4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 4-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Sofia and 1 night in Plovdiv. 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Sofia, 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 Borisova Gradina Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo, 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, accommodation, 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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Day 1 – Sofia - arrival day
- Sofia - Arrival day
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Say hello to Sofia! Your exciting road trip through Bulgaria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Sofia 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 Borisova Gradina Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Grijn Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cairo Relax Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar National also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2 – Sofia and Plovdiv
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 173 km, 3 hours 6 min
- National Palace of Culture
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On day 2 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 Sofia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with an instagrammable, a romantic, a serene, a mesmerizing, a historically significant, a monumental, and a majestic. Start at the locally renowned National Palace Of Culture, a visually striking convention center in Sofia. Next, go to South Park.
After visiting National Palace Of Culture and South Park, take time to explore Sofia's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to North Park. This idyllic park offers a unique experience. Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov", one of the most visually striking places to visit in Sofia.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. 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 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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to North Star, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!
Day 3 – Plovdiv, Bachkovo, and Sofia
- Plovdiv
- Bachkovo
- Sofia
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 17 min
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bachkovo and Plovdiv. 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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including an art installation, a park, and an archeological site. Start your day with a visit to Singing Fountain. This interesting art installation is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Plovdiv 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 Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, one of the village’s most underrated archeological site. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.
Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a popular monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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 Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Forum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Turquoise Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.
Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, 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 – Sofia - departure day
- Sofia - Departure day
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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 Sofia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.
Begin your adventure at Zaimov Park. This is a captivating park you should not miss.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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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