12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania With Itinerary from Sofia to Blagoevgrad, Skopje, Ohrid, Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastra, and Bitola

On day 2, you will wake up in Sofia with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Sofia before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Tsar Ivan Shishman Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Sofia, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sofia, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Boyana Church, a locally appreciated church in the city. Then, head to Borisova Gradina Park and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Sofia, and when you are ready for more, go to Eagles' Bridge. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned symbolic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the well-known Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Not far away, you'll also find Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This museum is a heritage-rich highlight in Sofia.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rila in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Blagoevgrad, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a monastery, a waterfall, and a rock formation. Start your adventure at Rila Monastery. This interesting monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Stob Earth Pyramids. Its scenic features will captivate you.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tchsasovnika, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar All Stars offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Verde. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Blagoevgrad.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Befree after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Swing for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Najs Plejs is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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

Today’s itinerary in Blagoevgrad covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a market, a historical landmark, a public square, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Skopje Zoo. This beloved zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Old Bazaar, a must-see market in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Stone Bridge In Skopje. This up-and-coming historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Macedonia Square, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Mother Theresa Memorial House. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Skopje. 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.

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, North Macedonia, and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Skopje’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.

Savor the flavors at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Balilla beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sidro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Skopje tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mosh, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Café Capri provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Badu Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Ohrid in North Macedonia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ohrid, your home for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Skopje on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular church, Church Of Saint John The Theologian. Afterward, continue to Old City Park, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Skopje’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Plaošnik. This locally appreciated archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Church Of Saints Clement And Panteleimon, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid, an underrated archeological site in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Chinar Tree, a romantic historical landmark that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ohrid’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, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sky Corner, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pizza Nemo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant „Aleksandrija“. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ohrid tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Irish Pub Dublin, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kafe Bar Coco Ohrid is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Shilla - Coffee & Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Ohrid in North Macedonia. With 1 night left in Ohrid, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start by visiting Church Of St. Sophia, a prime spot to begin your journey. This symbolic church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Ohrid, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular park renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Ohrid by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum „the Bay Of Bones“. This instagrammable museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Ohrid experience. We also recommend visiting Monastery Of Saint Naum, an increasingly popular monastery.

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, North Macedonia, and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Ohrid’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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizza Via Sacra, a highly-rated dining destination in Ohrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Royal View, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Panorama. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ohrid this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Corner Bistro, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cuba Libre Beach & Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Jazz Inn ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, 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 Linzë in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tirana, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Dajti Ekspres, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene tramway is sure to impress. Next on your list is Et'hem Bej Mosque, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming mosque renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Ohrid by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Bunk’art 2. This symbolic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Ohrid experience. We also recommend visiting Skanderbeg Square, a frequently visited public square.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Tirana's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Albania to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Tirana has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, a highly-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Boutique Kotoni, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at il Gusto Ristorante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Observator Wine And Piano Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Radio Bar Tirana is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Berat in Albania, 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 Berat. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Tirana, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Berat Castle, a beloved castle in the city. Then, head to Onufri Iconographic Museum and soak in the ambiance of this monumental museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Tirana, and when you are ready for more, go to Gorica Bridge. This is one of the city’s most underrated awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the worthwhile Old Town Berat.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Berat. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Albania in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Homemade Food Lili, a popular restaurant in Berat. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berat at Zonja Gjene, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Eni Traditional Food Berat. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Berat tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Te Albani is an excellent place to start.

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

On day 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Gjirokastra in Albania. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gjirokastra, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Berat. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle and a museum. Begin your adventure at Castle Of Gjirokastra. This is a beloved castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Zekate House, an intriguing museum in Berat.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ethnographic Museum.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Gjirokastra. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taverna Brahimi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant Tradicional Urat. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Hangover Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Gjirokastra.

Take in the ambiance of Gjirokastra 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bitola in North Macedonia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bitola where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Gjirokastra allows for both. Start by heading to Heraclea Lyncestis. This increasingly popular archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Ni Institute And Museum Bitola, a respected museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Clock Tower, a locally appreciated monument.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bitola. 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, North Macedonia, and Albania.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Carsija, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Porta Jazz offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe Pajton provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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!