6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling east to Haskovo and Smolyan

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.

Make sure to visit Kapana Creative District, a popular neighborhood in Plovdiv. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today’s agenda in Plovdiv includes an archeological site and a historical landmark. Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a locally renowned archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a history-steeped historical landmark, also available for your discovery 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.

Indulge in a shopping spree at Plovdiv's top shopping destination, Kapana District! Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, browsing unique boutique shops and discovering local treasures. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect for bringing a touch of Bulgaria into your home. Beyond shopping, Kapana District has plenty to offer, including essential services, seasonal events, and unique attractions for all ages.

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 lovely meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sofra is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Central Park. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Qbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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 2 destinations, Plovdiv and Stara Zagora. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Haskovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start by visiting “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Singing Fountain, another must-visit landmark and well-known art installation renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Plovdiv by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to “bedechka” Park. This mesmerizing park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Plovdiv experience. We also recommend visiting Stara Zagora Zoo, a curiosity-inducing zoo. Nearby, you'll also find Park “ayazmo“, ready to add charm to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Haskovo. Haskovo 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 Haskovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Versaj Bar&Dinner, a popular restaurant in Haskovo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Haskovo at Orchid bistro, 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 PLAZA Bar & Dinner. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Haskovo tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Galaxy Cafe-club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Beli Plast, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Smolyan, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Mushroom Rocks. This up-and-coming rock formation is an idyllic place to see in Haskovo. Continue your discovery at Paleontological Museum Of Asenovgrad, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Haskovo, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Asen's Fortress. This frequently visited castle offers an enchanting encounter with Haskovo. Next, make your way to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Haskovo.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Smolyan. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at restaurant ECO, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mehana „Mecho ukho“? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Milano as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Smolyan.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Venus Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe The Clock, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 5 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 Smolyan, Uhlovitsa, Mogilitsa, and Chepelare. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Smolyan, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at "stoyu Shishkov" Regional History Museum, an up-and-coming museum in the city. Then, head to Uhlovitsa and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting cave.

There are many interesting places to see in Smolyan, and when you are ready for more, go to Agushevi Konatsi. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the underrated Pamporovo Ski Resort.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Cocktail Bar Noris. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Fabrik, another top-rated place in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.