10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv, Smolyan, and Bansko

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is South Park. This mesmerizing park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this visually striking convention center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Borisova Gradina Park. After exploring the park, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This popular church is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by National Theater "ivan Vazov", known for its history-steeped features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Urban Rebel likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Sofia covers several incredible sights, including a park, an archeological site, and an art installation. Start your adventure at Youth Hill. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a must-see archeological site in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This popular park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Singing Fountain, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a monument, a museum, an archeological site, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day at Alyosha Monument. This culturally significant monument is an increasingly popular place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Museum Of Natural Sciences. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This stunning archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Old Town Of Plovdiv is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the romantic Nebet Tepe. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile archeological site.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Plovdiv, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Qbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Zlatovrah, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Chepelare, and Smolyan, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Smolyan. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Plovdiv. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monastery, a castle, a ski resort, a waterfall and much more! Begin your adventure at Arapovo Monastery. This is a curiosity-inducing monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is Asen's Fortress, an increasingly popular castle in Plovdiv.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". From there, take a leisurely stroll to Pamporovo Ski Resort, another of the village’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Smolyan Waterfall, an instagrammable place of interest in the village.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Smolyan. Smolyan 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 Smolyan's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at restaurant ECO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mehana „Mecho ukho“ offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Milano. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Smolyan.

Continue your lively evening at Venus Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe The Clock is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Smolyan for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Iagodina, Borino, and Trigrad.

Today’s itinerary in Smolyan covers several incredible sights, including an off-road park, a cave, an observation deck, a canyon and much more! Start your adventure at Jeep To Eagle Eye. This curiosity-inducing off-road park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the peaceful wonders of Yagodinska Cave, a must-see cave in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Eagle's Eye. This up-and-coming observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Devil's Throat Cave, where you can take in majestic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Trigrad Gorge. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Smolyan. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vertu Bar&dinner, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel-restorant „Balgarche“ is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Radost Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Smolyan tonight.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Razlog and Bansko. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Smolyan is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a church, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Park "razlog" and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Holy Trinity Church, a heritage-rich church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov, one of the town’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated City Park.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bansko. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kasapinova Mehana, a top-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Euphoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

Keep the evening going at Nova Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Penguins Bar & Dinner, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Amigo Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Bansko, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Bansko for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bansko, Kresna, and Kyustendil to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bansko. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Banderishka Meadow is the perfect place to start. This hiking area is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Bansko.

Nearby, you'll also find Lake Muratovo and Pirin National Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Kabatsite, an iconic dining spot in Bansko. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern Matsurev Khan, a popular restaurant in Bansko. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ethno Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bansko. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lion's Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Pirin 75 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Wine Bar 25. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stob, Rila, and Dupnitsa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bansko, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Stob Earth Pyramids, a worthwhile rock formation in the village. Then, head to Rila Monastery and soak in the ambiance of this stunning monastery.

There are many interesting places to see in Bansko, and when you are ready for more, go to Malyovitsa. This is one of the village’s most intriguing romantic spots of interest. After exploring the mountain range, visit the locally appreciated Kirilova Polyana Meadow. Not far away, you'll also find Bistritsa Waterfall. This waterfall is a romantic highlight in Bansko.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at One More Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Teos Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bsd 2 Ndk is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!