5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling east to Plovdiv
Description
Included
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 Sofia, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo. 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 3 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
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 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 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 Sofia. 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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Grijn Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cairo Relax Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar National offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2 – Sofia
- Sofia
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Drive 7 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Eagles' Bridge
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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 well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a picturesque, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historic, a symbolic, a masterful, and an inviting. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Borisova Gradina Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this symbolic park before continuing your journey. Eagles' Bridge is your next stop. This captivating monument is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.
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 Zaimov Park. This majestic park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky and National Theater "ivan Vazov".
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of Sofia, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3 – Sofia, Reduta, and Plovdiv
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 163 km, 2 hours 51 min
- National Palace of Culture
- Sofia Zoo
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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 and Reduta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a convention center, a park, and a zoo. Start your adventure at National Palace Of Culture. This locally renowned convention center is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to South Park located in Sofia for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sofia Zoo. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Druzhba Park. This park has an idyllic appeal.
Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Reduta.
Head to Geo Milev Park, a captivating park in Reduta. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at Salt & Pepper, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rock Bar Download, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, North Star offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 4 – Plovdiv, Bachkovo, and Sofia
- Plovdiv
- Bachkovo
- Sofia
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 17 min
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Plovdiv. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art installation, a park, and an archeological site. Begin your adventure at Singing Fountain. This is a locally renowned art installation you should not miss. Another must-see is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a captivating park in Plovdiv.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, another of the village’s popular attractions.
Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a captivating monastery that draws visitors from near and far.
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 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel ZOO Sofia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar & Dinner Relax. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 5 – Sofia - departure day
- Sofia - Departure day
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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 Sofia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Your adventure starts at Holy Trinity Park, an up-and-coming local hot spot.
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!
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