7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Bansko and Plovdiv

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make sure to visit Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a popular street in Sofia. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Boyana Church is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this UNESCO world heritage-listed church before continuing your journey. South Park is your next stop. This notable park is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

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 National Palace Of Culture. This eye-catching convention center is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and Borisova Gradina Park.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stob and Rila. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bansko, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in the charming village of Sofia. Your adventure starts at Stob Earth Pyramids, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Rila Monastery. This popular monastery is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail. This romantic waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kasapinova Mehana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Euphoria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bansko.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nova Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bansko. Amigo Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 4 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bansko, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at City Park, an increasingly popular park in the town. Then, head to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Bansko, and when you are ready for more, go to Monument Paisius Of Hilendar. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming standout spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the curiosity-inducing Holy Trinity Church. Not far away, you'll also find "neofit Rilski" House-museum. This museum is a historic highlight in Bansko. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Off Road Bansko Jeep Tours, an often recommended off-road park in the town.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kabatsite, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tavern Matsurev Khan is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ethno Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bansko tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lion's Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Pirin 75, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Wine Bar 25 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 Plovdiv. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bansko. Begin your sightseeing with Nebet Tepe. This worthwhile archeological site is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Old Town Of Plovdiv, another must-visit attraction.

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 Roman Forum Of Philippopolis. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Singing Fountain is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 6 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 Koprivshtitsa and Hisarya. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Oslekov House. This up-and-coming museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mausoleum-ossuary Of Koprivshtitsa, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Statue Of Georgi Benkovski, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Plovdiv. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Mineral Spring "momina Banya". Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this hot spring offers. Then, head to Hisarya Archaeological Museum, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the underrated “lady’s Teardrop” Mineral Water Spring, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

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 highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, One More Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bsd 2 Ndk is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.