Cheap 12-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling north to Sofia, Gabrovo, Shumen, Varna, and Burgas

Photo of aerial view of the Bulgarian city Plovdiv.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
12 days & 11 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
11 nights included
Car rental
12 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Bring out the adventurer in you and embark on an exciting 12-day road trip through Bulgaria! Travel to Plovdiv, Sofia, Gabrovo, Shumen, Varna, and Burgas with this cheap holiday package!

Explore Bulgaria for less with this 12-day self-drive package. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country. See the stunning Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, the captivating South Park, and marvel at the uniqueness of each attraction. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Bulgaria and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. Lastly, this travel plan allows you to stay and feel comfortable at a top-rated budget hotel for 3 nights in Plovdiv, 3 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Gabrovo, 1 night in Shumen, 2 nights in Varna, and 1 night in Burgas.

This customizable and cheap Bulgaria travel package promises non-stop adventure. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Bulgaria at the lowest price!

On arrival in Plovdiv, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Bulgaria. Explore the magnificent Borisova Gradina Park to see its unique features. Visit the fascinating St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and take in its distinct atmosphere. Bulgaria offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your journey, you'll have the pleasure of staying at top-rated budget accommodations, each selected for their exceptional value, comfort, and positive guest reviews. Each stop along your carefully planned route has been chosen to enhance your travel experience, offering you a blend of convenience, comfort, and a touch of local culture, ensuring a restful retreat after a day of adventures.

Choosing the handpicked recommendations gives you easy access to popular places of interest in Bulgaria. With accommodation conveniently located in a downtown area, you can explore its surroundings at your leisure. Here, you can sample the country’s culinary delicacies and buy keepsakes of your travels in Bulgaria.

This cheap holiday package will bring you close to many picture-perfect destinations in Bulgaria, like the stunning Sea Garden. You'll visit the incredible The Sea Garden to make lasting memories. You'll also have the chance to admire the outstanding Balchik Palace up close.

Your camera will be full of memories you can share with friends and family or on social media. By the end of your 12-day road trip, you'll leave Bulgaria happy and inspired to go on another unique and budget-friendly adventure.

This affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 12-day vacation in Bulgaria. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 11 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Bulgaria with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Bulgaria travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Bulgaria and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Bulgaria’s famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions There’s no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Bulgaria offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Bulgaria with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours to Bulgaria fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

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Included

Hotel, 11 nights
Rental car, 12 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia / 3 nights
Photo of aerial view of beautiful cityscape of Gabrovo, Bulgaria.Gabrovo / 1 night
Стара Загора -  in BulgariaStara Zagora
Photo of aerial view of the ancient seaside town, Nessebar, Bulgaria.Nesebar
Photo of aerial view of The Cathedral of the Assumption and Varna city at amazing sunset, Bulgaria.Varna / 2 nights
Photo of Balchik Palace of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coastline, Balchik, Bulgaria.Balchik
Photo of panoramic aerial view of Samokov, Bulgaria.Samokov
Shumen - region in BulgariaShumen / 1 night
Велико Търново -  in BulgariaVeliko Tarnovo
Photo of aerial view of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Plovdiv / 3 nights
Photo of Saint Anastasia Island in Burgas bay, Black Sea, Bulgaria. Lighthouse tower and old wooden buildings on rocky coast.Burgas / 1 night

