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The early booking offer “Bulgaria from Bucharest” without company transport allows you to organise your own summer trip to the seaside. Here you will find descriptions of popular hotels, resorts and beaches, as well as information about convenient self-drive routes. Plan your beach holiday on your own conditions!
Key reasons to book “Bulgaria from Bucharest” early – without transport included
Save up to 35% compared to in-season prices by booking your Bulgarian seaside hotel well in advance.
Wide choice of top beach-front hotels in Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Albena, Sozopol, Nessebar, Balchik, Varna and other regions.
Full flexibility: travel by your own car, coach, train or rental car – whichever timing and route suits you best.
Book in advance and request sea-view rooms, balcony, baby cot, ground-floor rooms or special decor for honeymoons and anniversaries.
Serious savings for big families: no group transfer cost, and fewer last-minute surprise expenses.
Time to prepare calmly: documents, insurance, luggage, car check-up and route planning – all done without rush.
Why is early booking so advantageous?
Early booking of summer stays in Bulgaria gives you the chance to choose top hotels in popular resorts such as Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Albena, Sozopol, Nessebar, Balchik, Varna or other regions of the country. If you postpone booking your holiday package until late spring or early summer, the best accommodation options may already be fully booked.
By planning your trip to the Bulgarian seaside a few months before the start of the summer season, you can select travel dates that work for all family members, taking into account work and school schedules, and you can request a room with a panoramic view (for example, of the sea) or a balcony. If you inform the hotel that your trip is tied to an important event, such as a birthday or honeymoon, the management can prepare a special arrangement of the room. For guests with reduced mobility or families with children, ground-floor rooms are often available. Through early booking, you can also request baby cots in advance.
Real savings: benefits of early booking in Bulgaria
Early booking of package holidays in Bulgaria means real savings for travellers, especially if you can reach the Black Sea coast by car. You can benefit from a discount of up to 35% off the in-season package price, because hotels offer special rates for those who plan their holidays in advance.
When does early booking start? The most advantageous months to book, when prices for holidays in Bulgaria are lowest, are October, November and December (you can book a package for any period from May to October of the following year). The first months of the year are also a very good time to purchase stays. In addition, you do not need to pay the full amount immediately – under early booking conditions, an initial deposit is usually enough.
For travellers using a personal car, early booking significantly reduces costs for transport services offered by tour agencies, especially if you are planning a holiday for a large family. On top of that, travelling on your own gives you the freedom to choose your route and stop at interesting places along the way.
By planning your holiday in advance, you avoid unexpected expenses that often appear in spontaneous trips and usually represent around 10% of the total holiday cost. You will have time to prepare everything you need – from toiletries to clothes and shoes – and to check the technical condition of the car and obtain the necessary insurance and documents.
Early booking for beach-front hotels
Early booking of hotels located on the first line in Bulgaria is a guarantee of an unforgettable seaside holiday. You can enjoy the fresh sea air and spectacular views directly from your room, take romantic walks along the beach and spend relaxing evenings on the terrace with a sea view.
The short distance to the beach is one of the biggest advantages of hotels located right on the seafront. This is especially convenient for families with children, who can quickly reach the water or enjoy water attractions. In addition, there are numerous local and international restaurants, souvenir shops, shopping centres and entertainment options around these hotels.
An ideal choice is “all-inclusive” hotels with free parking – a crucial aspect for those travelling by car. The convenient seaside location and well-developed tourist infrastructure of the region make it easy to reach local attractions and discover the beauty of Bulgaria without extra effort.
Seasonality in Bulgaria: when is the best time to go?
The peak tourist season in Bulgaria runs from June to September. This is the most popular time for beach holidays, when sea temperatures reach about +25°C.
Early booking for Bulgaria in May is an excellent choice for those who want to avoid crowds. Air temperatures reach +20…+23°C and the water warms up to +17…+19°C. This period is ideal for a peaceful stay and the first walks along the beach.
Buying a package holiday for Bulgaria in June means travelling at the start of the high season. Air temperatures are around +25…+28°C, and water temperatures reach +22…+24°C. Beaches are getting livelier but are not yet overcrowded.
