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

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Burgas, Ravadinovo, and Sozopol. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Shumen, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Check out the increasingly popular monument, The Clock. Afterward, continue to Park "mineralni Bani", a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Burgas’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Burgas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ravadinovo. This drive usually takes around 33 min.

Castle Of Ravadinovo is a beloved castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sozopol. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Harmanite Beach, a curiosity-inducing beach that everyone visiting Sozopol should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Shumen. Shumen 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 Shumen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Continue your lively evening at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zino Club is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Shumen, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Make a stop at Historical Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Shumen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Madara. This drive usually takes around 21 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Madara is Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, a curiosity-inducing archeological site that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Madara Horseman, a culturally significant archeological site that stands out in the city.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Shumen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Minaliya Vek, a top-rated dining destination in Shumen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dom na Arhitekta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chinese restaurant "Beijing". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shumen this evening.

Keep the evening going at Arizona Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bacardi Club, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Head back to your accommodation in Shumen and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Shumen has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Shumen.

Whatever your travel style is, Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress is an essential stop in Shumen. This underrated archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Park Kyoshkovete, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument, an intriguing monument.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Shumen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Shumen.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Green Garden, a highly-rated dining destination in Shumen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tavern Thrace, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Otto Pizza Napoletana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Shumen this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Pliska. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Varna, where you’ll be staying for 6 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Shumen and set your GPS to Pliska. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Pliska, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Archaeological Museum "professor Rasho Rashev", a worthwhile museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Pliska Fortress and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Dvor Na Kirilicata, a beloved museum beloved by locals and tourists alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Varna. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Varna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizza Selena, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Three Dolphins. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Vogue Cafe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Punta Cana, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Balchik. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Varna, where you still have 5 nights left to stay.

Set your GPS to Balchik and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Balchik beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Albena and explore the mesmerizing features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Balchik may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Balchik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Balchik Botanic Garden, a notable botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Balchik Palace and admire its enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Varna.

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 wonderful meal at di Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try 100 Pizzas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Morska terasa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

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

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

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Burgas. You’ll stay in Varna for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Let Asparuhov Park set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Sea Garden is your next stop. This locally renowned park is one of the best-rated sights in Varna.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Varna Zoo. This visually striking zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Dolphinarium Varna.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Varna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining spot in Varna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mr Baba, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Chuchura Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varna.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 3 nights.

To truly experience Varna, make sure to drop by Aladzha Monastery. This underrated monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dendrologichen Marshrut - Priroden Park Zlatni Pyasatsi, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Varna. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Monastery "saints Constantine And Helena". Wander around and soak in the breathtaking atmosphere this monastery offers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant Kashtata na Vi Varna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Happy Bar & Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Kapan. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varna.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Vault Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Nargile House Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Brick Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Head back to your accommodation in Varna and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Day 9 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Varna. You have 2 nights left in Varna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you decide to explore Varna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, a popular street in Varna. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Start your day at Roman Thermae Varna. This visually striking archeological site is an often recommended place to see in Varna. Then, wander over to Detski Kat Varna. If photogenic sites excite you, this amusement park will be right up your alley.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Savor the flavors at Cuban Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, "Halbata" Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Makalali Beach. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varna tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cafe Bar Soho, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Beach Bar Menthol is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Garden Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Varna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Varna.

Art Gallery Boris Georgiev makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated art gallery is a photogenic place to see in Varna. Continue your discovery at Archaeological Museum Varna, an eye-catching museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Varna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. This intriguing church offers a historic encounter with Varna. Next, make your way to Retro Museum to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Varna.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at BM Olea, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Marché Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Godzila Sevastopol is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Varna.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cuba Bar is an excellent place to start.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Nessebar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Nessebar.

Nessebar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Varna behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. Nessebar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sunny Beach, an often recommended beach in Nessebar. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Nesebar Archaeological Museum. This beloved museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ancient Theatre is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant archeological site in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the often recommended Church Of Saint Sophia and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the town, head to "holy Mother Eleusa" Church, a photogenic church many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Chiplakov, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ten'ova kashta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Neptune. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Burgas tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Bossa, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Malibu, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Saxa Beach likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!