10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Athens to Thessaloniki and Sofia

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Athens. Enjoy time off the road as you have 3 nights left in the city.

Athens is brimming with adventures. Plaka is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Athens. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Monastiraki, a neighborhood offering its own unique experiences.

Make time for National Archaeological Museum Of Athens, a notable museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Monastiraki Square 6, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Acropolis Of Athens. This archeological site is one of the city’s most iconic spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Athens at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Parthenon.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, 42 Barstronomy Athens is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at O Babas. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Athens tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tiki Bar Athens, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brettos is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Luxus Bar Bistro also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Bulgaria! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest!

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip through Greece and Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Delphi in Greece. With 2 nights left in Athens, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Delphi, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Athens to Delphi may take around 2 hours 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Delphi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Temple Of Apollo In Delphi and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to The Athenian Treasury, another highlight in Delphi. When you’re done exploring the archeological site, continue to Delphi Archaeological Museum, an instagrammable museum.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Greece and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Athens.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cookoovaya, a top-rated dining spot in Athens. If you're in the mood for something new, try Karamanlidika, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Auli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Athens.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kazu Cafe-bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Upupa Epops - The Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gazarte, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Athens as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Greece and Bulgaria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kastraki in Greece. You will return to Athens for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Set your GPS to Kastraki and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kastraki beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Moni Rousanou, a locally appreciated monastery that everyone visiting Kastraki should see. Next, head to Main Observation Deck Of Meteora. This serene observation deck is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Athens. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Greece in a new light.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Beer Tales, a popular restaurant in Athens. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Athens at Oinomageireio Epirus (est.1898), another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated To Kafeneio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Athens tonight.

Keep the evening going at Ipitou The Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Lot 51, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Klōstḗrion, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence Sofia 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 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Thessaloniki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sofia, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 3 hours 16 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sofia is Boyana Church, a beloved church that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to National Palace Of Culture, a photogenic convention center 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 Zaimov Park, a locally renowned park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Sofia. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Grijn Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cairo Relax Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar National also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Take in the ambiance of Sofia as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 7 of your European tour in Greece and Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Plovdiv in Bulgaria. Sofia remains your base for 1 night more.

Kapana Creative District is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Plovdiv, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Plovdiv is Nebet Tepe, an up-and-coming archeological site that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a romantic historical landmark 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 Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an underrated museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv, a nearby historical landmark, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a picture-perfect archeological site and the perfect final attraction in Plovdiv.

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 Greece and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Thessaloniki, Greece. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Greece. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 33 min.

White Tower Of Thessaloniki is a spectacular monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki, a standout museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Thessaloniki Olympic Museum, a standout museum.

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

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamalouka, a top-rated dining spot in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Clochard, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sofi's House Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Thessaloniki.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Apallou offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your multi-country journey across Greece and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Elassona in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Athens where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Thessaloniki and set your GPS to Elassona. 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 32 min. Upon reaching Elassona, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kanalon Monastery, a locally appreciated monastery known for its breathtaking features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Litochoro, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Elassona to Litochoro may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Litochoro, 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 New Holy Monastery Of Saint Dionysios Of Olympus, an up-and-coming monastery that everyone visiting Litochoro should see. Next, head to Litochoro Center.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Athens. 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 Athens boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ELLYZ Cafe Athens, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ama Lachei offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ella Greek Cooking. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Athens.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at G Cafe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Jarmusch (bar) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Barronegro Athens provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Bulgaria! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest!