5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Smolyan and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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

Nebet Tepe leaves a lasting impression. This archeological site is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an underrated historical landmark, known for its visually striking 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 Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This eye-catching museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park and Singing Fountain Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Alyosha Monument, a culturally significant monument in Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sofra, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, and Smolyan. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Smolyan, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Asenovgrad is Asen's Fortress, a locally appreciated castle that draws attention for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Asenovgrad and set your GPS to Bachkovo. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Bachkovo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bachkovo is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a locally renowned monastery that draws attention for its historic features.

After soaking in Bachkovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Smolyan. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Smolyan, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Orfeevi Rocks Pamporovo, a frequently visited rock formation known for its serene features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Church Of Saint Vissarion Of Smolyan, an intriguing church.

Make sure to also explore Smolyanski Ezera Hut, an up-and-coming lake.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Smolyan's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at restaurant ECO, an iconic dining spot in Smolyan. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mehana „Mecho ukho“, a popular restaurant in Smolyan. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Milano, a hidden gem nestled in Smolyan. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Venus Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe The Clock. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Shipka, Kazanlak, and Gabrovo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Shipka may take around 3 hours 23 min. Upon your arrival in Shipka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Shipka Memorial Church, an intriguing church in Shipka. Explore its grand features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Shipka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kazanlak. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak, a beloved monument that everyone visiting Kazanlak should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gabrovo. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Park „markoteya“, a worthwhile park in Gabrovo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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 Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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.

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