7-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling west to Sofia, and Pazardzhik

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 2 nights 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 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 Plovdiv. 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 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 Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Singing Fountain one of your first sightseeing stops in Plovdiv. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,640 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

“Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Old Town of Plovdiv. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 4,450 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Nebet Tepe. This hill enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,913 local and international travelers.

Your discoveries in Plovdiv do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Plovdiv on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sofra, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Central Park. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Qbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at ANYWAY Social Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Samokov, Dupnitsa, and Bistritsa. 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 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Samokov, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Samokov may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Samokov, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at City Park by the river Iskar, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,268 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dupnitsa, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bistritsa may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Bistritsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Fountain on Freedom Square - Dupnitsa is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 181 visitors.

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.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Forum, 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 Mamma Mia Ltd, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Halbite Beer Hall, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Lime Cafe & Cocktails provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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 4 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.

Kick off the day at Sofia Zoo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,237 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit South Park. South Park is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.

National Palace of Culture is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Holy Trinity Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,845 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on North Park, a famous park in Sofia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,004 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Sofia has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Sofia offers and add your favorites to your Bulgaria travel package 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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Divaka, 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 Face bar & dinner, 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 Art Club Museum, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 Pazardzhik. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Zaimov Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,334 reviews.

Borisova Gradina Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,635 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,319 reviews.

Prince's Garden is another outstanding experience in Sofia. Around 7,695 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, National Theater "Ivan Vazov" is not far away. This sightseeing destination is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pazardzhik. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Тука Е Така, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try FRANGO? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Хюга Ресторант / Hygge Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pazardzhik.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Coffee "Corleone", ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Paradise Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Sofia, Reduta, and Bachkovo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pazardzhik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sofia may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Sofia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Druzhba Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,088 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.

Set your GPS to Reduta and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Reduta beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Geo Milev Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,414 visitors.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at RESTAURANT Raia, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Citizens Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ресторант "Мегдана". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Крилото Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cocktail Bar Noris is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, бар Фабрик ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 7 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.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Plovdiv’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Alyosha Monument. This extraordinary monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 visitors.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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!