Map

Attractions

The Sea Garden, Burgas, BulgariaThe Sea Garden
Photo of Varna spring time, beautiful aerial view above sea garden, Bulgaria.Sea Garden
South Park
Borisova Gradina Park
Photo of Balchik Palace Castle of Romanian Queen Marie at Bulgarian Black Sea coast.Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
Tsar Simeon Garden
Balchik Botanic Garden
Park "Zaimov"
Ethno village Etar
Sofia Zoo, R-7276261, R-186382, R-4283101Sofia Zoo
Photo of sunset aerial view of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria.National Palace of Culture
Singing Fountains
Tsarevets Fortress
North Park
Church of Saint Sophia
Park "Geo Milev
Ivan Vazov" National Theater
Photo of Eagles' bridge in Sofia, Bulgaria.Eagles' Bridge
Druzhba Park
Park “Ayazmo“
Dolphinarium Varna
Holy Trinity Park
Knyazheska Garden
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 ruins of a late antiquity fortress with religious complex "Tsari Mali Grad" from the 6th century, Bulgaria.Tsari Mali Grad
Bedechka Park
Dryanovo monastery "St Archangel Michael
Sveta Nedelya Church
Youth Hill
Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
Park "Sveta Gora
Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
Photo of aerial view of the Alyosha soldier monument in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Alyosha Monument
Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
Archaeological Museum
Artilereeski Park
Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument
photo of view of Stock Photo ID: 323530922  Bliznaka (Twin) Lake in Rila mountain, Bulgaria,Bistritsa Bulgaria.Rila
The Clock
Museum of Natural Sciences
City Park by the river Iskar
Ancient Theatre
Church of the Holy Mother Eleusa

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 – Plovdiv - arrival day

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
  • More
  • Youth Hill
  • More

Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Plovdiv and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

Plovdiv is a popular cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria with something to offer every traveler. When you're ready to explore the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Plovdiv and get this road trip adventure rolling.

A trip to the amazing Youth Hill will make your cheap holiday in Bulgaria truly special. This attraction is a fascinating park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,014 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best budget-friendly hotels or places to stay in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv. An excellent example is the popular Aylyakriya / Aylyakria Restaurant. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,229 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Bulgaria is Happy Bar & Grill Novotel. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,350 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the city's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Torro Grande / Torro Grande. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,651 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Rahat Tepe is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 2,984 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Plovdiv we recommend is Club Fargo, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers.

Kotka i Mishka, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar is also one of the best places to go to unwind and chat with locals. Over 1,070 bar-goers have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Plovdiv

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 8 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Museum of Natural Sciences
  • Alyosha Monument
  • More

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, proving that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can be extraordinary.

You'll begin sightseeing at the extraordinary Singing Fountains. This attraction is a park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,362 travelers.

Another of the best travel destinations you can explore in this fun and cheap holiday destination is the spectacular “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This popular place of interest is a stunning park that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,346 visitors.

To make your trip to Plovdiv more memorable, spend time at the fascinating Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,603 traveler reviews, it’s not surprising that the fantastic Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is often mentioned in Bulgaria road trip itineraries.

The magnificent Museum of Natural Sciences is another stop you might want to add to your sightseeing plans. This museum and popular travel destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,478 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something else, make your way to the amazing Alyosha Monument. More than 4,433 visitors have rated this monument and tourist destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Your discovery of Plovdiv does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Plovdiv on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Bulgaria.

After exploring some of the most remarkable sights in Bulgaria, you also have the chance to experience the country’s food culture. Eat at Pavaj, one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,861 reviews.

You can also check out Restaurant SOUTH breeze. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers in the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,322 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your road trip activities is Hemingway Restaurant. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,363 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.

When you’ve finished your meal, head to some of the most popular bars in Plovdiv for an after-dinner drink. Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Rock Bar Download and try some of its cocktails and snacks. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 845 customers.

No sens klub is another great place to hang out in and relax after a busy day in the city. This bar offers various drinks at affordable prices and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 984 customers.

If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Bar The Post. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 425 customers, this bar is one of the best places to unwind and socialize in Plovdiv.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible road trip adventure in the magical Plovdiv!

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Experiences

Day 3

Day 3 – Bistritsa and Sofia

  • Samokov
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 258 km, 3 hours 50 min

  • City Park by the river Iskar
  • Tsari Mali Grad
  • Rila
  • More

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to explore two popular cheap holiday destinations in one day. You’ll start your day in the city of Samokov and end your day in the city of Bistritsa.

Today's agenda features plenty of popular stops and allows you to stay in Sofia for 3 nights. How much time you want to spend in each area or attraction is up to you. This way, you’ll have all the time you want to take in the unique atmosphere of each location and make the most of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria.

