Relaxed 13-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Samokov and Plovdiv

Day 2 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!

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Sofia Zoo, a locally renowned zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find South Park, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Russian Monument Square. This public square is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit National Palace Of Culture. After exploring the convention center, head to the underrated National Theater "ivan Vazov". This performing arts theater will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Urban Rebel is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Sofia as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This monumental church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and learn what makes this stunning church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Prince's Garden. After exploring the park, head to Eagles' Bridge. This well-known monument is a highlight in Sofia.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, 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 ZOO Sofia, 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 Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. 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 Sofia.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting One More Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Teos Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk 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 5 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!

Pernik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Pernik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tsentralen Park. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Mining Museum Of Pernik. This up-and-coming museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Pernik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Pernik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vitosha Nature Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pernik, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bistritsa. This drive usually takes around 49 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Rila, a frequently visited mountain range in Bistritsa. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Samokov. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Bulgaria by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Samokov, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Khaĭduti, an iconic dining spot in Samokov. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kalipso, a popular restaurant in Samokov. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Velcheva Zavera, a hidden gem nestled in Samokov. 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 Samokov.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Defected Bar & Café, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

Day 10 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!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Regional Archaeological Museum, Plovdiv. This curiosity-inducing museum is a photogenic place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Monument Of Unification, an awe-inspiring monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Natural Sciences. This beloved museum offers a visually striking encounter with Plovdiv. Alyosha Monument is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Citizens Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restorant "Megdana" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

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.

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

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

Day 11 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Plovdiv promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Nebet Tepe. This enchanting archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Old Town Of Plovdiv, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv. This awe-inspiring historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ruski Restorant Petar I, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Plovdiv. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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 Planet Edition, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Club Fargo. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 12 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Bulgaria.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Metokha, a frequently visited museum that everyone visiting Asenovgrad should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Asen's Fortress. This visually striking castle is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bachkovo. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a well-known monastery known for its breathtaking features.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Divaka offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The School is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

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