Early booking for Bulgaria in July and August guarantees a perfect mid-summer beach holiday. Air temperatures rise to +28…+32°C, and the sea warms up to +25…+27°C. This is the absolute peak of the season, when resorts are at their liveliest.
Holidays in Bulgaria in September are ideal for those who prefer the “velvet season”. Air temperatures remain around +25…+28°C and the sea stays at +23…+25°C. The atmosphere is calmer, while the weather is still pleasantly warm.
Early booking for Bulgaria in October is perfect for those who appreciate privacy and peace. Air temperatures range between +18…+22°C and the sea stays around +18…+20°C. It is a great time for walks, excursions and relaxation away from the crowds.
Top 5 popular beaches in Bulgaria
1. Cacao Beach, Sunny Beach
Sunny Beach is one of Bulgaria’s most popular resorts, and Cacao Beach is its main beach, known for its golden sand, gentle entrance into the sea and well-developed infrastructure. You will find changing cabins, showers, cafés and restaurants. The beach is divided into free and paid zones with sunbeds, and in the evening it turns into a vibrant hotspot for parties and nightclubs.
2. Golden Sands
This 4-kilometre-long beach has been awarded the “Blue Flag” for cleanliness. Its fine golden sand, gentle access to the sea and modern facilities make it an ideal spot for relaxation. The most popular zones are “Mojito”, where young people gather at the famous bar of the same name, and “Riviera” – a safer area for families with children.
3. Duni Beach (near Sozopol)
Located about 7 km from Sozopol, this beach is considered one of the most exclusive in Bulgaria. It is divided into two parts: one protected by a breakwater, perfect for family holidays, and another aimed at fans of surfing and kitesurfing thanks to its high waves. White sand and crystal-clear water make Duni Beach a true gem of the Bulgarian coast.
4. Sveti Vlas
This resort is often called the “St. Tropez of Bulgaria”. Its beaches are perfect for yachting and water sports enthusiasts. Situated at the foot of the mountains, the area is renowned for a microclimate beneficial to the respiratory system and for local restaurants serving fresh fish dishes.
5. Central Beach, Albena
Located in a nature reserve and surrounded by forests, this beach has also been awarded the “Blue Flag”. Tourists can combine seaside relaxation with visits to the water park and amusement park, connected by an electric train. Facilities include showers, sports courts, cafés and playgrounds for children.
The best Bulgarian resorts with seaside hotels
Early booking of hotels in Bulgaria lets you choose a region that matches your expectations – from beach quality to proximity to historical attractions. For example, Nessebar attracts visitors not only with its beaches, but also with unique tours to Roman and Byzantine monuments. In Pomorie, many tourists combine holidays with therapeutic mud treatments. Sozopol, with its bohemian atmosphere, is loved by artists and writers, while Sveti Vlas, rich in history, offers both boat excursions and walks through old streets with Greek and Byzantine influences.
The most famous Bulgarian resorts remain Sunny Beach and Golden Sands. Sunny Beach is a paradise for lovers of active holidays – here you will find water parks, water sports and a wide range of leisure activities. Golden Sands, surrounded by dense forests, is famous for its fine, golden sand, considered among the best in Europe. The proximity of mineral springs also makes this resort a wonderful choice for relaxation and recovery.
Early booking of hotels: choosing the best options
Why is early booking more advantageous than booking at the last minute when choosing a hotel? Because it allows you to secure rooms in the best seaside hotels in Bulgaria while all options are still open.
– To make a well-informed decision, check hotel reviews and ratings on independent websites and ask our manager for additional details.
– Pay attention to the meal plan. In Bulgaria not all hotels offer “all inclusive”. Most frequently you will find breakfast only, half board (breakfast + dinner), all inclusive (buffet with local drinks) and ultra all inclusive (food throughout the day, fruit and imported alcohol).
– At the same time, “all inclusive” in Bulgarian hotels is not always the most economical option, because there are many reasonably priced restaurants and cafés nearby, and drinks are easy to buy in local shops.
– A major advantage is the hotel’s location on the first line of the beach, as well as the presence of an aquapark or water attractions on site.
