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

1 / 30
Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
BulgariaGreece
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore Bulgaria and Greece on an epic 7-day European road trip. Sofia, Stob, Kh'rsovo, Thessaloniki, Kastraki, and Kalambaka await!

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 4 nights in Bulgaria and 2 nights 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, Stob, Kh'rsovo, and Melnik, 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, Kastraki, and Kalambaka, 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 7-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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Sofia

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Borisova Gradina Park
VitoshaBoyana ChurchEagles' BridgeSt Alexander Nevsky CathedralPark "Zaimov"
Rila MonasteryBohemia Falls EcotrailStob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
White Tower of ThessalonikiArchaeological Museum of ThessalonikiThe Umbrellas by ZongolopoulosAristotelous Square
The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the SaviourMonastery of the Holy Trinity at MeteoraGreek Education Museum
Villa MelnikKordopulov HouseМузей на ВинотоRozhen Monastery
National Palace of Culture

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
  • More
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • 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 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.

Sofia is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Borisova Gradina Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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 Sofia'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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

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

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.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 108 km, 2 hours 33 min

  • Vitosha
  • Boyana Church
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • More

On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll start and end your day in Pernik, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the region. Since you will return to Sofia for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Pernik in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a nature reserve, a church, a monument, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Vitosha Nature Park. This is a worthwhile nature reserve you should not miss. Another must-see is Boyana Church, a beloved church in Sofia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Eagles' Bridge. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another of the region’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Zaimov Park, an instagrammable place of interest in the region.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Sofia. 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 dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Urban Rebel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 246 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Rila Monastery
  • Bohemia Falls Ecotrail
  • Stob Earth Pyramids - Trail entry
  • More

Greet day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rila in Bulgaria.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Rila Monastery, a locally renowned monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Stob Earth Pyramids. This rock formation is one of the region’s most increasingly popular spots.

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 delightful dinner at Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar & Dinner Relax as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at One More Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Teos Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Sofia
  • Thessaloniki
  • More

Drive 298 km, 4 hours 29 min

  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
  • The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
  • Aristotelous Square
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Thessaloniki in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Thessaloniki, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Sofia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. White Tower Of Thessaloniki is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect monument before continuing your journey. Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Sofia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This awe-inspiring art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Aristotelous Square.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Greek, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Phanós. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

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.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, 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.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Thessaloniki
  • More

Drive 475 km, 5 hours 52 min

  • The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour
  • Monastery of the Holy Trinity at Meteora
  • Greek Education Museum
  • More

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria and Greece. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Kastraki in Greece. With 1 night left in Thessaloniki, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Thessaloniki, including a monastery and a museum. Start your day at Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. This historic monastery is an often recommended place to see in Thessaloniki. Then, wander over to Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora. If historic sites excite you, this monastery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Greek Education Museum. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Thessaloniki’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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamalouka, a top-rated dining spot in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Clochard, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sofi's House Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Thessaloniki.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Apallou provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Thessaloniki 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!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Thessaloniki
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 331 km, 4 hours 47 min

  • Villa Melnik
  • Kordopulov House
  • Музей на Виното
  • Rozhen Monastery
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today's main destinations are Kh'rsovo 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Thessaloniki’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Villa Melnik. This visually striking winery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Kordopulov House, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Muzej Na Vinoto, an intriguing museum. For a change of scene, check out Rozhen Monastery, known for its standout features.

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.

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 Sofia'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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Esterhasi Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Da Massimo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Corner, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gaba, a bar catering to every mood and preference. K. E. B. A. Likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Sofia - Departure day
  • More
  • National Palace of Culture
  • More

On day 7 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at National Palace Of Culture. This captivating convention center is a popular place to see in the city.

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 7-day European road trip in Bulgaria and Greece with fond memories. Safe travels!

Read more

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Bulgaria

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.