While you’re in Samokov, it’s a good idea to visit the amazing City Park by the river Iskar. The fantastic City Park by the river Iskar is a popular park and a sightseeing hotspot. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,225 travelers.

Once you’ve satisfied your wanderlust in Samokov, you’ll continue to your next road trip destination of the day, the city of Bistritsa.

Make Rila your first stop. This popular urban park among locals and travelers alike has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,899 visitors.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the affordable tours you can join this day of your cheap holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the road trip experience of a lifetime.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget accommodations in the city of Sofia. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Sofia, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, one of the best restaurants in Sofia. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,010 customers.

Restaurant "Staria Chinar" is yet another of the top places to eat in the city. Restaurant "Staria Chinar" is known for serving a variety of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,717 diners.

Locals and travelers enjoy dining at Art Club Museum, another well-loved restaurant in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,570 guests, this restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Bulgaria.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in Sofia, Bar Friday. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is a popular hangout spot among locals. In addition, this bar has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,410 bar goers.

The Cocktail Bar is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Sofia, with its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,814 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by One More Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 customers.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Bulgaria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Sofia Zoo
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Knyazheska Garden
  • National Palace of Culture
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip adventures in Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Sofia, and meet locals along the way!

Sofia offers an incredible variety of budget hotels and places to stay you can choose from and spend the night in.

We recommend you stay at the charming Sofia Hotel Balkan, a Luxury Collection Hotel to ensure a pleasant and affordable vacation in Sofia. This 5-star hotel offers guests comfort and convenience and is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 4,597 guest reviews.

Another budget-friendly stay option you can check into is the cozy 4-star Best Western Terminus Hotel. This cheap hotel provides a ton of handy amenities perfect for travelers in Sofia. Best Western Terminus Hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,837 former guests.

Travelers looking forward to enjoying a cheap vacation in Sofia should also consider Leda Hotel. This 3-star hotel offers great value-for-money and is one of the best budget accommodations in the city. Leda Hotel has been rated by 1,295 guests with an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Popular hotels and places to stay in Sofia offering low-cost accommodations get fully-booked fast. If any of these stay options are not available during your visit in the city, our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best budget alternatives.

One thing that makes Sofia the perfect cheap holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular attractions. For example, the outstanding zoo, Sofia Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,962 visitors.

The famous Borisova Gradina Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. This incredible park and travel destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,346 visitors.

Sofia is also the home of the extraordinary Eagles' Bridge. Around 10,196 travelers have rated the spectacular Eagles' Bridge an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Knyazheska Garden. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,672 reviews, a visit to this wonderful park and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

This day of your road trip through Bulgaria is also your chance to admire the fantastic National Palace of Culture up close. This fascinating convention center and attraction is a must-visit. The marvelous National Palace of Culture enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 travelers.

Come to Sofia prepared by adding a tour to your budget vacation package to Bulgaria. If you’re up for a challenging, fun, or inspiring activity, check out the fantastic selection of tours and cheap holiday deals in Sofia.

After a day of exploring, reward yourself by dining at one of the best restaurants in Sofia, The Wrong Bar. Locals enjoy eating at The Wrong Bar for its good food and ambiance. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,293 diners.

Taj Mahal Restaurant serves various affordable and delicious dishes perfect for cheap holiday goers. On top of that, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,423 food lovers.

If you want more options, Luciano is another great spot. Browse through its exciting menu and you'll see why Luciano has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,291 reviews.

Curious about the nightlife in Sofia? Consider visiting some of the best bars in Sofia after dinner. Locals recommend Halbite Beer Hall, and it's a great spot to enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,280 customers.

Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy road trip in Bulgaria. Lime Cafe & Cocktails has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,223 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Sofia.

You might also want to cap the night off at 5 Corners Pub, a fascinating bar that 1,463 customers have rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

Raise a toast and enjoy celebrating this terrific day of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 5

Day 5 – Sofia

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 16 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • North Park
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

Day 5’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Sofia, proving that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can be extraordinary.

You'll begin sightseeing at the extraordinary North Park. This attraction is a park that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,850 travelers.

Another of the best travel destinations you can explore in this fun and cheap holiday destination is the spectacular Park "Zaimov". This popular place of interest is a stunning park that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 visitors.

