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

On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Plovdiv are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Velingrad, where you will stay for 1 night.

Singing Fountain is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This enchanting art installation is sure to impress. Next on your list is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned park renowned for its mesmerizing features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Plovdiv by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This picture-perfect archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Plovdiv experience. We also recommend visiting Old Town Of Plovdiv, a beloved historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Nebet Tepe, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Central bar&dinner, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kashta za gosti "Starata Kashta", grad Velingrad offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Demeko Tavern. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Velingrad.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Coffee & Wine Edelvais, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

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

After soaking in Velingrad’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Batak. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Batak, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Church-ossuary "sveta Nedelya", an up-and-coming church in Batak. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Batak History Museum. This often recommended museum is a top recommendation in the area.

Borino’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Batak behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min. Borino welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Borino is Yagodinska Cave, an up-and-coming cave that draws attention for its idyllic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Borino, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Iagodina. This drive usually takes around 4 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Iagodina is Eagle's Eye, a curiosity-inducing observation deck that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at restaurant ECO, a top-rated dining spot in Smolyan. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mehana „Mecho ukho“, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Milano. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Smolyan.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Venus Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe The Clock provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 5 destinations, including Smolyan, Chepelare, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Zlatovrah. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Smolyan Waterfall leaves a lasting impression. This waterfall is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Smolyan.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Smolyan and set your GPS to Chepelare. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Chepelare, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Pamporovo Ski Resort, a curiosity-inducing ski resort that everyone visiting Chepelare should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bachkovo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Chepelare to Bachkovo may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bachkovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", an interesting monastery known for its awe-inspiring features.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, known for its lively atmosphere. Qbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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