5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling south to Velingrad and Smolyan

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Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Plovdiv, 1 night in Velingrad, and 1 night in Smolyan. 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 Plovdiv, 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. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", learn more about the unique Singing Fountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Yagodinska Cave.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Velingrad, Batak, Iagodina, Smolyan, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Zlatovrah, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Youth Hill
Singing FountainsTsar Simeon GardenAncient Theatre of PhilippopolisOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveNebet Tepe
Church-ossuary "Sveta Nedelya"Batak History MuseumYagodinska caveEagle's Eye
Smolyan waterfallPamporovo Ski ResortBachkovo Monastery "Uspenie BogorodichnoAsen's FortressArapovo Monastery
Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Youth Hill
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Welcome to Plovdiv, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Plovdiv's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Plovdiv 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 Youth Hill, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Plovdiv. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Velingrad
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Drive 84 km, 2 hours 8 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Nebet Tepe
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, 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 Velingrad. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Plovdiv on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Singing Fountain is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable art installation before continuing your journey. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is your next stop. This notable park is one of the best-rated sights in Plovdiv.

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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This eye-catching archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Old Town Of Plovdiv and Nebet Tepe.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Velingrad, 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 Velingrad. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Central bar&dinner, a top-rated dining spot in Velingrad. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kashta za gosti "Starata Kashta", grad Velingrad, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Demeko Tavern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Velingrad.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Coffee & Wine Edelvais, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Velingrad
  • Smolyan
  • More

Drive 164 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Church-ossuary "Sveta Nedelya"
  • Batak History Museum
  • Yagodinska cave
  • Eagle's Eye
  • More

On day 3 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 Batak, Borino, and Iagodina. In the evening, you’ll end up in Smolyan, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at the frequently visited Church-ossuary "sveta Nedelya", a heritage-rich church in Velingrad. Next, go to Batak History Museum.

After visiting Church-ossuary "sveta Nedelya" and Batak History Museum, take time to explore Velingrad's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Yagodinska Cave. This visually striking cave offers a unique experience. Eagle's Eye is another noteworthy stop.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at restaurant ECO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mehana „Mecho ukho“ offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Milano. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Smolyan.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Venus Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe The Clock for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Smolyan
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 128 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Smolyan waterfall
  • Pamporovo Ski Resort
  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Arapovo Monastery
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Smolyan, Chepelare, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Zlatovrah. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Smolyan allows for both. Start by heading to Smolyan Waterfall. This underrated waterfall provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Pamporovo Ski Resort, an enchanting ski resort, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Asen's Fortress. Round off your day at Arapovo Monastery, another gem in Smolyan with stunning features to discover.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv 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, we recommend visiting Alyosha Monument, a culturally significant monument before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center, the lively Kapana District. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Citizens Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restorant "Megdana".

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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!

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