12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania With Itinerary from Sofia to Skopje, Shkoder, Bar, Tirana, Bitola, and Thessaloniki

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

South Park is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 visitors.

In Sofia, don’t miss Borisova Gradina Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful Eagles' Bridge. This popular sight is an outstanding monument, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Zaimov Park. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Sofia Zoo awaits. This zoo is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria 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, Sofia has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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.

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!

Day 3 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sofia is the fantastic National Palace Of Culture. As an appreciated convention center and local gem in the area, National Palace Of Culture has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,569 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Druzhba Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a standout church and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This church is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,691 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent National Theater "ivan Vazov", a popular performing arts theater and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 9,932 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting One More Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Teos Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bistritsa in Bulgaria and Skopje in North Macedonia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Skopje, your home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sofia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bistritsa may take around 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Bistritsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bistritsa is the magnificent Rila. Around 3,975 visitors have rated this excellent mountain range and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bistritsa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kyustendil. This drive usually takes around 49 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Something that makes Kyustendil the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Hisarlaka Fortress. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,026 visitors.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Skopje today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Old Bazaar. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,113 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Čifte Hammam. This incredible attraction and art gallery holds an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to 1,881 visitors.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Skopje’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, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Balilla offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sidro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Skopje.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mosh, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café Capri is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Badu Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the night falls in Skopje, 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bërdicë e Sipërme in Albania and Bar in Montenegro. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bar where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Shkoder, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bërdicë e Sipërme. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Rozafa Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Bërdicë e Sipërme, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,853 visitors.

In Bërdicë e Sipërme, don’t miss Lead Mosque, Shkodër, a great mosque and place to see in the village. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 152 reviews.

After soaking in Bërdicë e Sipërme’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bar, Montenegro. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive in Bar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bar today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding King Nikola's Palace. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,917 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Vodeno Igralište/fontana. This incredible attraction and point of interest holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 8 visitors.

Upon reaching Brca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated beach and attraction in Brca — Red Beach. About 499 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Montenegro's delectable cuisine at one of Bar'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.

Dine in style at Restaurant PLANET, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Konoba Balkan boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Dublin Pub. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bar.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Food House, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Nice Vice offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bar.

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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Stari Bar in Montenegro and Kruje 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 Tirana. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stari Bar and set your GPS to Kruje, Albania. 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 2 hours 26 min. Upon reaching Kruje, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Fortress Old Bar. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 5,125 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Fortress Old Bar is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Old Town Bar is another of the town's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This archeological site and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 996 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kruje, Albania. This car ride takes around 2 hours 26 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Kruje — Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum. About 1,217 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Krujë Castle is another top sight in Kruje that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved castle in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,681 visitors.

Tirana welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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 Tirana.

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Observator Wine And Piano Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Radio Bar Tirana offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, 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 Tirana in Albania and Ohrid in North Macedonia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bitola, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Bunk’art 2. This outstanding museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 from 4,602 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Bunk’art 2 is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Skanderbeg Square is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This public square and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,676 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Grand Park Of Tirana. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,065 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards North Macedonia, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ohrid. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ohrid, including the outstanding Church Of Saint John The Theologian. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,537 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bitola. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in North Macedonia 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 Epinal Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Bitola. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bitola at GT Caffe, 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 Belvedere. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bitola tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Carsija stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Porta Jazz offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe Pajton is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Edessa in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki, your home for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Bitola, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Edessa, Greece. Your travel time is around 1 hour 36 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Edessa is the fantastic Waterfalls Park, Edessa. As an appreciated waterfall and local gem in the area, Waterfalls Park, Edessa has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,690 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kastanéa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Edessa to Kastanéa may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kastanéa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kastanéa is the fantastic Holy Shrine Of The Virgin Mary Soumela. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, Holy Shrine Of The Virgin Mary Soumela has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 6,207 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vergina, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kastanéa to Vergina may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vergina, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

In Vergina, the extraordinary Museum Of The Royal Tombs At Aigai (aegae) awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,871 travelers' reviews.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Greece.

Savor the flavors at Kitchen Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Greek beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Phanós. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Thessaloniki tonight.

Keep the evening going at Beetle Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Vogatsikou 3, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Souel, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up and see what day 10 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Thessaloniki for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Thessaloniki — White Tower Of Thessaloniki. About 52,379 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda is another top sight in Thessaloniki that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved monument in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,542 visitors.

Holy Church Of Hagia Sophia is a spectacular church and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Thessaloniki, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,861 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Agias Sofias Square. Because of its allure and charm, around 10,374 visitors have rated this attraction and public square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Kapani. Echoing its popularity, 11,747 travelers have awarded this famous market and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Thessaloniki’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, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Savor the flavors at Mamalouka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Clochard beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sofi's House Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Thessaloniki tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Apallou provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Thessaloniki 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!

On day 11 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Thessaloniki in Greece and Kyustendil in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated public 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 The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is another top sight in Thessaloniki that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved art installation in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,884 visitors.

Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki is a spectacular museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Thessaloniki, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,165 enchanted visitors.

Set your GPS to Kyustendil, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kyustendil beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Kyustendil is not complete without a visit to the famous Park "st. Vrach". This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,762 travelers.

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

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Corner, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gaba, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, K. E. B. A. Provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take in the ambiance of Sofia 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!