14-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Pleven, Karlovo, and Bansko and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 7 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Sofia.

Visiting North Park is always a good idea. This popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This often recommended church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov". These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect 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.

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 meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 6 nights 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 Sofia and Reduta.

Make a stop at Druzhba Park. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Geo Milev Park located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sofia Zoo. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to South Park. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park. Next up is National Palace Of Culture, a highly recommended convention center.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar & Dinner Relax as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to One More Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Teos Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Sofia and Musagenitsa. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you still have 5 nights left to stay.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Borisova Gradina Park. This symbolic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Prince's Garden and learn what makes this picturesque park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. After exploring the church, head to Eagles' Bridge. This interesting monument is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by Muzeiko, known for its eye-catching features.

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

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Corner. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Gaba offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook K. E. B. A. , another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 4 nights to spend in Sofia, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bogoyna, Tran, and Zemen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Catch Erma River Gorge, Tran before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching canyon is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the inviting features of Holy Paraskeva, a must-visit church in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Zemen Monastery "st. John The Apostle", an increasingly popular monastery.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Divaka, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The School. 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 Bilkova Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar "bar" provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Kick's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, where you still have 3 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Montana, Berkovitsa, and Tsvetkova Bara.

Whether you decide to explore Montana on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Start your day at Voden Park Sinite Ezera. This picture-perfect water park is an intriguing place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to House-museum "ivan Vazov", Berkovitsa. If respected sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Klisurski Monastery. This picture-perfect monastery is a favorite among visitors.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Garden restaurant Yoli, 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 Face bar & dinner, 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 Art Club Museum, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Bar Point, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Baldi Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caché Bar & Cafe, 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 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Check out the increasingly popular park, Park Montanezium. Afterward, continue to Park Sunny Garden, a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Lopushanski Monastery "st. Yoan Predtecha". This beloved monastery is an essential stop.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Este, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant "Panchetata", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Wrong Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting By The Way, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Mezcal Bar De Copas is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Friday also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Wake up to day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Varshets. With 1 night to stay in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Ivanchova Polyana is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Vodopad "rayski Kat", which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sofia on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Paleopark Varshets, an increasingly popular dinosaur park in the town.

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

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 Restaurant "On The Top", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restorant VICTORIA Balgariya beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, 5 Corners Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Sofia 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 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Mezdra, Vratsa, and Zgorigrad. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pleven, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Archaeological Complex "citadel" is an ideal stop early in the day. This up-and-coming archeological site is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ledenika, which may be one of the most picturesque places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sofia on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Vratsata Pass, an increasingly popular cliff in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Vratsa History Museum.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at KOMPLEKS "ZAMЪKЪT", a top-rated dining destination in Pleven. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizzeria Cantonata, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dezha Vju Pitsa & Restorant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pleven this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Momento Bar & Pizza, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sky Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kafe-bar Borago is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Pleven, 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 Lukovit and Karlukovo.

Riverside Landscape Park "panega" leaves a lasting impression. This nature reserve is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Pleven.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Panega Eco Trail. This serene hiking area is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Prohodna and The Stone Houses. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Pleven 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 Pleven.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at restaurant Bavaria, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Snack Bar "Ledenika" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss 'Gavril' Bar & Grille. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pleven.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Pleven, Devetaki, and Lovech are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Pleven Panorama set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this photogenic museum before continuing your journey. Skobelev Park is your next stop. This beloved park is one of the best-rated sights in Pleven.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Devetashka Cave. This visually striking cave is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Covered Bridge.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Waterfall, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pitsariya "Staro Karlovo" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pizza Calypso. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Karlovo.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Morrison stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Club Jim Beam Karlovo offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bansko, where you'll spend 1 night.

One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This picture-perfect archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and learn what makes this gorgeous archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Singing Fountain. After exploring the art installation, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This interesting park is a highlight in Karlovo. As your day continues, stop by Youth Hill, known for its eye-catching features.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bansko, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Kasapinova Mehana, a popular restaurant in Bansko. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bansko at Euphoria, 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 OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bansko tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Nova Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Penguins Bar & Dinner, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Amigo Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 13 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Stob, Rila, and Bistritsa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 1 night.

Visiting Stob Earth Pyramids is always a good idea. This underrated rock formation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a must-see waterfall 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 Rila Monastery. This notable monastery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Rila, where you can take in stunning 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 Sofia. Check in and relax 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 Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Blaze club, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Deps, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Luciano. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

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