Relaxed 10-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Plovdiv and Blagoevgrad

Your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Sofia, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Sofia and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Russian Monument Square, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,588 reviews.

Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Divaka, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Halbite Beer Hall, a top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Bulgaria. Enjoy your first taste of Sofia as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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

Make Sofia Zoo one of your first sightseeing stops in Sofia. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,962 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

South Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,763 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by National Palace of Culture. This convention center has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,510 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Holy Trinity Park. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 7,768 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is North Park. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,850 local and international travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Bulgaria.

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 Sofia, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Face bar & dinner, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Art Club Museum, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lime Cafe & Cocktails, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Sofia as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Reduta, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the hamlet’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the hamlet's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Reduta, and meet locals along the way!

Make Park "Zaimov" your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,209 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.

Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,034 visitors.

When you’re finished at Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker, the perfect next stop is Ivan Vazov National Theater. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,760 reviews.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at J. J. Murphy's, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant "Staria Chinar" is another top choice with a popular menu.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Bulgaria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Bulgaria tomorrow with new energy.

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Bulgaria. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Bulgaria.

Make St. Nedelya Church your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,593 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Knyazheska Garden. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,672 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Eagles' Bridge is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,196 visitors.

When you’re finished at Eagles' Bridge, the perfect next stop is Borisova Gradina Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,346 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Druzhba Park. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,509 reviews.

In the city of Plovdiv, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Bulgaria.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Rahat Tepe, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RESTAURANT Raia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Bulgaria.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Morado Bar & Dinner for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Plovdiv and visit amazing attractions in Bulgaria that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Bulgaria.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Karadzhov kamak. This popular megalith has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 895 visitors.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno". This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,019 visitors.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Asen's Fortress. This much-appreciated fortress is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,063 reviews.

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

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 delicious meal at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pri Ilyas (Brazilia). With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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

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

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Plovdiv. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Plovdiv!

Take the opportunity to see Youth Hill. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,014 visitors.

Singing Fountains is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,362 travelers.

Plovdiv is also the home of “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Around 15,346 people have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Sveta Marina church. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 716 reviews, a visit to this church is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Plovdiv is also your chance to admire Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This must-visit sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 reviews.

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

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 Hemingway Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Rio offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Paris. With its reputation for pleasing customers, 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 бар Фабрик, known for its inviting atmosphere. Club Fargo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Но сенс клуб 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, relaxed road trip adventure across Bulgaria.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Alyosha Monument. This monument is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Plovdiv, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,433 visitors.

Museum of Natural Sciences is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,478 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,926 reviews.

Old Town of Plovdiv is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,329 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Nebet Tepe, perhaps the most famous hill in Plovdiv. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,910 travelers.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at р-нт , Малък Бунарджик", 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 Torro Grande / Торро Гранде, 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 Pavaj, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar The Post. Alternatively, go to Винтидж хаус, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of 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!

Set your GPS to Ovchartsi and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ovchartsi beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Goritsa Ecotrail is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 669 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ovchartsi Waterfall. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 940 travelers.

After soaking in Ovchartsi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bistritsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Bistritsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Samokovishteto Ecotrail (Bistritsa Waterfall) is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 431 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Rila. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,899 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Blagoevgrad. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Bulgaria by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Tchsasovnika, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar All Stars is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Verde. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Blagoevgrad tonight.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. BeFree is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Swing, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Найс плейс. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Stob and drive in the direction of the hamlet of Rila Monastery for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the village of Smochevo, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Blagoevgrad, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stob may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Stob, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stob Earth Pyramids. This rock formation is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,242 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rila Monastery. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Take the opportunity to see Rila Monastery. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,157 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rila Monastery, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Smochevo may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Smochevo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Винарска изба Меди Вали | Medi Valley Winery is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 118 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Sofia in this laid-back road trip in 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taj Mahal Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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.

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

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Sofia.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Bulgaria forever.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Sofia is the remarkable Lions' Bridge. This footbridge and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,331 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Sofia or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Sofia and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.