Two-Week Road Trip in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania from Sofia to Thessaloniki, Trikala, Athens, Patras, Gjirokastra, Tirana, and Skopje

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, 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.

Something that makes Thessaloniki the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding house museum, Atatürk Museum. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,010 visitors.

The famous Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Thessaloniki's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 12,542 travelers have rated this incredible tetrapylon and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Thessaloniki is also home to the extraordinary Agias Sofias Square, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 10,374 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating White Tower Of Thessaloniki, which hosts up to 290,192 visitors every year. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 52,379 reviews, a visit to this wonderful fortified tower and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Thessaloniki exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos up close. This fascinating sightseeing destination and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,884 travelers is proof.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mamalouka, a highly-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're eager to try something different, consider Clochard, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sofi's House Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

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.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, 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.

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, Thessaloniki in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Trikala, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated church and attraction in Thessaloniki — Holy Church Of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint Of Thessalonica. About 6,316 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

The popular Kapani is another top sight in Thessaloniki that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved market in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,747 visitors.

Aristotelous Square is a spectacular square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Thessaloniki, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,109 enchanted visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 52 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monastery and attraction in Kastraki — Meteora. About 37,365 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Trikala’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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at ALVEO, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trikala Fortress offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Palia Istoria is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Trikala.

Continue your lively evening at Σουίτα Art Cafe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Factory Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Love Shake ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Thermopyles 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 Athens. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Pourithi’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Thermopyles behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min. Pourithi welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Memorial To Leonidas And 300 Spartans. This outstanding sightseeing destination and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 4,824 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Memorial To Leonidas And 300 Spartans is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Pourithi today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Ρεματιά Βαρνάβα. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 591 visitors.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Thermopyles — The Museum Escape Games. About 160 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Athens. 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 sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Athens'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, Athens has them.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Athens by booking a table at Hytra. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Spondi, celebrated for its delectable french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Zillers, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary, and greek menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Day 7 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 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

National Archaeological Museum Of Athens 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 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,596 visitors. More than 594,219 people visit this extraordinary national museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Athens, don’t miss Acropolis Museum, a great archaeological museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 814,565 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Athens off your list when you visit the wonderful Odeon Of Herodes Atticus. This popular sight is an outstanding odeon, rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 15,092 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Acropolis Of Athens. This acropolis and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 reviews. It’s estimated that around 1,807,580 people come to admire it every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Parthenon awaits. This ancient greek temple is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 74,124 visitors.

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Athens'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, Athens has them.

Savor the flavors at Karamanlidika, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ELLYZ Cafe Athens beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ama Lachei. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Athens tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Brettos, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Upupa Epops - The Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Athens. Lot 51 is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8, you will wake up in Athens with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Athens before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Philopappos Hill. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 18,588 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Philopappos Hill is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Temple Of Olympian Zeus is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This ancient greek temple and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 26,652 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, National Garden Of Athens. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,683 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Monastiraki Square 6, an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Athens considering its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,322 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Ancient Agora Of Athens and discover what makes this local archaeological site and wonder one of the best attractions in Athens. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 32,962 travelers.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Athens’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 Kuzina, 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 Tavern Klimataria (est.1927), 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 Efcharis restaurant, 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 culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, 360 Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bolivar Beach Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Juan Rodriguez Bar •compañia De Bebida is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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 Kallithea in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Patras, your home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Athens, 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 14 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated cultural center and attraction in Kallithea — Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. About 53,996 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Stavros Niarchos Park is another top sight in Kallithea 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 37,443 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Palaio Faliro, 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 Kallithea to Palaio Faliro may take around 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Palaio Faliro, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Palaio Faliro, including the outstanding Palaio Faliro. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,212 reviews, this fascinating city and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Mykines. This car ride takes around 1 hour 37 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Mykines is the fantastic Mycenae, attracting around 342,854 visitors every year. As an appreciated archaeological site and local gem in the area, Mycenae has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,529 reviews.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Patras’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 Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Patras'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 delightful dinner at Carousello, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fork? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Marogia as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Patras.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Χάραμα Θερινό after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Notos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Minimal 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 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 Patras in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gjirokastra, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge. This outstanding point of interest and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 5,442 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge is worth pages in your travel diary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Patras, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ioannina may take around 1 hour 55 min. Upon your arrival in Ioannina, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Ioannina is the magnificent Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη. Around 7,288 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Ioannina Castle on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known castle that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 11,630 travelers.

The remarkable Cave Of Perama is known to be one of the best places to visit in Ioannina, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,901 traveler reviews is proof.

When you arrive in Gjirokastra, it's time to take a break from the road.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Gjirokastra. 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 Gjirokastra. 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.

Dine in style at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Taverna Brahimi boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restorant Tradicional Urat. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Gjirokastra.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Hangover Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

On day 12 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Tirana in Albania. 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 2 nights.

A tour of Tirana is not complete without a visit to the famous Skanderbeg Square. This incredible square and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,676 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 Bunk’art 2 for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,602 visitors.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Skopje. 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 book a table at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a popular restaurant in Skopje. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Skopje at Balilla, 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 Sidro. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Skopje tonight.

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

Wake up and see what day 13 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Skopje for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A tour of Skopje is not complete without a visit to the famous City park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,127 travelers.

Make the most of your Skopje travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Church Of St. Clement Of Ohrid. This cathedral and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,691 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Mother Theresa Memorial House for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,661 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Stone Bridge In Skopje. This amazing site is a wonderful footbridge with more than 5,177 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Vodenica Mulino, a top-rated dining destination in Skopje. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gallery 7, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Fast Food 7 - Aerodrom. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Skopje this evening.

Keep the evening going at Heart Bar Skopje, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Chillin' Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Casa, 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!