One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Bansko and Arbanassi and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including a monastery, a castle, an archeological site, a park, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This notable monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Asen's Fortress located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the village with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visitors usually appreciate the awe-inspiring features of this park. Next up is Singing Fountain, a highly recommended art installation.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Sofra, 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 Central Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Qbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Rila Monastery. This popular monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Stob Earth Pyramids, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Plovdiv. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kasapinova Mehana, a top-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Euphoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nova Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bansko. Amigo Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bansko, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Kyustendil and Bansko. You still have 1 night left in Bansko.

Start by visiting Pirin National Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing national park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lake Muratovo, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile lake renowned for its stunning features.

We also recommend visiting Banderishka Meadow, a locally appreciated hiking area. Nearby, you'll also find City Park, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lion's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Pirin 75, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Wine Bar 25 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities in the charming city of Bansko. Your adventure starts at Marno Pole Park, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This often recommended monument is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bansko's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Park "sveta Gora". This visually striking park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Tsarevets Fortress is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Arbanassi. Arbanassi 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 Arbanassi, 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.

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 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.

Today's adventure in Arbanassi promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Park „nikolaj Panayotov“. Next, head over to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, one of the town’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul". This breathtaking monastery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

Say good night to Arbanassi and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Start by visiting Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak, a prime spot to begin your journey. This symbolic archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Historical Museum “iskra”, another must-visit landmark and underrated museum renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Arbanassi by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Rose Museum. This photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Arbanassi experience. We also recommend visiting Shipka Memorial Church, a curiosity-inducing church.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Citizens Club, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restorant "Megdana". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kriloto Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cocktail Bar Noris for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Fabrik is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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