4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia

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Photo of aerial view of the Bulgarian city Plovdiv.
Photo of roman theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia
4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia
4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia
4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia
4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Plovdiv and 1 night in Sofia. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Bulgaria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Plovdiv, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Bulgaria on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Bulgaria. South Park and Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Kazanlak, and Shipka, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Bulgaria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Bulgaria.

Throughout your road trip in Bulgaria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Bulgaria.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Bulgaria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Bulgaria today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
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Welcome to Plovdiv, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Plovdiv before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Plovdiv is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Old Town Of Plovdiv. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Plovdiv. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • South Park
  • National Palace of Culture
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Park "Zaimov"
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On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Plovdiv and Sofia are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is an ideal stop early in the day. This interesting archeological site is a must-visit in the city.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sofia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 42 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sofia is South Park, a captivating park that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to National Palace Of Culture, a picture-perfect convention center that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a locally renowned church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Zaimov Park, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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 delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Grijn Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cairo Relax Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar National also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Kazanlak
  • Shipka
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 446 km, 6 hours 30 min

  • Marno Pole Park
  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
  • Shipka Memorial Church
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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo, Kazanlak, and Shipka. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Veliko Tarnovo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 3 hours 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Marno Pole Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This curiosity-inducing monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Kazanlak’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veliko Tarnovo behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. Kazanlak welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak is an underrated archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Shipka. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Shipka Memorial Church, a locally appreciated church known for its breathtaking features.

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

Plovdiv is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv.

Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Continue your lively evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Qbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Anyway Social Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Tsar Simeon Garden
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Day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This popular park is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Plovdiv’s popular marketplace, Markovo Tepe Mall. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Plovdiv.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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