5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Smolyan and surrounding area

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

Today’s itinerary in Plovdiv covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum, a park, an art installation, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Nebet Tepe. This increasingly popular archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Old Town Of Plovdiv, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

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 Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, where you can take in eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Singing Fountain and Alyosha Monument. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Plovdiv's bustling shopping hub, Kapana District. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs, including artisan crafts and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Kapana District offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sofra? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Central Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Qbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Smolyan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Smolyan, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including a castle, a monastery, a rock formation, a church, a planetarium, a lake and much more! Start your day with a visit to Asen's Fortress. This frequently visited castle is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", which may be one of the most inviting 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 Orfeevi Rocks Pamporovo, an intriguing rock formation in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of Saint Vissarion Of Smolyan and Smolyan Planetarium. End your day with a visit to Smolyanski Ezera Hut, an underrated lake that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Smolyan, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Smolyan, 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 restaurant ECO, an iconic dining spot in Smolyan. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mehana „Mecho ukho“, a popular restaurant in Smolyan. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Milano, a hidden gem nestled in Smolyan. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Venus Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe The Clock is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Say good night to Smolyan and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 3 vibrant destinations - Shipka, Kazanlak, and Gabrovo. 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.

Today's adventure in Smolyan promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Shipka Memorial Church. This majestic church is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Park „markoteya“, one of the town’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its visually striking features.

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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kriloto Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cocktail Bar Noris is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Fabrik also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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