Relaxed 9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip Starting from Sofia to Plovdiv

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Bulgaria, you’ll explore the area around Sofia, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Sofia will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Bulgaria.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Druzhba Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,598 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sofia Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 travelers.

South Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit National Palace Of Culture. This well-loved convention center boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 14,569 reviews.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Reduta. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Reduta, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Geo Milev Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,414 visitors.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Sofia, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Divaka, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Face bar & dinner is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Art Club Museum. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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.

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.

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Bulgaria will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Bulgaria, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Drop by the renowned Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,691 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Russian Monument Square. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,608 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Prince's Garden. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,695 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Eagles' Bridge. This stone bridge and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Borisova Gradina Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Sofia.

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.

Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rock Bar Download, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, North Star offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Bulgaria.

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Bulgaria, you’ll go deep into Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 3 nights, 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Singing Fountain. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,640 visitors.

Next, make your way to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Museum Of Natural Sciences. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,598 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Alyosha Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 travelers.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Bulgaria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Bulgaria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sofra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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.

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.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Plovdiv, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Make Nebet Tepe one of your first sightseeing stops in Plovdiv. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,913 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Old Town Of Plovdiv 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 4,450 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,946 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 17,893 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Youth Hill. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,086 local and international travelers.

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!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at RESTAURANT Raia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Citizens Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ресторант "Мегдана" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Plovdiv and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Крилото Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cocktail Bar Noris is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Бар Фабрик also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria continues on day 7, 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 Bachkovo and beyond. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bachkovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 38 min. When you arrive in Bachkovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable place of worship has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,211 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bachkovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Metokha. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 145 reviews.

Next up is Asen's Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,157 visitors.

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

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 delightful dinner at Италиански ресторант Пикантино, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ruski Restorant Petar І? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Amadeus Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Club Fargo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Но Сенс Клуб provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Bulgaria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Ovchartsi. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Sofia, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ovchartsi. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 21 min. When you arrive in Ovchartsi, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Ovchartsi Waterfall “goritsa”. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 967 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Ecopath "goritsa Waterfall". Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 700 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ovchartsi and set your GPS to Bistritsa. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 26 min. Upon reaching Bistritsa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Rila one of your first sightseeing stops in Bistritsa. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,975 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Bulgaria at Sofia. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Bulgaria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Sofia, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Jasmin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try J. J. Murphy's? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“ as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Bulgaria.