6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Bansko

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

Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a popular street in Sofia. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Boyana Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Borisova Gradina Park, a romantic park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Regional History Museum Of Sofia. When you're finished at the museum, South Park awaits your visit. This park is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Sofia's bustling shopping hub, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Vitosha Boulevard offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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.

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

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

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 1 place, which are Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nebet Tepe, a curiosity-inducing archeological site in Plovdiv. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Old Town Of Plovdiv. This worthwhile historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the captivating Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and discover what makes this archeological site unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an idyllic park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Plovdiv, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rock Bar Download, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, North Star is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Bansko. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bansko, where you'll spend 1 night.

As you explore Asenovgrad’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

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

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Asen's Fortress, an often recommended castle that everyone visiting Asenovgrad should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Asenovgrad and set your GPS to Bachkovo. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Bachkovo, 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 Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a popular monastery that everyone visiting Bachkovo should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bansko. This car ride takes around 3 hours 2 min.

Savor the day by heading to Holy Trinity Church, a beloved church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to City Park, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Kasapinova Mehana, an iconic dining spot in Bansko. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Euphoria, a popular restaurant in Bansko. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro, a hidden gem nestled in Bansko. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Nova Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Amigo Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Rila and Stob. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, where you'll spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bansko, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rila. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rila is Rila Monastery, a locally renowned monastery that draws attention for its historic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rila may take around 1 hour 29 min. Upon your arrival in Rila, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a locally appreciated waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rila and set your GPS to Stob. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Stob, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Stob Earth Pyramids, a curiosity-inducing rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar & Dinner Relax is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Round off your dining experience by visiting One More Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Teos Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bsd 2 Ndk likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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