To make your trip to Sofia more memorable, spend time at the fascinating St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,648 traveler reviews, it’s not surprising that the fantastic St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is often mentioned in Bulgaria road trip itineraries.

The magnificent Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker is another stop you might want to add to your sightseeing plans. This church and popular travel destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,034 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something else, make your way to the amazing Ivan Vazov National Theater. More than 9,760 visitors have rated this top-tier point of interest and tourist destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Your discovery of Sofia does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Sofia on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Bulgaria.

After exploring some of the most remarkable sights in Bulgaria, you also have the chance to experience the country’s food culture. Eat at Mamma Mia Ltd, one of the best restaurants in Sofia. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,252 reviews.

You can also check out Island Restaurant. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers in the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,035 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your road trip activities is Maraya Klasik / Maraia Classic. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,002 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you a memorable dining experience in Sofia.

When you’ve finished your meal, head to some of the most popular bars in Sofia for an after-dinner drink. Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at K. E. B. A. And try some of its cocktails and snacks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,055 customers.

By the Way is another great place to hang out in and relax after a busy day in the city. This bar offers various drinks at affordable prices and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 909 customers.

If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Griyn bar. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers, this bar is one of the best places to unwind and socialize in Sofia.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible road trip adventure in the magical Sofia!

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Experiences

Day 6

Day 6 – Sofia, Reduta, and Gabrovo

  • Sofia
  • Gabrovo
  • More

Drive 224 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Sveta Nedelya Church
  • Holy Trinity Park
  • South Park
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • Druzhba Park
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience two places in one day. You’ll start your day in Sofia and end your day in the city of Gabrovo, where you'll stay for 1 night. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you.

One of the best places to visit in Sofia is the amazing St. Nedelya Church. This travel destination is a church that has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,593 visitors.

This day is also your chance to stop at the incredible Holy Trinity Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,768 travelers, a visit to this well-known park and sightseeing spot in Sofia is likely to make your vacation in Bulgaria even more memorable.

Another unforgettable sight in Sofia is the outstanding South Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,763 visitors.

To make the most of your day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria, drop by the popular Park "Geo Milev". This attraction, an amazing park, has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,324 travelers.

If you’re keen to explore more, you’ll enjoy the fantastic Druzhba Park. This park is a popular attraction rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,509 visitors from all over the globe.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Bulgaria. To have the best affordable travel experience in Bulgaria, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Bulgaria unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Gabrovo. Gabrovo is another cheap travel destination in Bulgaria where you have access to hotels, restaurants, bars, and other conveniences.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best attractions a budget vacation in Bulgaria can afford, treat yourself to a hearty meal. You’ll find many great restaurants in Gabrovo that offer delicious food to help keep you going.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Gabrovo is PIZZA TEMPO - Gabrovo. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,151 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Gabrovo, Strannopriemnitsa is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,192 diners.

Another restaurant worth trying is Rest. Many locals and cheap holiday goers in Gabrovo enjoy dining at this restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,047 customers.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Gabrovo’s best bars to celebrate this day of your road trip vacation in Bulgaria. For example, you can visit Kafe-club Alfrida. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 589 customers, this bar is considered a favorite in the area.

Another great place to have a refreshing, celebratory drink is Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion". This popular bar in Gabrovo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 209 bar-goers.

You can also go to ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner as an alternative. More than a bar, the popular ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner is also a place for fun or relaxation. Around 168 customers have given this city bar an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 7

Day 7 – Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, Veliko Tarnovo, and Shumen

  • Gabrovo
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Shumen
  • More

Drive 208 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Ethno village Etar
  • Dryanovo monastery "St Archangel Michael
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Park "Sveta Gora
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit the wonderful Boicheta and the enchanting Dolni Varpishta, two of the most popular cheap holiday destinations in the country. You'll begin sightseeing in Boicheta and end the day in Dolni Varpishta, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Buckle up because day 7 of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria will take you to some of locals’ and travelers’ most recommended travel spots!

