6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Bansko
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Sofia, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Bansko, and Stob.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Plovdiv, 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 got 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. South Park and Borisova Gradina Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, learn more about the unique Rila Monastery, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Bansko, and Stob, 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, accommodation, 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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Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
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- National Palace of Culture
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Say hello to Sofia! Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Sofia for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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 National Palace Of Culture, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.
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 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- More
Drive 32 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Boyana Church
- Borisova Gradina Park
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Regional History Museum Sofia
- South Park
- Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Don’t miss Tsar Ivan Shishman Street in Sofia today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Boyana Church is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Borisova Gradina Park, a captivating park, known for its standout 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This historic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Regional History Museum Of Sofia and South Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 8 min
- Nebet Tepe
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Nebet Tepe, an intriguing archeological site in the city. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking historical landmark.
There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the notable Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Not far away, you'll also find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Sofia.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Bar Download, known for its lively atmosphere. North Star is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Bansko
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Drive 239 km, 4 hours 54 min
- Asen's Fortress
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Holy Trinity Church
- City Park
- Baikushev's pine
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Bansko. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bansko. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Plovdiv allows for both. Start by heading to Asen's Fortress. This worthwhile castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a historic monastery, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Trinity Church, an increasingly popular church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited City Park.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bansko. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bansko. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Kasapinova Mehana, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Euphoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bansko.
Keep the evening going at Nova Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Penguins Bar & Dinner, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Amigo Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Bansko
- Sofia
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Drive 223 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Rila Monastery
- Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
- Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Rila and Stob, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bansko today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Rila Monastery. This UNESCO world heritage-listed monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail and learn what makes this romantic waterfall unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Stob Earth Pyramids.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 Sofiyska Banitsa, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel ZOO Sofia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar & Dinner Relax. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Sofia - Departure day
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- Park "Zaimov"
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Day 6 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, begin at Zaimov Park. This interesting park is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Bulgaria, take 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 Esterhasi Restaurant, 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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