5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece With Itinerary from Sofia to Thessaloniki and Blagoevgrad
Description
Included
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Sofia, Blagoevgrad, Plovdiv, and Thessaloniki sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Bulgaria and 1 night in Greece.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Bulgaria, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Sofia and begin your adventure from there. Explore Sofia, Blagoevgrad, and Plovdiv, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Greece. Immerse yourself in the allure of Thessaloniki, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Thessaloniki’s White Tower Of Thessaloniki. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 5-day self-drive adventure in Bulgaria and Greece. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Bulgaria and Greece.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Sofia - arrival day
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
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 1 night.
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.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Zaimov Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 15,334 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Zaimov Park is worth pages in your travel diary.
Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Sofia’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Saffron Indian Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Island Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Grijn Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cairo Relax Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar National also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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.
Day 2 – Sofia and Thessaloniki
- Sofia
- Thessaloniki
- More
Drive 306 km, 4 hours 39 min
- National Palace of Culture
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today's main destinations are Sofia in Bulgaria, 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 1 night.
In Sofia, the extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular National Palace Of Culture. This attraction is a convention center that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Borisova Gradina Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
National Theater "ivan Vazov" is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This performing arts theater is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.
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.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Thessaloniki boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Greece.
Make sure to reserve a table at Kitchen Bar, an iconic dining spot in Thessaloniki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Greek, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Phanós, a hidden gem nestled in Thessaloniki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Beetle Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Vogatsikou 3 offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Souel, 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 Thessaloniki to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 3 – Thessaloniki and Blagoevgrad
- Thessaloniki
- Blagoevgrad
- More
Drive 203 km, 3 hours 20 min
- Aristotelous Square
- Agias Sofias Square
- Arch of Galerius
- White Tower of Thessaloniki
- The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
- More
On day 3 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 Thessaloniki in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blagoevgrad, where you will stay for 1 night.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Thessaloniki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Aristotelous Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,109 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Agias Sofias Square. This incredible attraction and public square holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 10,374 visitors.
According to travelers in Thessaloniki, the extraordinary Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,542 visitors.
As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible monument, White Tower Of Thessaloniki. Up to 290,192 people visit this attraction every year, and around 52,379 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular art installation, The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This attraction is rated an average 4.7 out of 5 stars among 13,884 visitors.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Blagoevgrad. 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 slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Blagoevgrad. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tchsasovnika, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar All Stars offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Verde. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Blagoevgrad.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Befree, known for its inviting atmosphere. Swing is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Najs Plejs provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Take in the ambiance of Blagoevgrad as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!
Day 4 – Blagoevgrad, Plovdiv, and Sofia
- Blagoevgrad
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
- More
Drive 386 km, 4 hours 43 min
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria and Greece. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Plovdiv in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sofia where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Something that makes Plovdiv the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding archeological site, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 visitors.
The famous Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Plovdiv's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 7,842 travelers have rated this incredible archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Plovdiv is also home to the extraordinary “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 15,537 traveler reviews.
Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Singing Fountain. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,640 reviews, a visit to this wonderful art installation and tourist destination is truly a great idea.
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.
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 Sofia’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 5 – Sofia - departure day
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
On day 5 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.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
In Sofia, the extraordinary South Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 travelers' reviews.
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.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
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 5-day European road trip in Bulgaria and Greece with fond memories. Safe travels!
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.