7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Veliko Tarnovo

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. 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. Singing Fountain is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking art installation before continuing your journey. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is your next stop. This locally renowned park 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 picture-perfect archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv and Old Town Of Plovdiv. If time allows, end your day with Nebet Tepe, a stunning archeological site that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

Keep the evening going at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Qbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Anyway Social Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Rila, Stob, and Bansko. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bansko, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a monastery, a rock formation, and a park. Start your day at Rila Monastery. This breathtaking monastery is a well-known place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Stob Earth Pyramids. If picturesque sites excite you, this rock formation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find City Park. This enchanting park is a favorite among visitors.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kasapinova Mehana, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Euphoria offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bansko.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Nova Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Amigo Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bansko for your remaining 1 night in the town 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 Bansko and Kresna.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the often recommended Holy Trinity Church, a culturally significant church in Bansko. Next, go to "neofit Rilski" House-museum.

After visiting Holy Trinity Church and "neofit Rilski" House-museum, have a stroll along Bansko's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Off Road Bansko Jeep Tours. This instagrammable off-road park offers a unique experience. Banderishka Meadow is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Vihren.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Kabatsite, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern Matsurev Khan beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ethno Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bansko tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lion's Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Pirin 75, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Wine Bar 25. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bansko is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a castle, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Monument Of Mother Bulgaria and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a historic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Tsarevets Fortress, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile St. Nikolay The Miracleworker.

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.

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Famous Bar 2 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Grill Kolata, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

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 Boicheta, Shipka, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Veliko Tarnovo. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Ethno Village Etar is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo. Next, head to Shipka Memorial Church, a curiosity-inducing church, known for its grand 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 Asen's Fortress. This visually striking castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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 RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant "Megdana". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cocktail Bar Noris is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Fabrik ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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