12-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Pleven and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 7 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Sofia. Begin your sightseeing with South Park. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to National Palace Of Culture, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Sofia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Borisova Gradina Park. This notable park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. National Theater "ivan Vazov" is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 6 nights you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! North Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Sofia.

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 Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This respected church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and Zaimov Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel ZOO Sofia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar & Dinner Relax. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Continue your lively evening at One More Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Teos Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bsd 2 Ndk ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, where you'll stay for 5 nights more.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the increasingly popular Druzhba Park, a scenic park in Sofia. Next, go to Geo Milev Park.

After visiting Druzhba Park and Geo Milev Park, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Prince's Garden. This beautiful park offers a unique experience. Eagles' Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Sofia Zoo, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Sofia.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mamma Mia Ltd, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Esterhasi Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Da Massimo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Corner stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gaba offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. K. E. B. A. Is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Plovdiv and Bachkovo. You still have 4 nights left in Sofia.

Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This awe-inspiring archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Singing Fountain, a must-visit art installation 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 “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a captivating park. For a change of scene, check out Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", known for its stunning features.

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

As you explore more of Sofia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, 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. You might also want to book a table at The School. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Sofia for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rila, Stob, and Bistritsa to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a monastery, a waterfall, a rock formation, a mountain range and much more! Start your adventure at Rila Monastery. This captivating monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Stob Earth Pyramids. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the rock formation, continue your tour of the region with a visit to Rila. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this mountain range.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Garden restaurant Yoli, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Face bar & dinner boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Art Club Museum. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bogoyna, Tran, and Zemen.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Sofia. Your adventure starts at Erma River Gorge, Tran, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Holy Paraskeva. This frequently visited church is known for its idyllic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zemen Monastery "st. John The Apostle". This breathtaking monastery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into By The Way. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Mezcal Bar De Copas offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Friday, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Park Montanezium, an underrated park in the city.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Lopushanski Monastery "st. Yoan Predtecha". This is one of the city’s most underrated awe-inspiring spots of interest.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "On The Top", 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 Restorant VICTORIA Balgariya, 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 Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, 5 Corners Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tsvetkova Bara, Berkovitsa, and Montana. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pleven. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Klisurski Monastery. This locally appreciated monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is House-museum "ivan Vazov", Berkovitsa, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Voden Park Sinite Ezera, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Sofia. This water park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pleven, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pleven. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at KOMPLEKS "ZAMЪKЪT", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria Cantonata offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Dezha Vju Pitsa & Restorant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pleven.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Momento Bar & Pizza. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sky Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Kafe-bar Borago provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Pleven, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

A blend of fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views await you in Pleven on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited cave, Ledenika. Afterward, continue to Vratsata Pass, a cliff every traveler should visit.

As you explore Pleven’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Vratsa History Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is an essential stop.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pleven's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at restaurant Bavaria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Snack Bar "Ledenika" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at 'Gavril' Bar & Grille. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pleven tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lukovit, Karlukovo, and Yablanitsa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Pleven on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Zlaten Park is the first of them. Riverside Landscape Park "panega" is your next stop. This frequently visited nature reserve is one of the best-rated sights in Pleven.

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 Panega Eco Trail. This stunning hiking area is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Prohodna and "saeva Dupka" Cave.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!