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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 7 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start by visiting Borisova Gradina Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Zaimov Park, another must-visit landmark and notable park renowned for its scenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This breathtaking church is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker also adds charm to your journey, and National Theater "ivan Vazov" wraps up your day with its respected appeal.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant, 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Urban Rebel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 3 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 6 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia and Reduta to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today's adventure in Sofia promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Druzhba Park. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Geo Milev Park, another majestic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sofia Zoo, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of South Park. This eye-catching park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit National Palace Of Culture, a captivating convention center, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel ZOO Sofia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar & Dinner Relax. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Keep the evening going at One More Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Teos Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bsd 2 Ndk, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 5 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Continue your journey to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Prince's Garden. Last up on today’s itinerary is a monument. Make your way to Eagles' Bridge for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Sofia.

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 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Corner, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gaba provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, K. E. B. A. Offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 4 nights more.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sofia, including a canyon, a church, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Erma River Gorge, Tran. This worthwhile canyon is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Holy Paraskeva, which may be one of the most picture-perfect 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 Holy Trinity, a beloved church in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museum Of Yogurt.

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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bilkova Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar "bar" offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Kick's, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Today’s itinerary in Sofia covers several incredible sights, including a monastery, a hiking area, a waterfall, a canyon and much more! Start your adventure at Zemen Monastery "st. John The Apostle". This often recommended monastery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Ecopath "looking At Nine Mountains", a must-see hiking area in the town.

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 Vrabcha Waterfall. This often recommended waterfall offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Yablanitsa River Gorge, where you can take in serene features.

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 Garden restaurant Yoli, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Face bar & dinner offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Art Club Museum. 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, Bar Point stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Baldi Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caché Bar & Cafe is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 Varshets. You still have 1 night left in Sofia.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. "waterfall" Area - Varshets is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this majestic waterfall before continuing your journey. Paleopark Varshets is your next stop. This frequently visited dinosaur park is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

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 Vodopad "rayski Kat". This instagrammable waterfall is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ivanchova Polyana.

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 Restaurant "On The Top", a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restorant VICTORIA Balgariya, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Halbite Beer Hall, known for its inviting atmosphere. 5 Corners Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 4 vibrant destinations - Mezdra, Chelopek, Vratsa, and Zgorigrad. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Archaeological Complex "citadel", a curiosity-inducing archeological site in the town. Then, head to House Museum "baba Iliytsa" and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia and when you are ready for more, go to Ledenika. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots. After exploring the cave, visit the increasingly popular Vratsata Pass.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Momento Bar & Pizza offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sky Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Kafe-bar Borago is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Pleven, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Prohodna, an often recommended cave in the village.

There are many interesting places to see in Pleven and when you are ready for more, go to Riverside Landscape Park "panega". This is one of the village’s most beloved spots. After exploring the nature reserve, visit the frequently visited Panega Eco Trail. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the underrated "saeva Dupka" Cave, an underrated cave in the village.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at restaurant Bavaria, a top-rated dining destination in Pleven. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Snack Bar "Ledenika", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 'Gavril' Bar & Grille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pleven this evening.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lovech, Asenovgrad, and Bachkovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Pleven. Begin your sightseeing with Covered Bridge. This locally appreciated historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Asen's Fortress, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pleven, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This notable monastery is a traveler-favorite.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Plovdiv is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Singing Fountain, a notable art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This archeological site is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Plovdiv at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. After exploring the archeological site, head to the intriguing Youth Hill. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Blaze club, 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 Deps, 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 Luciano. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!