6-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Plovdiv and Smolyan

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of sunset over the beautiful Vitosha mountain in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of Russian St. Nicholas church in the centre of Sofia city, capital of Bulgaria.
Photo of an architectural ensemble of three Socialist Classicism edifices in central Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of Alexander II of Russia and Parliament in city of Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of aerial view of Ivan Vazov Theatre in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of skyscrapers in the business district of Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of national theater building in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria.
Photo of aerial view of Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of national Gallery in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of Saint George Rotunda Church, an ancient red brick building in Sofia, Bulgaria's Capital City.
Photo of night view of the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria and Alexander Nevski cathedral in Sofia.
Photo of Rotunda, church of saint George, oldest church in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of national library Cyril and Methodius in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Photo of aerial view of the Bulgarian city Plovdiv.
Photo of roman theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of old town Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of Sveta Petka church in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of Mosque at the center of in city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of beautiful old town with the Holy Mother of God Church in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of Plovdiv aerial skyline panorama, Bulgaria.
Photo of beautiful old colorful house built in 1847 with a typical architecture from the Revival period, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of scenic aerial view of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of regional Ethnographic Museum in Old Town in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of Ancient amphitheatre in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of Architectural and Historical reserve ancient Plovdiv. The old town is located in the Central part of the city of Plovdiv on the Three Hills, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of elevated view of a beautiful street with a picturesque old-wooden steeple and a monastery in Plovdiv City, Bulgaria.
Photo of exterior of the Mosque in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Photo of the Central square and the Roman Forum in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Amazing Aerial view of Center of the town of Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Aerial view of Trigrad Gorge at Rhodope Mountains, Smolyan Region, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Aerial view of Church of Saint Vissarion Smolenski and planetarium in Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Landscape of The Grassy (Trevistoto) Smolyan lake at Rhodope Mountains, Smolyan Region, Bulgaria.
photo of view of the canyon of the waterfalls in Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of On the white slopes of Pamporovo, a ski resort in Bulgaria, skiing people, Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Pamporovo is a popular ski resort in the province of Smolyan, southern Bulgaria.
photo pf view of Zlatograd Ethnographic Areal Complex. Lies in the heart of the town of Zlatograd. Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Summer landscape of Rhodope Mountains near Snezhanka peak, Smolyan Region, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Pamporovo is a popular ski resort in the province of Smolyan, southern Bulgaria.
photo of view Aerial Summer view of Dospat Reservoir, Smolyan Region, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Bulgaria pamporovo Smolyan Studenets Ski Area Aerial by drone. Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of On the white slopes of Pamporovo, a ski resort in Bulgaria, skiing people, Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view Amazing Aerial view of Center of the town of Smolyan, Bulgaria.
photo of view of Aerial view of Dospat Reservoir, Smolyan Region, Bulgaria.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Park "Zaimov"
Borisova Gradina ParkEagles' BridgeSt Alexander Nevsky CathedralBoyana ChurchSouth ParkNational Palace of CultureIvan Vazov" National TheaterTsar Ivan Shishman Street
Ancient Theatre of PhilippopolisOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveRegional Ethnographic Museum PlovdivMonument of the Red Army "Alyosha"Singing FountainsTsar Simeon Garden
Asen's FortressBachkovo Monastery "Uspenie BogorodichnoSlivodolsko Padalo WaterfallSmolyanski ezera hutСмолянски планетариумChurch of Saint Vissarion of Smolyan
Bistritsa WaterfallStob Earth Pyramids - Trail entryBohemia Falls Ecotrail
Park "Geo Milev

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • Park "Zaimov"
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Say hello to Sofia! 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 Sofia for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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 6-day road trip in Bulgaria!

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Day 2

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
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Sofia. You’ll stay in Sofia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Don’t miss Tsar Ivan Shishman Street in Sofia today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Immerse yourself in Sofia’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Borisova Gradina Park. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Eagles' Bridge, a must-visit monument 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 Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a captivating church. For a change of scene, check out Boyana Church, known for its respected features. We also recommend visiting South Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to National Palace Of Culture, yet another locally renowned attraction 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 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 wonderful meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Forum, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Turquoise Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Urban Rebel offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 3

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
  • More

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.

Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an archeological site, a historical landmark, a museum, a monument, an art installation, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Old Town Of Plovdiv, an enchanting historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Alyosha Monument. When you're finished at the monument, Singing Fountain awaits your visit. This art installation is a stunning highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the interesting “tsar Simeon Garden” Park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plovdiv. Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rock Bar Download, known for its lively atmosphere. North Star is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner 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!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • Smolyan
  • More

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
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Asenovgrad, Bachkovo, Laki, and Smolyan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Smolyan. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Plovdiv today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Asen's Fortress. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" and learn what makes this standout monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Slivodolsko Padalo Waterfall. After exploring the waterfall, head to Smolyanski Ezera Hut. This intriguing lake is a highlight in Plovdiv. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the frequently visited Church Of Saint Vissarion Of Smolyan. Enjoy exploring this incredible church at your own pace.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Smolyan, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Smolyan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Venus Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe The Clock. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Smolyan
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 430 km, 7 hours 20 min

  • Bistritsa Waterfall
  • Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
  • Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dupnitsa, Stob, and Rila. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Smolyan. Begin your sightseeing with Bistritsa Waterfall. This up-and-coming waterfall is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Stob Earth Pyramids, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Smolyan, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail. This worthwhile waterfall is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel ZOO Sofia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar & Dinner Relax. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 6

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, a gorgeous park before you head out.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.

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

Dine in style at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esterhasi Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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