beach, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Kavatsite is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Burgas.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Chiplakov, 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 Ten'ova kashta, 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 Neptune, a hidden gem nestled in Burgas. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Bossa, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Malibu is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Saxa Beach is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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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On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Nessebar and Obzor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Burgas, including a museum, an archeological site, a church, a beach, a park and much more! Start your day at Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Burgas. Then, wander over to Ancient Theatre. If historic sites excite you, this archeological site will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Church Of Saint Sophia. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is a favorite among visitors.
Burgas offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Sunny Beach is a locally appreciated spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the beach, don’t forget to check out the picturesque Park Obzor. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Varna, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Varna. 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.
Savor the flavors at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizza Selena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Three Dolphins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Vogue Cafe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cuba Beach Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Varna and Balchik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Shumen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Varna is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, a curiosity-inducing church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sea Garden, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Balchik Botanic Garden. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Varna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Balchik Palace.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Shumen. Shumen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Shumen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mehana "Hitar Petar", a popular restaurant in Shumen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Shumen at Tavern Oreha, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Primo Bar & Grill. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Shumen tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Zino Club offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Arizona Lounge provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Shumen and Yambol. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stara Zagora. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Shumen. Your adventure starts at Historical Museum, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bezistena. This curiosity-inducing market is known for its instagrammable appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Shumen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to "central" Park Yambol. This picturesque park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stara Zagora. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Stara Zagora, 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Fat Chef, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, At The Admiral is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Uniqato. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Stara Zagora tonight.
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.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in 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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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, 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 Burgas. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the interesting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a respected archeological site in Stara Zagora. Next, go to Youth Hill.
After visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and Youth Hill, have a stroll along Stara Zagora's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Singing Fountain. This romantic art installation offers a unique experience. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Burgas, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Burgas. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Gracia Pizzeria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, JaV-KA food bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Romance Pizza. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Burgas.
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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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, begin at The Clock. This locally appreciated monument is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Burgas’s popular marketplace, Aleksandrovska Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
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're eager to try something different, consider Kapana Seafront Fish Shack, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
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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