One-Week Road Trip in Greece, and Bulgaria from Athens to Volos, Petrich, Thessaloniki, and Trikala

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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day multi-country road trip across Greece, and Bulgaria! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Athens, Volos, Portaria, Petrich, Rozhen, and Melnik sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.

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 5 nights in Greece, and 2 nights in Bulgaria.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Greece, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Athens and begin your adventure from there. Explore Athens, Volos, Portaria, Makrinitsa, Neos Panteleimonas, Katerini, Thessaloniki, Kastraki, Trikala, Palaio Faliro, and Kallithea, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Bulgaria. Immerse yourself in the allure of Petrich, Rozhen, and Melnik, where every street tells a story.

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 Greece, and Bulgaria 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 8-day self-drive adventure in Greece, and Bulgaria. 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 Greece, and Bulgaria.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Athens - arrival day

  • Athens - Arrival day
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  • Philopappos Hill
  • More

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Greece, and Bulgaria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Athens in Greece. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Athens for 1 night.

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 city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A tour of Athens is not complete without a visit to the famous Philopappos Hill. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,588 travelers.

Find your way to your hotel in Athens. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Greece. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As the sun sets on day 1 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 city’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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Rosalia, 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 Harvest Coffee & Wine, 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 Cookoovaya, a hidden gem nestled in Athens. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Μαύρος Γάτος. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kuko's The Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tiki Bar Athens provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Athens, and Volos

  • Volos
  • Athens
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Drive 333 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Parthenon
  • Acropolis of Athens
  • Acropolis Museum
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Athens 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.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated ancient greek temple and attraction in Athens — Parthenon. About 74,124 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Acropolis Of Athens is another top sight in Athens that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved acropolis in the area, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 123,792 visitors.

Acropolis Museum is a spectacular archaeological museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Athens, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Temple Of Olympian Zeus. Because of its allure and charm, around 26,652 visitors have rated this attraction and ancient greek temple an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Volos. 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 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Volos's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Volos has them.

Don’t miss out on dining at Steak House, a top-rated dining destination in Volos. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Staphylos, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flokos. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Volos this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pleasures Seaside Cafe + More offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gala is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Grappa Vino & Aperitivo is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Volos 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!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Volos, Portaria, Makrinitsa, Neos Panteleimonas, Katerini, and Petrich

  • Petrich
  • Portaria
  • Makrinitsa
  • Neos Panteleimonas
  • Katerini
  • More

Drive 372 km, 5 hours 5 min

  • Centaurs' path
  • Makrinitsa Central Square
  • Byzantine Castle of Platamon
  • Katerini Municipal Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 - Portaria in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Petrich where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Makrinitsa, 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 Portaria to Makrinitsa may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Makrinitsa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

In Portaria, the extraordinary Centaurs' Path awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,780 travelers' reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Portaria, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Makrinitsa may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Makrinitsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Makrinitsa is the magnificent Makrinitsa. Around 4,335 visitors have rated this excellent village and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Neos Panteleimonas, 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 Makrinitsa to Neos Panteleimonas may take around 1 hour 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neos Panteleimonas, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Neos Panteleimonas is the fantastic Platamon Castle. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Platamon Castle has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,418 reviews.

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 town’s most recommended bars.

Dine in style at Restaurant "Provence", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ресторант „Райски Кът ” boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ресторантче , Жаравата". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Petrich.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Petrich, Kyustendil, and Popina l'ka

  • Petrich
  • Sandanski
  • More

Drive 285 km, 5 hours 30 min

  • Park "St Vrach
  • Sandanski Archaeological Museum
  • More

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, and Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Petrich for your remaining 1 night in the town 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 Kyustendil in Bulgaria.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kyustendil today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Pirin National Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,557 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Popina l'ka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Popina l'ka, the extraordinary Popina Laka Waterfall awaits. This attraction is a valued sightseeing destination that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,107 travelers' reviews.

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

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Kyustendil — Park "st. Vrach". About 6,762 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Sandanski Archaeological Museum is another top sight in Kyustendil that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved museum in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 574 visitors.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Petrich’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Greece, and Bulgaria.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ресторант "Мираж" гр. Петрич, a top-rated dining destination in Petrich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Коктейл бар Рай, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant "Ichkata". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Petrich this evening.

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 town center, or simply relaxing.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Petrich, Rozhen, Melnik, and Thessaloniki

  • Thessaloniki
  • Rozhen
  • Melnik
  • More

Drive 182 km, 3 hours 6 min

  • Rozhen Monastery
  • Kordopulov House
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rozhen in Bulgaria. 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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rozhen. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monastery and attraction in Rozhen — Rozhen Monastery. About 6,506 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Melnik. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Something that makes Melnik the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding sightseeing destination, Melnik. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,060 visitors.

The famous Музей На Виното is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Melnik's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 697 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Melnik is also home to the extraordinary Kordopulov House, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 3,374 traveler reviews.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Greek, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Phanós. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

Keep the evening going at Beetle Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Vogatsikou 3, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Souel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Thessaloniki, Kastraki, and Trikala

  • Trikala
  • Thessaloniki
  • Kastraki
  • More

Drive 259 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Aristotelous Square
  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
  • Meteora
  • More

On day 6 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 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 fortified tower 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.

The extraordinary The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Thessaloniki. This extraordinary sightseeing destination and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,884 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kastraki. This car ride takes around 2 hours 56 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kastraki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Meteora. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 37,365 visitors.

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

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Σουίτα Art Cafe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Factory Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Love Shake also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Trikala, Palaio Faliro, Kallithea, and Athens

  • Athens
  • Palaio Faliro
  • Kallithea
  • More

Drive 347 km, 4 hours 46 min

  • Palaio Faliro Park
  • Water Square
  • Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
  • Stavros Niarchos Park
  • More

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 Palaio Faliro in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Athens, your home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Palaio Faliro and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Palaio Faliro beckons with new experiences!

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Palaio Faliro, including the outstanding Palaio Faliro. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,212 reviews, this fascinating city and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

After soaking in Kallithea’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Athens. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Athens, it's time to take a break from the road.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kallithea is the fantastic Water Square. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Water Square has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,266 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,996 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Stavros Niarchos Park, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,443 reviewers.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Athens by booking a table at Hytra, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Spondi, renowned for its delectable french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit The Zillers, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary, and greek cuisine in Athens. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Brettos, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Upupa Epops - The Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Lot 51 offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the night falls in Athens, 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.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Athens - departure day

  • Athens - Departure day
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  • Athens National Garden
  • More

On day 8 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. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Greece.

A tour of Athens is not complete without a visit to the famous National Garden Of Athens. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,683 travelers.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kuzina, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tavern Klimataria (est.1927)? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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 8-day European road trip in Greece, and Bulgaria with fond memories. Safe travels!

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