5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling west to Sofia
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Plovdiv and Sofia.
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 and 2 nights 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 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. Marvel at the remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, learn more about the unique Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv and Sofia, 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
- Plovdiv - Arrival day
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- Youth Hill
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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 immersing yourself in Plovdiv's charm 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 Youth Hill, 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 Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rock Bar Download stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, North Star offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Morado Bar & Dinner is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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Drive 145 km, 2 hours 6 min
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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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 Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Plovdiv on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Singing Fountain is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic art installation before continuing your journey. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is your next stop. This captivating park is one of the best-rated sights in Plovdiv.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This picture-perfect archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Grijn Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cairo Relax Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar National is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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 3
- Sofia
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 26 min
- North Park
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- Sofia Zoo
- Park "Geo Milev
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sofia and Reduta.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is North Park. This enchanting park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this eye-catching convention center unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known South Park. After exploring the park, head to Sofia Zoo. This well-known zoo is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by Geo Milev Park, known for its picturesque features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Sofia and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 50 min
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Park "Zaimov"
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting church, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Afterward, continue to Zaimov Park, a park every traveler should visit.
As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Borisova Gradina Park. This well-known park is an essential stop. Following that, head to National Theater "ivan Vazov", another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
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.
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 Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Anyway Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Plovdiv - Departure day
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- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
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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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Old Town Of Plovdiv, a visually striking historical landmark before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center, the lively Markovo Tepe Mall. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
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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