One-Week 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.

Nebet Tepe is must-visit archeological site and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an increasingly popular historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Plovdiv. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the captivating “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. If you’re looking for more, Singing Fountain is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Alyosha Monument, a place of noteworthy interest in the city.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sofra? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Central Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Catch Rila Monastery before the crowds roll in. This historic monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Stob Earth Pyramids, a must-visit rock formation in the region.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to City Park, an up-and-coming park.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bansko. Bansko offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bansko is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bansko.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Nova Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Amigo Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Bansko, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Bansko, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bansko and Kresna to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

No visit to Bansko is complete without Lake Muratovo. This underrated lake is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Vihren, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bansko, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Baikushev's Pine. This worthwhile tree is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find "neofit Rilski" House-museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Holy Trinity Church is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov and uncover why it's recognized as one of the town's most beloved attractions.

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

Bansko is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bansko.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kabatsite, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern Matsurev Khan? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ethno Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bansko.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lion's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Pirin 75 offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Wine Bar 25 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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

To truly experience Bansko, make sure to drop by Trapezitsa Fortress. This intriguing archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Tsarevets Fortress, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Monument To The Assen Dynasty, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Bansko. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Marno Pole Park. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this park offers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a highly-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Famous Bar 2, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanassi, and Lyaskovets. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Veliko Tarnovo, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Gorna Oryahovitsa is brimming with adventures.

Park "children's Playground" is an ideal stop early in the day. This increasingly popular playground is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Veliko Tarnovo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", a beloved monastery in the town.

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

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

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ristretto after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Gallery, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tequila Bar Funky Monkey also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Kazanlak and Shipka. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Veliko Tarnovo is only getting started when you visit Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Historical Museum “iskra”. This up-and-coming museum is known for its symbolic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Veliko Tarnovo's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Rose Museum. This photogenic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak is also worth visiting, along with Shipka Memorial Church. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at RESTAURANT Raia, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kriloto Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cocktail Bar Noris is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Fabrik is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!