5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Veliko Tarnovo
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Varna, Balchik, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Plovdiv.
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 Varna and 1 night in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Varna, 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. Sea Garden and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Balchik Botanic Garden, learn more about the unique Tsarevets Fortress, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kaliakra.
As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Balchik, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, 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
- Varna - Arrival day
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- Sea Garden
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Varna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Varna 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.
Varna 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 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 Varna. 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 Varna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Staria Chinar Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pizza Selena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Three Dolphins. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.
Keep the evening going at Vogue Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cuba Beach Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Punta Cana, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Varna
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Drive 153 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Clock Tower of Varna
- Varna Zoo
- Aladzha Monastery
- Balchik Botanic Garden
- Kaliakra
- Knyaz Boris I Boulevard
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Varna, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Varna, Balchik, and Kavarna. You still have 1 night left in Varna.
Don’t miss Knyaz Boris I Boulevard in Varna today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Varna, including a monument, a zoo, a monastery, a botanical garden, a cliff and much more! Start your adventure at Clock Tower Of Varna. This beloved monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Varna Zoo located in Varna for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Aladzha Monastery. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the monastery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Balchik Botanic Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this botanical garden. Next up is Kaliakra, a highly recommended cliff.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Varna and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at di Wine, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try 100 Pizzas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Morska terasa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Muffin Bar & Coffee, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Hey is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Deja Vu also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Say good night to Varna and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Varna
- Veliko Tarnovo
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Park "Sveta Gora
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Monument of Mother Bulgaria
- Marno Pole Park
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Park "Children's Playground"
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Park "sveta Gora". This underrated park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Monument To The Assen Dynasty, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Varna. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Marno Pole Park. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Tsarevets Fortress, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the up-and-coming Park "children's Playground", the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Famous Bar 2, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Varna
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Drive 585 km, 7 hours 20 min
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. 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 adventure in Veliko Tarnovo promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Alyosha Monument. This historic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
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 lovely meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mr Baba is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Chuchura Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.
Keep the evening going at Cubo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gossip Bar Max, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cafe-bar Vogue, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Varna - Departure day
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- Archaeological Museum Varna
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Day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Varna 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 Archaeological Museum Varna. This underrated museum is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Varna's best shopping area, Pfohe Mall. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Varna.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Happy Bar & Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
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!
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