One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Smolyan, Pastra, and Bansko

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night.

Set aside time today to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Make a stop at Boyana Church. This worthwhile church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Borisova Gradina Park located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Regional History Museum Of Sofia. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this museum. Next up is South Park, a highly recommended park.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Turquoise Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the captivating Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a standout archeological site in Sofia. Next, go to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv.

After visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This enchanting historical landmark offers a unique experience. Alyosha Monument is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, one of the most respected places to visit in Sofia.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Bar Download, known for its lively atmosphere. North Star is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Smolyan are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Smolyan, where you will stay for 1 night.

Catch Asen's Fortress before the crowds roll in. This history-steeped castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a must-visit monastery in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Smolyanski Ezera Hut, an up-and-coming lake. We also recommend visiting Church Of Saint Vissarion Of Smolyan. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Smolyan Waterfall, yet another up-and-coming attraction in Plovdiv.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Smolyan, 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 Smolyan's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at restaurant ECO, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mehana „Mecho ukho“ offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Milano is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Smolyan.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Venus Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe The Clock offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Smolyan.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Samokov, Stob, and Rila. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pastra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Belyova Church. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Stob Earth Pyramids located in Smolyan for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rila Monastery. Its stunning features will captivate you.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pastra. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Bansko. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Banderishka Meadow. This serene hiking area will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Museum "velyan House". After exploring the museum, head to Monument Paisius Of Hilendar. This frequently visited monument is a highlight in Pastra. As your day continues, stop by Holy Trinity Church, known for its culturally significant 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bansko's best restaurants.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Nova Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Penguins Bar & Dinner, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Amigo Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Samokov. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Bansko, make sure to drop by Beli Iskar Eco Trail. This often recommended hiking area is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is City Park By The River Iskar, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out Great Fountain, 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, Samokov Museum Of History. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this museum offers.

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.

Sofia 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 Sofia.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, 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 Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at One More Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Teos Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bsd 2 Ndk, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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