5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling south to Velingrad and Smolyan

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Photo of roman theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Plovdiv, Velingrad, Batak, Iagodina, Smolyan, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Zlatovrah.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Plovdiv, 1 night in Velingrad, and 1 night in Smolyan. 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 Plovdiv, 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. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", learn more about the unique Singing Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Yagodinska Cave.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Velingrad, Batak, Iagodina, Smolyan, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Zlatovrah, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Youth Hill
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Plovdiv, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Plovdiv 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 Youth Hill, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Plovdiv. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, 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 Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Velingrad
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Drive 84 km, 2 hours 8 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Nebet Tepe
  • More

Dive into day 2 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 Velingrad, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Plovdiv is complete without Singing Fountain. This interesting art installation is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Plovdiv, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This popular archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Old Town Of Plovdiv, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Nebet Tepe is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Velingrad. Velingrad 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 Velingrad, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Central bar&dinner, an iconic dining spot in Velingrad. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kashta za gosti "Starata Kashta", grad Velingrad, a popular restaurant in Velingrad. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Demeko Tavern, a hidden gem nestled in Velingrad. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Coffee & Wine Edelvais is an excellent place to start.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Velingrad
  • Smolyan
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Drive 164 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Church-ossuary "Sveta Nedelya"
  • Batak History Museum
  • Yagodinska cave
  • Eagle's Eye
  • More

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

Check out the worthwhile church, Church-ossuary "sveta Nedelya". Afterward, continue to Batak History Museum, a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Velingrad’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Yagodinska Cave. This beloved cave is an essential stop. Following that, head to Eagle's Eye, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Smolyan, 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 Smolyan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at restaurant ECO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mehana „Mecho ukho“ offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Milano. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Smolyan.

Continue your lively evening at Venus Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe The Clock is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Smolyan
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 128 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Smolyan waterfall
  • Pamporovo Ski Resort
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Arapovo Monastery
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 5 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Smolyan, Chepelare, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Zlatovrah are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Smolyan Waterfall leaves a lasting impression. This waterfall is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Smolyan. Next, head to Pamporovo Ski Resort, a beloved ski resort, known for its visually striking features.

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 Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This awe-inspiring monastery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Asen's Fortress and Arapovo Monastery. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sofra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Central Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Qbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Anyway Social Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv 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, begin at Alyosha Monument. This curiosity-inducing monument is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Plovdiv, we recommend the lively Markovo Tepe Mall. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Citizens Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restorant "Megdana".

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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.

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

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