Relaxed 10-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Gabrovo

Day 2 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!

Make a stop at Borisova Gradina Park. This well-known park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Eagles' Bridge located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Prince's Garden. Its majestic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Sofia Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this zoo. Next up is South Park, a highly recommended park.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Sofia. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Sofia 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!

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.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Sofia’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Sofia, and meet locals along the way!

A visit to Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Zaimov Park. This beautiful park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and learn what makes this historic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. After exploring the church, head to National Theater "ivan Vazov". This beloved performing arts theater is a highlight in Sofia.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Sofia offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Sofia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, 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 Bar & Dinner Relax. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Sofia and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting One More Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Teos Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll explore the area around Sofia, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Awaiting your discovery is the captivating North Park, a stunning park in Sofia. Next, go to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya.

After visiting North Park and Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Palace Of Culture. This photogenic convention center offers a unique experience. Druzhba Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Set your GPS to Reduta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Reduta beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Geo Milev Park, a captivating park in Reduta. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Sofia and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Corner, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gaba offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. K.e.b.a. Is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Bulgaria, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

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 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Samokovishteto Ecotrail (bistritsa Waterfall) and explore the peaceful features. Next, make your way to Rila, another highlight in Bistritsa.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Samokov. This car ride takes around 44 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to City Park By The River Iskar, a beloved park in Samokov. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Great Fountain. This underrated monument is a top recommendation in the area.

In Plovdiv, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Bulgaria.

Exploring the food culture in Plovdiv offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Plovdiv.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. North Star is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 6 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Bulgaria better by exploring the top attractions of Plovdiv and beyond. With 2 nights left in Plovdiv, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Singing Fountain is must-visit art installation and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a captivating park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Alyosha Monument, a culturally significant monument, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Asenovgrad’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bachkovo behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Asenovgrad welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Asen's Fortress, a beloved castle that everyone visiting Asenovgrad should see.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Plovdiv, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Plovdiv’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Qbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Set aside time today to explore Kapana Creative District, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Youth Hill leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a locally renowned archeological site, known for its historic 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 Old Town Of Plovdiv. This romantic historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Plovdiv.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Citizens Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restorant "Megdana". Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

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 meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kriloto Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cocktail Bar Noris is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Fabrik offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Bulgaria offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Stara Zagora and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Kazanlak and Gabrovo. You’ll stay in Gabrovo for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Stara Zagora, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Stara Zagora may take around 1 hour 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stara Zagora, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Stara Zagora Zoo, an up-and-coming zoo known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Park “ayazmo“, an underrated park.

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 “bedechka” Park and uncover the details of this romantic park.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stara Zagora, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kazanlak. This drive usually takes around 59 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Strannopriemnitsa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vanilla coffee&food. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gabrovo tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Gabrovo and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Moda Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zahir - Bar & Dinner is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 9 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 Boicheta. By evening, drive toward the Sofia, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo has to offer. This is an underrated museum you should not miss.

Upon reaching Boicheta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Boicheta is Ethno Village Etar, an interesting museum that draws attention for its respected features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gabrovo and set your GPS to Lovech. 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 1 min. Upon reaching Lovech, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Covered Bridge, a locally appreciated historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Alley "bash Bunar" Lovech and admire its stunning features.

You'll be staying in Sofia on this laid-back road trip through Bulgaria. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Divaka, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The School, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bilkova Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar "bar" is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Kick's offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria!