13-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia traveling south to Gabrovo, Plovdiv, Dospat, Bansko, Petrich, and Blagoevgrad

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Borisova Gradina Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Eagles' Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This stone bridge is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Prince's Garden. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. A trip to this popular church is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,066 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is National Theater "ivan Vazov". This point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 local and international travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Sofia on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gabrovo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,691 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

National Palace Of Culture is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This convention center is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by South Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Sofia Zoo. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 15,237 previous visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Gabrovo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Dine in style at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Strannopriemnitsa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vanilla coffee&food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Gabrovo.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Moda Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Zahir - Bar & Dinner offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Gabrovo. Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Alyosha Monument. This monument has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,510 travelers.

Youth Hill is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,086 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Karlovo. This car ride takes around 1 hour 7 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Suchurum Waterfall. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,271 reviews.

Continue your journey at Vasil Levski National Museum. This museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,665 travelers from near and far.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Anyway Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Singing Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Continue your journey at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 travelers from near and far.

Plovdiv is also the home of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Old Town Of Plovdiv. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,450 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Nebet Tepe. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,913 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this hill.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Plovdiv, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Plovdiv 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Ресторант "Мегдана", a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Крилото Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cocktail Bar Noris offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Бар Фабрик is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Borino, and Iagodina. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dospat, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Asenovgrad’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Asenovgrad welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Asen's Fortress, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,157 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Asenovgrad and set your GPS to Bachkovo. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Bachkovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable place of worship has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,211 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Dospat. Dospat offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dospat. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Bansko, Razlog, Delvino, and General Todorov. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Petrich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Razlog’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bansko behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Razlog welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Park "razlog" your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,871 reviews.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Provence", a top-rated dining destination in Petrich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ресторант „Райски Кът ”, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ресторантче , Жаравата". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Petrich this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Melnik, Rozhen, and Kyustendil. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Blagoevgrad. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Melnik. This car ride takes around 34 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Kordopulov House. This much-appreciated building is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,374 reviews.

Next up is Музей На Виното. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 697 visitors.

Set your GPS to Rozhen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rozhen beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Rozhen Monastery. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,506 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Blagoevgrad. Blagoevgrad offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Blagoevgrad, 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.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Befree, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Swing is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Найс Плейс is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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