5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Smolyan and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your day at Nebet Tepe. This romantic archeological site is an intriguing place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Old Town Of Plovdiv. If visually striking sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This visually striking museum 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, “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Singing Fountain. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting art installation. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Plovdiv's top attractions with a visit to Alyosha Monument.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

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

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Asenovgrad, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Asenovgrad may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Asenovgrad, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Asen's Fortress and explore the romantic features.

Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Spend some time admiring the standout features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Smolyan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bachkovo behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Smolyan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Orfeevi Rocks Pamporovo, an underrated rock formation in Smolyan. Explore its peaceful features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Church Of Saint Vissarion Of Smolyan. This often recommended church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Smolyan Planetarium is an excellent choice. Next, continue your sightseeing at the locally appreciated Smolyanski Ezera Hut and discover what makes this lake unique.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at restaurant ECO, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mehana „Mecho ukho“ is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Milano. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Smolyan tonight.

Keep the evening going at Venus Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe The Clock, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Shipka, Kazanlak, and Gabrovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Smolyan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Shipka. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 23 min.

Shipka Memorial Church is an intriguing church we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kazanlak. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a worthwhile monument that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Kazanlak, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gabrovo. Your travel time is around 27 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Gabrovo is Park „markoteya“, a worthwhile park 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 Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!