5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Samokov and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
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 Sofia, Samokov, and Bistritsa.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Sofia and 1 night in Samokov. 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 Zaimov Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Samokov, and Bistritsa, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Sofia
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
- North Park
- More
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 2 nights 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 North Park, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Saffron Indian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Island Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Grijn Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cairo Relax Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- More
Drive 22 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Eagles' Bridge
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- Sofia Zoo
- More
Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Sofia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Sofia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Borisova Gradina Park. This popular park is a serene place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Eagles' Bridge, an eye-catching monument with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace Of Culture. This captivating convention center offers an instagrammable encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to South Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Sofia Zoo, a captivating zoo that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Urban Rebel likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Sofia
- Samokov
- More
Drive 64 km, 1 hour 46 min
- Sveta Nedelya Church
- Park "Zaimov"
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- More
On day 3 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 Samokov, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This frequently visited church is a heritage-rich place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Zaimov Park, a picture-perfect park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This captivating church offers a symbolic encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to National Theater "ivan Vazov" to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Samokov. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Samokov. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Khaĭduti, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kalipso boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Velcheva Zavera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Samokov.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Defected Bar & Café offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 4
- Samokov
- Sofia
- More
Drive 220 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Great fountain
- Historical Museum
- Rila
- Rila Monastery
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Samokov, Bistritsa, and Rila. 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Samokov. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Great Fountain is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Samokov. Next, head to Samokov Museum Of History, a beloved museum, known for its eye-catching features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Rila. This eye-catching mountain range is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Rila Monastery. Visit these for an interesting touch to 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at One More Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Teos Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
- Park "Geo Milev
- More
Day 5 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 Geo Milev Park, a peaceful park before you head out.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Bulgaria
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
