10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Pastra, Bansko, and Veliko Tarnovo and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night.

Kapana Creative District is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Plovdiv, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This breathtaking archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, another must-visit landmark and intriguing archeological site renowned for its awe-inspiring 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 “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This mesmerizing park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Plovdiv experience. We also recommend visiting Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Bulgaria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Elevate your experience in Plovdiv with a visit to the city's premier shopping location, Kapana District. Explore unique boutique shops and uncover hidden gems along the way. For a cultural touch, look for artisan crafts that perfectly capture the charm of Bulgaria. After shopping, enjoy nearby attractions or simply people-watch and capture memorable photos.

Plovdiv is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv.

Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Borovets, Bistritsa, Stob, and Rila are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pastra, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Borovets and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Borovets beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Dvorets " Tsarska Bistrica " Vhod, a beloved palace known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Tsarska Bistritsa, a worthwhile palace.

Set your GPS to Bistritsa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bistritsa beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rila, an underrated mountain range that everyone visiting Bistritsa should see.

After soaking in Bistritsa’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stob. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 38 min. When you arrive in Stob, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Stob Earth Pyramids, a locally appreciated rock formation that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pastra. Pastra offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pastra. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Pastra, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pastra and set your GPS to Sapareva Banya. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. Upon reaching Sapareva Banya, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Seven Rila Lakes and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Skakavitsa Waterfall, another highlight in Sapareva Banya.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ovchartsi. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Ecopath "goritsa Waterfall", an increasingly popular hiking area that everyone visiting Ovchartsi should see. Next, head to Ovchartsi Waterfall “goritsa”. This eye-catching waterfall is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

After soaking in Ovchartsi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Samokov. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 49 min. When you arrive in Samokov, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Beli Iskar Eco Trail and explore the idyllic features.

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

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Razlog and Bansko. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bansko, where will spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Razlog. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Razlog is Park "razlog", a frequently visited park that draws attention for its enchanting features.

When you’ve had your share of Razlog, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bansko. Your travel time is around 12 min.

City Park is a beloved park we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Monument Paisius Of Hilendar, a symbolic monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Holy Trinity Church, a culturally significant church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit "neofit Rilski" House-museum, an eye-catching and truly unique museum.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kasapinova Mehana, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Euphoria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bansko tonight.

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.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Bansko, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bansko, Kresna, and Kyustendil.

Whether you decide to explore Bansko on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bansko, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kyustendil to Bansko may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bansko, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Banderishka Meadow. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the hiking area before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Baikushev's Pine. This often recommended tree is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Lake Muratovo. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the lake.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bansko. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pirin National Park, a locally appreciated national park known for its romantic features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bansko. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kabatsite, a top-rated dining destination in Bansko. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Matsurev Khan, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ethno Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bansko this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lion's Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Pirin 75, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Wine Bar 25 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Bansko and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bansko, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 17 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Park "sveta Gora" and explore the majestic features. Next, make your way to Tsarevets Fortress, another highlight in Veliko Tarnovo. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Trapezitsa Fortress, a picture-perfect archeological site.

Nearby, you will also find Marno Pole Park. This locally appreciated park is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, a breathtaking monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Veliko Tarnovo is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "Ethno", an iconic dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern "Petleto", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Bell, a hidden gem nestled in Veliko Tarnovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Famous Bar 2, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Grill Kolata is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Gorna Oryahovitsa and Lyaskovets. With 1 night to stay in Veliko Tarnovo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Gorna Oryahovitsa is brimming with adventures.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gorna Oryahovitsa. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Savor the day by heading to Park „nikolaj Panayotov“, a curiosity-inducing park that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Lyaskovets and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lyaskovets beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", a curiosity-inducing monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Burger and Sweets "Asenevtsi", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bianko is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at EGO pizza & grill The Old Town. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Ristretto is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Gallery, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Tequila Bar Funky Monkey. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Kazanlak and Shipka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kazanlak may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Kazanlak, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a worthwhile monument that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Shipka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Shipka Memorial Church and explore the historic features.

Kazanlak’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Kazanlak welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Rose Museum, a beloved museum in Kazanlak. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak. This intriguing archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at RESTAURANT Raia, 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 Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana", a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.