– If you are travelling by car, check for free parking. Sometimes parking is paid or located outside the hotel complex, in which case it may be better to choose another hotel or factor parking costs into your budget.
3-star hotels: comfort at an affordable price
Most hotels in Bulgaria are 3-star properties. Standard services usually include free breakfast (sometimes half board or “all inclusive”), Wi-Fi, TV, safe, fitness room and, in some cases, parking. It is worth noting that many 3* hotels in Bulgaria are comparable to 4* hotels in terms of services, offering good-quality meals but being located a little further from the sea or without their own pool. These are often small, cosy hotels with a warm, friendly atmosphere.
AMBASSADOR 3* Varna (Golden Sands) is located on the first line, on a fine sandy beach, and offers comfortable rooms with balconies and sea views. Facilities include free parking, Wi-Fi, indoor and outdoor pools, a children’s playground and a restaurant with several meal options: breakfast, half board, full board or “all inclusive”. Guests can enjoy a well-kept garden and cosy relaxation areas.
SIRENA HOTEL 3* Sunny Beach is a bright and comfortable hotel on the first line, just 150 metres from a well-equipped public beach. It offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, balconies, minibar and Wi-Fi. The grounds include a well-maintained garden, outdoor pool with sunbeds, children’s playground and parking. The “all inclusive” system provides a buffet with Bulgarian and international dishes. For active guests, there is a fitness room, billiards and a sauna.
4-star hotels: optimum value for money
Booking a 4-star hotel in Bulgaria gives you the chance to enjoy high-quality services without excessive costs. Standard rooms usually include free Wi-Fi, TV, fridge, air conditioning, safe and hairdryer. If you dream of a carefree beach holiday, choose hotels with an “all inclusive” system, where meals and drinks are included. If you prefer to explore local gastronomy and try different restaurants, hotels with breakfast only are an excellent choice.
ASTERIA FAMILY SUNNY BEACH 4* Sunny Beach is a hotel with excellent reviews from guests. Located on the first line of a fine sandy beach, it offers free sunbeds, umbrellas and towels. The Ultra All Inclusive meal plan includes buffet meals in the main restaurant, pool and beach bars and a minibar in the room. The hotel has two outdoor pools (one for children), a garden, sun terrace, animation programmes, kids’ clubs and entertainment activities for adults. Parking is also available.
PALM BEACH 4* Golden Sands is a hotel surrounded by greenery, located on the first line of a fine sandy beach just 30 metres from the sea, in the resort of Golden Sands, 18 km from Varna, 28 km from Varna Airport and 500 m from the resort centre. Rooms feature air conditioning, balconies with sea views, minibar, TV and free Wi-Fi. For families with children there are baby cots and a playground. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, table tennis and animation. Meal plans: breakfast, half board or “all inclusive”.
LAGUNA MARE 4* Albena is located in the centre of Albena resort, in a park area, just 100 metres from the beach and 50 metres from the shopping zone. It is a perfect choice for families with children and young couples. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms with air conditioning, balconies, Wi-Fi and TV. The “all inclusive” meal plan includes Bulgarian and international dishes, themed evenings and dietary options. The hotel features an outdoor pool with water slides, kids’ club, animation programmes and a playground.
5-star hotels: luxury and exclusivity
5-star hotels occupy the premium segment of Bulgaria’s tourist industry. Each of them stands out with unique architecture and carefully designed interiors that combine ergonomics with aesthetics. Their grounds often include scenic parks, pools, spacious terraces, promenades, modern spa centres and sports facilities. Luxury hotels offer high-quality gastronomy, a variety of restaurants and comfortable rooms with additional amenities.
BARCELO ROYAL BEACH 5* Sunny Beach is a luxury hotel with elegant public areas and rooms designed for maximum comfort, including a kitchenette and a living area with sofa. Located just a few steps from the fine sandy beach, the complex features indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzi, a sun terrace with sunbeds and umbrellas, and a children’s pool. The spa area offers sauna, massages and thalassotherapy. Bathrooms are equipped with hairdryer, bathrobes and toiletries. Meal plans include “all inclusive” or half board, and there is a special menu for children. The hotel is ideal both for family holidays, thanks to the kids’ club, and for those seeking relaxation and wellness activities.
