5-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece from Sofia to Thessaloniki and Samokov

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

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia 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 favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sofia is the fantastic Borisova Gradina Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Borisova Gradina Park has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,212 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Sofia'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.

Don't forget to book a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, a well-known eatery in Sofia. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Restaurant Vodenitzata while exploring Sofia. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,223 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant "Staria Chinar", a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,717 discerning diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit The School, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, The School has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,988 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Bar Friday, a crowd-favorite. Around 3,410 customers have rated their experience at Bar Friday an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

The Cocktail Bar belongs to the list of the best bars in Sofia, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,814 bar-goers.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Greece 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.

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Sofia in Bulgaria and 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 Thessaloniki. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This incredible church and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,337 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful National Palace of Culture. This convention center and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,244 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible South Park for an experience worth remembering. This local park and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,616 visitors.

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, Thessaloniki, Greece. This car ride takes around 3 hours 40 min.

When you're ready for a new adventure, get into the car and drive to your next destination. Upon reaching Sofia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Sofia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding church, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,337 visitors.

The famous National Palace of Culture is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Sofia's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 14,244 travelers have rated this incredible convention center and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Sofia is also home to the extraordinary South Park, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 30,616 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Ivan Vazov National Theater. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 9,666 reviews, a visit to this wonderful sightseeing destination and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Bulgaria by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of Sofia, immersing yourself in local customs and meeting new friends.

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.

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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Kanoula, an acclaimed dining establishment in Thessaloniki. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,335 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of rOOTS while experiencing the best of Thessaloniki. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,104 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Opsopoion Maganeiai, an elegant culinary destination in Thessaloniki. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,640 previous guests.

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 Makedonia Palace Hotel, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Makedonia Palace Hotel captures hearts with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 10,530 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Kitchen Bar, another local party gem in Thessaloniki. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,067 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, 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 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece, 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 and Samokov in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Samokov, where you will stay for 1 night.

In Thessaloniki, the extraordinary Aristotelous Square awaits. This attraction is a valued square that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,179 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Thessaloniki is the spectacular Arch of Galerius and Rotunda. This attraction is a tetrapylon that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,979 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing White Tower of Thessaloniki. This local fortified tower and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,663 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 290,192 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos is another attraction you might want to add to your Thessaloniki exploration itinerary. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,531 reviews.

Samokov’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Thessaloniki behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 26 min.

When you're ready to continue your journey, get into the car. As you arrive in Thessaloniki, slow down and say goodbye to the road for a while. Thessaloniki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences. Stretch your arms and legs and head out into the city.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Aristotelous Square. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 42,179 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Aristotelous Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Arch of Galerius and Rotunda is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This tetrapylon and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,979 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing fortified tower, White Tower of Thessaloniki, which hosts approximately 290,192 visitors per year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,663 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos, an outstanding square, is one place you should visit while in Thessaloniki considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,531 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Bulgaria. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Thessaloniki itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Bulgaria extra special!

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Samokov. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria 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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit The Old House Restaurant. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Samokov has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 2,207 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Kaymakanova house should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Samokov, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 829 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Pri Sote Traditional Restaurant. This highly regarded restaurant in Samokov has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 2,699 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Delight bar & dinner, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 382 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Khaĭduti. It is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 345 customers.

Defected Bar & Café is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 146 customers.

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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Plovdiv in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Samokov to the enchanting landscapes of Sofia. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 3 hours 31 min without traffic disruptions.

Hit the road and make your way to the next destination. Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. We highly recommend checking out its most popular attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Plovdiv is the magnificent Old Town of Plovdiv. Around 4,234 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known point of interest that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 17,478 travelers.

The remarkable “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Plovdiv, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,208 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Plovdiv by exploring the captivating Singing Fountains. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,192 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Plovdiv exploration list!

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Plovdiv 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 Bulgaria. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Greece, 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.

Reserve your spot at Pod Lipite (Under the Linden Trees) Restaurant, a popular local restaurant in Sofia. 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 2,625 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Art Club Museum during your stay in Sofia. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, by 2,570 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Merak, a popular local gem in Sofia. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,328 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Sofia. At One More Bar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Halbite Beer Hall, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,280 reviews.

The Corner is also one of the best places in Sofia where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,874 customers.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia 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 Bulgaria and Greece. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Bulgaria.

Park "Zaimov" is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,115 visitors.

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

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 5-day European road trip in Bulgaria and Greece with fond memories. Safe travels!