Border Crossing Bulgaria Greece
The border crossing between Bulgaria and Greece plays an important role for road traffic in Southeast Europe. Both countries share a border that is not only geographically, but also historically and economically highly significant. For travelers moving between the two countries, it is important to be informed about border formalities, entry requirements, and traffic regulations in order to ensure a smooth journey.
The length of the border and special features of the border’s course
The border between these two countries stretches for about 494 kilometers. This relatively long border runs through a diverse landscape shaped by mountains, valleys, and rivers. One geographic highlight is the Rhodope Mountains, which extend along part of the border and form a natural barrier between the two countries. This region is less densely populated, so some border crossings are located in remote and scenically impressive areas. Similar to Germany, where the Alps form a natural barrier, the Rhodope Mountains offer an impressive backdrop and a natural border.
Border checks at the border crossing
Despite Bulgaria’s membership in the European Union and in the Schengen Area since March 31, 2024, checks are still carried out at the land borders between Bulgaria and Greece. These checks are particularly relevant for verifying travel documents (ID documents such as passport, child passport, national ID card) and vehicle papers. There are joint control points where the authorities of both countries cooperate to make border crossings more efficient. Nevertheless, especially during holiday periods and on weekends, waiting times of several hours can occur, as traffic volumes are particularly high at these times.
Entry requirements
To enter, travelers from the European Union, including Bulgaria, only need a valid national ID card or passport. Both countries are part of the Schengen Area and are EU member states. As EU members, it is therefore particularly easy to cross the border. Entry requirements for citizens from non-EU countries may differ, as entry is only possible for them if they have a visa. It is advisable to check current regulations before traveling.
The currency in Greece
In Greece, the official currency is the euro (€). For travelers from Bulgaria, where the Bulgarian lev (BGN) is used, it is important to exchange currency before the trip. Near the border, there are often exchange offices and banks that offer exchanging lev into euros. However, please check in advance which exchange locations are trustworthy. You should therefore check the current exchange rate beforehand and have it confirmed again to avoid being scammed.
In addition, many hotels, restaurants, and shops in Greece accept common credit and debit cards, so paying in cash is not always necessary.
The most important border crossings
Kulata - Promachonas: One of the main access points between Bulgaria and Greece, connecting the A3/E79 in Bulgaria with the E25 in Greece, near the city of Serres with sights such as a Byzantine castle and an archaeological museum.
Ilinden - Exochi: Another important border crossing that plays a significant role in cross-border traffic.
Kapitan Petko Voyvoda - Ormenio: An important crossing for regional traffic, often less frequented.
Ivaylovgrad - Kyprinos: A crossing mainly used for local traffic.
Makaza - Nymfaia: Offers additional options for travelers, especially in remote areas.
Bulgaria
The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are toll road sections.
Bulgaria: Vignette requirement (or not?)
On Bulgarian national roads, a vignette is required. This vignette requirement applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 t permissible gross weight as well as motorhomes (regardless of their weight). In addition, vehicles with trailers (i.e., car + trailer) that exceed the permissible gross weight of 3.5 t also need an additional vignette for their trailers.
Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement. In addition, vehicles weighing more than 3.5 t permissible gross weight must pay a distance-based toll and do not need to purchase a vignette (except passenger cars with a trailer that exceed a total weight of 3.5 t permissible gross weight).
Distance-based toll
(Commercial) vehicles with a total weight over 3.5 t permissible gross weight must pay a distance-based toll, i.e., the length of the route used by the vehicles is calculated. The amount of the toll also depends on the Euro emissions class (pollutant level), the number of axles, and the type of road. The toll is paid using a route card (route pass) purchased in advance, for which the route must be specified. As an alternative to the route pass, a contract can be concluded with a national toll collection service provider, whereby the toll is recorded via an electronic on-board unit or a GPS tracker.
Danube crossing: bridge toll as a special toll
Danube crossings are considered special toll routes. This means that for the use of Danube crossings, you must pay additional fees regardless of whether you have already purchased a vignette or paid a distance-based toll. Possible Danube crossings are located between Romania and Bulgaria.
Greece
The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are toll road sections.
Vignette requirement (or not?)
In Greece, there is no vignette requirement, but most motorways are subject to tolls.
Distance-based toll
There is no distance-based toll (amount depending on the distance traveled) in Greece. However, most motorways are subject to tolls, so a flat fee (regardless of the distance traveled) is charged for using these roads. To pay this flat fee, toll stations (payment booths) are mainly located within the tolled sections, and in some cases also at the beginning of the sections. The toll can be paid in cash, by credit card, or via an electronic transponder.
The electronic transponder enables cashless payment and the use of an additional lane for payment. In addition, toll fees via the transponder are usually lower. You can obtain the transponder free of charge at the service stations of the motorway companies and then top it up with credit. All transponders in Greece run via the GRITS system (Greek Interoperable Tolling System) and can be used on all Greek motorways.
The amount of toll to be paid differs depending on the vehicle class:
Class I: Motorcycles and trikes (three-wheeled motorcycles)
Class II: Vehicles up to 3 axles with a height up to 2.2 m
Class III: Vehicles up to 3 axles with a height over 2.2 m
Class IV: Vehicles with 4 axles or more
In addition to using tolled sections of various motorways (A1, A2, A3, A5, A6, A7, A8a), fees also apply for using certain bridges and tunnels:
Bridge: Rio - Antirrio
Preveza–Aktio Undersea Tunnel
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
This overview of the border crossing between Bulgaria and Greece provides all the important information you need for a smooth and well-prepared trip. Whether border checks, entry requirements, or toll fees: being well informed makes the journey significantly easier. You can find more information on tolls in Bulgaria in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to plan your trip better and have suitable toll products displayed. If you have any questions, we will be happy to help. Contact us anytime via email.
