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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set aside time today to explore Kapana Creative District, a standout neighborhood 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.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Nebet Tepe. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a standout place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Old Town Of Plovdiv, a standout historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This underrated museum offers a photogenic encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Alyosha Monument, a worthwhile monument that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a shopping spree at Plovdiv's top shopping destination, Kapana District! Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, browsing unique boutique shops and discovering local treasures. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect for bringing a touch of Bulgaria into your home. Beyond shopping, Kapana District has plenty to offer, including essential services, seasonal events, and unique attractions for all ages.

As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Qbar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Anyway Social Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monastery, a rock formation, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Rila Monastery and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Stob Earth Pyramids, a picturesque rock formation that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Park "razlog", one of the region’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kasapinova Mehana, a top-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Euphoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

Keep the evening going at Nova Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Penguins Bar & Dinner, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Amigo Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bansko. You’ll stay in Bansko for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in Bansko. Begin your sightseeing with House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Holy Trinity Church, 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 Museum "velyan House". This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Banderishka Meadow, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Bansko Ski Resort is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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.

Keep the evening going at Lion's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Pirin 75, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Wine Bar 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 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 Kh'rsovo, Rozhen, and Melnik. In the evening, you’ll end up in Melnik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Bansko covers several incredible sights, including a winery, a monastery, a museum, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Villa Melnik. This up-and-coming winery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the inviting wonders of Rozhen Monastery, a must-see monastery in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Kordopulov House. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Muzej Na Vinoto, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Melnik. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mehana "Sveta Varvara", a popular restaurant in Melnik. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Melnik at Hotel-Restaurant Chavkova House, 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 Mehana Melnik. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Melnik tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hubava Krachma - Nice Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Boyana Church, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Museum Of History, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile museum renowned for its standout features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Melnik by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to South Park. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Melnik experience. We also recommend visiting Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a curiosity-inducing church. Nearby, you'll also find National Theater "ivan Vazov", ready to add charm to your journey.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, 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 Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Grijn Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cairo Relax Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar National is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A visit to Tsar Ivan Shishman Street in Sofia 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.

Today’s agenda in Sofia includes a zoo, a convention center, a park, a church and much more! Sofia Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Palace Of Culture, a popular convention center, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Borisova Gradina Park, an eye-catching park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Sofia. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the well-known Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. If you’re looking for more, Zaimov Park is also a notable attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Urban Rebel is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Koprivshtitsa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a museum and a monument. Start your adventure at House Museum “dimcho Debelyanov”. This intriguing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Mausoleum-ossuary Of Koprivshtitsa located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Lutova House Museum. Its historic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Statue Of Georgi Benkovski. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this monument.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant "Megdana". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cocktail Bar Noris offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Fabrik provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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