7-Day Bulgaria Road Trip from Plovdiv traveling west to Sofia and Pazardzhik

Your road trip adventure in Bulgaria begins as soon as you reach Plovdiv and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Plovdiv for 2 nights 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.

Plovdiv is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 Plovdiv. 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 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.

Make sure to book a table at Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,229 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Happy Bar & Grill Novotel during your stay in Plovdiv. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 4,350 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Torro Grande / Торро Гранде, a renowned dining destination in Plovdiv. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,651 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Rahat Tepe, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,984 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Club Fargo, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers. This spot is known for its unique atmosphere and impressive selection of beverages, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

Котка и Мишка, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,070 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Bulgaria!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Plovdiv for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Plovdiv on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plovdiv's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don't forget to book a table at Pavaj, a well-known eatery in Plovdiv. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,861 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Restaurant SOUTH breeze while exploring Plovdiv. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,322 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hemingway Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,363 discerning diners.

When you’ve finished your meal, Rock Bar Download is one of the best bars in Plovdiv for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 845 customers.

Но сенс клуб is another of the most popular bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 984 customers.

Alternatively, check out Bar The Post. This popular place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, as rated by 425 customers.

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.

On day 3 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 Samokov, Bistritsa, Dupnitsa, and Sofia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Samokov. This car ride takes around 1 hour 50 min.

Set your GPS to Bistritsa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bistritsa beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rila. Previous visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,899 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sofia, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, an acclaimed dining establishment in Sofia. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Restaurant "Staria Chinar" while experiencing the best of Sofia. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,717 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Art Club Museum, an elegant culinary destination in Sofia. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 previous guests.

An excellent example is Bar Friday, which has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,410 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is The Cocktail Bar. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers.

Locals also enjoy One More Bar, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,228 customers, an after-dinner drink at One More Bar is the perfect way to end this day.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 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.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Sofia has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Sofia offers and add your favorites to your Bulgaria travel package below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at The Wrong Bar while you’re in Sofia. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,293 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Sofia is Taj Mahal Restaurant. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,423 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

While in Sofia, enjoy Luciano’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,291 satisfied guests.

If you’re up for getting a drink, consider going to Halbite Beer Hall. Around 2,280 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Sofia also enjoy the drinks at Lime Cafe & Cocktails. This place is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,223 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is 5 Corners Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,463 customers.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Sofia and Pazardzhik. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pazardzhik. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Park "Zaimov". This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 visitors.

Borisova Gradina Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,346 travelers.

Sofia is also the home of Eagles' Bridge. Around 10,196 people have rated this stone bridge an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Knyazheska Garden. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,672 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Sofia is also your chance to admire Ivan Vazov National Theater. This must-visit sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,760 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pazardzhik. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Pazardzhik. Pazardzhik offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pazardzhik. 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 dining experience at Restaurant “Avangard” while you’re in Pazardzhik. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 2,425 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Pazardzhik is Piccante. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,440 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Pazardzhik, enjoy Ресторант “Манастира”’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 924 satisfied guests.

When you’ve finished your meal and an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit Paradise Bar, one of the best bars in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 532 customers, and is the perfect complement to your refreshing weekend getaway experience in Bulgaria.

If you would like to try another place, Coffee "Corleone" is another great option that serves a variety of drinks. Considered one of the most popular bars in Pazardzhik, this bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 424 customers.

FRANGO is also a great bar where you can have nice chats with locals and fellow travelers in the area. FRANGO has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 265 customers.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Sofia, Reduta, Bachkovo, and Plovdiv. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv. Plovdiv will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pazardzhik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sofia may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Sofia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Druzhba Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,509 reviews.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,648 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Asenovgrad may take around 2 hours 6 min. Upon your arrival in Asenovgrad, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plovdiv.

Don't miss out on experiencing р-нт , Малък Бунарджик", a renowned dining spot in Plovdiv. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,166 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at PASA Restaurant while immersing yourself in Plovdiv. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,284 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Restaurant Rio, a beloved dining establishment within Plovdiv. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,069 satisfied customers.

After dinner, visit Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop for a drink or two. This bar serves plenty of food and drink options and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 180 customers.

You can also enjoy your night at Morado Bar & Dinner. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,509 customers, it's safe to say that Morado Bar & Dinner promises an unforgettable bar experience.

Alternatively, locals recommend Secrets Club. This bar, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 880 customers, is a great place to meet new friends.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

Day 7 of your road trip in Bulgaria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Plovdiv before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Optimize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Plovdiv’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Bulgaria, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Plovdiv. 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!