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

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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bistritsa. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

In Bistritsa, the extraordinary Rila awaits. This attraction is a valued urban park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,975 travelers' reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bistritsa and set your GPS to Kyustendil. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Kyustendil, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Kyustendil is the magnificent Hisarlaka Fortress. Around 4,026 visitors have rated this excellent architectural structure and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Skopje, 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 Kyustendil to Skopje may take around 2 hours 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Skopje, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A tour of Skopje is not complete without a visit to the famous Old Bazaar. This incredible čaršija and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,113 travelers.

Make the most of your Skopje travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Čifte Hammam. This hammam and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,881 travelers.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Skopje’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 Skopje boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of North Macedonia.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Mosh, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Café Capri, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Badu Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 Skopje to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bërdicë e Sipërme in Albania, and Bar in Montenegro. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bërdicë e Sipërme, including the outstanding Rozafa Castle. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,853 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the village.

Bërdicë e Sipërme is also home to the captivating Lead Mosque, Shkodër, a local mosque considered one of the highlights of the village. About 152 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.4 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bar, Montenegro. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.

In Bar, the extraordinary King Nikola's Palace awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,917 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Bar is the spectacular Vodeno Igralište/fontana. This attraction is a point of interest that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

Brca welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brca is the magnificent Red Beach. Around 499 visitors have rated this excellent natural feature and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

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 Bar’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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant PLANET, a top-rated dining spot in Bar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Konoba Balkan, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dublin Pub. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bar.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Food House, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Nice Vice. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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 7 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 - Stari Bar in Montenegro, and Kruje in Albania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Tirana where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Stari Bar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stari Bar beckons with new experiences!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sightseeing destination and attraction in Stari Bar — Fortress Old Bar. About 5,125 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Old Town Bar is another top sight in Stari Bar that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved museum in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 996 visitors.

After soaking in Stari Bar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kruje, Albania. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 26 min. When you arrive in Kruje, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Kruje the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,217 visitors.

The famous Krujë Castle is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Kruje's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 6,681 travelers have rated this incredible fortress and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, an iconic dining spot in Tirana. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Boutique Kotoni, a popular restaurant in Tirana. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of il Gusto Ristorante, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Observator Wine And Piano Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Radio Bar Tirana, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 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.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Tirana, including the outstanding Bunk’art 2. Having an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,602 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Tirana is also home to the captivating Skanderbeg Square, a local square considered one of the highlights of the city. About 8,676 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Grand Park Of Tirana is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Tirana. This extraordinary urban park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,065 travelers.

Set your GPS to Ohrid, North Macedonia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ohrid beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Ohrid today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Church Of Saint John The Theologian. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,537 visitors.

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

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, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Epinal Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try GT Caffe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Belvedere as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bitola.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Carsija offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Porta Jazz is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe Pajton is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Edessa, 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 Bitola to Edessa may take around 1 hour 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edessa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Edessa is the magnificent Waterfalls Park, Edessa. Around 19,690 visitors have rated this excellent urban park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Edessa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veria. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated church and attraction in Veria — Holy Shrine Of The Virgin Mary Soumela. About 6,207 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vergina. This car ride takes around 39 min.

Something that makes Vergina the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Museum Of The Royal Tombs At Aigai (aegae). This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,871 visitors.

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.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Kitchen Bar, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Thessaloniki at The Greek, 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 Phanós. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Thessaloniki tonight.

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.

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

Day 10 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Thessaloniki. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

White Tower Of Thessaloniki is a travelers’ favorite in Thessaloniki, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 52,379 visitors. More than 290,192 people visit this extraordinary fortified tower and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Thessaloniki, don’t miss Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda, a great tetrapylon and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,542 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Thessaloniki off your list when you visit the wonderful Holy Church Of Hagia Sophia. This popular sight is an outstanding church, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,861 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Agias Sofias Square. This square and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,374 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Kapani awaits. This market is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,747 visitors.

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 Thessaloniki. 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 Mamalouka, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Clochard offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sofi's House Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Thessaloniki.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Barbaben - Μπαρ/μπα/μπεν for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Apallou is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 11 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Thessaloniki in Greece, and Kyustendil in Bulgaria, 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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Thessaloniki is the magnificent Aristotelous Square. Around 42,109 visitors have rated this excellent square and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known point of interest that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 13,884 travelers.

The remarkable Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki is known to be one of the best places to visit in Thessaloniki, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,165 traveler reviews is proof.

When you’ve had your share of Thessaloniki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kyustendil, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 1 hour 51 min.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Park "st. Vrach". This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 6,762 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Park "st. Vrach" is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Jasmin, a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider J. J. Murphy's, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel “Crystal Palace Boutique“. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this 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!