10-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece from Sofia to Plovdiv, Blagoevgrad, and Thessaloniki

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Greece begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Sofia in Bulgaria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Sofia for 3 nights.

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Something that makes Sofia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Holy Trinity Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,720 visitors.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Sofia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Restaurant "Staria Chinar" while in Sofia. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,717 previous guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Bar Friday, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Bar Friday has charmed many with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 3,410 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at The Cocktail Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. The Cocktail Bar captures hearts with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 2,814 merry-makers.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Greece has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria and Greece has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding South Park. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,616 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Sofia is also home to the captivating National Palace of Culture, a local convention center considered one of the highlights of the city. About 14,244 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Sofia. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,212 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Eagles' Bridge will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing stone bridge and attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,102 reviews.

Soak in Sofia's rich culture at the fantastic Sofia Zoo. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Sofia is its overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,742 visitor reviews.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the city!

Sofia has something for every interest and travel budget.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Greece, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Sofia. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Pod Lipite (Under the Linden Trees) Restaurant. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Sofia boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 2,625 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Sofia is Art Club Museum. It has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,570 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, One More Bar. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Halbite Beer Hall. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,280 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Greece! Enjoy your evening in Sofia to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Day 3 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding North Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,772 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Park "Zaimov". This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 15,115 visitors.

According to travelers in Sofia, the extraordinary St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,337 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible church, Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker. Up to 4,964 visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular sightseeing destination, Ivan Vazov National Theater. This attraction is rated an average 4.8 out of 5 stars among 9,666 visitors.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Sofia has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Sofia’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Bulgaria and Greece.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Taj Mahal Restaurant, a distinguished dining establishment in Sofia. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,423 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at The Wrong Bar. This famous bar in Sofia has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,293 customers.

This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece, 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 to see in Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sofia is the fantastic St. Nedelya Church. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, St. Nedelya Church has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,501 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Park "Geo Milev". This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,260 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Druzhba Park, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,441 reviewers.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Plovdiv. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 2 hours 37 min.

Upon your arrival in Sofia you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this city and discover some of its most popular sights.

In Sofia, the extraordinary St. Nedelya Church awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,501 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular Park "Geo Milev". This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,260 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Druzhba Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,441 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Bulgaria, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Sofia's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Sofia.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Plovdiv.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Plovdiv. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Reserve your spot at Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant, a popular local restaurant in Plovdiv. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,229 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Happy Bar & Grill Novotel during your stay in Plovdiv. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, by 4,350 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Pavaj, a popular local gem in in Plovdiv. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,861 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Torro Grande / Торро Гранде, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,651 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Rahat Tepe. It is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,984 customers.

Club Fargo is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,132 customers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Plovdiv in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Blagoevgrad. Blagoevgrad will be your home for 1 night.

A tour of Plovdiv is not complete without a visit to the famous Singing Fountains. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,192 travelers.

Make the most of your Plovdiv travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,208 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis for an experience worth remembering. This local point of interest and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,478 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Youth Hill. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 4,980 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plovdiv, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Blagoevgrad. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Plovdiv has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Blagoevgrad’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Blagoevgrad's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Trezor. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Blagoevgrad has received a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from around 563 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Bar Diva I should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Blagoevgrad, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,536 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Царски клуб Вароша. This highly regarded restaurant in Blagoevgrad has earned a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 764 satisfied guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at BeFree. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 851 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Найс плейс. This popular bar in Blagoevgrad is a local favorite with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 657 customers.

As the night falls in Blagoevgrad, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Kyustendil in Bulgaria and Thessaloniki in Greece, 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 Thessaloniki. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Blagoevgrad, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kyustendil may take around 2 hours 26 min.

Prepare for a great time when you reach Kyustendil. While in Kyustendil, you’ll soak in Bulgaria’s rich culture while exploring its wonderful attractions.

Rila Monastery is a travelers’ favorite in Kyustendil, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 17,913 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kyustendil, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Thessaloniki in Greece. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Greece. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 27 min.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Kyustendil, Bulgaria.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Greece, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Thessaloniki. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Thessaloniki. At Pulp, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,573 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Kitchen Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,067 reviews.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 7, you will wake up in Thessaloniki with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Thessaloniki before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria and Greece.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Bulgaria. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Thessaloniki itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful region.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Bulgaria extra special!

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Thessaloniki's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Thessaloniki has them.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Sebriko, an acclaimed dining establishment in Thessaloniki. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,978 satisfied guests.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Wake up and see what day 8 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria and Greece has in store for you! You will be staying in Thessaloniki for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Aristotelous Square. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 42,179 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Aristotelous Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating White Tower of Thessaloniki is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This fortified tower and tourist destination welcomes approximately 290,192 visitors every year and boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,663 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing archaeological museum, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,924 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, an outstanding square, is one place you should visit while in Thessaloniki considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,531 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki and discover what makes this local point of interest and wonder one of the best attractions in Thessaloniki. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 5,550 travelers.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Thessaloniki, Bulgaria.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Thessaloniki. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Greece in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Charoupi while you’re in Thessaloniki. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 2,912 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Thessaloniki is The Rouga. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 2,900 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

While in Thessaloniki, enjoy The Greek’s delectable 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 3,117 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Thessaloniki.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Thessaloniki in Greece and Sofia in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Thessaloniki, including the outstanding Kapani. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,510 reviews, this fascinating market and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Thessaloniki is also home to the captivating Agias Sofias Square, a local square considered one of the highlights of the city. About 10,128 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Arch of Galerius and Rotunda is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Thessaloniki. This extraordinary tetrapylon and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,979 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Atatürk Museum will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing house museum and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,420 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Bulgaria, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sofia. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

To make your fun escapade in Thessaloniki, Bulgaria even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sofia. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.

Make sure to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,252 satisfied guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Sofia, Lime Cafe & Cocktails. This famous place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,223 customers.

Another trendy bar is 5 Corners Pub. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 1,463 customers.

Locals also recommend Luciano. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 1,291 delighted customers.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Bulgaria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Lions' Bridge. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,233 visitors.

Get a last taste of Bulgaria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Sofia and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Bulgaria and Greece.

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in Bulgaria and Greece with fond memories. Safe travels!