12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Bansko, Thessaloniki, Kalambaka, Pastra, and Veliko Tarnovo

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Experience National Palace Of Culture, an interesting convention center in the city. Then, head to Borisova Gradina Park and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant park.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This is one of the city’s most captivating culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the beloved National Theater "ivan Vazov".

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria in a new light.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Plovdiv in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Plovdiv’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min. Plovdiv welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a locally renowned archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

Next, explore “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, yet another interesting place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Singing Fountain. This enchanting art installation is well worth the visit.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Plovdiv. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining spot in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood for something new, try Rahat Tepe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at KFC. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plovdiv.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Rock Bar Download is an excellent place to start. You could also check out North Star, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 4 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll start and end your day in Trigrad, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Trigrad in Bulgaria. Plovdiv remains your base for 1 night more.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Trigrad. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 24 min. Upon reaching Trigrad, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Trigrad Gorge, a beloved canyon in Trigrad. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Devil's Throat Cave. This worthwhile cave is a top recommendation in the area.

Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery in Bachkovo. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Bachkovo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Asen's Fortress is a worthwhile castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during 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 Plovdiv.

Dine in style at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sofra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Park. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, known for its lively atmosphere. Qbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Razlog in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bansko, your home for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Razlog. Your travel time is around 2 hours 39 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Park "razlog", an underrated park in Razlog. Explore its peaceful features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bansko. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at City Park and explore the majestic features. Next, make your way to Holy Trinity Church, another highlight in Bansko.

When you’ve had your share of Razlog, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bansko. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bansko is Banderishka Meadow, an intriguing hiking area that draws attention for its romantic features.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bansko. 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 sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Bansko's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kasapinova Mehana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Euphoria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bansko.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Nova Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Penguins Bar & Dinner, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Amigo Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Take in the ambiance of Bansko as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Wake up and see what day 7 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.

No visit to Thessaloniki is complete without Atatürk Museum. This frequently visited museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Thessaloniki, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Agias Sofias Square. This captivating public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find White Tower Of Thessaloniki, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece by rewarding yourself with a taste of Thessaloniki’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mamalouka, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Clochard offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sofi's House Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Thessaloniki.

Continue your lively evening at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Apallou ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria and Greece. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Kastraki in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Kalambaka where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

As you explore Kastraki’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Set your GPS to Kastraki and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kastraki beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour, an often recommended monastery that everyone visiting Kastraki should see. Next, head to Monastery Of Varlaam. This breathtaking monastery is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Meteora, an UNESCO world heritage-listed monastery popular among locals as well as travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kastraki and set your GPS to Kalambaka. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 10 min. Upon reaching Kalambaka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Holy Monastery Of Saint Stephan, a worthwhile monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Kalambaka of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during 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 Kalambaka.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stob, Bulgaria. This car ride takes around 5 hours 1 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Stob is Stob Earth Pyramids, an underrated rock formation that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features.

When you’ve had your share of Stob, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rila. Your travel time is around 33 min.

Rila Monastery is a captivating monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its grand features before continuing your self-guided tour to Malyovitsa, a mesmerizing mountain range that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece by rewarding yourself with a taste of Pastra’s local cuisine.

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

On day 10 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Pastra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Tarnovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 56 min. When you arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tsarevets Fortress. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Park "sveta Gora". This intriguing park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Marno Pole Park, a frequently visited park. Conclude your sightseeing at Monument Of Mother Bulgaria, known for its historic features.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Veliko Tarnovo. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tavern "Petleto" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Bell. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Arbanassi in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Arbanassi.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arbanassi. This drive usually takes around 9 min.

St. Nikolay The Miracleworker is an intriguing church we recommend visiting today. Discover its monumental features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Gorna Oryahovitsa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arbanassi behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Gorna Oryahovitsa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Park "children's Playground", a beloved playground that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lyaskovets. This car ride takes around 13 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Lyaskovets Monastery "sv. Sv. Peter And Paul", an intriguing monastery in Lyaskovets. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Sofia. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria in a new light.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, 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 ZOO Sofia, 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 Bar & Dinner Relax. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into One More Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bsd 2 Ndk, another top-rated bar in the area.

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!