14-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania With Itinerary from Sofia to Skopje, Tirana, Bitola, Kyustendil, and Plovdiv

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sofia in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent Druzhba Park. Around 8,598 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Sofia Zoo on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known zoo that has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from around 15,237 travelers.

The remarkable South Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating National Palace Of Culture. With a stellar average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!

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 Reduta may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Reduta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Reduta, including the outstanding Geo Milev Park. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Sofia. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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

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!

Wake up and see what day 3 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Zaimov Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This incredible attraction and church holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 20,088 visitors.

According to travelers in Sofia, the extraordinary Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,066 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, North Park. Up to 11,004 visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

Savor the flavors at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel ZOO Sofia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar & Dinner Relax. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to One More Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Teos Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia in Bulgaria. 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.

Something that makes Sofia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Prince's Garden. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 visitors.

The famous Eagles' Bridge is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Sofia's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 10,319 travelers have rated this incredible monument and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Sofia is also home to the extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 27,635 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Holy Trinity Park. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,845 reviews, a visit to this wonderful park and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Sofia exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic National Theater "ivan Vazov" up close. This fascinating performing arts theater and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers is proof.

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.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Skopje. 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.

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.

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.

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

On day 6, you will wake up in Tirana with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Tirana before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania.

A tour of Tirana is not complete without a visit to the famous Grand Park Of Tirana. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,065 travelers.

Make the most of your Tirana travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Rinia Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,783 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Tanners' Bridge for an experience worth remembering. This local historical landmark and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 869 visitors.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a highly-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're eager to try something different, consider Artigiano, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kafe Flora, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bufe Wine Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whisky Bar Tirana provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Kyustendil in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Plovdiv where you'll spend 4 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Kyustendil — Hisarlaka Fortress. About 4,026 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stob. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

Something that makes Stob the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding rock formation, Stob Earth Pyramids. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,279 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stob, 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 39 min. Upon your arrival in Bistritsa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Something that makes Bistritsa the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding mountain range, Rila. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,975 visitors.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Plovdiv’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rock Bar Download, known for its inviting atmosphere. North Star is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Plovdiv 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 10 of your European tour in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll start and end your day in Bachkovo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Plovdiv for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bachkovo in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Plovdiv today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bachkovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bachkovo beckons with new experiences!

In Bachkovo, the extraordinary Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno" awaits. This attraction is a valued monastery that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,211 travelers' reviews.

Set your GPS to Asenovgrad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Asenovgrad beckons with new experiences!

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Asenovgrad is the fantastic Karadzhov Kamak. As an appreciated rock formation and local gem in the area, Karadzhov Kamak has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 908 reviews.

After soaking in Bachkovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Asenovgrad is the fantastic Asen's Fortress. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Asen's Fortress has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,157 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 Plovdiv. 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 Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sofra, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Central Park, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Qbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Anyway Social Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 11 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Plovdiv. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated art installation and attraction in Plovdiv — Singing Fountain. About 12,640 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another top sight in Plovdiv that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,537 visitors.

Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is a spectacular archeological site and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Plovdiv, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Museum Of Natural Sciences. Because of its allure and charm, around 2,598 visitors have rated this attraction and museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

As the sun sets on day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Plovdiv'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, Plovdiv has them.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kriloto Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cocktail Bar Noris, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Fabrik. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate day 11 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 12 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Plovdiv for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is a travelers’ favorite in Plovdiv, 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 1,946 visitors.

In Plovdiv, don’t miss Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv, a great historical landmark and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 407 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Plovdiv off your list when you visit the wonderful Old Town Of Plovdiv. This popular sight is an outstanding historical landmark, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,450 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Nebet Tepe. This archeological site and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,913 reviews.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Plovdiv. 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.

Dine in style at Italianski restorant Pikantino, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ruski Restorant Petar I boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Park Sankt Peterburg Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Amadeus Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Planet Edition, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Club Fargo also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 13 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv 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.

Escape Zone Plovdiv is a travelers’ favorite in Plovdiv, 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 239 visitors.

In Plovdiv, don’t miss Alyosha Monument, a great monument and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,510 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Plovdiv off your list when you visit the wonderful Youth Hill. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,086 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Plovdiv, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pernik may take around 2 hours 31 min. Upon your arrival in Pernik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Vitosha Nature Park is a travelers’ favorite in Pernik, 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 9,478 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Sofia. 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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mamma Mia Ltd, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Esterhasi Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Da Massimo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight 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.