7-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Varna to Shumen and Burgas and surrounding area

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
7 days & 6 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
6 nights included
Car rental
7 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Bulgaria that promises to leave you speechless. With this exciting adventure, you will have the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Varna, Provadia, Balchik, Kavarna, Madara, Shumen, Burgas, and Nessebar. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where every moment becomes a lasting story.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Varna, 1 night in Shumen, and 1 night in Burgas. 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. The Sea Garden and Sea Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Varna, Provadia, Balchik, Kavarna, Madara, Shumen, Burgas, and Nessebar, 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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Included

Hotel, 6 nights
Rental car, 7 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of aerial view of The Cathedral of the Assumption and Varna city at amazing sunset, Bulgaria.Varna / 4 nights
Photo of Saint Anastasia Island in Burgas bay, Black Sea, Bulgaria. Lighthouse tower and old wooden buildings on rocky coast.Burgas / 1 night
Photo of aerial view of the ancient seaside town, Nessebar, Bulgaria.Nesebar
Shumen - region in BulgariaShumen / 1 night
Photo of Ovech Fortress is a stone stronghold located east of the town of Provadia, Bulgaria.Provadia
KavarnaKavarna
Photo of Balchik Palace of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coastline, Balchik, Bulgaria.Balchik

Map

Attractions

The Sea Garden, Burgas, BulgariaThe Sea Garden
Photo of Varna spring time, beautiful aerial view above sea garden, Bulgaria.Sea Garden
Photo of Balchik Palace Castle of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coast.Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
Balchik Botanic Garden
Photo of Medieval ruins on Cape Kaliakra, Black Sea, Bulgaria.Cape Kaliakra
Church of Saint Sophia
Dolphinarium Varna
Photo of the Cathedral of the Assumption in Varna, Bulgaria. Completed in 1886, and also known as the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral.Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
Photo of beautiful Sunny Beach with umbrellas and sunbeds in Nesebar, Bulgaria.Sunny Beach
Photo of toy cars with pedals, sleds, bicycles from the USSR in retro museum, Varna, Bulgaria.Retro Museum
Madara Horseman
photo of view of Aladzha rock monastery, Bulgaria.Aladzha Monastery
Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
Photo of Ovech Fortress is a stone stronghold located east of the town of Provadia, Bulgaria.Ovech Fortress
Asparuhov park
Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (Stone Forest)
Archaeological Museum
Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument
Archaeological Museum Varna
The Clock
Varna Roman Baths
photo of view of Aerial drone view of Albena sandy beach resort, Bulgaria. Summer tourism.,Obrochishte Bulgaria.Albena
Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship
Ancient Theatre
The Windmill, Nessebar
Ronnie James Dio monumentRonnie James Dio monument

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Varna - arrival day

  • Varna - Arrival day
  • More
  • Sea Garden
  • More

Welcome to Varna, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Varna's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Varna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 Varna. 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 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.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Sweet Parmy. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Varna boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 645 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Varna is Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna). It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,318 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Happy Bar & Grill, in Varna. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,456 satisfied customers.

If you're looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Cubo, claiming it's one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,527 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Beach Bar Menthol. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,430 customers.

The Garden Bar is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Varna

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 54 km, 1 hour 19 min

  • Aladzha Monastery
  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • Retro Museum
  • Asparuhov park
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Varna for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Varna, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Varna below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Staria Chinar - Port Varna, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 4,810 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Godzila Sevastopol during your stay in Varna. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 4,248 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Staria Chinar Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Varna. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,178 satisfied guests.

Muffin bar & coffee is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 1,718 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Varna we recommend is The BRICK bar, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,387 customers.

Bar PUNTA CANA is also one of the best places to go to unwind and chat with locals. Over 1,540 bar-goers have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

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Experiences

Day 3

Day 3 – Provadia and Varna

  • Varna
  • Provadia
  • More

Drive 114 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Varna Roman Baths
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Archaeological Museum Varna
  • Pobitite Kamani Rock Formations (Stone Forest)
  • Ovech Fortress
  • More

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Varna for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Varna, Provadia, and Varna.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Provadia and set your GPS to Varna. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 50 min. Upon reaching Varna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Varna.

