9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Bansko, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, Rila, Dobarsko, and Razlog, 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 Bansko. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most popular places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Rila Monastery, a captivating monastery, known for its symbolic 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 Church "st. St. Theodore Tyron And Theodore Stratilat ". This heritage-rich church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Park "razlog". Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 you explore more of Bansko, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kasapinova Mehana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Euphoria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bansko.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Nova Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Penguins Bar & Dinner is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Amigo Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bansko. You’ll stay in Bansko for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bansko allows for both. Start by heading to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov. This curiosity-inducing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Museum "velyan House", a history-steeped museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Holy Trinity Church, a beloved church.

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 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lion's Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pirin 75. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Wine Bar 25, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Perushtitsa and Plovdiv. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plovdiv. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Red Church. This frequently visited archeological site is a picture-perfect place to see in Bansko. Continue your discovery at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a culturally significant archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bansko, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to The Statue Of Milyo. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bansko.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. 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 Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Plovdiv has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Plovdiv by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the beloved Alyosha Monument, a masterful monument in Plovdiv. Next, go to Singing Fountain.

After visiting Alyosha Monument and Singing Fountain, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This idyllic park offers a unique experience. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Plovdiv. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, Izvor, and Plovdiv. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv.

Immerse yourself in Plovdiv’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This picture-perfect monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Asen's Fortress, a must-visit castle in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Momina Skala Viewpoint, an often recommended observation deck. For a change of scene, check out Youth Hill, known for its instagrammable features.

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.

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

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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 Veliko Tarnovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a castle, a church, a market, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Trapezitsa Fortress. This up-and-coming archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tsarevets Fortress, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Plovdiv 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of The Holy Ascension, an increasingly popular church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ethnographic Complex "samovodska Charshiya" and Monument Of Mother Bulgaria.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Veliko Tarnovo, 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 Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant "Ethno", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern "Petleto" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bell. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Famous Bar 2, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 8 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 Troyan, Dolni Varpishta, and Gabrovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Veliko Tarnovo. Begin your sightseeing with Troyan Monastery. This notable monastery is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Dryanovo Monastery "st. Archangel Michael", another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Veliko Tarnovo, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo. This often recommended museum is a traveler-favorite.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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