5-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Blagoevgrad

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Bulgaria. You will spend 2 nights in Sofia and 2 nights in Blagoevgrad. 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 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 and Blagoevgrad, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • Park "Zaimov"
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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 1 night 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 Zaimov 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.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, 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 Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • Blagoevgrad
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Drive 111 km, 2 hours 18 min

  • National Palace of Culture
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Sofia are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blagoevgrad, where you will stay for 2 nights.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is National Palace Of Culture. This instagrammable convention center will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Borisova Gradina Park and learn what makes this romantic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Eagles' Bridge. After exploring the monument, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This notable church is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by National Theater "ivan Vazov", known for its enchanting features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Blagoevgrad, 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 Blagoevgrad's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tchsasovnika, a highly-rated dining destination in Blagoevgrad. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar All Stars, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Verde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Blagoevgrad this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Befree, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Swing provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Najs Plejs offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Blagoevgrad
  • Sofia
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Druzhba Park
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • Sofia Zoo
  • South Park
  • North Park
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On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Sofia and Reduta. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Blagoevgrad, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Druzhba Park. This visually striking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Geo Milev Park and learn what makes this picturesque park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Sofia Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to South Park. This locally renowned park is a highlight in Blagoevgrad. As your day continues, stop by North Park, known for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Blagoevgrad.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Blagoevgrad. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Shery, a popular restaurant in Blagoevgrad. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Blagoevgrad at Naomi Bar & Patisserie, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hotel Cardinal. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Blagoevgrad tonight.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Blagoevgrad
  • Sofia
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Rila Monastery
  • Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
  • Vitosha
  • Living Water Spring
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Rila and Pernik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your adventure in Blagoevgrad is only getting started when you visit Rila Monastery, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail. This beloved waterfall is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Blagoevgrad's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Vitosha Nature Park. This peaceful nature reserve offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Living Water Spring is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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

Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sofia - Departure day
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  • Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
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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.

At the top of the list of places to visit today is Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Sofia’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. 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.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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