4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Bansko
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Sofia, Stob, Bansko, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Sofia and 1 night in Bansko. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Sofia, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. Borisova Gradina Park and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Rila Monastery, learn more about the unique Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Stob, Bansko, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.
Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
- Borisova Gradina Park
- More
Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Sofia and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 Borisova Gradina Park, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Grijn Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cairo Relax Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar National also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Bansko
- More
Drive 227 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
- Rila Monastery
- Holy Trinity Church
- House Museum of Nikola Vaptsarov
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Stob, Rila, and Bansko, 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 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Stob Earth Pyramids. This enchanting rock formation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rila Monastery and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-designated monastery unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Holy Trinity Church. After exploring the church, head to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This underrated museum is a highlight in Sofia.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bansko's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Nova Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Penguins Bar & Dinner is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Amigo Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Bansko
- Sofia
- More
Drive 350 km, 5 hours 44 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Plovdiv and Bachkovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Bansko. Begin your sightseeing with Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This well-known archeological site is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
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 Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This notable monastery is a traveler-favorite.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise 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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kathrine Cocktail - Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Urban Rebel. 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.
Day 4
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- More
Day 4 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This popular church is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace, Paradise Center. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel ZOO Sofia is another top choice with a popular 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Bulgaria
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.