One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv to Bansko, Sofia, and Dospat

Say hello to Plovdiv! 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 Plovdiv for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Plovdiv 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 Alyosha Monument or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Plovdiv. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Rahat Tepe, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RESTAURANT Raia, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Morado Bar & Dinner, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bansko’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Bansko welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Singing Fountains. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

“Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,346 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,705 reviews.

Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is another outstanding experience in Plovdiv. Around 17,603 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Youth Hill is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,014 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bansko. Bansko offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bansko's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Euphoria, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Victoria Bansko as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bansko.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Nova Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of PENGUINS Bar & Dinner, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Amigo Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in 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 4 vibrant destinations - Rila Monastery, Bansko, Razlog, and Rila. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Rila Monastery and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila Monastery beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Rila Monastery, a remarkable monastery where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,157 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Razlog. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Holy Trinity Church. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,346 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sofia, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Divaka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Face bar & dinner. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Keep the evening going at Halbite Beer Hall, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Lime Cafe & Cocktails, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Sofia Zoo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,962 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Borisova Gradina Park. Borisova Gradina Park is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,346 reviews.

Eagles' Bridge is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,196 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Knyazheska Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,672 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on National Palace of Culture, a famous convention center in Sofia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,510 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Art Club Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider J. J. Murphy's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant "Staria Chinar". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to South Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,763 visitors.

Next, make your way to Park "Zaimov". This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,209 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,034 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Ivan Vazov National Theater. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,760 travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package 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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Taj Mahal Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 6 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 Sofia and Reduta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dospat, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Dospat. 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 hours 55 min. Upon reaching Dospat, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned St. Nedelya Church. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,593 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is North Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,850 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Holy Trinity Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,768 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Druzhba Park. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,509 local and international travelers.

Upon your arrival in Reduta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Park "Geo Milev" your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,324 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dospat, 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 in Dospat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bachkovo, Borino, Iagodina, and Asenovgrad. 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bachkovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno". This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,019 reviews.

Borino welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Yagodinska cave. This popular cave has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,656 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pri Ilyas (Brazilia), a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. 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, ANYWAY Social Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Крилото Cocktail Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cocktail Bar Noris is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Bulgaria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Plovdiv’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Bulgaria, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Bulgaria with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hemingway Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Rio? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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!