6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling west to Blagoevgrad and Kyustendil
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Sofia, Blagoevgrad, Stob, Bistritsa, Nevestino, Kyustendil, Leskovets, and Pernik. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Sofia, 2 nights in Blagoevgrad, and 1 night in Kyustendil. 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 Zaimov Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Blagoevgrad, Stob, Bistritsa, Nevestino, Kyustendil, Leskovets, and Pernik, 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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Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
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- Park "Zaimov"
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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 1 night 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 Zaimov Park, 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.
Dine in style at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Saffron Indian Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Island Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Grijn Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar National, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Blagoevgrad
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 24 min
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Eagles' Bridge
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Knyazheska Garden
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, 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 Blagoevgrad. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a monument, a park, a performing arts theater and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Eagles' Bridge, a photogenic monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Borisova Gradina Park, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Prince's Garden. When you're finished at the park, National Theater "ivan Vazov" awaits your visit. This performing arts theater is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Blagoevgrad. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Blagoevgrad's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Tchsasovnika, a top-rated dining spot in Blagoevgrad. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar All Stars, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Verde. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Blagoevgrad.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Befree offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Swing is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Najs Plejs is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Blagoevgrad and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Blagoevgrad
- Sofia
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Drive 232 km, 3 hours 30 min
- North Park
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- Sofia Zoo
- Park "Geo Milev
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Blagoevgrad for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sofia and Reduta.
Today’s itinerary in Blagoevgrad covers several incredible sights, including a park, a convention center, and a zoo. Start your adventure at North Park. This popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of National Palace Of Culture, a must-see convention center in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to South Park. This notable park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sofia Zoo, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Geo Milev Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Blagoevgrad and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Blagoevgrad's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Shery, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Naomi Bar & Patisserie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Cardinal. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Blagoevgrad tonight.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Blagoevgrad
- Kyustendil
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
- Rila Monastery
- Rila
- Kadin Bridge
- Hisarlaka Fortress
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On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Stob, Rila, Bistritsa, Nevestino, and Kyustendil. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kyustendil, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Blagoevgrad includes a rock formation, a monastery, a mountain range, a monument, a castle and much more! Stob Earth Pyramids is must-visit rock formation and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Rila Monastery, a well-known monastery, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rila, an idyllic mountain range, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Blagoevgrad. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Kadin Bridge. If you’re looking for more, Hisarlaka Fortress is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kyustendil. Kyustendil offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kyustendil. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Friends, a top-rated dining destination in Kyustendil. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Ramira, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vintage bar and dinner. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kyustendil this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vogue, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 5
- Kyustendil
- Sofia
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Alis Petting Zoo
- Централен парк
- Pernik Museum of Mining
- Living Water Spring
- Vitosha
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Leskovets and Pernik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kyustendil. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Alis Petting Zoo is the perfect place to start. This petting zoo is one of the most underrated places to visit in Kyustendil. Next, head to Tsentralen Park, an underrated park, known for its peaceful 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 Mining Museum Of Pernik. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Living Water Spring and Vitosha Nature Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Sofia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Forum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turquoise Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Urban Rebel provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Sofia - Departure day
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- Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
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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.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
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 Hotel ZOO Sofia, 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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