Reserve your spot at Морска тераса, a popular local restaurant in Varna. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,104 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience El Kapan during your stay in Varna. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,370 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Happy Bar & Grill, a popular local gem in Varna. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,955 satisfied guests.

Cuba Beach Bar is one of the best bars you can visit in Varna tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,018 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Cafe Bar Soho. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 136 customers.

Alternatively, try Makalali Beach. Makalali Beach is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,461 customers.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Balchik, Kavarna, and Shumen

  • Kavarna
  • Shumen
  • Balchik
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • Albena
  • Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
  • Balchik Botanic Garden
  • Cape Kaliakra
  • Ronnie James Dio monument
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, where you’ll be making 5 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Balchik, Balchik, Kavarna, Kavarna, and Shumen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Shumen. Shumen will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Kaliakra. This popular nature reserve has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,418 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kavarna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Shumen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Shumen. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Primo Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Shumen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,308 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Vienna garden during your stay in Shumen. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,079 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Popsheytanov's House, a renowned dining destination in Shumen. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 840 satisfied guests.

An excellent example is BACARDI CLUB, which has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,210 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Zino Club. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 646 customers.

Locals also enjoy СПОРТЕН БАР И ГРИЛ "РЕФЕРИТЕ", and you might too. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 285 customers, an after-dinner drink at СПОРТЕН БАР И ГРИЛ "РЕФЕРИТЕ" is the perfect way to end this day.

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

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Experiences

Day 5

Day 5 – Madara and Burgas

  • Burgas
  • Shumen
  • More

Drive 175 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument
  • Madara Horseman
  • Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
  • The Sea Garden
  • The Clock
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Madara, Shumen, Burgas, and Burgas, 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.

Take the opportunity to see Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,260 visitors.

Set your GPS to Burgas and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Burgas beckons with new experiences!

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Burgas. Burgas offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Burgas.

Don't miss out on experiencing Happy Bar & Grill, a renowned dining spot in Burgas. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 6,335 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Happy Bar & Grill while immersing yourself in Burgas. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,139 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Romance Pub & Pizza, a beloved dining establishment within Burgas. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,070 satisfied customers.

Papa Beer - Craft Beer Bar is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 981 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Caribe. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,358 customers.

Ti Bar & Kitchen - ресторант и бар в Бургас is another top-rated bar in the city of Burgas. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 835 customers.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Experiences

Day 6

Day 6 – Nessebar and Varna

  • Nesebar
  • Varna
  • More

Drive 140 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Archaeological Museum
  • The Windmill, Nessebar
  • Ancient Theatre
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • Sunny Beach
  • More

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 Nessebar and Varna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varna, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Burgas, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nessebar. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Journey into the unknown at Nesebar Archaeological Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,715 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, The Windmill, Nessebar is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,183 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Nessebar is Ancient Theatre. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,906 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Nessebar offers an experience you will remember.

Church of Saint Sophia is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Nessebar. This church promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,853 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Sunny Beach. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,830 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

When you’ve had your share of Nessebar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Varna. Your travel time is around 1 hour 33 min.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Varna, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Старият чинар Преслав while you’re in Varna. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 2,788 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Varna is Mr Baba. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 2,420 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

While in Varna, enjoy Captain Cook Varna’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 2,043 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at a bar. Gossip Bar Max is a great place to continue your night. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 452 customers.

If you want to know where locals go, check out Cafe-Bar Vogue. This bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 339 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is Deja Vu. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 361 customers.

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

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Experiences

Day 7

Day 7 – Varna - departure day

  • Varna - Departure day
  • More
  • Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship
  • More

Day 7 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.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Varna’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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

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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Experiences

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