Travel packages in Bulgaria

Road trips in Bulgaria

4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Bansko

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.

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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 4-day road trip in Bulgaria! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Sofia, Stob, Bansko, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Sofia and 1 night in Bansko. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Sofia, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. Borisova Gradina Park and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Stob, Bansko, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.

Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65

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Day1

Day 1

Sofia - Arrival day
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Borisova Gradina Park
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Welcome to Sofia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Sofia before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Sofia is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Borisova Gradina Park. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading 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.

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

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Day2

Day 2

Sofia
Bansko
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 46 min

Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
Rila Monastery
Holy Trinity Church
House Museum of Nikola Vaptsarov
City Park
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Stob, Rila, and Bansko. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Stob Earth Pyramids. This visually striking rock formation is an often recommended place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Rila Monastery. If grand sites excite you, this monastery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Holy Trinity Church. This culturally significant church is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov is a locally appreciated spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the peaceful City Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park.

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.

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Nova Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Penguins Bar & Dinner, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Amigo Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day3

Day 3

Bansko
Sofia
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Drive 350 km, 5 hours 44 min

Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
Tsar Simeon Garden
Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
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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 Plovdiv and Bachkovo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Bansko, make sure to drop by Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This popular archeological site 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 Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", one of the most popular places to see in Bansko. This monastery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

Day4

Day 4

Sofia - Departure day
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St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
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Day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Sofia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a historic church before you head out.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace, Vitosha Boulevard. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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