9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko, Melnik, and Sofia

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Plovdiv. You have 1 night left in Plovdiv. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Kapana Creative District is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Plovdiv. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Make time for Nebet Tepe, a beloved archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Town Of Plovdiv, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This museum is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. After exploring the archeological site, head to the up-and-coming Alyosha Monument.

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.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Markovo Tepe Mall, the top shopping destination in Plovdiv. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Markovo Tepe Mall has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rila, Stob, and Razlog are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Make a stop at Rila Monastery. This well-known monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Stob Earth Pyramids located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Park "razlog". Its enchanting features will captivate you.

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.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nova Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bansko. Amigo Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bansko has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the town and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bansko.

House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Holy Trinity Church, another must-visit landmark and intriguing church renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bansko by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum "velyan House". This historic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bansko experience. We also recommend visiting Banderishka Meadow, an intriguing hiking area. Nearby, you'll also find Bansko Ski Resort, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Kabatsite, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern Matsurev Khan beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ethno Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bansko tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lion's Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pirin 75 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wine Bar 25 provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 3 places, which are Kh'rsovo, Rozhen, and Melnik. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Melnik, where will spend 1 night.

Villa Melnik is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This enchanting winery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rozhen Monastery, another must-visit landmark and beloved monastery renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bansko by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kordopulov House. This history-steeped museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bansko experience. We also recommend visiting Muzej Na Vinoto, a beloved museum. Nearby, you'll also find Melnik, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

Melnik 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 Melnik.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mehana "Sveta Varvara", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel-Restaurant Chavkova House offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Mehana Melnik is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Melnik.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Hubava Krachma - Nice Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Sofia. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Boyana Church is an essential stop in Melnik. This intriguing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover National Museum Of History, an eye-catching museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to South Park, a captivating park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. Round off your day at National Theater "ivan Vazov", another gem in Melnik with romantic features to discover.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Grijn Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cairo Relax Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar National likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Make a stop at Sofia Zoo. This notable zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Palace Of Culture located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Borisova Gradina Park. Its masterful features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this church. Next up is Zaimov 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Forum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turquoise Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Koprivshtitsa. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Let House Museum “dimcho Debelyanov” set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. Mausoleum-ossuary Of Koprivshtitsa is your next stop. This frequently visited monument is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Lutova House Museum. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Statue Of Georgi Benkovski.

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

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 RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana", a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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