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

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Athens. Enjoy time off the road as you have 3 nights left in the city.

Plaka is a fantastic place you can explore today in Athens. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Athens-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Monastiraki, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the captivating National Archaeological Museum Of Athens and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Monastiraki Square 6, a respected public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Acropolis Of Athens, one of the city’s most iconic spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Parthenon.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Athens boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Dine in style at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, 42 Barstronomy Athens boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out O Babas. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Athens.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Tiki Bar Athens, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brettos, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Luxus Bar Bistro provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Wake up to day 3 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 Delphi in Greece. With 2 nights left in Athens, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to explore Delphi on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

When you’ve had your share of Athens, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Delphi. Your travel time is around 2 hours 15 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Temple Of Apollo In Delphi and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to The Athenian Treasury, another highlight in Delphi. When you’re done exploring the archeological site, continue to Delphi Archaeological Museum, a detailed museum.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Athens. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Greece in a new light.

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

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

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your European tour in Greece and Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Kastraki, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Kastraki in Greece. Athens remains your base for 1 night more.

Kastraki’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Athens behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 39 min. Kastraki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Moni Rousanou, a frequently visited monastery that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Main Observation Deck Of Meteora, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Beer Tales, a highly-rated dining destination in Athens. If you're eager to try something different, consider Oinomageireio Epirus (est.1898), another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at To Kafeneio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Athens this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ipitou The Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lot 51 offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Klōstḗrion provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Greece and Bulgaria, 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sofia, Bulgaria. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Bulgaria. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 16 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Boyana Church, an often recommended 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. Next, head to National Palace Of Culture and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Zaimov Park, a locally renowned park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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, 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.

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.

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

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

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Greece and Bulgaria 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 Plovdiv in Bulgaria. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Set aside time today to explore Kapana Creative District, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 1 hour 39 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Nebet Tepe, a worthwhile archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv and admire its respected features.

When you’re ready, continue to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a frequently visited museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a historic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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.

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

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!

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence 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 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Thessaloniki, Greece. This car ride takes around 3 hours 33 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a famous monument in Thessaloniki. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki. This worthwhile museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Thessaloniki Olympic Museum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most eye-catching museum in the region.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Thessaloniki. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Thessaloniki's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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.

Keep the evening going at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Apallou, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Elassona 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 Athens. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Elassona.

Elassona’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Thessaloniki behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 32 min. Elassona welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kanalon Monastery, a frequently visited monastery that everyone visiting Elassona should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Litochoro, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Elassona to Litochoro may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Litochoro, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering New Holy Monastery Of Saint Dionysios Of Olympus, an up-and-coming monastery known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Litochoro Center, an up-and-coming visitor center.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Athens’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 Greece and Bulgaria.

Make sure to reserve a table at ELLYZ Cafe Athens, an iconic dining spot in Athens. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ama Lachei, a popular restaurant in Athens. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ella Greek Cooking, a hidden gem nestled in Athens. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at G Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Jarmusch (bar) provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Barronegro Athens offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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