6-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece With Itinerary from Sofia to Thessaloniki

Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sofia in Bulgaria. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Sofia is brimming with adventures.

Borisova Gradina Park makes a great addition to your morning plans. This notable park is an eye-catching place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a culturally significant church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Boyana Church. This beloved church offers a culturally significant encounter with Sofia. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, 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 1 hour 34 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rila Monastery and explore the historic features.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Turquoise Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today's main destinations are 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 2 nights.

Thessaloniki’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 28 min. Thessaloniki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Kapani, a notable market that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Agias Sofias Square, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Holy Church Of Hagia Sophia, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Aristotelous Square. This visually striking public square is well worth the visit.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Thessaloniki. 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.

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beetle Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Vogatsikou 3 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Souel offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Thessaloniki. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos leaves a lasting impression. This art installation is one of the most notable places to visit in Thessaloniki. Next, head to Museum Of Byzantine Culture, a frequently visited museum, known for its heritage-rich features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki. This respected museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find White Tower Of Thessaloniki and Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Holy Church Of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint Of Thessalonica, a culturally significant church in Thessaloniki.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Thessaloniki's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mamalouka, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Clochard offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sofi's House Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Thessaloniki.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Castra- All Day Terrace Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Apallou is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence Krinides in Greece and Melnik 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.

When you’ve had your share of Thessaloniki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Krinides. Your travel time is around 1 hour 48 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ancient Theatre Of Philippi. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Melnik, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lydia to Melnik may take around 2 hours 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Melnik, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Holy Baptistery Of Saint Lydia Of Philippi, a frequently visited church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Melnik, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Melnik beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kordopulov House, an often recommended museum in Melnik. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar & Dinner Relax is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting One More Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Teos Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!