RIVIERA HOLIDAY CLUB 5* Golden Sands, Varna is an exclusive complex in a classic style, surrounded by a picturesque forest, offering a peaceful atmosphere and harmony with nature. It is located on the first line, with a private sandy beach where guests are provided with beach towels, sunbeds and umbrellas. The property features parking, seasonal indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzi, a sun terrace, garden and children’s pool. Young guests enjoy a playground, kids’ club, games room and special kids’ menu in the restaurant. In the spa centre there are massages, a beauty salon and various relaxation therapies. Meals include international cuisine served buffet-style in the main restaurant, and there is also a snack bar on site.
How to book the ideal tour to Bulgaria
To purchase a package holiday in Bulgaria from Bucharest without company transport included, follow these steps:
– Explore all offers on the website, analyse the region, route convenience, hotel reviews and feedback from other travellers who have driven to Bulgaria.
– Click the “Book” button on the chosen offer (double-check that you entered your phone number correctly).
– Prepare your questions in advance (car insurance, road tolls, route, additional agency services and so on).
– Wait for our consultant’s call to clarify details and go through the next booking steps together.
What to do during your seaside holiday in Bulgaria
Once your hotel is booked, your Bulgarian holiday becomes a balanced mix of beach time, activities and cultural discoveries.
Enjoy renowned beaches such as Cacao Beach, Golden Sands, Albena or Duni, where fine sand, gentle sea access and solid infrastructure create ideal conditions for relaxation. Choose lively sections with bars and clubs, or quieter stretches that are perfect for families with children.
Combine days on the beach with strolls through historic towns such as Nessebar, Sozopol, Pomorie or Sveti Vlas. Narrow alleys, old churches, harbours and restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood create a unique atmosphere. In resorts with mineral springs, you can add spa sessions and therapeutic treatments to your stay.
For children, look for hotels with aquaparks, slides and animation programmes; for adults, add water sports, yachting, boat trips and cosy evenings in waterfront restaurants.
Sample 1-day itinerary on the Bulgarian coast
Morning: start the day with a relaxed beach session in Sunny Beach, Golden Sands or Albena. Take advantage of the fine sand, gentle sea and facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and beach bars.
Lunch: stop at a seafront restaurant with Bulgarian or international cuisine. Large resorts offer a wide choice of eateries at good prices, so you are not tied only to your hotel’s “all inclusive” buffet.
Afternoon: go for a walk and souvenir shopping in the commercial area, or visit a water park or amusement park – for example in Albena, where an electric train runs between the park and the beach.
Evening: enjoy a romantic walk along the shore, watch the sunset and either head to a beach club on Cacao Beach or opt for a quiet dinner in Sozopol or Nessebar with sea views.
2-day itinerary: beach + culture
Day 1: dedicate the whole day to your chosen beach and hotel facilities. Enjoy pools, slides, animation, spa treatments and the “all inclusive” concept. In the evening, explore the promenade, browse shops and choose a café or bar for a relaxed night out.
Day 2: plan a short trip to a nearby historical town. From Sunny Beach and Sveti Vlas it is easy to reach Nessebar, while from Sozopol you can explore the Duni area. Walk the old streets, visit churches and galleries, then end the day with dinner in a seafood restaurant.
Along the way, you can stop at viewpoints, yacht marinas and more secluded beaches. Distances between resorts are short, so you will still have time to swim and relax.
Thanks to early hotel booking, you can plan such mini-routes in detail, without worrying about last-minute price hikes or room availability.
Tour from Bucharest to Bulgaria: simple and affordable
For an experienced driver, the journey from Romania’s capital to Bulgarian resorts takes about 4–5 hours (around 350 km) and costs approximately 50–80 euros one way (based on fuel prices at the beginning of 2025).