One place travelers keep coming back to in Boicheta is the magnificent Ethno village Etar. Around 14,151 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After capturing the beauty and rich culture of Boicheta, you’ll get back behind the wheels and continue your road trip to the fantastic city of Dolni Varpishta.

Start your sightseeing in this cheap holiday destination with a visit to the unforgettable Dryanovo monastery "St. Archangel Michael". This popular site is a valued place of worship in Dolni Varpishta and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,938 visitors.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your self-drive tour across Bulgaria. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular and low-cost activities to choose from in Bulgaria. Make your cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria more memorable by doing something new, bold, or inspiring.

Shumen offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. So anytime you need a break from your activities, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and affordable place to rest and stay in the city.

As this adventurous day progresses, satisfy your hunger at one of the best restaurants in the city. Many restaurants in Shumen offer good food at even better prices, the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Bulgaria.

Primo Bar & Grill is a must try. This restaurant serves a mouthwatering selection of meals and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,308 diners.

Another popular eating spot in Shumen is Vienna garden, a local favorite. Serving diners fresh, delicious, and affordable meals, this restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,079 customers.

Popsheytanov's House offers customers flavorful food and good ambiance, making it one of the best places to eat in Shumen. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 840 customers, this restaurant can get packed very quickly. Make sure you get to the restaurant early to save yourself a seat.

When night has fallen and you feel like enjoying a drink, head to some of Shumen’s best bars. There are plenty of bars in the city where you can order a few drinks without compromising your budget.

BACARDI CLUB is an excellent example of a great bar in Shumen offering drinks at reasonable prices. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,210 customers.

You can also hang out and have a drink at Zino Club, another of locals’ go-to bars in Shumen. Zino Club is among the best city bars offering various beverages at different price points, with around 646 customers having rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

SPORTEN BAR I GRIL "REFERITE" is for you if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Shumen. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from more than 285 bar-goers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 8

Day 8 – Madara, Balchik, and Varna

  • Shumen
  • Varna
  • Balchik
  • More

Drive 177 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument
  • Madara Horseman
  • Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park
  • Balchik Dvoretsa Palace and Park
  • Balchik Botanic Garden
  • More

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to explore two popular cheap holiday destinations in one day. You’ll start your day in the city of Madara and end your day in the city of Shumen.

Today's agenda features plenty of popular stops and allows you to stay in Varna for 2 nights. How much time you want to spend in each area or attraction is up to you. This way, you’ll have all the time you want to take in the unique atmosphere of each location and make the most of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria.

While you’re in Madara, it’s a good idea to visit the amazing Madara Horseman. The fantastic Madara Horseman is a popular top-tier point of interest and a sightseeing hotspot. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,423 travelers.

Travelers usually have a splendid time at the incredible Madara National Historical and Archaeological Park, a well-known park in the area. Currently, this spectacular destination enjoys a 4.8 out of a 5 star-rating from 4,479 travelers.

Once you’ve satisfied your wanderlust in Madara, you’ll continue to your next road trip destination of the day, the city of Shumen.

Make Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument your first stop. This popular museum among locals and travelers alike has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,260 visitors.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the affordable tours you can join this day of your cheap holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the road trip experience of a lifetime.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget accommodations in the city of Varna. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Varna, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Sweet Parmy, one of the best restaurants in Varna. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 645 customers.

Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna) is yet another of the top places to eat in the city. Happy Bar & Grill Center (Varna) is known for serving a variety of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,318 diners.

Locals and travelers enjoy dining at Happy Bar & Grill, another well-loved restaurant in Varna. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,456 guests, this restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Bulgaria.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in Varna, Cubo. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is a popular hangout spot among locals. In addition, this bar has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,527 bar goers.

Beach Bar Menthol is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Varna, with its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,430 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by The Garden Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Bulgaria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 9

Day 9 – Varna

  • Varna
  • More

Drive 12 km, 46 min

  • Dolphinarium Varna
  • Sea Garden
  • Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral
  • Retro Museum
  • More

On day 9 of your road trip adventures in Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Varna, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Varna, and meet locals along the way!

