7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia With Itinerary from Sofia to Bansko, Thessaloniki, and Skopje

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
BulgariaGreeceNorth Macedonia
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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 7-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Bulgaria, 1 night in Greece, and 1 night in North Macedonia.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Bulgaria, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Sofia and begin your adventure from there. Explore Sofia, Bansko, and Kyustendil, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Greece. Immerse yourself in the allure of Thessaloniki, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of North Macedonia. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Skopje.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Thessaloniki’s White Tower Of Thessaloniki and Skopje's iconic Mustafa Pasha Türbe. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 7-day self-drive adventure in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • South Park
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Sofia in Bulgaria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Sofia for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Sofia is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out South Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Dine in style at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Saffron Indian Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Island Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Boyana Church
  • National Palace of Culture
  • Regional History Museum Sofia
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
  • More

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Boyana Church is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to National Palace Of Culture, a captivating convention center, known for its instagrammable features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Borisova Gradina Park and Zaimov Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, 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.

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

Keep the evening going at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urban Rebel, 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!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • Bansko
  • More

Drive 213 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Rila Monastery
  • House Museum of Nikola Vaptsarov
  • Monument Paisius of Hilendar
  • Holy Trinity Church
  • "Neofit Rilski" House-Museum
  • More

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sofia, including a monastery, a museum, a monument, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Rila Monastery. This interesting monastery is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to House Museum Of Nikola Vaptsarov, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sofia on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Monument Paisius Of Hilendar, an increasingly popular monument in the region. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Holy Trinity Church and "neofit Rilski" House-museum.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bansko. 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kasapinova Mehana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Euphoria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bansko.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Nova Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Amigo Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bansko
  • Thessaloniki
  • More

Drive 228 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • The Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos
  • Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • Aristotelous Square
  • More

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bansko on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking art installation before continuing your journey. Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki is your next stop. This underrated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Bansko.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit White Tower Of Thessaloniki. This instagrammable monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Aristotelous Square.

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

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 lovely meal at Kitchen Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Greek is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Phanós. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Thessaloniki tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Beetle Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Vogatsikou 3. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Souel, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Thessaloniki
  • Skopje
  • More

Drive 238 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Skopje Zoo
  • Mustafa Paša
  • Macedonian Orthodox Church „Ascension of Jesus“
  • National Gallery Chifte Amam
  • Old Bazaar
  • Memorial House of Mother Teresa
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Thessaloniki. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a zoo, a mosque, a church, an art gallery, a market, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Skopje Zoo. This is a curiosity-inducing zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Mustafa Pasha Türbe, a locally appreciated mosque in Thessaloniki.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Church Of The Ascension Of Jesus, Skopje. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Čifte Hammam, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Old Bazaar, a standout place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Mother Theresa Memorial House to your itinerary. This up-and-coming museum offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Thessaloniki.

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

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Skopje's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of North Macedonia 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, Skopje has them.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mosh, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Café Capri provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Badu Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Skopje
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 247 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Stone Bridge
  • Square „Macedonia“
  • Skopje City Park
  • Square „Philip II”
  • Hisarlaka Fortress
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Skopje in North Macedonia and Kyustendil 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.

Start by visiting Stone Bridge In Skopje, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Macedonia Square, another must-visit landmark and beloved public square renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Skopje by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to City park. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Skopje experience. We also recommend visiting Philip The Second Square - Avtokomanda, a beloved public square. Nearby, you'll also find Hisarlaka Fortress, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. 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 One More Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Teos Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bsd 2 Ndk likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Sofia - Departure day
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  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia's best shopping area, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Bulgaria.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This captivating church is a popular place to see in the city.

Get a last taste of Bulgaria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Sofia and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia with fond memories. Safe travels!

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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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