Relaxed 11-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia to Plovdiv, and Stara Zagora

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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Holy Trinity Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,845 reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

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

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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Halbite Beer Hall, known for its lively atmosphere. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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.

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Sofia and visit amazing attractions in Sofia, and Reduta destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Sofia. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Druzhba Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sofia Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at South Park. The park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting National Palace of Culture. This convention center is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 reviews.

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

Make Geo Milev Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews.

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

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 meal at Divaka, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Face bar & dinner is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Art Club Museum. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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.

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

Day 3 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!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like North Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,004 visitors.

Next, make your way to Zaimov Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,334 reviews.

While in Sofia, we also recommend a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Church of St. Nicholas the Miraclemaker. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,066 travelers, this church is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Sofia.

Make your way to National Theater "Ivan Vazov", perhaps the most famous point of interest in Sofia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ресторант VICTORIA България, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Park Hotel "MOSKVA" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

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

Day 4 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 Sofia and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of Musagenitsa and the city of Plovdiv. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Saint Nedelya. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,691 visitors.

Next, make your way to Prince's Garden. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Borisova Gradina Park. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Musagenitsa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Musagenitsa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Muzeiko, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,751 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Plovdiv in this laid-back road trip in Bulgaria. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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 book a table at Salt & Pepper, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Rahat Tepe, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is KFC. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.

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.

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.

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

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv, and meet locals along the way!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Roman aqueduct. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 153 visitors.

When you’re finished at Roman aqueduct, head to Youth Hill. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,086 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Roman Forum of Philippopolis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 595 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Singing Fountain. This famous park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,640 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 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 Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Qbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, ANYWAY Social Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Museum of Natural Sciences, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,598 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 reviews.

Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Lauta Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,089 visitors.

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 new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Plovdiv 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 RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Citizens Club, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ресторант "Мегдана". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

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

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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nebet Tepe. This hill is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,913 visitors.

Old Town of Plovdiv is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 visitors.

Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,946 visitors.

Gate "Hisar Kapia", Plovdiv is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 407 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Hindliyan's House. This museum has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 404 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Plovdiv by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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 book a table at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Ruski Restorant Petar І, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Amadeus Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Club Fargo, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Но сенс клуб. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

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!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 visitors.

When you’re finished at Alyosha Monument, head to Escape Zone Plovdiv. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 239 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Monument of Unification. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 907 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Regional Archaeological Museum, Plovdiv. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 779 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Plovdiv Regional History Museum. This famous museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 376 travelers.

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

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 Stara Zagora, 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 The Fat Chef, a highly-rated dining destination in Stara Zagora. If you're eager to try something different, consider At The Admiral, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Uniqato. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Stara Zagora this evening.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Beer Kolobars Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Brothers' cafe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Hello Cafe, 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 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Stara Zagora, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Stara Zagora, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at “Bedechka” Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,259 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at The Dog Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,198 travelers.

Stara Zagora Zoo is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,506 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Park “Ayazmo“. This well-loved park boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 8,330 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Зала на смеха awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a point of interest, this is a top pick rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 182 previous visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Stara Zagora. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Stara Zagora 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 Stara Zagora to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Stara Zagora 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 Бистро Ник-Най, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Beer House offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Golden Serbian Grill Pri Vledo - 3. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stara Zagora.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Brothers' cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Belle Vue provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Drums offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Stara Zagora and drive in the direction of the city of Sofia for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Sofia, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Make Stara Zagora art gallery one of your first sightseeing stops in Stara Zagora. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 245 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Regional Museum of History Stara Zagora is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,269 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Antique Forum. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,454 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Artileriyski Park. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 3,637 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Samara Flag Monument. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,749 local and international travelers.

In the city of Sofia, 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.

Dine in style at Hotel Jasmin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, J. J. Murphy's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

Day 11 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.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

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 Russian Monument Square. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,608 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 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 11-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.