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

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting park, Borisova Gradina Park. Afterward, continue to Eagles' Bridge, a monument every traveler should visit.

As you explore Sofia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Prince's Garden. This locally appreciated park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by National Theater "ivan Vazov", an up-and-coming performing arts theater in the city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect 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.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sofia in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is North Park. This visually striking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this picture-perfect convention center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned South Park. After exploring the park, head to Sofia Zoo. This well-known zoo is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by Geo Milev Park, known for its picturesque features.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, 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, Bar & Dinner Relax is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bistritsa in Bulgaria and Skopje in North Macedonia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Skopje, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Rila, a curiosity-inducing mountain range that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Hisarlaka Fortress, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Old Bazaar. This market is one of the village’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Čifte Hammam.

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

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.

Dine in style at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Balilla boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sidro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Skopje.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mosh. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Café Capri, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Badu Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 4 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 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 Brca 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.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Shkoder on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated castle, Rozafa Castle. Afterward, continue to Lead Mosque, Shkodër, a mosque every traveler should visit.

As you explore Shkoder’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Red Beach. This curiosity-inducing beach is an essential stop. Following that, head to King Nikola's Palace, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Allegra Photo Point, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination in the village.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant PLANET, a top-rated dining destination in Bar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Konoba Balkan, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dublin Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bar this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Food House stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Nice Vice offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 7 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 Stari Bar in Montenegro and Kruje in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tirana, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the locally appreciated Fortress Old Bar, a romantic castle in Bar. Next, go to Old Town Bar.

After visiting Fortress Old Bar and Old Town Bar, have a stroll along Bar's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum. This breathtaking museum offers a unique experience. Krujë Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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 Tirana. 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 delightful dinner at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Boutique Kotoni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at il Gusto Ristorante as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Tirana.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Observator Wine And Piano Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Radio Bar Tirana is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bitola today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Waterfalls Park, Edessa. This peaceful waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Polycentric Museum Of Aigai (aegae) - Main Building and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-listed museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Museum Of The Royal Tombs At Aigai (aegae). After exploring the museum, head to Lazaristes Monastery. This beloved monastery is a highlight in Bitola.

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

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Thessaloniki's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece 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, Thessaloniki has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Greek, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Phanós. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Beetle Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Vogatsikou 3 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Souel. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 10, you will wake up in Thessaloniki with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Thessaloniki before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Don’t miss Tsimiski Street in Thessaloniki today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Ladadika, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Thessaloniki.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Thessaloniki allows for both. Start by heading to The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This well-known art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a standout monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Aristotelous Square, a notable public square.

As the sun sets on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Thessaloniki's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece 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, Thessaloniki has them.

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!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Thessaloniki in Greece, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start by visiting Kapani, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic market is sure to impress. Next on your list is Agias Sofias Square, another must-visit landmark and interesting public square renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Thessaloniki by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda. This instagrammable monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Thessaloniki experience. We also recommend visiting Atatürk Museum, an up-and-coming museum.

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

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 Sofia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Esterhasi Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Da Massimo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Corner, known for its lively atmosphere. Gaba is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, K. E. B. A. Offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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.