9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Kyustendil, Plovdiv, and Blagoevgrad and surrounding area

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 3 nights 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 Sofia and Reduta.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sofia, including a park, a zoo, and a performing arts theater. Start your day at Druzhba Park. This picturesque park is a locally appreciated place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Sofia Zoo. If visually striking sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Borisova Gradina Park. This eye-catching park is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, National Theater "ivan Vazov" is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Reduta. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Geo Milev Park, a notable park known for its scenic features.

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

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

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. North Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most captivating places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a curiosity-inducing church, known for its standout features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This heritage-rich church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, National Palace Of Culture adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to South Park, a romantic park in Sofia.

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 Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Continue your lively evening at One More Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Teos Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bsd 2 Ndk 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!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sofia and Musagenitsa. You still have 1 night left in Sofia.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, natural wonders, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Zaimov Park. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Prince's Garden, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Sofia. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Eagles' Bridge. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this monument offers.

Musagenitsa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Musagenitsa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Muzeiko, a locally appreciated science center that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Esterhasi Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Da Massimo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Corner, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gaba. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at K. E. B. A. , another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Vrabcha, Bankya, Sirishtnik, and Zemen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kyustendil, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vrabcha may take around 1 hour 20 min. Upon your arrival in Vrabcha, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Vrabcha Waterfall, an increasingly popular waterfall in Vrabcha. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vrabcha, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bankya may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Bankya, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Yablanitsa River Gorge, a locally appreciated canyon that everyone visiting Bankya should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Bankya, 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 1 hour 11 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Ecopath "looking At Nine Mountains", a frequently visited hiking area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Kyustendil. Kyustendil offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kyustendil. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Friends, a top-rated dining spot in Kyustendil. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Ramira, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vintage bar and dinner. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kyustendil.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vogue, a top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Blagoevgrad. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Plovdiv. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Singing Fountain is the perfect place to start. This art installation is one of the most notable places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a popular park, known for its serene features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This breathtaking archeological site offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Youth Hill, an eye-catching park in Plovdiv.

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

As you explore more of Blagoevgrad, 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 lovely dining experience at Tchsasovnika, a popular restaurant in Blagoevgrad. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Blagoevgrad at Bar All Stars, 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 Verde. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Blagoevgrad tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Befree offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Swing is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Najs Plejs is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!