One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Arbanassi 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 Plovdiv for your remaining 1 night 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 Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, 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. Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout monastery before continuing your journey. Asen's Fortress is your next stop. This underrated 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This instagrammable archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park and Singing Fountain.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, known for its inviting atmosphere. Qbar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 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 Rila, Stob, and Bansko. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque 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. Rila Monastery is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking monastery before continuing your journey. Stob Earth Pyramids is your next stop. This frequently visited rock formation 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 House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This heritage-rich museum is a sight to behold.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Kasapinova Mehana, an iconic dining spot in Bansko. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Euphoria, a popular restaurant in Bansko. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro, a hidden gem nestled in Bansko. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Bansko, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Start your day with a visit to Pirin National Park. This underrated national park is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lake Muratovo, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bansko 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 Baikushev's Pine, an intriguing tree in the region. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Banderishka Meadow and City Park.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kabatsite, an iconic dining spot in Bansko. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern Matsurev Khan, a popular restaurant in Bansko. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ethno Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bansko. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Lion's Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Pirin 75 offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Wine Bar 25, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Arbanassi, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bansko. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Marno Pole Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Bansko. Next, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a curiosity-inducing monument, known for its picture-perfect 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 Park "sveta Gora". This enchanting park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Tsarevets Fortress. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Gorna Oryahovitsa. You’ll stay in Arbanassi for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Arbanassi. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Park „nikolaj Panayotov“ is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Arbanassi.

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 St. Nikolay The Miracleworker. This culturally significant church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul". Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Arbanassi. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Kazanlak and Shipka, 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 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Arbanassi allows for both. Start by heading to Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This worthwhile archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Historical Museum “iskra”, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rose Museum, an often recommended museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Shipka Memorial Church.

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.

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

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.

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