6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Plovdiv and Smolyan
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Description
Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Sofia, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Smolyan, Stob, and Rila. This road trip itinerary in Bulgaria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Sofia, 1 night in Plovdiv, and 1 night in Smolyan. 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 Sofia, 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 Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Plovdiv, Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Smolyan, Stob, and Rila, 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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Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
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- Park "Zaimov"
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Welcome to Sofia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Bulgaria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Sofia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Zaimov 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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. 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 Sofia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Saffron Indian Restaurant, 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 Island Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Grijn Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cairo Relax Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar National is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- More
Drive 26 km, 1 hour 36 min
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Eagles' Bridge
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Boyana Church
- South Park
- National Palace of Culture
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
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Day 2 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Make sure to visit Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a popular street in Sofia. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.
Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Borisova Gradina Park, a popular park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Eagles' Bridge, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church is one of the city’s most captivating 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 Boyana Church. After exploring the church, head to the popular South Park. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Palace Of Culture, a place of photogenic interest 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 148 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv, 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 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a locally renowned archeological site in the city. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv and soak in the ambiance of this romantic historical landmark.
There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the often recommended Alyosha Monument. Not far away, you'll also find Singing Fountain. This art installation is a stunning highlight in Sofia. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a locally renowned park in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rock Bar Download, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out North Star, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Smolyan
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Asen's Fortress
- Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
- Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall
- Smolyanski ezera hut
- Смолянски планетариум
- Church of Saint Vissarion of Smolyan
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Laki, and Smolyan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Smolyan, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Asen's Fortress, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This well-known monastery is known for its inviting appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall. This serene waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Smolyanski Ezera Hut is also worth visiting, along with Smolyan Planetarium. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Church Of Saint Vissarion Of Smolyan. This underrated church provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Smolyan. Smolyan offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Smolyan's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at restaurant ECO, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mehana „Mecho ukho“ is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Milano. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Smolyan tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Venus Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe The Clock offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Smolyan.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Smolyan
- Sofia
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Drive 430 km, 7 hours 20 min
- Bistritsa Waterfall
- Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
- Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Dupnitsa, Stob, and Rila. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sofia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Smolyan. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await! Bistritsa Waterfall is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Smolyan. Next, head to Stob Earth Pyramids, an up-and-coming rock formation, known for its idyllic 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 “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail. This romantic waterfall is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Sofia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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 delightful dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar & Dinner Relax as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.
Cap off your dinner by heading to One More Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Teos Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Sofia - Departure day
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- Park "Geo Milev
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Day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Sofia 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 Geo Milev Park, an awe-inspiring park before you head out.
On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace, Paradise Center. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Bulgaria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Sofia.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Mamma Mia Ltd, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Esterhasi Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Sofia. 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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