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

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Varna. You’ll stay in Varna for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Varna is brimming with adventures.

Let Asparuhov Park set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral is your next stop. This often recommended church 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 Archaeological Museum Varna. This history-steeped museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Retro Museum.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Korean cuisine "Kimbap", a top-rated dining destination in Varna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Baba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chuchura Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varna this evening.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Pliska and Veliki Preslav. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Shumen, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pliska. Your travel time is around 1 hour 4 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Archaeological Museum "professor Rasho Rashev", a locally appreciated museum that everyone visiting Pliska should see. Next, head to Pliska Fortress. This respected museum is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Dvor Na Kirilicata, a picture-perfect museum popular among locals as well as travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veliki Preslav. This drive usually takes around 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Preslav Fortress and explore the picture-perfect features.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Shumen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mehana "Hitar Petar", an iconic dining spot in Shumen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern Oreha, a popular restaurant in Shumen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Primo Bar & Grill, a hidden gem nestled in Shumen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lavazza Coffee And Cocktails Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zino Club offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Arizona Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Shumen and Madara are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Burgas, where you will stay for 2 nights.

To truly experience Shumen, make sure to drop by Founders Of The Bulgarian State Monument. This frequently visited monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Historical And Archaeological Reserve Shumen Fortress, one of the city’s best highlights.

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 27 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Madara National Historical And Archaeological Park, an increasingly popular archeological site in Madara. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Madara Horseman. This worthwhile archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Burgas. 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 Burgas. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ROMANCE Pizzeria Speciale, a highly-rated dining destination in Burgas. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Bulgaria Burgas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mladost Cafe & Patisserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Burgas this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Billiard Club Hot Shot, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Pillow, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Hashtagpavilion provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Burgas, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Sinemorets, Ravadinovo, Sozopol, and Burgas.

Your adventure in Burgas is only getting started when you visit The Sea Garden, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is The Clock. This intriguing monument is known for its eye-catching appeal.

Set your GPS to Sinemorets and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sinemorets beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Veleka River Mouth and explore the serene features.

After soaking in Sinemorets’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ravadinovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Ravadinovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castle Of Ravadinovo, a curiosity-inducing castle known for its visually striking features.

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

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

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

Burgas 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 Burgas.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Chiplakov, a popular restaurant in Burgas. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Burgas at Ten'ova kashta, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Neptune. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Burgas tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Nessebar. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nessebar may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Nessebar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Nesebar Archaeological Museum is an often recommended museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ancient Theatre, a historic archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Church Of Saint Sophia, a culturally significant church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Sunny Beach, a majestic and truly unique beach.

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.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Plazh Irakli, an intriguing beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cuban Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try "Halbata" Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Makalali Beach as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varna.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Bar Soho, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Beach Bar Menthol provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Garden Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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