One-Week Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Pazardzhik, Kyustendil, and Blagoevgrad and surrounding area

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

Sofia 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 Eagles' Bridge 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 Sofia. 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 Sofia. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mamma Mia Ltd, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Divaka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Face bar & dinner as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Halbite Beer Hall, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Lime Cafe & Cocktails, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to North Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,850 visitors.

Borisova Gradina Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,346 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to National Palace of Culture. Visitors have rated this convention center an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,510 reviews.

South Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,763 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Sofia Zoo, perhaps the most famous zoo in Sofia. This attraction is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,962 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Pazardzhik. Pazardzhik 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 Pazardzhik's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Тука Е Така, a top-rated dining destination in Pazardzhik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider FRANGO, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Хюга Ресторант / Hygge Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pazardzhik this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Coffee "Corleone" stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Paradise Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Sofia and Reduta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kyustendil, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sofia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Druzhba Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,509 reviews.

Continue your journey at Park "Zaimov". This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,209 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,648 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Ivan Vazov National Theater. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,760 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Reduta.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Park "Geo Milev". This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,324 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kyustendil, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Kyustendil. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Friends, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Ramira offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vintage bar and dinner is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kyustendil.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vogue, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Kyustendil, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bogoyna, Tran, and Bankya. You still have 2 nights left in Kyustendil.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bogoyna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Erma River Gorge, Tran. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,071 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tran, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bogoyna to Tran may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tran, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Holy Paraskeva, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 431 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Holy Trinity. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 196 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tran, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bankya. This drive usually takes around 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Yablanitsa River Gorge. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 370 reviews.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Kyustendil. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Терасата, an iconic dining spot in Kyustendil. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ресторант Автографф, a popular restaurant in Kyustendil. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of BISTRO AMADEUS, a hidden gem nestled in Kyustendil. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 Kyustendil, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kyustendil, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vrabcha. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Vrabcha waterfall, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable waterfall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 429 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sirishtnik. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Ecopath "Looking at nine mountains". This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 408 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zemen. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Zemen Monastery "St. John the Apostle". This much-appreciated place of worship is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,617 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Passione, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant "Pizza West" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss City Garden - Avtograff. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kyustendil.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Kyustendil, Nevestino, Bistritsa, Rila Monastery, and Stob, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Blagoevgrad. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Hisarlaka Fortress. This popular architectural structure has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,960 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nevestino, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kyustendil to Nevestino may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nevestino, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Kadin Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,457 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Blagoevgrad, 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 Blagoevgrad, 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Tchsasovnika, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar All Stars is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Verde. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Blagoevgrad tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting BeFree, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Swing is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Найс плейс also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Blagoevgrad 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 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Blagoevgrad, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 38 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Singing Fountains is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Plovdiv is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Plovdiv offers an experience you will remember.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Plovdiv. This sightseeing destination promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,705 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sofia. Sofia 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia.

Make sure to book a table at Art Club Museum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at J. J. Murphy's, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant "Staria Chinar". As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

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 Sofia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Bulgaria, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Bulgaria home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Kick off the day at Holy Trinity Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,768 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taj Mahal Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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!