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

Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Sofia, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Sofia and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

Sofia is a popular cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Bulgaria, Sofia is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Make Eagles' Bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,196 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

A cheap, budget vacation in Sofia should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Sofia, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Mamma Mia Ltd, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Divaka is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Face bar & dinner.

Halbite Beer Hall offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Lime Cafe & Cocktails is the perfect place.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Bulgaria will take you to the city of Pazardzhik, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Pazardzhik, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Bulgaria, including Sofia.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Pazardzhik. 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 1 hour 18 min. Upon reaching Pazardzhik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make North Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,850 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Borisova Gradina Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,346 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

National Palace of Culture is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This convention center has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,510 visitors.

When you’re finished at National Palace of Culture, the perfect next stop is South Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,763 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Sofia Zoo. This zoo is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,962 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Pazardzhik. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Pazardzhik, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Pazardzhik, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Тука Е Така, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? FRANGO offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Хюга Ресторант / Hygge Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Coffee "Corleone", a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Paradise Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Bulgaria, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Reduta and Sofia. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Kyustendil, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Reduta and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Reduta beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Park "Geo Milev". This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,324 visitors.

After soaking in Pazardzhik’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sofia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Druzhba Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,509 visitors.

Park "Zaimov" is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Visitors have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,648 reviews.

Ivan Vazov National Theater is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,760 reviews.

Kyustendil offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Bulgaria. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Bulgaria shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Kyustendil is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Restaurant Friends offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Hotel Ramira. Or, try Vintage bar and dinner, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vogue, a prime location for a drink.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Bulgaria! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Kyustendil!

Day 4 of your exciting road trip across Bulgaria is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Kyustendil and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 2 nights left in Kyustendil.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Tran. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Paraskeva. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 431 visitors.

Holy Trinity is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 196 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kyustendil, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bogoyna may take around 1 hour 38 min. Upon your arrival in Bogoyna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Erma River Gorge, Tran. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,071 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bankya. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Yablanitsa River Gorge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 370 reviews.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Kyustendil. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Терасата, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Ресторант Автографф is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to BISTRO AMADEUS.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Bulgaria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your affordable vacation in Bulgaria, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Kyustendil. You’ll stay in Kyustendil for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Bulgaria, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kyustendil, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vrabcha. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Vrabcha waterfall. Previous visitors have rated this waterfall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 429 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Vrabcha, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sirishtnik. Your travel time is around 59 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ecopath "Looking at nine mountains". This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 408 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Zemen, 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 Sirishtnik to Zemen may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zemen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Zemen Monastery "St. John the Apostle", a remarkable place of worship where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,617 reviews.

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

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Bulgaria shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Kyustendil is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Passione stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Restaurant "Pizza West" offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at City Garden - Avtograff, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

Day 6 of your road trip across Bulgaria is another proof that cheap holidays in Bulgaria can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 5 wonderful destinations — Kyustendil, Nevestino, Rila Monastery, Stob, and Bistritsa. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Blagoevgrad, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nevestino. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hisarlaka Fortress. This extraordinary architectural structure has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,960 visitors.

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.

Make Kadin Bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in Nevestino. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,457 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bistritsa and set your GPS to Rila Monastery. 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 1 hour 2 min. Upon reaching Rila Monastery, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rila Monastery. This extraordinary monastery is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 18,157 visitors.

While exploring Bulgaria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Blagoevgrad has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Blagoevgrad on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Blagoevgrad. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Start your foodie adventure at Tchsasovnika, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Bar All Stars, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Verde, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at BeFree, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Swing provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Найс плейс offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Bulgaria!

Day 7 of your road trip across Bulgaria offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Plovdiv. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Sofia, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 2 hours 38 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,603 visitors.

Next, make your way to Singing Fountains. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,362 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,705 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Sofia. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Sofia, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Sofia is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Discover the heart of Sofia through its culinary scene, starting with Art Club Museum. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try J. J. Murphy's, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant "Staria Chinar", renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

A road trip vacation in Plovdiv can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Bulgaria!

Your budget road trip vacation in Bulgaria is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Sofia.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria. Take home a piece of Bulgaria with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Sofia, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Taj Mahal Restaurant, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion.

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!