Varna offers an incredible variety of budget hotels and places to stay you can choose from and spend the night in.

We recommend you stay at the charming Grand Hotel London to ensure a pleasant and affordable vacation in Varna. This 5-star hotel offers guests comfort and convenience and is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,054 guest reviews.

Another budget-friendly stay option you can check into is the cozy 4-star Cherno More. This cheap hotel provides a ton of handy amenities perfect for travelers in Varna. Cherno More has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,554 former guests.

Travelers looking forward to enjoying a cheap vacation in Varna should also consider Palitra. This 3-star hotel offers great value-for-money and is one of the best budget accommodations in the city. Palitra has been rated by 506 guests with an average of 4 out of 5 stars.

Popular hotels and places to stay in Varna offering low-cost accommodations get fully-booked fast. If any of these stay options are not available during your visit in the city, our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best budget alternatives.

One thing that makes Varna the perfect cheap holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular attractions. For example, the outstanding aquarium, Dolphinarium Varna. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,557 visitors.

The famous Sea Garden is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. This incredible urban park and travel destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,289 visitors.

Varna is also the home of the extraordinary Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. Around 7,003 travelers have rated the spectacular Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Retro Museum. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 6,851 reviews, a visit to this wonderful museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

This fascinating attraction is a must-visit.

Come to Varna prepared by adding a tour to your budget vacation package to Bulgaria. If you’re up for a challenging, fun, or inspiring activity, check out the fantastic selection of tours and cheap holiday deals in Varna.

After a day of exploring, reward yourself by dining at one of the best restaurants in Varna, Staria Chinar - Port Varna. Locals enjoy eating at Staria Chinar - Port Varna for its good food and ambiance. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,810 diners.

Godzila Sevastopol serves various affordable and delicious dishes perfect for cheap holiday goers. On top of that, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,248 food lovers.

If you want more options, Staria Chinar Restaurant is another great spot. Browse through its exciting menu and you'll see why Staria Chinar Restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,178 reviews.

Curious about the nightlife in Varna? Consider visiting some of the best bars in Varna after dinner. Locals recommend Muffin bar & coffee, and it's a great spot to enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,718 customers.

The BRICK bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy road trip in Bulgaria. The BRICK bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,387 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Varna.

You might also want to cap the night off at Bar PUNTA CANA, a fascinating bar that 1,540 customers have rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

Raise a toast and enjoy celebrating this terrific day of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 10

Day 10 – Nessebar and Burgas

  • Nesebar
  • Burgas
  • More

Drive 142 km, 2 hours 43 min

  • Sunny Beach
  • Ancient Theatre
  • Church of the Holy Mother Eleusa
  • Church of Saint Sophia
  • Archaeological Museum
  • More

On day 10 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience two places in one day. You’ll start your day in Nessebar and end your day in the city of Burgas, where you'll stay for 1 night. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you.

One of the best places to visit in Nessebar is the amazing Sunny Beach. This travel destination is a town that has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,830 visitors.

This day is also your chance to stop at the incredible Ancient Theatre. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,906 travelers, a visit to this well-known must-see tourist destination and sightseeing spot in Nessebar is likely to make your vacation in Bulgaria even more memorable.

Another unforgettable sight in Nessebar is the outstanding "Holy Mother Eleusa" Church. This top-tier point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,185 visitors.

To make the most of your day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria, drop by the popular Church of Saint Sophia. This attraction, an amazing church, has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,853 travelers.

If you’re keen to explore more, you’ll enjoy the fantastic Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This museum is a popular attraction rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,715 visitors from all over the globe.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Bulgaria. To have the best affordable travel experience in Bulgaria, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Bulgaria unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Burgas. Burgas is another cheap travel destination in Bulgaria where you have access to hotels, restaurants, bars, and other conveniences.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best attractions a budget vacation in Bulgaria can afford, treat yourself to a hearty meal. You’ll find many great restaurants in Burgas that offer delicious food to help keep you going.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Burgas is Happy Bar & Grill. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,335 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Burgas, Happy Bar & Grill is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,139 diners.

