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 and Plovdiv.
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. Marvel at the remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, learn more about the unique Rila Monastery, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia and Plovdiv, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
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- National Palace of Culture
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Welcome to Sofia, 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 immersing yourself in Sofia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 National Palace Of Culture, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Grijn Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cairo Relax Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar National. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 165 km, 2 hours 57 min
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Eagles' Bridge
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Boyana Church
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
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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 and Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a captivating church in the city. Then, head to Eagles' Bridge and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Borisova Gradina Park. This is one of the city’s most well-known romantic spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the beloved Boyana Church. Not far away, you'll also find Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This archeological site is a picture-perfect highlight in Sofia. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an increasingly popular historical landmark in the city.
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 explore more of Plovdiv, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a highly-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Rock Bar Download is an excellent place to start. You could also check out North Star, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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Drive 372 km, 5 hours 24 min
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Singing Fountains
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Rila Monastery
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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 - Plovdiv and Rila. 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Plovdiv today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This idyllic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Singing Fountain and learn what makes this gorgeous art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Alyosha Monument. After exploring the monument, head to Rila Monastery. This popular monastery is a highlight in Plovdiv.
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.
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.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Sofia - Departure day
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- South Park
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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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting South Park, a romantic park before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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