13-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Stoikite, Bansko, Blagoevgrad, and Arbanassi

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is South Park. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this picture-perfect convention center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Borisova Gradina Park. After exploring the park, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This locally renowned church is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by National Theater "ivan Vazov", known for its awe-inspiring features.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Sofia as you explore Paradise Center. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Paradise Center offers more options, including restaurants, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. 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 Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Sofia covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, a park, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Nebet Tepe. This frequently visited archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This locally renowned archeological site 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. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4 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.

A top thing to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a must-see neighborhood in Plovdiv. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, an often recommended archeological site in the city. Then, head to Museum Of Natural Sciences and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Alyosha Monument. This is one of the city’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the frequently visited Youth Hill.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sofra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Central Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Qbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Chepelare, and Smolyan, 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 Stoikite. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Asen's Fortress, an up-and-coming castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Pamporovo Ski Resort. This ski resort is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit The Waterfalls Canyon. After exploring the canyon, head to the intriguing Smolyan Waterfall.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Stoikite, 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 Stoikite. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Stoikite, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Stoikite is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a cave, an observation deck, a rock formation, a canyon and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Yagodinska Cave and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Eagle's Eye, an instagrammable observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Valchi Kamak (wolf Rock), one of the region’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Devil's Throat Cave. When you're finished at the cave, Trigrad Gorge awaits your visit. This canyon is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stoikite.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Razlog and Bansko. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Stoikite, including a park, a hiking area, a church, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Park "razlog". This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Stapalata Scenic Walk located in Stoikite for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Holy Trinity Church. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the town with a visit to "neofit Rilski" House-museum. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this museum. Next up is City Park, a highly recommended park.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Kasapinova Mehana, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Euphoria beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bansko tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Nova Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Penguins Bar & Dinner, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Amigo Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Greet day 8 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, Kresna, and Kyustendil.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the beloved Banderishka Meadow, a stunning hiking area in Bansko. Next, go to Baikushev's Pine.

Lake Muratovo is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Pirin National Park, one of the most peaceful places to visit in Bansko.

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

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lion's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Pirin 75 offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Wine Bar 25 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Stob, Rila, Blagoevgrad, and Delvino. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Blagoevgrad. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bansko is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a rock formation, a monastery, a museum, a monument, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Stob Earth Pyramids and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rila Monastery, a stunning monastery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Regionalen Istoricheski Muzej Blagoevgrad, one of the village’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Monument Of Gotse Delchev. When you're finished at the monument, Park "bachinovo" awaits your visit. This park is a mesmerizing highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Blagoevgrad. Blagoevgrad 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 Blagoevgrad's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tchsasovnika, a popular restaurant in Blagoevgrad. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Blagoevgrad at Bar All Stars, 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 Verde. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Blagoevgrad tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Befree, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Swing provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Najs Plejs offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Arbanassi, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Marno Pole Park. This underrated park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out State Art Gallery "boris Denev", one of the most frequently visited places to see in Blagoevgrad. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Monument To The Assen Dynasty. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Park "sveta Gora", a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Arbanassi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

On day 11 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Arbanassi, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Veliko Tarnovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Lyaskovets. You still have 1 night left in Arbanassi.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Arbanassi, including a castle, a church, an archeological site, a playground, a monastery and much more! Start your day with a visit to Tsarevets Fortress. This notable castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Holy Forty Martyrs Church, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Arbanassi 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 Trapezitsa Fortress, an underrated archeological site in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Park "children's Playground" and Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul".

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

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Lovech. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Arbanassi. Begin your sightseeing with "stratesh". This increasingly popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Vasil Levski Museum, Lovech, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Arbanassi, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Covered Bridge. This worthwhile historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Alley "bash Bunar" Lovech, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. One More Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Teos Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bsd 2 Ndk. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!