7-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Kyustendil and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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 Sofia, 2 nights in Plovdiv, and 2 nights in Kyustendil. 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, Kyustendil, Bogoyna, Tran, Bankya, Zemen, Sirishtnik, and Vrabcha, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Sofia
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
- Park "Zaimov"
- More
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 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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
- More
Drive 174 km, 2 hours 53 min
- North Park
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- Sofia Zoo
- Park "Geo Milev
- More
On day 2 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 Sofia and Reduta. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sofia, including a park, a convention center, and a zoo. Start your day at North Park. This peaceful park is an interesting place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to National Palace Of Culture. If instagrammable sites excite you, this convention center will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find South Park. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.
Sofia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Sofia Zoo is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the zoo, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Geo Milev Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned park.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Rock Bar Download, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. North Star is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner 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 3
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
- More
Drive 300 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Knyazheska Garden
- Eagles' Bridge
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- More
On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a monument, a church, a performing arts theater and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Borisova Gradina Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Prince's Garden, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Eagles' Bridge, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. When you're finished at the church, National Theater "ivan Vazov" awaits your visit. This performing arts theater is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Plovdiv and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Qbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Kyustendil
- More
Drive 269 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Youth Hill
- More
Dive into day 4 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 Kyustendil. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today's adventure in Plovdiv promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Singing Fountain. This enchanting art installation is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This picture-perfect archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Youth Hill, an up-and-coming park, and take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Kyustendil, 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 Kyustendil, 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 Restaurant Friends, a top-rated dining destination in Kyustendil. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Ramira, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vintage bar and dinner. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kyustendil this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Vogue, a prime location for a drink.
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.
Day 5
- Kyustendil
- More
Drive 231 km, 4 hours 2 min
- Transko zhdrelo
- Holy Paraskeva
- Holy Trinity
- Tran Eco Trail II
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Kyustendil, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Kyustendil on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular canyon, Erma River Gorge, Tran. Afterward, continue to Holy Paraskeva, a church every traveler should visit.
As you explore Kyustendil’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Holy Trinity. This locally appreciated church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Yablanitsa River Gorge, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Kyustendil.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Kyustendil's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Terasata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restorant Avtograff beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider BISTRO AMADEUS. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kyustendil tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Kyustendil and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Kyustendil
- Sofia
- More
Drive 186 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Zemen Monastery "St John the Apostle"
- Ecopath "Looking at nine mountains"
- Vrabcha waterfall
- More
On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Zemen, Sirishtnik, and Vrabcha. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Kyustendil, including a monastery, a hiking area, and a waterfall. Start your day with a visit to Zemen Monastery "st. John The Apostle". This beloved monastery is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ecopath "looking At Nine Mountains", which may be one of the most majestic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Kyustendil on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Vrabcha Waterfall, a worthwhile waterfall in the town.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Urban Rebel. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!
Day 7
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
- Holy Trinity Park
- More
Day 7 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 Holy Trinity Park. This underrated park is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Vitosha Boulevard. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.
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 Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Bulgaria
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.