9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling north to Pleven
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Bulgaria as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Sofia, Tsvetkova Bara, Montana, Karlukovo, Pleven, Krushuna, Vratsa, Mezdra, and Lyutibrod.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Bulgaria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 6 nights in Sofia and 2 nights in Pleven. 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 Zaimov Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Palace Of Culture.
As you hit the open road and drive through Sofia, Tsvetkova Bara, Montana, Karlukovo, Pleven, Krushuna, Vratsa, Mezdra, and Lyutibrod, 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
- Holy Trinity Park
- More
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 5 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 Holy Trinity 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Saffron Indian Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Island Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Grijn Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cairo Relax Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar National is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 2
- Sofia
- More
Drive 19 km, 54 min
- Muzeiko
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Park "Zaimov"
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sofia, where you'll stay for 4 nights more.
Sofia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a science center, a park, a church, a performing arts theater and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Muzeiko and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Borisova Gradina Park, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Zaimov Park, one of the hamlet’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable 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 romantic highlight on today's itinerary.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Urban Rebel is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Sofia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 3
- Sofia
- More
Drive 24 km, 1 hour 17 min
- North Park
- Sveta Nedelya Church
- Church of St Nicholas the Miracle-Maker
- National Palace of Culture
- South Park
- More
Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a park, a church, and a convention center. Start your adventure at North Park. This locally renowned park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to National Palace Of Culture. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this convention center. Next up is South Park, a highly recommended park.
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.
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. Additionally, Bar & Dinner Relax 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 One More Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Teos Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!
Day 4
- Sofia
- More
Drive 29 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Druzhba Park
- Park "Geo Milev
- Knyazheska Garden
- Eagles' Bridge
- Sofia Zoo
- More
Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sofia allows for both. Start by heading to Druzhba Park. This intriguing park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Geo Milev Park, a picturesque park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Prince's Garden, a worthwhile park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Eagles' Bridge. Round off your day at Sofia Zoo, another gem in Sofia with visually striking features to discover.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Sofia and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Corner, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gaba is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, K. E. B. A. Provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 5
- Sofia
- More
Drive 232 km, 4 hours 14 min
- Klisurski Monastery
- Park Montanezium
- Сините Езера
- More
On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Tsvetkova Bara and Montana. You still have 1 night left in Sofia.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a monastery, a park, and a water park. Start your adventure at Klisurski Monastery. This often recommended monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Park Montanezium located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Voden Park Sinite Ezera. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.
As you explore more of Sofia, 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 lovely meal at Brew it Craft Beer & Food, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Divaka is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The School. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bilkova Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar "bar" provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Kick's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Say good night to Sofia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Bulgaria!
Day 6
- Sofia
- Pleven
- More
Drive 186 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Prohodna Cave
- The Stone Houses
- Panega Eco Trail
- Riverside Landscape Park "Panega
- Zlaten Park
- More
Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Karlukovo and Lukovit, 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 Pleven. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Prohodna is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picturesque cave before continuing your journey. The Stone Houses is your next stop. This intriguing sightseeing destination is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Panega Eco Trail. This mesmerizing hiking area is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Riverside Landscape Park "panega" and Zlaten Park.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pleven. 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 Pleven's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at KOMPLEKS "ZAMЪKЪT", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria Cantonata offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Dezha Vju Pitsa & Restorant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pleven.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Momento Bar & Pizza after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sky Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Kafe-bar Borago also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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 7
- Pleven
- More
Drive 106 km, 2 hours 9 min
- Krushuna Falls
- Pleven Water Cascades and Fountains
- Kaylaka Park
- Skobelev Park
- Pleven Panorama
- More
On day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Pleven, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Pleven for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Krushuna and Pleven to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Krushuna Falls. This often recommended waterfall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Pleven Water Cascades And Fountains, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Kaylaka Park, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Pleven. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Skobelev Park. Wander around and soak in the majestic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Pleven Panorama, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Pleven and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pleven's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at restaurant Bavaria, a highly-rated dining destination in Pleven. If you're eager to try something different, consider Snack Bar "Ledenika", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 'Gavril' Bar & Grille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pleven this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Bulgaria.
Day 8
- Pleven
- Sofia
- More
Drive 267 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Ledenika
- Archaeological complex "Citadel"
- Cherepish Monastery
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Vratsa, Mezdra, and Lyutibrod. 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.
Today’s itinerary in Pleven covers several incredible sights, including a cave, an archeological site, and a monastery. Start your adventure at Ledenika. This often recommended cave is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Archaeological Complex "citadel", a must-see archeological site in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Cherepish Monastery. This often recommended monastery offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Garden restaurant Yoli, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Face bar & dinner boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Art Club Museum. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Point. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Baldi Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caché Bar & Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!
Day 9
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
- Russian Monument Square
- More
Day 9 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 Russian Monument Square. This underrated public square 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 Paradise Center. 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.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant "Panchetata", another top spot with a tantalizing 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.