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

Welcome to Sofia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Sofia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hotel Forum, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel ZOO Sofia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pazardzhik, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, North Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Borisova Gradina Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at National Palace of Culture. The convention center has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting South Park. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.

Sofia Zoo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this zoo, rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,237 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Тука Е Така, an iconic dining spot in Pazardzhik. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of FRANGO, a popular restaurant in Pazardzhik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Хюга Ресторант / Hygge Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Pazardzhik. 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 Coffee "Corleone", a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Paradise Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sofia, 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 Pazardzhik to Sofia may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sofia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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 8,598 reviews.

Continue your journey at Zaimov Park. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,334 travelers from near and far.

Sofia is also the home of Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at National Theater "Ivan Vazov". Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,932 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

Drop by the renowned Geo Milev Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,414 visitors.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Friends, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Ramira is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vintage bar and dinner. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kyustendil tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Vogue, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Bogoyna, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Kyustendil for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bogoyna, Tran, and Bankya to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bogoyna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kyustendil behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. Bogoyna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Erma River Gorge, Tran one of your first sightseeing stops in Bogoyna. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,114 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

Take the opportunity to see Holy Paraskeva. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 436 visitors.

Holy Trinity is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 199 travelers.

Bankya’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Tran behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Bankya welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Yablanitsa River Gorge. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 382 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Терасата, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ресторант Автографф offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, BISTRO AMADEUS is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kyustendil.

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

On day 5 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 city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Vrabcha, Sirishtnik, and Zemen. You still have 1 night left in Kyustendil.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vrabcha, 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 Vrabcha may take around 1 hour 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vrabcha, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Vrabcha waterfall. This much-appreciated waterfall is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 440 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sirishtnik. This car ride takes around 59 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ecopath "Looking at nine mountains". This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sirishtnik, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 413 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sirishtnik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zemen may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Zemen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Zemen Monastery "St. John the Apostle" one of your first sightseeing stops in Zemen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,642 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Passione, a highly-rated dining destination in Kyustendil. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant "Pizza West", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at City Garden - Avtograff. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kyustendil this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Kyustendil, Nevestino, Bistritsa, Rila Monastery, and Stob. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blagoevgrad, where you will stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hisarlaka Fortress. Previous visitors have rated this architectural structure an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,026 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Kyustendil, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nevestino. Your travel time is around 18 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Kadin Bridge. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,488 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Blagoevgrad, 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 Blagoevgrad's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tchsasovnika, a top-rated dining destination in Blagoevgrad. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar All Stars, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Verde. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Blagoevgrad this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at BeFree. Alternatively, go to Swing, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Найс плейс provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blagoevgrad and set your GPS to Plovdiv. 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 38 min. Upon reaching Plovdiv, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews.

Singing Fountain is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another outstanding experience in Plovdiv. Around 7,842 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Divaka, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Face bar & dinner offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Art Club Museum. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.

Take the opportunity to see Holy Trinity Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,845 visitors.

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

Savor the flavors at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!