The border crossing between Bulgaria and Greece plays a significant role in road traffic in Southeastern Europe. Both countries share a border that is of great geographic, historical, and economic importance. For travelers moving between the two countries, it is important to be informed about the border formalities, entry requirements, and traffic rules, to ensure a smooth journey.
The border between these two countries extends for approximately 494 kilometers. This relatively long border runs through a diverse landscape characterized by mountains, valleys, and rivers. One of the geographical features is the Rhodope Mountains, which stretches along part of the border and forms a natural barrier between the two countries. This region is sparsely populated, so some border crossings are located in remote and scenic areas. Similar to Germany, where the Alps provide a natural barrier, the Rhodope Mountains offer an impressive backdrop and a natural boundary.
Despite Bulgaria's membership in the European Union and the Schengen Area since March 31, 2024, controls are still carried out at the land borders between Bulgaria and Greece. These controls are particularly relevant for the verification of travel documents (such as passports, children’s passports, and ID cards) and vehicle papers. There are joint control points where the authorities of both countries cooperate to make border crossings more efficient. However, especially during holidays and weekends, long waiting times of several hours may occur, as traffic is particularly heavy at these times.
Travelers from the European Union, including Bulgaria, need a valid ID card or passport for entry. Both countries are part of the Schengen Area and are EU member states. Therefore, it is especially easy to cross the border as an EU member. The entry requirements for citizens from non-EU countries may differ, as they can only enter if they have a visa. It is advisable to check the current regulations before traveling.
The official currency in Greece is the Euro (€). For travelers from Bulgaria, where the Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is used, it is important to exchange currency before the trip. There are often exchange offices and banks near the border offering currency exchange from Lev to Euro. However, please make sure to check in advance which exchange locations are trustworthy. Therefore, you should check the current exchange rate beforehand and have it confirmed to avoid being overcharged.
Furthermore, many hotels, restaurants, and shops in Greece accept common credit and debit cards, so cash payment is not always necessary.
A toll fee is charged for the use of Greek highways. This can be paid in cash or by card at most toll stations. For the use of Bulgarian highways, a vignette is required. The Bulgarian vignette can be purchased online.
The following section provides an overview of whether a vignette is required and whether there are toll sections.
A vignette is required for Bulgarian national roads. This vignette requirement applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 tons GVW as well as motorhomes (regardless of their weight). In addition, vehicles with trailers (e.g., car + trailer) that exceed the permitted total weight of 3.5 tons GVW need an additional vignette for their trailers.
Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement. Vehicles with a weight over 3.5 tons GVW must pay a route-based toll and do not need to purchase a vignette (except for cars with trailers that exceed a weight of 3.5 tons GVW).
(Utility) vehicles with a total weight over 3.5 tons GVW must pay a route-based toll, meaning the length of the route used by the vehicles is calculated. The amount of the toll also depends on the Euro emission class (pollution level), the number of axles, and the type of road. The toll is paid through a previously purchased route pass (route card), where the travel route must be indicated. Alternatively, a contract can be made with a national toll collection service provider, where the toll is recorded using an electronic device (On-Board Unit) or a GPS tracker.
The Danube crossings are considered special toll routes. Therefore, additional fees must be paid for the use of Danube crossings, regardless of whether a vignette or a route-based toll has already been paid. Possible Danube crossings are located between Romania and Bulgaria.
The following section provides an overview of whether a vignette is required and whether there are toll sections.
In Greece, there is no vignette requirement, but most highways are subject to tolls.
There is no route-based toll (the toll amount depends on the distance traveled) in Greece. However, most highways are subject to tolls, and a flat fee (regardless of the distance traveled) is charged for using these routes. Toll stations (payment stations) are mainly located within the toll sections, and sometimes at the start of the sections. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or via an electronic transponder.
The electronic transponder allows for cashless payment and the use of an additional lane for payment. Additionally, toll fees are usually lower when using the transponder. You can acquire the transponder free of charge at the service stations of the highway companies and then load it with credit. All transponders in Greece operate under the GRITS system (Greek Interoperable Tolling System) and can be used on all Greek highways.
The toll fees depend on the vehicle class:
In addition to the use of sections of various highways (A1, A2, A3, A5, A6, A7, A8a), fees also apply for the use of certain bridges and tunnels:
This overview of the border crossing between Bulgaria and Greece provides all the essential information you need for a smooth and well-prepared trip. Whether it's border controls, entry requirements, or toll fees – being well-informed will significantly ease your journey.
