One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Greece With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Thessaloniki

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria and Greece. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sofia in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Check out the beloved museum, Regional History Museum Of Sofia. Afterward, continue to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a church every traveler should visit. As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Boyana Church. This worthwhile church is an essential stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pernik. This drive usually takes around 47 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vitosha Nature Park. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Urban Rebel is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Greece, you’ll soak in the magnificence Plovdiv in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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

Plovdiv’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min. Plovdiv welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Plovdiv is Youth Hill, an often recommended park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Alyosha Monument, a picture-perfect monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a frequently visited archeological site that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Singing Fountain, an instagrammable art installation and the perfect final attraction in Plovdiv.

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

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Plovdiv's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rock Bar Download. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Star offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Morado Bar & Dinner, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures.

Whatever your travel style is, Nebet Tepe is an essential stop in Plovdiv. This curiosity-inducing archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Old Town Of Plovdiv, a romantic historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an up-and-coming museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Asenovgrad. 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 26 min. Upon reaching Asenovgrad, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Asen's Fortress, an up-and-coming castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Bachkovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Asenovgrad behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Bachkovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a notable monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sofra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Central Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Qbar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 6, 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.

Awaiting your discovery is the interesting The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos, an awe-inspiring art installation in Thessaloniki. Next, go to Museum Of Byzantine Culture.

After visiting The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos and Museum Of Byzantine Culture, have a stroll along Thessaloniki's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki. This standout museum offers a unique experience. White Tower Of Thessaloniki is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Thessaloniki. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Holy Church Of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint Of Thessalonica.

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

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

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

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Greece. Today's main destinations are Stob 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Stob, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Thessaloniki to Stob may take around 2 hours 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stob, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Stob Earth Pyramids, a curiosity-inducing rock formation that everyone visiting Stob should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stob and set your GPS to Rila. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Rila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rila, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dupnitsa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dupnitsa is Bistritsa Waterfall, an increasingly popular waterfall that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

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

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

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at One More Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Teos Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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!