10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Kyustendil, Plovdiv, and Bansko and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

No visit to Sofia is complete without South Park. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Borisova Gradina Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Sofia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Eagles' Bridge. This interesting monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Prince's Garden, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Sofia. You have 3 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

To truly experience Sofia, make sure to drop by North Park. This interesting park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Holy Trinity Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Russian Monument Square, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Sofia. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, National Palace Of Culture. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this convention center offers. Then, head to Sofia Zoo, a top-rated zoo that adds another dimension to your day.

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 Sofia's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at One More Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Musagenitsa. You’ll stay in Sofia for 2 nights.

Enjoy all that Druzhba Park has to offer. This is an underrated park you should not miss. Another must-see is Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, an underrated church in Sofia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Theater "ivan Vazov".

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.

Sofia 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 Sofia.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mamma Mia Ltd, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Esterhasi Restaurant, 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 Da Massimo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Corner is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gaba, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is K.e.b.a. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Sofia, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Montana and Tsvetkova Bara.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Montana. 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 1 hour 57 min. Upon reaching Montana, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Park Montanezium is a worthwhile park we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Montana, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tsvetkova Bara. Your travel time is around 29 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Klisurski Monastery, an up-and-coming monastery in Tsvetkova Bara. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Divaka boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The School. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bilkova Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar "bar" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Kick's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Bankya, Vrabcha, Sirishtnik, and Zemen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kyustendil, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bankya. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Yablanitsa River Gorge. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vrabcha and set your GPS to Sirishtnik. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Sirishtnik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Vrabcha Waterfall is a curiosity-inducing waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Vrabcha’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sirishtnik. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 59 min. When you arrive in Sirishtnik, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ecopath "looking At Nine Mountains". Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the hiking area before you continue to your next stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kyustendil, 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 Kyustendil's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Friends, a popular restaurant in Kyustendil. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kyustendil at Hotel Ramira, 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 Vintage bar and dinner. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kyustendil tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vogue, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Singing Fountain is must-visit art installation and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a captivating park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a culturally significant archeological site, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Plovdiv. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. If you’re looking for more, Lauta Park is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kasapinova Mehana, a top-rated dining spot in Bansko. If you're in the mood for something new, try Euphoria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bansko.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Nova Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Penguins Bar & Dinner. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Amigo Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Kyustendil and Bistritsa. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bansko, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kyustendil. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sandanski Archaeological Museum, an underrated museum that everyone visiting Kyustendil should see. Next, head to Еpiscopal Basilica. This monumental archeological site is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Park "st. Vrach", an eye-catching park popular among locals as well as travelers.

After soaking in Kyustendil’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bistritsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 30 min. When you arrive in Bistritsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rila and explore the instagrammable features.

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

Sofia 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 Sofia.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Garden restaurant Yoli, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Face bar & dinner, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Art Club Museum. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

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