Border Crossing Bulgaria Greece

The border crossing between Bulgaria and Greece plays a significant role for road traffic in Southeastern Europe. Both countries share a border that is of great importance not only geographically, but also historically and economically. 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 its course

The border between these two countries stretches for about 494 kilometers. This relatively long border runs through a varied landscape shaped by mountains, valleys, and rivers. One of the geographical features is the Rhodope Mountains, which stretch along part of the border and form a natural barrier between the two countries. This region is less densely populated, meaning 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 controls at the border crossing

Despite Bulgaria's membership in the European Union and the Schengen Area since March 31, 2024, controls continue to be carried out at the land borders between Bulgaria and Greece. These controls are particularly relevant for checking travel documents (identification documents such as passports, children's passports, identity cards) and vehicle papers. There are joint control points where the authorities of both countries cooperate to make border crossing efficient. Nevertheless, especially during holiday periods and on weekends, waiting times of several hours can occur, as traffic volume is particularly high during these times.

Entry requirements

To enter, travelers from the European Union, including Bulgaria, need a valid identity card or passport. Both countries belong to the Schengen Area and are EU member states. As an EU member, it is therefore particularly easy to cross the border. Entry requirements for citizens of non-EU countries may differ, as entry is only possible for them if they hold a visa. It is advisable to find out about the current regulations before traveling.

The currency of the Greeks

In Greece, the Euro (€) is the official currency. 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 currency exchange offices and banks that offer the exchange of Lev for Euros. However, please find out in advance exactly which exchange locations are trustworthy. Therefore, you should check the current exchange rate in advance and have it confirmed again so as not to be ripped off.

In addition, many hotels, restaurants, and shops in Greece accept common credit and debit cards, so cash payment is not always required.

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 attractions 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: Important crossing for regional traffic, often less frequented.

• Ivaylovgrad - Kyprinos: A crossing used mainly 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 any toll-liable sections of road.

Bulgaria: vignette requirement (or not?)

A vignette requirement applies on Bulgarian national roads. This vignette requirement applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight as well as motorhomes (regardless of their weight). In addition, vehicles with trailers (i.e., e.g., car + trailer) that exceed the permissible gross weight of 3.5 t GVW require an additional vignette for their trailer.

Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement. In addition, vehicles with a weight over 3.5 t GVW must pay a distance-based toll and do not need to purchase a vignette (except for cars with trailers that exceed a weight of 3.5 t GVW).

Distance-based toll

(Commercial) vehicles with a total weight over 3.5 t GVW must pay a distance-based toll, i.e., the length of the route used by the vehicle is calculated. The amount of the toll also depends on the Euro emission class (level of pollutant emissions), the number of axles, and the type of road. Payment of the toll is made via a pre-purchased route card (route pass), for which the route traveled must be specified. As an alternative to the route pass, a contract can be made with a national toll collection service provider, whereby the toll is recorded using an electronic on-board unit or a GPS tracker.

Crossing the Danube: bridge toll as a special toll

The special toll routes include the Vidin-Calafat Danube bridge as well as the Ruse-Giurgiu bridge in the direction of Romania. This means that, regardless of an already purchased vignette or payment of a distance-based toll, you must pay additional fees to use these bridges. The Romanian bridge toll in the direction of Bulgaria will be abolished as of October 1, 2026. For ferries, you pay the usual ferry fare. This is not a toll.

Greece

The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are any toll-liable sections of road.

Vignette requirement (or not?)

In Greece, there is no vignette requirement, but most highways are subject to tolls.

Distance-based toll

There is no distance-based toll (toll amount depending on the distance traveled) in Greece. However, most highways are subject to tolls, meaning that a flat fee (regardless of the distance traveled) is charged for using these routes. To pay this flat fee, toll stations (payment stations) are located mainly within the toll sections, and sometimes also at the beginning of the sections. Payment of the toll due can be made by cash, 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 are usually lower when paid via the transponder. You can obtain the transponder free of charge at the service stations of the highway operators and then top it up with credit. All transponders in Greece operate via the GRITS system (Greek Interoperable Tolling System) and can be used on all Greek highways.

The amount of toll payable differs depending on the vehicle class:

• Class I: Motorcycles and trikes (motorcycles with three wheels)

• Class II: Vehicles with up to 3 axles and a height of up to 2.2 m

• Class III: Vehicles with up to 3 axles and a height over 2.2 m

• Class IV: Vehicles with 4 or more axles

In addition to using sections of various highways (A1, A2, A3, A5, A6, A7, A8a), fees also apply for the use of certain bridges and tunnels:

• Bridge: Rio - Antirrio

• Preveza-Aktio underwater 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 journey. Whether it's border controls, entry requirements, or toll fees: being well informed makes the journey considerably easier. For more information on the toll in Bulgaria, please see our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to better plan your trip and be shown suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we are happy to help. Contact us at any time by email.