9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna traveling south to Shumen and Burgas

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Varna, including a park, a church, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Asparuhov Park. This beloved park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Varna on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Archaeological Museum Varna, a beloved museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Retro Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Varna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mr Baba offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chuchura Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cubo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gossip Bar Max, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cafe-bar Vogue provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pliska and Veliki Preslav. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Shumen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Varna covers several incredible sights, including a museum and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Archaeological Museum "professor Rasho Rashev". This up-and-coming museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Pliska Fortress, a must-see museum in the town.

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 Dvor Na Kirilicata. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Preslav Fortress, where you can take in breathtaking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Shumen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mehana "Hitar Petar", a top-rated dining destination in Shumen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Oreha, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Primo Bar & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shumen this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zino Club offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Arizona Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

On day 6 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 Shumen and Madara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Shumen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic monument before continuing your journey. Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress is your next stop. This underrated archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Shumen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park. This culturally significant archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Madara Horseman.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Burgas. Burgas 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 Burgas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Bulgaria Burgas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Burgas.

Continue your lively evening at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Pillow is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hashtagpavilion ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sinemorets, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, and Burgas. You still have 1 night left in Burgas.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the worthwhile Veleka River Mouth, an instagrammable beach in Burgas. Next, go to Castle Of Ravadinovo.

After visiting Veleka River Mouth and Castle Of Ravadinovo, have a stroll along Burgas's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Harmanite Beach. This serene beach offers a unique experience. The Sea Garden is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to The Clock, one of the most photogenic places to visit in Burgas.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Burgas's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Bossa, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Malibu provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Saxa Beach offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nessebar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Burgas includes a museum, an archeological site, a church, a beach and much more! Nesebar Archaeological Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ancient Theatre, a worthwhile archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of Saint Sophia, a majestic church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Burgas. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Sunny Beach. If you’re looking for more, Plazh Irakli is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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 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.

Dine in style at Cuban Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, "Halbata" Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Makalali Beach. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varna.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Bar Soho stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Beach Bar Menthol offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Garden Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!