4-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv
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Explore the best of Bulgaria on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Sofia and Plovdiv. 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 2 nights in Sofia and 1 night in Plovdiv. 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 Rila Monastery, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia and Plovdiv, 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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- National Palace of Culture
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Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Sofia and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 National Palace Of Culture, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Grijn Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cairo Relax Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar National offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 165 km, 2 hours 57 min
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Eagles' Bridge
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Boyana Church
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sofia and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This majestic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Eagles' Bridge and learn what makes this photogenic monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Borisova Gradina Park. After exploring the park, head to Boyana Church. This locally appreciated church is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, known for its awe-inspiring features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the frequently visited Old Town Of Plovdiv. Enjoy exploring this incredible historical landmark at your own pace.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plovdiv. 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Plovdiv at Rahat Tepe, 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 KFC. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Plovdiv tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rock Bar Download, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to North Star. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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Drive 372 km, 5 hours 24 min
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Singing Fountains
- Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
- Rila Monastery
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Plovdiv and Rila, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Plovdiv, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a locally renowned park in the city. Then, head to Singing Fountain and soak in the ambiance of this romantic art installation.
There are many interesting places to see in Plovdiv, and when you are ready for more, go to Alyosha Monument. This is one of the city’s most beloved culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the locally renowned Rila Monastery.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sofia's best restaurants.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.
Day 4
- Sofia - Departure day
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- South Park
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Day 4 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, begin at South Park. This interesting park is a popular place to see in the city.
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.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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