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 travellers crossing 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 course
The border between these two countries stretches over approximately 494 kilometres. This relatively long border runs through a varied landscape characterised by mountains, valleys and rivers. One of the geographical peculiarities 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 that 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 of the European Union and the Schengen Area since 31 March 2024, controls continue to be carried out at the land borders between Bulgaria and Greece. These controls are particularly relevant for checking travel documents (identity documents such as passports, children's passports, identity cards) and vehicle papers. There are joint checkpoints where the authorities of both countries work together to make border crossing efficient. Nevertheless, waiting times of several hours can occur, particularly during the holiday season and at weekends, as traffic volumes are especially high during these times.
Entry requirements
To enter the country, travellers from the European Union, including Bulgaria, need a valid identity card or passport. Both countries belong to the Schengen Area and are member states of the EU. As an EU member, 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 find out about the current regulations before travelling.
The currency of the Greeks
In Greece, the euro (€) is the official currency. For travellers from Bulgaria, where the Bulgarian lev (BGN) is used, it is important to exchange currency before travelling. Near the border, there are often exchange offices and banks that offer the exchange of lev into euros. However, please find out in advance exactly which exchange locations are trustworthy. You should therefore 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 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 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 travellers, 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 motor vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW as well as motorhomes (regardless of their weight). In addition, vehicles with trailers (i.e. e.g. car + trailer) that exceed the permissible total 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 vehicles is calculated. The amount of the toll also depends on the Euro emission class (pollutant emissions), the number of axles and the type of road. The toll is paid using a route card (route pass) purchased in advance, in which the route travelled 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 using an electronic transmitter (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 you must pay additional fees for using Danube crossings, 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 any toll-liable sections of road.
Vignette requirement (or not?)
In Greece, there is no vignette requirement, however most motorways are subject to tolls.
Distance-based toll
There is no distance-based toll (amount of toll depending on the distance travelled) in Greece. However, most motorways are subject to tolls, so a flat rate (regardless of the distance travelled) is charged for using these routes. To pay this flat rate, toll stations (payment stations) are located mainly within the toll-liable sections, and in some cases also at the beginning of the sections. Payment of the toll due can be made by cash, credit card or electronic transponder.
The electronic transponder enables cashless payment and the use of an additional lane for payment. In addition, toll charges 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 on the GRITS system (Greek Interoperable Tolling System) and can be used on all Greek motorways.
The amount of toll to be paid varies 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 motorways (A1, A2, A3, A5, A6, A7, A8a), fees are also charged 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 journey. Whether it's border controls, entry requirements or toll charges: being well informed makes the journey much easier. You can find further information on tolls in Bulgaria in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to better plan your journey and see suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we are happy to help. Feel free to contact us at any time by email.
