10-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia from Sofia to Thessaloniki, Trikala, Athens, Larissa, and Skopje

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Sofia in Bulgaria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Sofia for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

In Sofia, the extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers' reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Sofia’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Forum, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Mamma Mia Ltd is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Halbite Beer Hall, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Lime Cafe & Cocktails, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Thessaloniki, where you will stay for 1 night.

In Sofia, the extraordinary South Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular National Palace of Culture. This attraction is a convention center that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky. This local church and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

National Theater "Ivan Vazov" is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This point of interest is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.

Set your GPS to Thessaloniki, Greece and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Thessaloniki beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Greece, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Thessaloniki. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Thessaloniki.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Thessaloniki’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kitchen Bar, an iconic dining spot in Thessaloniki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Greek, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Phanós, a hidden gem nestled in Thessaloniki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beetle Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Vogatsikou 3 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Thessaloniki. Souel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Thessaloniki in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trikala, your home for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated square and attraction in Thessaloniki — Aristotelous Square. About 42,109 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular White Tower of Thessaloniki is another top sight in Thessaloniki that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved fortified tower in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 52,379 visitors.

The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos is a spectacular point of interest and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Thessaloniki, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,884 enchanted visitors.

After soaking in Thessaloniki’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kastraki. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 56 min. When you arrive in Kastraki, it's time to take a break from the road.

A tour of Kastraki is not complete without a visit to the famous Meteora. This incredible monastery and attraction has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 37,365 travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Trikala. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Trikala. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Make sure to book a table at ALVEO, a popular restaurant in Trikala. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Trikala at Trikala Fortress, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Palia Istoria. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Trikala tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Σουίτα Art Cafe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Factory Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Love Shake ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Athens in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Athens where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Athens.

In Athens, the extraordinary Acropolis Museum awaits. This attraction is a valued archaeological museum that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 814,565 visitors every year, the amazing Acropolis Museum is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens is the spectacular Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This attraction is an odeon that is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 15,092 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Acropolis of Athens. This local acropolis and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 1,807,580 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

Parthenon is another attraction you might want to add to your Athens exploration itinerary. This ancient greek temple is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 74,124 reviews.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Athens's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hytra in Athens by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hytra delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Spondi, acclaimed for its delectable french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at The Zillers, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary, and greek cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Μαύρος Γάτος, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kuko's The Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tiki Bar Athens, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Wake up and see what day 5 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia has in store for you! You will be staying in Athens for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

In Athens, the extraordinary National Archaeological Museum of Athens awaits. This attraction is a valued national museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,596 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 594,219 visitors every year, the amazing National Archaeological Museum of Athens is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens is the spectacular National Garden of Athens. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,683 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Temple of Olympian Zeus. This local ancient greek temple and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 26,652 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Philopappos Hill is another attraction you might want to add to your Athens exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,588 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Ancient Agora of Athens. More than a popular archaeological site and attraction, Ancient Agora of Athens offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Athens. Ancient Agora of Athens boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,962 traveler reviews.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Athens. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Dine in style at Karamanlidika, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ELLYZ Cafe Athens boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ama Lachei. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Athens.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Brettos. 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 LOT 51, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kallithea in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Larissa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Athens, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kallithea may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Kallithea, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Something that makes Kallithea the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Stavros Niarchos Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,443 visitors.

The famous Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Kallithea's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 53,996 travelers have rated this incredible cultural center and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kallithea, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Palaio Faliro. This drive usually takes around 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Palaio Faliro is the magnificent Palaio Faliro. Around 8,212 visitors have rated this excellent city and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Palaio Faliro, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thermopyles. Your travel time is around 2 hours 9 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Thermopyles is the magnificent Memorial to Leonidas and 300 Spartans. Around 4,824 visitors have rated this excellent sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Larissa’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Larissa’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 Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Dine in style at Nonna Rossa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Βόσπορος | Restaurant • Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out THE ALLEY. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Larissa.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at sherlock easy bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kiou, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Wisedog provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. Today's main destinations are Veles in North Macedonia, 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 Skopje. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of Larissa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Veles, North Macedonia. Your travel time is around 3 hours 18 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Veles, including the outstanding Ossuary Monument - Kosturnica. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 226 reviews, this fascinating point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veles and set your GPS to Skopje. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Skopje, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Čifte Hammam is a travelers’ favorite in Skopje, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,881 visitors.

In Skopje, don’t miss Old Bazaar, a great čaršija and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,113 reviews.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Skopje. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, an iconic dining spot in Skopje. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Balilla, a popular restaurant in Skopje. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sidro, a hidden gem nestled in Skopje. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Mosh is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Café Capri, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Badu bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take in the ambiance of Skopje as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

Day 8 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Skopje. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A tour of Skopje is not complete without a visit to the famous Stone Bridge in Skopje. This incredible footbridge and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,177 travelers.

Make the most of your Skopje travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Macedonia Square. This sightseeing destination and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,125 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible City Park for an experience worth remembering. This local park and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,127 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Millennium Cross. This amazing site is a wonderful cross with more than 4,399 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Skopje. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vodenica Mulino, an iconic dining spot in Skopje. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gallery 7, a popular restaurant in Skopje. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Fast Food 7 - Aerodrom, a hidden gem nestled in Skopje. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Heart Bar Skopje, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Chillin' Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Casa ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Kyustendil in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Skopje’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kyustendil, Bulgaria. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 17 min. When you arrive in Kyustendil, it's time to take a break from the road.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kyustendil is the fantastic Hisarlaka Fortress. As an appreciated architectural structure and local gem in the area, Hisarlaka Fortress has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,026 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kyustendil, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nevestino may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Nevestino, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Something that makes Nevestino the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding sightseeing destination, Kadin Bridge. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,488 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nevestino, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ovchartsi. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Ovchartsi is not complete without a visit to the famous Ovchartsi Waterfall “Goritsa”. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 967 travelers.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sofia. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Divaka, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Face bar & dinner is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Art Club Museum. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.

Something that makes Sofia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Zaimov Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.

Get a last taste of Bulgaria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Sofia and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia with fond memories. Safe travels!