10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Pazardzhik, Kyustendil, Blagoevgrad, Dospat, Plovdiv, and Gabrovo

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

Sofia is brimming with adventures.

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

Next, check out National Palace Of Culture, one of the most popular places to see in Sofia. This convention center is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, South Park. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this park 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.

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 Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Sofia and Reduta. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pazardzhik, where will spend 1 night.

Make time for Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, an underrated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, enchanting visitors with its inviting appeal. Continue your exploration at Druzhba Park. This park is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Reduta, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Reduta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Geo Milev Park is a popular park we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Coffee "corleone", known for its lively atmosphere. Paradise Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Sofia. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kyustendil, where you'll 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 Sofia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sofia is Eagles' Bridge, an interesting monument that draws attention for its respected features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Borisova Gradina Park, a grand park that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Prince's Garden, a worthwhile park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at National Theater "ivan Vazov", an enchanting performing arts theater and the perfect final attraction in Sofia.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Friends, a top-rated dining spot in Kyustendil. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Ramira, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vintage bar and dinner. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kyustendil.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vogue stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Kyustendil, Bistritsa, Stob, and Rila. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Blagoevgrad, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make a stop at Hisarlaka Fortress. This intriguing castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bistritsa. This car ride takes around 49 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Rila, a locally appreciated mountain range in Bistritsa. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stob. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stob Earth Pyramids, a worthwhile rock formation in Stob. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Blagoevgrad. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Tchsasovnika, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar All Stars beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Verde. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Blagoevgrad tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Befree, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Swing offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Najs Plejs 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.

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Delvino, Razlog, and Bansko are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dospat, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Blagoevgrad’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Delvino. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Delvino, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Park "bachinovo", an underrated park in Delvino. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Razlog. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Park "razlog", an increasingly popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Bansko and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bansko beckons with new experiences!

Holy Trinity Church is a worthwhile church we recommend visiting today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov, an eye-catching museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

Dospat 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 Dospat.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Trigrad, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dospat, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Trigrad. This drive usually takes around 44 min.

Savor the day by heading to Trigrad Gorge, a frequently visited canyon that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Devil's Throat Cave, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a popular monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Bachkovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Asenovgrad is Asen's Fortress, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. North Star is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gabrovo, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Plovdiv, make sure to drop by Singing Fountain. This notable art installation is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, one of the most beloved places to see in Plovdiv. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this archeological site offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Gabrovo, 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 Gabrovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Strannopriemnitsa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vanilla coffee&food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gabrovo.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Moda Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Zahir - Bar & Dinner, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Boicheta, Dolni Varpishta, and Gabrovo. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo is an essential stop in Gabrovo. This intriguing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Boicheta. This car ride takes around 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ethno Village Etar. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Dolni Varpishta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Boicheta behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Dolni Varpishta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dolni Varpishta is Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", an increasingly popular monastery that draws attention for its stunning features.

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

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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at One More Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Teos Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bsd 2 Ndk, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!