7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Veliko Tarnovo

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

Singing Fountain makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating art installation is a stunning place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an eye-catching park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This popular archeological site offers a picture-perfect encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Old Town Of Plovdiv, an often recommended historical landmark that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Nebet Tepe, an intriguing archeological site in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

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.

Shop 'til you drop at Plovdiv's premier shopping hotspot, Kapana District! Elevate your style by browsing through trendy boutiques and shops, filled with unique finds. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect as cherished mementos. Kapana District also offers more, including attractions, key services, and exciting local experiences to round out your visit.

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

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.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Rila, Stob, and Bansko. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bansko, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Rila. 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 3 hours 17 min. Upon reaching Rila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rila Monastery and explore the historic features.

After soaking in Rila’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stob. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Stob, it's time to take a break from the road.

Stob Earth Pyramids is an underrated rock formation we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Stob’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bansko. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Bansko, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering City Park, an increasingly popular park known for its eye-catching features.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Bansko and Kresna. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bansko, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Make time for Holy Trinity Church, an up-and-coming church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find "neofit Rilski" House-museum, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Off Road Bansko Jeep Tours. This off-road park is one of the town’s most often recommended spots.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bansko and set your GPS to Kresna. 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 2 min. Upon reaching Kresna, 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 town's best attractions, visit Banderishka Meadow, an increasingly popular hiking area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bansko and your accommodation.

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

Dine in style at Kabatsite, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern Matsurev Khan boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ethno Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bansko.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lion's Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pirin 75 is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Wine Bar 25 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bansko, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 14 min.

Monument Of Mother Bulgaria is a frequently visited monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a remarkable monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Tsarevets Fortress, a symbolic castle.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arbanassi.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Famous Bar 2. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Grill Kolata, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Boicheta, Shipka, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Boicheta. This car ride takes around 51 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ethno Village Etar, a captivating museum known for its standout features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Boicheta, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Shipka. This drive usually takes around 43 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Shipka Memorial Church, an increasingly popular church that everyone visiting Shipka should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Shipka and set your GPS to Asenovgrad. 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 1 hour 58 min. Upon reaching Asenovgrad, 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 Asen's Fortress, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Asenovgrad should see.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Citizens Club is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restorant "Megdana". As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cocktail Bar Noris, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Fabrik provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.