One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Thessaloniki

On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Sofia in Bulgaria. Sofia remains your base for 1 night more.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Regional History Museum Of Sofia and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a stunning church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Boyana Church, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Pernik. 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 47 min. Upon reaching Pernik, 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 Vitosha Nature Park, a locally appreciated nature reserve in Pernik. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Forum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turquoise Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kathrine Cocktail - Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Urban Rebel. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria and Greece. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Plovdiv in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Plovdiv where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Youth Hill, an up-and-coming park that everyone visiting Plovdiv should see. Next, head to Alyosha Monument. This breathtaking monument is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a breathtaking archeological site popular among locals as well as travelers. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this notable park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Singing Fountain, an awe-inspiring art installation and a top attraction in the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Plovdiv’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 delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Greece! Enjoy your evening in Plovdiv to the fullest!

Wake up to day 4 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 Plovdiv in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start your day at Nebet Tepe. This enchanting archeological site is a frequently visited place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Old Town Of Plovdiv. If enchanting sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This history-steeped museum is a favorite among visitors.

Plovdiv offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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 Asenovgrad. Your travel time is around 26 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Asen's Fortress and explore the visually striking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bachkovo may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a captivating monastery that everyone visiting Bachkovo should see.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sofra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Central Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Qbar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Anyway Social Bar 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!

Wake up and see what day 6 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.

To truly experience Thessaloniki, make sure to drop by The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This popular art installation is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Museum Of Byzantine Culture, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Thessaloniki. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, White Tower Of Thessaloniki. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the locally appreciated Holy Church Of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint Of Thessalonica, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

Dine in style at Mamalouka, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Clochard boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sofi's House Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Thessaloniki.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Apallou provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

On day 7 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 Stob in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stob, Bulgaria. This car ride takes around 2 hours 44 min.

Savor the day by heading to Stob Earth Pyramids, a locally appreciated rock formation that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Rila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Rila is “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, an often recommended waterfall that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

Dupnitsa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rila behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Dupnitsa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dupnitsa is Bistritsa Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!