10-Day Road Trip in Greece and Bulgaria from Athens to Larissa, Petrich, Thessaloniki, and Volos

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Greece and Bulgaria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring town of Athens in Greece. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Athens for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Greece to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Athens before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the town’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Philopappos Hill is a travelers’ favorite in Athens, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,153 visitors.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Athens. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Athens'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 town’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hytra. Holding an impressive 1 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Hytra consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is Spondi, one of the best 1-star Michelin fine dining venues in Athens. Take your pick from the french menu, which has consistently earned Spondi high ratings and acclaim from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at The Zillers in Athens. With its prestigious 1-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant serves contemporary and greek dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Athens, Couleur Locale. This famous place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,817 customers.

Another trendy bar is 360 Cocktail bar. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 7,580 customers.

Locals also recommend Upupa Epops - The bar. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 5,915 delighted customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Greece and Bulgaria 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.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Greece and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Athens for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

In Athens, the extraordinary Ancient Agora of Athens awaits. This attraction is a valued archaeological site that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,957 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens, which gets around 1,807,580 annual visits, is the spectacular Acropolis of Athens. This attraction is an acropoli that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 120,655 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Parthenon. This local ancient greek temple and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 72,080 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus is another attraction you might want to add to your Athens exploration itinerary. This odeon is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 14,807 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Acropolis Museum. More than a popular archaeological museum and attraction, Acropolis Museum offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Athens. Captivating approximately 814,565 people each year, Acropolis Museum boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 63,138 traveler reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Athens by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the town’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Athens.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Athens's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece 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, Athens has them.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Ama Lachei. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Athens boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 4,018 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Athens is Efcharis restaurant. It has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,655 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Tavern Klimataria (est.1927), in Athens. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,650 satisfied customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at The Clumsies. This famous bar in Athens has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,694 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Kuko's The Bar. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Kuko's The Bar has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,785 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Juan Rodriguez Bar •Compañia de Bebida. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,926 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Larissa. Larissa will be your home for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Athens today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding National Garden of Athens. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,829 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Temple of Olympian Zeus. This incredible attraction and ancient greek temple holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 25,941 visitors.

According to travelers in Athens, the extraordinary National Archaeological Museum of Athens is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and national museum gets around 594,219 visits annually and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Athens, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Larissa may take around 3 hours 51 min.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Larissa in Greece by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Larissa’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Larissa. 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 Greece and Bulgaria.

Make a reservation at Las Ramblas Coffeebar, a popular dining spot in Larissa. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,338 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Βόσπορος | Restaurant • Bar while indulging in the charm of Larissa. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, cherished by 990 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Greek restaurant "O Tasos", a treasured establishment in Larissa. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 713 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Gossip Downtown, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Gossip Downtown has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,557 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Klímax, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,734 customers have rated their experience at Klímax an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

KUBRICK Pure Social “ Club ” belongs to the list of the best bars in Larissa, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,128 bar-goers.

Take in the ambiance of Larissa 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!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Katerini in Greece and Petrich in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Petrich. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop in Bulgaria. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Greece’s Larissa to the enchanting landscapes of Petrich. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 3 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Katerini, Greece.

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.

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 Petrich'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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Restaurant "Provence", an acclaimed dining establishment in Petrich. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,080 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Ресторант "Мираж" гр. Петрич while experiencing the best of Petrich. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 197 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of The Pearl, an elegant culinary destination in Petrich. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 217 previous guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Коктейл бар Рай, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Petrich. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 279 delighted customers.

As the night falls in Petrich, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 5, you will wake up in Kyustendil with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Petrich before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Greece and Bulgaria.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the city!

Kyustendil has something for every interest and travel budget.

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 Greece and Bulgaria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Petrich’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 dining experience at Ресторантче , Жаравата" while you’re in Petrich. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 160 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Petrich is Ресторант „Райски Кът ”. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 171 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

While in Petrich, enjoy PIZZA NIZZA’s delectable dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 102 satisfied guests.

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

Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Kyustendil. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Kyustendil, Greece.

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 Petrich'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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Закусвалня "Симидите", a distinguished dining establishment in Petrich. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 286 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Petrich is Puerto Rico. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 315 happy diners.

Restaurant "Ichkata" stands out as a local favorite in Petrich. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.1 out of 5-star rating from 287 customers.

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!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kyustendil in Bulgaria and 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Petrich and set your GPS to Thessaloniki, Greece. 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 2 hours 13 min.

Elevate your experience in Kyustendil by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful city.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to include a unique blend of top-rated experiences to your travel diary. Browse all of your options below and reserve your slot before it's too late.

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.

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 Greece and Bulgaria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Thessaloniki’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.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Pulp, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Pulp has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,573 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Kitchen Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Kitchen Bar captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 9,067 merry-makers.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Bulgaria. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Thessaloniki 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 Volos. You’ll stay here 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 42,179 reviews, this fascinating square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Thessaloniki is also home to the captivating Agias Sofias Square, a local square considered one of the highlights of the city. About 10,128 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Arch of Galerius and Rotunda is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Thessaloniki. This extraordinary tetrapylon and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,979 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful White Tower of Thessaloniki will inspire you as it does to more than 290,192 travelers every year. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing fortified tower and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 50,663 reviews.

Soak in Thessaloniki's rich culture at the fantastic The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Thessaloniki is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,531 visitor reviews.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Volos. This car ride takes around 2 hours 21 min.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Thessaloniki has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Greece. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Staphylos. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Volos has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 1,498 happy diners.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Volos. At Red Nose Bar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 577 customers.

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

On day 9 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Athens, where you will stay for 1 night.

Athens’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Volos behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 51 min.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Greece, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Athens's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Athens.

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

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Athens's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece 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, Athens has them.

Reserve your spot at Rosalia, a popular local restaurant in Athens. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,226 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Kuzina during your stay in Athens. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, by 2,585 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant, a popular local gem in in Athens. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,159 satisfied guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Athens, Brettos. This famous place has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,481 customers.

Another trendy bar is Ippopotamos. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 2,396 customers.

Locals also recommend Μαύρος Γάτος. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 2,357 delighted customers.

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!

On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Athens 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 Greece and Bulgaria. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Greece by visiting Athens’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the town’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Greece.

In Athens, the extraordinary Roman Agora awaits. This attraction is a valued square that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,799 travelers' reviews.

Get a last taste of Greece’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Athens 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 Greece and Bulgaria.

The time has come to say farewell to Athens for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in Greece and Bulgaria with fond memories. Safe travels!