9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Bansko, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, Rila, Dobarsko, and Razlog, 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 Bansko. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This well-known church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rila Monastery, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Church "st. St. Theodore Tyron And Theodore Stratilat ", one of the most intriguing places to see in Sofia. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Park "razlog". Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this park offers.

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

As you explore more of Bansko, 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Nova Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Penguins Bar & Dinner, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Amigo Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 3 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bansko, including a museum and a church. Start your day at House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This respected museum is an underrated place to see in Bansko. Then, wander over to Museum "velyan House". If history-steeped sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Holy Trinity Church. This heritage-rich church is a favorite among visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Bansko, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kabatsite, a top-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Matsurev Khan, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ethno Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Lion's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Pirin 75 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Wine Bar 25 ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Perushtitsa and Plovdiv. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Bansko is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Red Church, an underrated archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at The Statue Of Milyo. This point of interest is one of the town’s most locally appreciated spots.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. North Star is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

Day 5 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Plovdiv. You have 2 nights left in Plovdiv. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Alyosha Monument, an often recommended monument in the city. Then, head to Singing Fountain and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting art installation.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This is one of the city’s most notable eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the interesting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Not far away, you'll also find Old Town Of Plovdiv. This historical landmark is an awe-inspiring highlight in Plovdiv. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an increasingly popular museum in the city.

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 Plovdiv's best restaurants.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Qbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Anyway Social Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Plovdiv for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Izvor, and Plovdiv.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including a monastery, a castle, an observation deck, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This popular monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Asen's Fortress located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Momina Skala Viewpoint. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Youth Hill. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this park.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at RESTAURANT Raia, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant "Megdana". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kriloto Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cocktail Bar Noris, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Fabrik. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the up-and-coming Trapezitsa Fortress, a stunning archeological site in Plovdiv. Next, go to Tsarevets Fortress.

After visiting Trapezitsa Fortress and Tsarevets Fortress, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension. This stunning church offers a unique experience. Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya" is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Plovdiv.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern "Petleto", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bell. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Famous Bar 2, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Grill Kolata offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 3 vibrant destinations - Troyan, Dolni Varpishta, and Gabrovo. 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming region of Veliko Tarnovo. Your adventure starts at Troyan Monastery, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael". This underrated monastery is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Veliko Tarnovo's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo. This eye-catching museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!