9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Bansko, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Sofia, Rila, Dobarsko, and Razlog. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned church, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Afterward, continue to Rila Monastery, a monastery every traveler should visit.

As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Church "st. St. Theodore Tyron And Theodore Stratilat ". This increasingly popular church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Park "razlog", another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bansko, 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 Bansko. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Bansko. You have 1 night left in Bansko. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bansko, including a museum and a church. Start your day at House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This visually striking museum is an often recommended place to see in Bansko. Then, wander over to Museum "velyan House". If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Holy Trinity Church. This culturally significant church is a favorite among visitors.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kabatsite, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern Matsurev Khan offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ethno Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bansko.

Keep the evening going at Lion's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Pirin 75, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Wine Bar 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Perushtitsa and Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bansko allows for both. Start by heading to Red Church. This frequently visited archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a breathtaking archeological site, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to The Statue Of Milyo, an increasingly popular point of interest.

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

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to North Star, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Alyosha Monument. This worthwhile monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Singing Fountain, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, one of the most popular places to see in Plovdiv. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the frequently visited Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

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

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 evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Qbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the popular Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a picture-perfect monastery in Plovdiv. Next, go to Asen's Fortress.

After visiting Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and Asen's Fortress, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Momina Skala Viewpoint. This eye-catching observation deck offers a unique experience. Youth Hill is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kriloto Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cocktail Bar Noris is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Fabrik provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 7 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 Veliko Tarnovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Trapezitsa Fortress is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking archeological site before continuing your journey. Tsarevets Fortress is your next stop. This notable castle 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension. This stunning church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya" and Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Famous Bar 2, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Troyan, Dolni Varpishta, and Gabrovo, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Veliko Tarnovo is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Troyan Monastery, a well-known monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo. This museum is one of the region’s most worthwhile spots.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

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

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!