Relaxed 9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Don’t miss Kapana Creative District today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is always a good idea. This captivating archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a must-see archeological site 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 “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This notable park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Singing Fountain, where you can take in instagrammable features.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Plovdiv. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Plovdiv and visit amazing attractions in Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Awaiting your discovery is the frequently visited Nebet Tepe, an enchanting archeological site in Plovdiv. Next, go to Old Town Of Plovdiv.

After visiting Nebet Tepe and Old Town Of Plovdiv, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This standout museum offers a unique experience.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 29 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Asen's Fortress. Spend some time admiring the inviting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Asenovgrad, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bachkovo. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Savor the day by heading to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Plovdiv, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Plovdiv. The bars in Plovdiv make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kriloto Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cocktail Bar Noris, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Fabrik likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Samokov and end it in Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 4 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Bulgaria.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Samokov. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Great Fountain, an often recommended monument known for its symbolic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Zahari Zograf, a worthwhile monastery.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by City Park By The River Iskar and uncover the details of this eye-catching park. Make sure to also explore Boroland Rope Town, an up-and-coming adventure park.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bistritsa. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Rila, an intriguing mountain range that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria as you make your way to Sofia. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

Dine in style at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Saffron Indian Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Island Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Grijn Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cairo Relax Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar National provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll explore the area around Sofia, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Sofia will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Bulgaria.

Catch Holy Trinity Park before the crowds roll in. Next, dive into the masterful features of Lions' Bridge, a must-visit monument in the region.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a worthwhile church. For a change of scene, check out National Theater "ivan Vazov", known for its romantic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Pernik, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Pernik may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pernik, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vitosha Nature Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Sofia has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Sofia.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Pernik can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Bulgaria!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Sofia. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Sofia. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Sofia!

Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Sofia, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Catch National Palace Of Culture before the crowds roll in. This photogenic convention center is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Zaimov Park, an interesting park. For a change of scene, check out North Park, known for its visually striking features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Plovdiv. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Plovdiv that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Bulgaria more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Sofia to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Sofia, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Savor the flavors at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel ZOO Sofia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar & Dinner Relax. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Sofia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, One More Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Teos Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bsd 2 Ndk is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Bulgaria.

Your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria continues on day 7 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Bulgaria better by exploring the top attractions of Sofia and beyond. With 1 night left in Sofia, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

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

Golden Bridges is must-visit rock formation and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to South Park, a well-known park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sofia Zoo, a photogenic zoo, also available for your discovery today.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Reduta. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Reduta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Geo Milev Park, a popular park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esterhasi Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Da Massimo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Corner, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gaba offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out K.e.b.a. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Sofia!

Day 8 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Bulgaria lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Sofia. By evening, drive toward the Plovdiv, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Let Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich church before continuing your journey. Prince's Garden is your next stop. This increasingly popular park is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Eagles' Bridge. This culturally significant monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Borisova Gradina Park.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Musagenitsa. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Muzeiko, an increasingly popular science center known for its eye-catching features.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Plovdiv. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ruski Restorant Petar I offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!