Another restaurant worth trying is Romance Pub & Pizza. Many locals and cheap holiday goers in Burgas enjoy dining at this restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,070 customers.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Burgas’s best bars to celebrate this day of your road trip vacation in Bulgaria. For example, you can visit Papa Beer - Craft Beer Bar. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 981 customers, this bar is considered a favorite in the area.

Another great place to have a refreshing, celebratory drink is Caribe. This popular bar in Burgas has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,358 bar-goers.

You can also go to Ti Bar & Kitchen - restorant i bar v Burgas as an alternative. More than a bar, the popular Ti Bar & Kitchen - restorant i bar v Burgas is also a place for fun or relaxation. Around 835 customers have given this city bar an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 11

Day 11 – Burgas, Stara Zagora, and Plovdiv

  • Burgas
  • Stara Zagora
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 278 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • The Clock
  • The Sea Garden
  • Bedechka Park
  • Park “Ayazmo“
  • Artilereeski Park
  • More

Day 11 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit the wonderful Burgas and the enchanting Stara Zagora, two of the most popular cheap holiday destinations in the country. You'll begin sightseeing in Burgas and end the day in Stara Zagora, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Buckle up because day 11 of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria will take you to some of locals’ and travelers’ most recommended travel spots!

One place travelers keep coming back to in Burgas is the magnificent The Clock. Around 2,744 visitors have rated this excellent must-see tourist destination and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing The Sea Garden on this leg of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 34,703 travelers.

After capturing the beauty and rich culture of Burgas, you’ll get back behind the wheels and continue your road trip to the fantastic city of Stara Zagora.

Start your sightseeing in this cheap holiday destination with a visit to the unforgettable “Bedechka” Park. This popular site is a valued park in Stara Zagora and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,214 visitors.

Another must-visit in Stara Zagora is the spectacular Park “Ayazmo“. This outstanding park and sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from more than 8,233 travelers.

You can also stop at the popular Artileriyski Park to make your cheap holiday experience in Stara Zagora truly special. This park and place of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,601 visitors.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your self-drive tour across Bulgaria. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular and low-cost activities to choose from in Bulgaria. Make your cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria more memorable by doing something new, bold, or inspiring.

Plovdiv offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. So anytime you need a break from your activities, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and affordable place to rest and stay in the city.

As this adventurous day progresses, satisfy your hunger at one of the best restaurants in the city. Many restaurants in Plovdiv offer good food at even better prices, the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Bulgaria.

R-nt , Mal'k Bunardzhik" is a must try. This restaurant serves a mouthwatering selection of meals and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,166 diners.

Another popular eating spot in Plovdiv is PASA Restaurant, a local favorite. Serving diners fresh, delicious, and affordable meals, this restaurant has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,284 customers.

Restaurant Rio offers customers flavorful food and good ambiance, making it one of the best places to eat in Plovdiv. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,069 customers, this restaurant can get packed very quickly. Make sure you get to the restaurant early to save yourself a seat.

When night has fallen and you feel like enjoying a drink, head to some of Plovdiv’s best bars. There are plenty of bars in the city where you can order a few drinks without compromising your budget.

Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is an excellent example of a great bar in Plovdiv offering drinks at reasonable prices. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 180 customers.

You can also hang out and have a drink at Morado Bar & Dinner, another of locals’ go-to bars in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is among the best city bars offering various beverages at different price points, with around 2,509 customers having rated it an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

Secrets Club is for you if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Plovdiv. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 880 bar-goers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

Day 12

Day 12 – Plovdiv - departure day

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
  • More
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • More

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Bulgaria as your road trip vacation is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Plovdiv.

Depending on how much time you have before your flight back home, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing to make the most of your cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria.

If you'd rather pass time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Plovdiv is the remarkable Old Town of Plovdiv. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,329 visitors.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Plovdiv, consider a top-rated restaurant like RESTAURANT Raia. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 936 customers.

Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv" is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,012 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is Italianski restorant Pikantino. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 869 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Bulgaria and your fun memories in Plovdiv.

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable travel experiences in Bulgaria!

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Experiences

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