5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Varna to Veliko Tarnovo

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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Varna, Balchik, Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, 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 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Sea Garden
Clock Tower of VarnaVarna ZooAladzha MonasteryBalchik Botanic GardenKaliakraKnyaz Boris I Boulevard
Park "Sveta GoraMonument to the Assen DynastyMonument of Mother BulgariaMarno Pole ParkTsarevets FortressPark "Children's Playground"
Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
Archaeological Museum Varna

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Varna - Arrival day
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  • Sea Garden
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Say hello to Varna! 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 Varna for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vogue Cafe Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cuba Beach Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Punta Cana is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

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, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Varna is Knyaz Boris I Boulevard. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

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 often recommended 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 breathtaking features will captivate you. After the monastery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Balchik Botanic Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching 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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Varna's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at di Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, 100 Pizzas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Morska terasa. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

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"
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Veliko Tarnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Varna, including a park, a monument, a castle, a playground and much more! Start your day with a visit to Park "sveta Gora". This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, which may be one of the most remarkable 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 Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a locally appreciated monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Marno Pole Park and Tsarevets Fortress. End your day with a visit to Park "children's Playground", a beloved playground that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Veliko Tarnovo at Tavern "Petleto", 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 The Bell. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Famous Bar 2, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Grill Kolata, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

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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Dive into day 4 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 Varna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Veliko Tarnovo is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument and an archeological site. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Alyosha Monument and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a respected archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Varna. Varna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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 Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a highly-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Cubo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gossip Bar Max is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cafe-bar Vogue ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

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 beloved museum is a popular place to see in the city.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Happy Bar & Grill is another top choice with a popular 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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