10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Athens to Larissa, Petrich, Sofia, Thessaloniki, and Trikala

On day 2, you will wake up in Athens with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Athens before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Greece and Bulgaria.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Athens, including the outstanding Acropolis Museum. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 65,819 reviews and welcoming more than 814,565 visitors each year, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Athens is also home to the captivating Odeon Of Herodes Atticus, a local archeological site considered one of the highlights of the city. About 15,092 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.9 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Acropolis Of Athens is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Athens. This extraordinary archeological site and tourist hot spot hosts more than 1,807,580 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Parthenon will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing archeological site and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 74,124 reviews.

Soak in Athens's rich culture at the fantastic Ancient Agora Of Athens. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Athens is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,962 visitor reviews.

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 Athens. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Discover the culinary delights of Athens by securing a reservation at Hytra. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Spondi, renowned for its delicious french dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to The Zillers, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary and greek menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Tiki Bar Athens. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brettos offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Luxus Bar Bistro, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Athens in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Larissa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

In Athens, the extraordinary National Garden Of Athens awaits. This attraction is a valued botanical garden that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,683 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens is the spectacular Temple Of Olympian Zeus. This attraction is an archeological site that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,652 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing National Archaeological Museum Of Athens. This local museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,596 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 594,219 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Athens, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Thermopyles may take around 2 hours 7 min. Upon your arrival in Thermopyles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Thermopyles, including the outstanding Memorial To Leonidas And 300 Spartans. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,824 reviews, this fascinating war memorial and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Greece and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Larissa. 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 Nonna Rossa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vosporos | Restaurant • Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at THE ALLEY. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Larissa tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sherlock Easy Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kiou offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Wisedog. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Neos Panteleimonas in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Petrich where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Neos Panteleimonas’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Larissa behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Neos Panteleimonas welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Neos Panteleimonas — Platamon Castle. About 5,418 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Neos Panteleimonas and set your GPS to Katerini. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Katerini, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Katerini Municipal Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 6,660 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Katerini Municipal Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vergina. This drive usually takes around 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Vergina — Museum Of The Royal Tombs At Aigai (aegae). About 8,871 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Petrich’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Petrich's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Petrich has them.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant "Provence", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restorant „Rayski Kat ” offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restorantche , Zharavata" is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Petrich.

Take in the ambiance of Petrich 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!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip through Greece and Bulgaria. 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 Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Make sure to visit Kapana Creative District, a popular neighborhood in Plovdiv. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Set your GPS to Plovdiv and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Plovdiv beckons with new experiences!

Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a travelers’ favorite in Plovdiv, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 visitors.

In Plovdiv, don’t miss Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a great archeological site and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Plovdiv off your list when you visit the wonderful “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Singing Fountain. This art installation and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 reviews.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Greece and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Sofia. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kathrine Cocktail - Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Urban Rebel is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Bulgaria! Enjoy your evening in Sofia to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Sofia in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki, your home for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent Zaimov Park. Around 15,334 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing South 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 30,985 travelers.

The remarkable Borisova Gradina Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!

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 slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Thessaloniki. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beetle Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Vogatsikou 3 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Thessaloniki. Souel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 8 of your multi-country road trip across Greece and Bulgaria, 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 Trikala, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Thessaloniki, including the outstanding Aristotelous Square. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 42,109 reviews, this fascinating public square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Thessaloniki is also home to the captivating White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a local monument considered one of the highlights of the city. About 52,379 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 290,192 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kastraki. This car ride takes around 2 hours 53 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Kastraki is the magnificent Meteora. Around 37,365 visitors have rated this excellent monastery and travel destination an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Trikala. 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 ALVEO, a highly-rated dining destination in Trikala. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trikala Fortress, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palia Istoria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Trikala this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soyita Art Cafe, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Factory Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Love Shake is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Bulgaria! Enjoy your evening in Trikala to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.