Relaxed 7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
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Uncover the beauty of Bulgaria on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Sofia and Plovdiv. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Bulgaria at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Sofia and Plovdiv. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Sofia and 3 nights in Plovdiv. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Bulgaria.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Bulgaria. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Sofia, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Bulgaria and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Bulgaria with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Bulgaria.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Bulgaria. This relaxed road trip features the stunning South Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Borisova Gradina Park.

Traveling leisurely through Bulgaria means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Get close to the spectacular “tsar Simeon Garden” Park and the wonderful Zaimov Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Bulgaria's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Bulgaria.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Bulgaria. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Bulgaria's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Bulgaria.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Bulgaria. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Bulgaria. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Bulgaria and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
South Park
Sofia ZooPark "Geo MilevKnyazheska GardenEagles' BridgeBorisova Gradina Park
National Palace of CulturePark "Zaimov"St Alexander Nevsky CathedralIvan Vazov" National Theater
Roman aqueductYouth HillSinging FountainsTsar Simeon GardenMonument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
Ancient Theatre of PhilippopolisGate "Hisar Kapia", PlovdivRegional Ethnographic Museum PlovdivOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveNebet Tepe
Ancient Stadium of PhilipopolisPlovdiv Regional History MuseumMonument of UnificationMuseum of Natural Sciences
North Park

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • South Park
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Your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria starts when you reach the incredible city of Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Sofia and begin your adventure in Bulgaria.

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 South 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.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Sofia and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Grijn Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cairo Relax Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar National likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Bulgaria. Enjoy your first taste of Sofia as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 21 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Sofia Zoo
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • Knyazheska Garden
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Bulgaria and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Sofia and beyond. With 1 night left in Sofia, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and natural wonders! Start at Sofia Zoo, a well-known zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Geo Milev Park, enchanting visitors with its gorgeous appeal. Continue your exploration at Prince's Garden. This park is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Eagles' Bridge. After exploring the monument, head to the interesting Borisova Gradina Park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Sofia and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Sofia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Sofia’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

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.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 155 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • National Palace of Culture
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Sofia and drive in the direction of the city of Plovdiv for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Plovdiv, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sofia, including a convention center, a park, a church, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your day at National Palace Of Culture. This visually striking convention center is a locally renowned place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Zaimov Park. If picturesque sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This symbolic church is a favorite among visitors.

Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, National Theater "ivan Vazov" is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

In the city of Plovdiv, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Bulgaria.

Exploring the food culture in Plovdiv offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Plovdiv’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rock Bar Download, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. North Star is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 15 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Roman aqueduct
  • Youth Hill
  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Bulgaria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Plovdiv. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Plovdiv. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Plovdiv!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a park, an art installation, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Roman Aqueduct. This up-and-coming archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Youth Hill located in Plovdiv for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Singing Fountain. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the art installation, continue your tour of the city with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visitors usually appreciate the respected features of this park. Next up is Alyosha Monument, a highly recommended monument.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Bulgaria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Plovdiv. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Plovdiv that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Bulgaria more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Plovdiv to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Plovdiv offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Plovdiv’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Bulgaria.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Qbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Anyway Social Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Bulgaria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Bulgaria tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 3 km, 36 min

  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Gate "Hisar Kapia", Plovdiv
  • Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Nebet Tepe
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Plovdiv, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, and a museum. Start your day at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This historic archeological site is a locally renowned place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv. If culturally significant sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.

Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Old Town Of Plovdiv is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the history-steeped Nebet Tepe. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved archeological site.

Bulgaria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Bulgaria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Plovdiv.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 Restorant "Megdana". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Plovdiv.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kriloto Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cocktail Bar Noris offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Fabrik is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Plovdiv
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 144 km, 2 hours

  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Plovdiv Regional History Museum
  • Monument of Unification
  • Museum of Natural Sciences
  • More

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Bulgaria.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the worthwhile Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, an instagrammable archeological site in Plovdiv. Next, go to Plovdiv Regional History Museum.

After visiting Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis and Plovdiv Regional History Museum, have a stroll along Plovdiv's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Monument Of Unification. This culturally significant monument offers a unique experience. Museum Of Natural Sciences is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Sofia in this laid-back road trip in Bulgaria. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Bulgaria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Sofia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel ZOO Sofia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar & Dinner Relax. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Sofia. The bars in Sofia make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Plovdiv can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Bulgaria!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Sofia - Departure day
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  • North Park
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Sofia.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping center, the lively Vitosha Boulevard. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting North Park, an enchanting park before you head out.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Sofia or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esterhasi Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Sofia and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Bulgaria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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