One-Week Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv traveling west to Samokov and Sofia

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Bulgaria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Plovdiv, 2 nights in Samokov, and 3 nights in Sofia. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Plovdiv, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

As you hit the open road and drive through Plovdiv, Samokov, Borovets, Bistritsa, and Sofia, 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, accommodation, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
Singing FountainsTsar Simeon GardenAncient Stadium of PhilipopolisOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveAncient Theatre of Philippopolis
Tsarska BistritsaHistorical MuseumCity Park by the river IskarBoroland Rope TownBeli Iskar eco trail
RilaRila MonasteryBohemia Falls Ecotrail
Borisova Gradina ParkEagles' BridgeKnyazheska GardenSt Alexander Nevsky CathedralPark "Zaimov"
National Palace of CultureSouth ParkSofia ZooPark "Geo MilevDruzhba Park
Sveta Nedelya ChurchNorth ParkHoly Trinity ParkChurch of St Nicholas the Miracle-MakerIvan Vazov" National Theater
Youth Hill

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Plovdiv - Arrival day
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  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
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Say hello to Plovdiv! 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 Plovdiv for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Alyosha Monument, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Plovdiv. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Plovdiv, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Plovdiv
  • Samokov
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Drive 131 km, 2 hours 18 min

  • Singing Fountains
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Plovdiv. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Singing Fountain is the perfect place to start. This art installation is one of the most interesting places to visit in Plovdiv. Next, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a notable park, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This stunning archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Old Town Of Plovdiv and Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Samokov. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Khaĭduti, a popular restaurant in Samokov. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Samokov at Kalipso, 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 Velcheva Zavera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Samokov tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Defected Bar & Café after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Samokov
  • More

Drive 50 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Tsarska Bistritsa
  • Historical Museum
  • City Park by the river Iskar
  • Boroland Rope Town
  • Beli Iskar eco trail
  • More

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Samokov for your remaining 1 night in the town 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 Borovets and Samokov.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Tsarska Bistritsa. This curiosity-inducing palace is an enchanting place to see in Samokov. Continue your discovery at Samokov Museum Of History, a history-steeped museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Samokov, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to City Park By The River Iskar. This increasingly popular park offers an eye-catching encounter with Samokov. Next, make your way to Boroland Rope Town to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Beli Iskar Eco Trail, a beloved hiking area that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Samokov.

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

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.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Samokov
  • Sofia
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Rila
  • Rila Monastery
  • Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Bistritsa and Rila. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Rila. This curiosity-inducing mountain range is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rila Monastery, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, one of the most beloved places to see in Samokov. This waterfall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Grijn Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar National is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sofia
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Drive 9 km, 51 min

  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • Knyazheska Garden
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • More

Day 5 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Borisova Gradina Park. This captivating park is a standout place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Eagles' Bridge, an instagrammable monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Prince's Garden. This underrated park offers a peaceful encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Zaimov Park, a notable park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. The Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 32 min

  • National Palace of Culture
  • South Park
  • Sofia Zoo
  • Park "Geo Milev
  • Druzhba Park
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. National Palace Of Culture is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable convention center before continuing your journey. South Park is your next stop. This locally renowned park is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Sofia Zoo. This visually striking zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Geo Milev Park and Druzhba Park.

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

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.

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at One More Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Teos Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bsd 2 Ndk, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • Sveta Nedelya Church
  • North Park
  • Holy Trinity Park
  • Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, an up-and-coming church in the city. Then, head to North Park and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring park.

After exploring the park, visit the beloved Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. Not far away, you'll also find National Theater "ivan Vazov". This performing arts theater is a romantic highlight 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.

As you explore more of Plovdiv, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", 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.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Plovdiv - Departure day
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  • Youth Hill
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Day 8 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Youth Hill, an eye-catching park before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.

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

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

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!

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