1. Insurance: obtain the international “Green Card” policy valid for Bulgaria.
2. Budget: pay the vignette, calculate expected fuel costs, and take water and snacks for the road.
3. Route: Bucharest → Giurgiu (70 km) → border → Ruse → Varna (200 km) → Golden Sands (17 km).
4. Tips: leave early to avoid queues at the border. Take some cash in Bulgarian leva for small expenses.
5. Alternative: the coach from Bucharest is a convenient option if you do not want to drive, although you may still need a taxi to reach your hotel from the bus stop.
Why it pays to book “Bulgaria from Bucharest” early for 2026
Early booking for 2026 under the “Bulgaria from Bucharest” offer without our transport is the ideal solution for those who prefer to travel independently. You can choose the most convenient way to reach the Bulgarian resorts – by coach, train or rental car. Booking your hotel well in advance helps you save money and secure comfortable accommodation. This type of holiday offers total freedom: you can plan your own route, stop in interesting places and enjoy the journey at your own pace. Make your holiday unique and unforgettable!
Do not miss your chance for a perfect holiday! Book your tour to Bulgaria from Bucharest early and enjoy the best hotels at advantageous prices. Plan your holiday now and enjoy comfort without extra costs!
Frequently asked questions about “Bulgaria from Bucharest” without transport
When is it most advantageous to book a Bulgaria holiday from Bucharest?
The best prices usually appear from October to December for the following season, and again in the first months of the year, when hotels run early booking promotions.
What does “early booking without transport” mean?
It means that through the agency you book only the hotel and services on site, while you organise transport to Bulgaria yourself – by car, coach, train or rental car.
What level of discount can I get with early booking?
Depending on the hotel and travel dates, early booking discounts can reach around 35% compared with in-season prices.
How do I choose the right resort in Bulgaria?
Decide what type of holiday you want: lively nightlife and activities, or a calmer atmosphere with nature and sightseeing. Sunny Beach and Golden Sands suit active holidays; Albena, Duni, Sozopol and Sveti Vlas are great for a more relaxed, family-friendly stay.
Which beaches are best for families with children?
Look for beaches with gentle sea access and good facilities: Cacao Beach in Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Albena and the protected area of Duni are all excellent for families.
Which meal plan is more convenient: breakfast, half board or all inclusive?
If you want flexibility and to try local restaurants, breakfast or half board is usually enough. All inclusive and ultra all inclusive are convenient if you plan to stay mainly in the hotel and prefer to have meals and drinks prepaid.
Is it safe to travel to Bulgaria by car?
Yes, the Bucharest – Giurgiu – Ruse – Varna – seaside resorts route is popular and considered safe, provided you respect traffic rules, have a roadworthy car and plan reasonable driving times.
What documents and insurance do I need for a self-drive trip?
You will need car documents, a valid technical inspection, an international Green Card insurance policy for Bulgaria, your driving licence and, ideally, medical travel insurance for all passengers.
How long does it take to drive from Bucharest to Golden Sands?
Driving time is usually around 4–5 hours one way for a distance of about 350 km, depending on traffic and border queues.
How can I combine beach time with cultural visits?
Choose resorts close to historic towns – for example, Sunny Beach or Sveti Vlas for trips to Nessebar, or Sozopol for the Duni area. Keep at least one full day for exploring old towns and local sights.
What is the difference between 3*, 4* and 5* hotels in Bulgaria?
3-star hotels provide basic comfort and good value, 4-star properties offer more facilities and services, while 5-star hotels focus on luxury, spa, design and a very high service level. Many Bulgarian 3* hotels, however, are close to 4* in terms of food and cleanliness.
Is it worth travelling to Bulgaria in May or October?
Yes, May and October are great for those who enjoy peace and mild weather. The sea is cooler than in July–August, but still pleasant for walks along the shore and some early or late-season swims.
What are the advantages of first-line beach hotels?
You stay right by the sea, save time getting to the beach, enjoy sea views from many rooms and have restaurants, bars and the promenade within a few minutes’ walk – very convenient, especially with children.
How does the booking process work on Admiral.Travel?
On the website, you choose your preferred offer, click “Book”, enter your contact details, and then one of our consultants calls you to confirm information, explain conditions and payment options and help you add any extra services you might need.