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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a locally renowned church in the city. Then, head to Rila Monastery and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect monastery.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Church "st. St. Theodore Tyron And Theodore Stratilat ". This is one of the city’s most intriguing heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the beloved Park "razlog".

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kasapinova Mehana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Euphoria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bansko.

Keep the evening going at Nova Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Penguins Bar & Dinner, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Amigo Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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.

Start by visiting House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Museum "velyan House", another must-visit landmark and beloved museum renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bansko by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Holy Trinity Church. This monumental church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bansko experience.

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 delicious meal at Kabatsite, a top-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Matsurev Khan, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ethno Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lion's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pirin 75, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Wine Bar 25 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Perushtitsa and 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Start your adventure at Red Church. This often recommended archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a must-see archeological site in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to The Statue Of Milyo. This underrated point of interest offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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 Salt & Pepper, 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 Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rock Bar Download stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, North Star offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Morado Bar & Dinner is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a monument, an art installation, a park, an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum and much more! Start your day at Alyosha Monument. This remarkable monument is an up-and-coming place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Singing Fountain. If instagrammable sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This peaceful park is a favorite among visitors.

Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the archeological site, don’t forget to check out the history-steeped Old Town Of Plovdiv. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular historical landmark. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Plovdiv's top attractions with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv.

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.

Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including a monastery, a castle, an observation deck, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This locally renowned monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Asen's Fortress located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Momina Skala Viewpoint. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Youth Hill. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this park.

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

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

Savor the flavors at RESTAURANT Raia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Citizens Club beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restorant "Megdana". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable 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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a castle, a church, a market, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Trapezitsa Fortress. This beloved archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tsarevets Fortress, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Plovdiv on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension, an intriguing church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya" and Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Troyan, Dolni Varpishta, and Gabrovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Troyan Monastery. This locally renowned monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Veliko Tarnovo. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

As you explore more of Sofia, 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 Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Turquoise Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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.