5-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling west to Sofia and Lovech

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
5 days & 4 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
4 nights included
Car rental
5 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Plovdiv, Sofia, and Lovech. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Plovdiv, 1 night in Sofia, and 1 night in Lovech. 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 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 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 Plovdiv, Sofia, and Lovech, 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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Included

Hotel, 4 nights
Rental car, 5 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia / 1 night
Ловеч -  in BulgariaLovech / 1 night
Photo of aerial view of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Plovdiv / 2 nights

Map

Attractions

South Park
Borisova Gradina Park
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
Tsar Simeon Garden
Park "Zaimov"
Sofia Zoo, R-7276261, R-186382, R-4283101Sofia Zoo
Photo of sunset aerial view of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria.National Palace of Culture
Singing Fountains
Park "Geo Milev
Ivan Vazov" National Theater
Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
Youth Hill
Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
Photo of aerial view of the Alyosha soldier monument in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.Alyosha Monument
Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Plovdiv - arrival day

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
  • More
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • More

Say hello to Plovdiv! 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 Plovdiv for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Plovdiv. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Rahat Tepe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ресторант "Старият Пловдив" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RESTAURANT Raia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Bar Download, known for its lively atmosphere. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Plovdiv and Sofia

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 154 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Youth Hill
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Singing Fountains. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,362 visitors.

When you’re finished at Singing Fountains, head to “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,346 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,705 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This sightseeing destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Youth Hill. This famous park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,014 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Make sure to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Divaka, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Face bar & dinner. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Halbite Beer Hall, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Sofia and Lovech

  • Lovech
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 177 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • National Palace of Culture
  • South Park
  • Sofia Zoo
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • More

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 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lovech. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace of Culture. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 visitors.

South Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,763 visitors.

Sofia Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,962 visitors.

Borisova Gradina Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,346 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Park "Zaimov". This park has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 travelers.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lovech. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ponte Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Колор клуб offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss restaurant ONYX. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lovech.

Cap off your dinner by heading to БАР Вароша, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Бар КРАФТ (KRAFT Craft Beer Bar) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Iron Fe -26 Coffee & Friends is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Lovech, Reduta, Sofia, and Plovdiv

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 299 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Park "Geo Milev
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Reduta and Sofia, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Reduta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Park "Geo Milev". This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,324 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sofia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,648 visitors.

Next, make your way to Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,034 reviews.

While in Sofia, we also recommend a visit to Ivan Vazov National Theater. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,760 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Plovdiv, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Pri Ilyas (Brazilia). Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. ANYWAY Social Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Крилото Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cocktail Bar Noris. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Plovdiv - departure day

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Alyosha Monument
  • More

Day 5 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.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Bulgaria, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Bulgaria home with you through these charming souvenirs.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,433 reviews.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Hemingway Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Rio is another top choice with a popular 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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