One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Nebet Tepe, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Old Town Of Plovdiv. This locally appreciated historical landmark is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This photogenic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is also worth visiting, along with Singing Fountain. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Alyosha Monument. This underrated monument provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. 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 Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Qbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 3 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 Rila, Stob, and Bansko. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Plovdiv 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 Stob Earth Pyramids and learn what makes this enchanting rock formation unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bansko. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kasapinova Mehana, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Euphoria offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bansko.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Nova Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Penguins Bar & Dinner is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Amigo Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bansko, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your adventure at Lake Muratovo. This curiosity-inducing lake is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Baikushev's Pine. This increasingly popular tree offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to "neofit Rilski" House-museum, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Holy Trinity Church and House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bansko. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kabatsite, 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 Tavern Matsurev Khan, 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 Ethno Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bansko. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lion's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Pirin 75, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Wine Bar 25 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Veliko Tarnovo. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Trapezitsa Fortress. This frequently visited archeological site is a picture-perfect place to see in Bansko. Continue your discovery at Tsarevets Fortress, a visually striking castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bansko, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This curiosity-inducing monument offers a culturally significant encounter with Bansko. Next, make your way to Marno Pole Park to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bansko.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant "Ethno", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tavern "Petleto" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bell. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Famous Bar 2 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, featuring family-friendly attractions, wallet-friendly activities, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Park "children's Playground", a locally appreciated playground in the town. Then, head to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker and soak in the ambiance of this inviting church.

There are many interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo, and when you are ready for more, go to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul". This is one of the town’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo.

As you explore more of Veliko Tarnovo, 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 delicious dinner at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bianko offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ristretto. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gallery, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kazanlak and Shipka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the increasingly popular Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, an UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, go to Historical Museum “iskra”.

After visiting Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak and Historical Museum “iskra”, have a stroll along Veliko Tarnovo's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rose Museum. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience. Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Shipka Memorial Church, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo.

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 explore more of Plovdiv, 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 RESTAURANT Raia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Citizens Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restorant "Megdana" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

Keep the evening going at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cocktail Bar Noris, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Fabrik, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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