9-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Sofia traveling south to Plovdiv, and Samokov

Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 2 nights left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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.

Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Prince's Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,695 reviews.

Eagles' Bridge is another outstanding experience in Sofia. Around 10,319 travelers have rated this stone bridge an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Borisova Gradina Park is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,635 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Sofia, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Sofia below.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Divaka, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Face bar & dinner, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Art Club Museum. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sofia, and Reduta.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to South Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 visitors.

Sofia Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.

Druzhba Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,598 visitors.

North Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,004 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Reduta. Your travel time is around 12 min.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.

Make sure to book a table at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, 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 Park Hotel "MOSKVA". As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Sofia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

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 point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to National Palace Of Culture. This convention center has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,569 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This church and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,066 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov". With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers, this point of interest is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Sofia.

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 lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. North Star is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Plovdiv. You still have 1 night left in Plovdiv.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Old Town Of Plovdiv. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. The point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 visitors.

Bachkovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Plovdiv behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Bachkovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,211 reviews.

After soaking in Bachkovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Asen's Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,157 reviews.

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

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 reserve a table at Ресторант "Старият Пловдив", 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 Sofra, 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 Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Qbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Anyway Social Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Samokov, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Journey into the unknown at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Singing Fountain is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Plovdiv is Alyosha Monument. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,510 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Plovdiv offers an experience you will remember.

Museum Of Natural Sciences is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Plovdiv. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,598 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Youth Hill. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,086 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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

As you explore more of Samokov, 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 Khaĭduti, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kalipso offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Velcheva Zavera is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Samokov.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Defected Bar & Café is an excellent place to start.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Samokov for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Samokov Convent "pokrov". This extraordinary place of worship has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 593 visitors.

Next, make your way to City Park By The River Iskar. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,268 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Samokov. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Derbi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Target beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kaymakanova house. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Samokov tonight.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bistritsa, Rila Monastery, and Rila. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bistritsa. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rila. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,975 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rila Monastery. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

Journey into the unknown at Rila Monastery, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable monastery has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,596 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Sofia. Sofia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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.

Dine in style at Hotel Jasmin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, J. J. Murphy's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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.