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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at South Park. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is National Palace Of Culture, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Borisova Gradina Park, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Sofia. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to National Theater "ivan Vazov", a top-rated performing arts theater that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Forum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turquoise Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 6 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sofia allows for both. Start by heading to North Park. This interesting park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a locally appreciated church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Round off your day at Zaimov Park, another gem in Sofia with beautiful features to discover.

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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to One More Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Teos Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 5 nights left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Druzhba Park, an intriguing park in the city. Then, head to Geo Milev Park and soak in the ambiance of this picturesque park.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia and when you are ready for more, go to Prince's Garden. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots. After exploring the park, visit the popular Eagles' Bridge. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the popular Sofia Zoo, a popular zoo in the city.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Esterhasi Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Da Massimo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Corner is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gaba, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is K. E. B. A. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 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 4 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Plovdiv and Bachkovo to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sofia, including an archeological site, an art installation, a park, a monastery and much more! Start your day with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This well-known archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Singing Fountain, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sofia on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a locally renowned park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno".

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 delightful dinner at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Divaka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The School as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bilkova Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar "bar" offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Kick's. 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 another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monastery, a waterfall, a rock formation, a mountain range and much more! Begin your adventure at Rila Monastery. This is a well-known monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, an intriguing waterfall in Sofia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Stob Earth Pyramids. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rila, another of the region’s beloved attractions.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Garden restaurant Yoli, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Face bar & dinner, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Art Club Museum. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar Point, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Baldi Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caché Bar & Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a canyon, a church, and a monastery. Start your adventure at Erma River Gorge, Tran. This often recommended canyon is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Holy Paraskeva located in Sofia for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zemen Monastery "st. John The Apostle". Its stunning features will captivate you.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at By The Way, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mezcal Bar De Copas provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Friday offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!

On day 8 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 Montana and Georgi Damyanovo. You still have 1 night left in Sofia.

Start your adventure at Park Montanezium. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Lopushanski Monastery "st. Yoan Predtecha". This often recommended monastery offers an enriching experience.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "On The Top", a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restorant VICTORIA Balgariya, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Halbite Beer Hall, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to 5 Corners Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Lime Cafe & Cocktails, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 9 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 Tsvetkova Bara, Berkovitsa, and Montana. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pleven, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Klisurski Monastery. This picture-perfect monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of House-museum "ivan Vazov", Berkovitsa, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Voden Park Sinite Ezera, an underrated water park.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at KOMPLEKS "ZAMЪKЪT", a top-rated dining spot in Pleven. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizzeria Cantonata, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dezha Vju Pitsa & Restorant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pleven.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Momento Bar & Pizza, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sky Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Kafe-bar Borago provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Pleven, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at the worthwhile Ledenika, a stunning cave in Pleven. Next, go to Vratsata Pass.

After visiting Ledenika and Vratsata Pass, take time to explore Pleven's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Vratsa History Museum. This visually striking museum offers a unique experience.

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

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

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lukovit, Karlukovo, and Yablanitsa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Zlaten Park. Continue your discovery at Riverside Landscape Park "panega", a mesmerizing nature reserve with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Pleven, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Panega Eco Trail. This often recommended hiking area offers a mesmerizing encounter with Pleven. Next, make your way to Prohodna to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit "saeva Dupka" Cave, an intriguing cave that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Pleven.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sofia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

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