Relaxed 9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Plovdiv to Sofia

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria continues on day 3, 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 Plovdiv and beyond. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s agenda in Plovdiv includes an archeological site and a historical landmark. Nebet Tepe is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Old Town Of Plovdiv, an intriguing historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Plovdiv, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Asenovgrad may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Asenovgrad, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Asen's Fortress, an often recommended castle that everyone visiting Asenovgrad should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Asenovgrad, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bachkovo may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", an interesting monastery that draws attention for its respected features.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Plovdiv, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to book a table at RESTAURANT Raia, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Restaurant Citizens Club, 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 Restorant "Megdana". As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Plovdiv tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Plovdiv. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kriloto Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cocktail Bar Noris, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Fabrik. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Bulgaria!

Day 4 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 town of Samokov. 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 4 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Samokov. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Samokov Museum Of History. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Boroland Rope Town. This locally appreciated adventure park is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find City Park By The River Iskar. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bistritsa, 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 Samokov to Bistritsa may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bistritsa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Rila and explore the romantic features.

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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Sofia, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Saffron Indian Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Island Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Sofia, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Bulgaria are extraordinary.

Today’s agenda in Sofia includes a rock formation, a public square, a convention center, a park, a zoo and much more! Golden Bridges is must-visit rock formation and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Russian Monument Square, an intriguing public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to National Palace Of Culture, a symbolic convention center, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Sofia. If you’re looking for more, South Park is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Sofia Zoo, a captivating gem to see in the city.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Bulgaria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Sofia offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 delightful dinner at Mamma Mia Ltd, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Esterhasi Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Da Massimo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Corner, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gaba. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at K. E. B. A. , another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Bulgaria is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Plovdiv 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.

Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This heritage-rich church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the majestic features of Prince's Garden, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Eagles' Bridge, an interesting monument. For a change of scene, check out Borisova Gradina Park, known for its romantic features.

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

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 Plovdiv, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ruski Restorant Petar I, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

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.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Bulgaria!