13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania With Itinerary from Sofia to Blagoevgrad, Skopje, Ohrid, Tirana, Gjirokastra, Preveza, Athens, Trikala, and Thessaloniki

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

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous Sofia Zoo. This incredible zoo and attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful South Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible National Palace Of Culture for an experience worth remembering. This local convention center and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

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

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

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

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

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Skopje where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Sofia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sofia beckons with new experiences!

In Sofia, the extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular Borisova Gradina Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,635 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nevestino. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive in Nevestino, it's time to take a break from the road.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Nevestino — Kadin Bridge. About 1,488 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a popular restaurant in Skopje. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Skopje at Balilla, 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 Sidro. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Skopje tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Mosh, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Café Capri is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Badu Bar 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!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, 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 Skopje in North Macedonia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ohrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated public square and attraction in Skopje — Macedonia Square. About 3,125 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Stone Bridge In Skopje is another top sight in Skopje that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved historical landmark in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,177 visitors.

City park is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Skopje, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,127 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Old Bazaar. Because of its allure and charm, around 20,113 visitors have rated this attraction and market an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Irish Pub Dublin after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kafe Bar Coco Ohrid for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Shilla - Coffee & Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ohrid, including the outstanding Chinar Tree. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,411 reviews, this fascinating historical landmark and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Ohrid is also home to the captivating Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid, a local archeological site considered one of the highlights of the city. About 3,848 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Church Of St. Sophia is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Ohrid. This extraordinary church and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,242 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Church Of Saint John The Theologian will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing church and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,537 reviews.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Tirana. 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 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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Observator Wine And Piano Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Radio Bar Tirana. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Tirana 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 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Gjirokastra in Albania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Preveza, your home for 1 night.

In Gjirokastra, the extraordinary Skenduli House In Gjirokastër awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 409 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Gjirokastra is the spectacular Castle Of Gjirokastra. This attraction is a castle that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,622 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gjirokastra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vrinë. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Vrinë is the fantastic Butrint National Park, attracting around 55,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated archeological site and local gem in the area, Butrint National Park has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,869 reviews.

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

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, North Macedonia, and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Preveza’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 Ano Vlanto (Ano Vlanto), a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ventura Tavern beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Monolithi Beach Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Preveza tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Roloi, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Markus Espresso & Wine Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Metropolis Cafe (mitropolis Kafe). This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Take in the ambiance of Preveza 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 8 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Antirio 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Antirio. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A tour of Antirio is not complete without a visit to the famous Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,442 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Antirio, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kallithea. Your travel time is around 2 hours 17 min.

Water Square is a travelers’ favorite in Kallithea, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,266 visitors.

In Kallithea, don’t miss Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, a great cultural center and place to see in the village. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 53,996 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Kallithea off your list when you visit the wonderful Stavros Niarchos Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 37,443 travelers.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Athens by reserving a table at Hytra. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Spondi, recognized for its delicious french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Zillers, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and greek cuisine in Athens. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and greek foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Mayros Gatos, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Kuko's The Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Revolt Street Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the night falls in Athens, 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.

Day 9 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Athens. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A top thing to do today is to explore Ermou Street, a must-see street in Athens. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Athens is the fantastic Ancient Agora Of Athens. As an appreciated archeological site and local gem in the area, Ancient Agora Of Athens has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,962 reviews.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Harvest Coffee & Wine, an iconic dining spot in Athens. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of 42 Barstronomy Athens, a popular restaurant in Athens. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of O Babas, a hidden gem nestled in Athens. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tiki Bar Athens, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brettos is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Luxus Bar Bistro is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, 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 Athens in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trikala, where you will stay for 1 night.

Parthenon is a travelers’ favorite in Athens, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 74,124 visitors.

In Athens, don’t miss Acropolis Of Athens, a great archeological site and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 1,807,580 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Athens off your list when you visit the wonderful Acropolis Museum. This popular sight is an outstanding museum, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 65,819 travelers. Approximately 814,565 people visit this attraction each year.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding National Garden Of Athens. This botanical garden and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,683 reviews.

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

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

As the sun sets on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Trikala'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, Trikala has them.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ALVEO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trikala Fortress offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Palia Istoria. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trikala.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soyita Art Cafe, known for its lively atmosphere. Factory Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Love Shake 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!

On day 11 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kastraki 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 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kastraki and set your GPS to Edessa. 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 40 min. Upon reaching Edessa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kastraki is the fantastic Meteora. As an appreciated monastery and local gem in the area, Meteora has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 37,365 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,630 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kastraki, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edessa may take around 2 hours 40 min. Upon your arrival in Edessa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Waterfalls Park, Edessa. This outstanding waterfall and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 19,690 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Waterfalls Park, Edessa is worth pages in your travel diary.

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.

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 Thessaloniki'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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Beetle Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Vogatsikou 3 is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Souel also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!