9-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece from Sofia to Thessaloniki, Blagoevgrad, and Plovdiv

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 3 nights.

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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, a distinguished dining establishment in Sofia. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 4,010 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Sofia is Restaurant "Staria Chinar". This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,717 happy diners.

Art Club Museum stands out as a local favorite in Sofia. 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 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 customers.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Bar Friday. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,410 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at The Cocktail Bar. This popular bar in Sofia is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,814 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love One More Bar. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. One More Bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,228 reviews.

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.

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

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

Don't miss out on experiencing The Wrong Bar, a renowned dining spot in Sofia. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Taj Mahal Restaurant while immersing yourself in Sofia. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,423 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Luciano, a beloved dining establishment within Sofia. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 satisfied customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Halbite Beer Hall. This famous bar in Sofia has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,280 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Lime Cafe & Cocktails. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Lime Cafe & Cocktails has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,223 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend 5 Corners Pub. 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,463 customers.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

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

Make sure to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,252 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Island Restaurant during your stay in Sofia. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,035 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Марайа Класик / Maraia Classic, a renowned dining destination in Sofia. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,002 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 K. E. B. A. , you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,055 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at By the Way, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 909 reviews.

Грийн бар 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,037 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Greece! 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 just relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Sofia in Bulgaria and Thessaloniki in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki will be your home for 2 nights.

St. Nedelya Church 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 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,593 visitors.

In Sofia, don’t miss North Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,850 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful Holy Trinity Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,768 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kyustendil. Your travel time is around 2 hours 6 min.

Park "St. Vrach" is a travelers’ favorite in Kyustendil, 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 6,684 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kyustendil 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 1 hour 46 min. Upon reaching Thessaloniki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

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 Thessaloniki'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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Kanoula while you’re in Thessaloniki. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 2,335 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Thessaloniki is rOOTS. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 2,104 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Thessaloniki, enjoy Kitchen Bar’s delectable dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 9,067 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Pulp, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Pulp boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,573 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Wall by Wall, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Wall by Wall has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,128 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Loupino Restaurant. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5-star from 4,128 customers.

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

On day 5, you will wake up in Thessaloniki with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Thessaloniki before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria and Greece.

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 Thessaloniki'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.

Reserve a table at Giok Balik, a renowned restaurant in Thessaloniki. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,336 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Sebriko while in Thessaloniki. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 2,978 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Thessaloniki at Charoupi, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,912 customers.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Tribeca, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,262 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Castra- All Day Terrace Bar. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,882 customers.

The Blue Cup | Creative bar is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,254 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Thessaloniki 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!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Thessaloniki in Greece and Blagoevgrad in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Blagoevgrad, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Thessaloniki is the magnificent Aristotelous Square. Around 42,159 visitors have rated this excellent square and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing White Tower of Thessaloniki on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known fortified tower that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 51,335 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 290,192 people visit it every year.

The remarkable Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is known to be one of the best places to visit in Thessaloniki, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,009 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Thessaloniki by exploring the captivating The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,676 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Thessaloniki exploration list!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Bulgaria, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Blagoevgrad. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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 Blagoevgrad. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trezor, an iconic dining spot in Blagoevgrad. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 563 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Царски клуб Вароша while in Blagoevgrad. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, treasured by 764 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Verde, a favorite in Blagoevgrad. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.1 out of 5-star rating from 717 discerning guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at BeFree. This famous bar in Blagoevgrad has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 851 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Найс плейс. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Найс плейс has received an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 657 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Swing. 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 144 customers.

As the night falls in Blagoevgrad, 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 7 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 Rila Monastery in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Blagoevgrad, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rila Monastery. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Samokov today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding City Park by the river Iskar. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,225 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Samokov, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 47 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Айлякрия / Aylyakria Restaurant. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Plovdiv has received a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from around 1,229 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Happy Bar & Grill Novotel should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Plovdiv, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,350 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Torro Grande / Торро Гранде. This highly regarded restaurant in Plovdiv has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 4,651 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Rahat Tepe. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,984 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Club Fargo. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,132 customers.

Котка и Мишка, Cat and Mouse Beer Bar cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 1,070 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Plovdiv in Bulgaria, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Plovdiv, including the outstanding Singing Fountains. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,362 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Plovdiv is also home to the captivating “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 15,346 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Plovdiv. This extraordinary sightseeing destination and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sofia, 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 Plovdiv to Sofia may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sofia. 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 dips under the horizon, 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. 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.

Book a table at Esterhasi Restaurant, a famous dining establishment in Sofia. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 731 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Sofia is Restaurant "Panchetata", which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.5 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 626 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Sofia’s Divaka for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 4,532 satisfied diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit BSD 2 NDK, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, BSD 2 NDK has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 838 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a crowd-favorite. Around 769 customers have rated their experience at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Bilkova 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 757 bar-goers.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 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 you approach the end of your journey in Bulgaria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Sofia’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Bulgaria, a variety of items are waiting for you.

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