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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Sofia, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sofia, including a park, a monument, and a zoo. Start your day at Borisova Gradina Park. This romantic park is a well-known place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Eagles' Bridge. If symbolic sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Prince's Garden. This picture-perfect park is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Sofia Zoo is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the zoo, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching South Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable park in Sofia.

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!

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Sofia, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today’s itinerary in Sofia covers several incredible sights, including a park, a church, and a performing arts theater. Start your adventure at Zaimov Park. This well-known park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a must-see church 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 Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This increasingly popular church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to National Theater "ivan Vazov", where you can take in enchanting features.

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.

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 Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at One More Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Teos Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bsd 2 Ndk. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Bulgaria and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Sofia and beyond. With 1 night left in Sofia, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the well-known North Park, a picturesque park in Sofia. Next, go to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya.

After visiting North Park and Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, take time to explore Sofia's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Palace Of Culture. This photogenic convention center offers a unique experience. Geo Milev Park is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Druzhba Park, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Sofia.

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

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 Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Esterhasi Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Da Massimo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

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.

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.

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

On day 5 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.

Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a waterfall, a mountain range, a park, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Samokovishteto Ecotrail (bistritsa Waterfall). Just a short distance away is Rila, a peaceful mountain range that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to City Park By The River Iskar, one of the village’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Great Fountain.

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.

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 Salt & Pepper, 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 Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll explore the area around Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Plovdiv will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Bulgaria.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect monastery before continuing your journey. Asen's Fortress is your next stop. This increasingly popular castle is one of the best-rated sights in Plovdiv.

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 Singing Fountain. This romantic art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit “tsar Simeon Garden” Park and Alyosha Monument.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

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.

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.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Plovdiv. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv!

Kapana Creative District is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Plovdiv. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Today’s agenda in Plovdiv includes a park, an archeological site, and a historical landmark. Youth Hill is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, an interesting archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a respected historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Plovdiv. If you’re looking for more, Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Plovdiv. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Stara Zagora Zoo is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to Park “ayazmo“, an underrated park, known for its awe-inspiring 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 “bedechka” Park. This mesmerizing park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Monument Of Freedom, Saint Nicholas Peak adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Gabrovo. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gabrovo tonight.

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 Gabrovo. The bars in Gabrovo make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Moda Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Zahir - Bar & Dinner is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Bulgaria.

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Boicheta. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Sofia, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Gabrovo includes a museum, a historical landmark, and a street. Ethno Village Etar is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Muzej Na Humora I Satirata, Gabrovo, a beloved museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Covered Bridge, an instagrammable historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Gabrovo. If you’re looking for more, Alley "bash Bunar" Lovech is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Bulgaria at Sofia. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Dine in style at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Divaka boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The School. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bilkova Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar "bar", a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Kick's provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.