7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece With Itinerary from Sofia to Thessaloniki and Komotini
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Description
Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 7 days. The journey covers Bulgaria and Greece, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.
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 3 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 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, Edessa, and Komotini, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Sofia - Arrival day
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- North Park
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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 2 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.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sofia is the fantastic North Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, North Park has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,004 reviews.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Saffron Indian Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Island Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Grijn Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cairo Relax Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar National also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Park "Geo Milev
- Sofia Zoo
- South Park
- National Palace of Culture
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
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On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll start and end your day in Reduta, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the hamlet. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Reduta in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Sofia Zoo is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.
In Sofia, don’t miss South Park, a great park and place to see in the hamlet. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 reviews.
Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful National Palace Of Culture. This popular sight is an outstanding convention center, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 travelers.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding National Theater "ivan Vazov". This performing arts theater and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Reduta. This car ride takes around 12 min.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Reduta, including the outstanding Geo Milev Park. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the hamlet.
As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.
Take in the ambiance of Sofia 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 3
- Sofia
- Thessaloniki
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Drive 310 km, 4 hours 51 min
- Eagles' Bridge
- Borisova Gradina Park
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Druzhba Park
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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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Thessaloniki, where you will stay for 2 nights.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent Eagles' Bridge. Around 10,319 visitors have rated this excellent monument and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
We also recommend you explore the amazing Borisova Gradina Park on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 27,635 travelers.
The remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 traveler reviews is proof.
Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating Druzhba Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,598 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Thessaloniki’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
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 Thessaloniki. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Greek is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Phanós. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Thessaloniki tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Beetle Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Vogatsikou 3. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Souel, another top-rated place 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.
Day 4
- Thessaloniki
- Edessa
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Drive 179 km, 3 hours 13 min
- Edessa Waterfalls
- Church of St Demetrios
- Kapani
- Agias Sofias Square
- Arch of Galerius
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Greet day 4 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 Thessaloniki 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 Edessa in Greece.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Thessaloniki, including the outstanding Holy Church Of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint Of Thessalonica. Having an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 6,316 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
Thessaloniki is also home to the captivating Kapani, a local market considered one of the highlights of the city. About 11,747 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.4 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.
The extraordinary Agias Sofias Square is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Thessaloniki. This extraordinary public square and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,374 travelers.
A trip to the wonderful Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing monument and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,542 reviews.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edessa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Edessa is the magnificent Waterfalls Park, Edessa. Around 19,690 visitors have rated this excellent waterfall and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Edessa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Thessaloniki to Edessa may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edessa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Thessaloniki. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Mamalouka, 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 Clochard, 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 Sofi's House Restaurant, 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 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.
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!
Day 5
- Thessaloniki
- Komotini
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Aristotelous Square
- White Tower of Thessaloniki
- The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
- Atatürk Museum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Thessaloniki in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Komotini, your home 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 White Tower Of Thessaloniki. This incredible attraction and monument holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 52,379 visitors. Up to 290,192 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.
According to travelers in Thessaloniki, the extraordinary The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and art installation is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,884 visitors.
As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible museum, Atatürk Museum. Up to 8,010 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Komotini. 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 Komotini’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.
Dine in style at Τα Αδέρφια, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Greece! Enjoy your evening in Komotini to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 6
- Komotini
- Plovdiv
- Sofia
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Drive 314 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Singing Fountains
- Tsar Simeon Garden
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 towards Bulgaria, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Plovdiv is the fantastic Singing Fountain. As an appreciated art installation and local gem in the area, Singing Fountain has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.
Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!
Join countless others in discovering the allure of Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a standout archeological site and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 reviewers.
Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This archeological site is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 visitor reviews.
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 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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like One More Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Teos Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take in the ambiance of Sofia 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 7
- Sofia - Departure day
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- Park "Zaimov"
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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.
As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Zaimov Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 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.
Dine in style at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esterhasi Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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!
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