Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities

Follow the Maritsa valley east on the A1 Trakia: it’s a straight 145 km from Sofia to Plovdiv, sitting at 164 m on seven volcanic hills. History reads like a cross‑section here—an early 2nd‑century Roman theatre, timbered Bulgarian Revival mansions around Nebet Tepe, cobbles sliding into Kapana’s maker streets. On the way, Thracian vineyards sweep the plain while the Sredna Gora ridgeline closes the horizon; late‑day light pulls pastel tones from the façades you’ll miss at noon.

Your dedicated driver in Plovdiv collects you from your Sofia hotel, aligns the day to your pace, then stays on hand: they drive, you taste and explore. A photo stop at Vakarel Pass, coffee in a restored han, and timed entry at the theatre keeps queues at bay. The car waits during museums, detours if a Kapana studio catches your eye, and heads up Bunardzhika Hill for the skyline. Return when you wish, with room to add an Assenovgrad valley winery 18 km away.