One-Week Road Trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia from Sofia to Thessaloniki, Skopje, and Kyustendil

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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent Holy Trinity Park. Around 7,845 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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, and North Macedonia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Sofia’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.

Make sure to book a table at Hotel Forum, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, 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 Mamma Mia Ltd. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Halbite Beer Hall, known for its inviting atmosphere. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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.

On day 2, you will wake up in Sofia with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Sofia before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

In Sofia, the extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular National Palace of Culture. This attraction is a convention center that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing South Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Sofia Zoo is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This zoo is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,237 reviews.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Divaka, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Face bar & dinner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Art Club Museum. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 Thessaloniki, your home for 2 nights.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Sofia — Zaimov Park. About 15,334 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Eagles' Bridge is another top sight in Sofia that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved stone bridge in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 visitors.

Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is a spectacular church and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent National Theater "Ivan Vazov". Because of its allure and charm, around 9,932 visitors have rated this attraction and sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to Thessaloniki, Greece and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Thessaloniki beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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 Thessaloniki. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Beetle Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Vogatsikou 3, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Souel. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Thessaloniki. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Something that makes Thessaloniki the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding sightseeing destination, The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,884 visitors.

The famous Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Thessaloniki's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 7,165 travelers have rated this incredible archaeological museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Thessaloniki is also home to the extraordinary White Tower of Thessaloniki, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 52,379 traveler reviews. This stunning fortified tower and local feature draws more than 290,192 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Aristotelous Square. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 42,109 reviews, a visit to this wonderful square and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Thessaloniki exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Kapani up close. This fascinating market and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,747 travelers is proof.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Thessaloniki'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, Thessaloniki has them.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Castra- All Day Terrace Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Barbaben - Μπαρ/Μπα/Μπεν, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Apallou. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia! Enjoy your evening in Thessaloniki to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 5 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 Skopje, where you will stay for 1 night.

A tour of Thessaloniki is not complete without a visit to the famous Arch of Galerius and Rotunda. This incredible tetrapylon and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,542 travelers.

Make the most of your Thessaloniki travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Agias Sofias Square. This square and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,374 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Πεζόδρομος Αγίας Σοφίας for an experience worth remembering. This local sightseeing destination and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 795 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Thessaloniki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Edessa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 17 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Edessa today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Waterfalls Park, Edessa. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,690 visitors.

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

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Skopje. If you're in the mood for something new, try Balilla, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sidro. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Skopje.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mosh. Alternatively, go to Café Capri, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Badu bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia! Enjoy your evening in Skopje to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Skopje today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Macedonia Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,125 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Stone Bridge in Skopje. This incredible attraction and footbridge holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 5,177 visitors.

According to travelers in Skopje, the extraordinary Church of St. Clement of Ohrid is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,691 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, City Park. Up to 4,127 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular čaršija, Old Bazaar. This attraction is rated an average 4.5 out of 5 stars among 20,113 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Friends, a top-rated dining destination in Kyustendil. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Ramira, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vintage bar and dinner. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kyustendil this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Vogue, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. Today's main destinations are Plovdiv in Bulgaria, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Kyustendil, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Plovdiv. Your travel time is around 2 hours 47 min.

In Plovdiv, the extraordinary Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Plovdiv is the spectacular Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This attraction is a point of interest that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Singing Fountain is another attraction you might want to add to your Plovdiv exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel, 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 Park Hotel "MOSKVA". As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

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 8 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.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Sofia — North Park. About 11,004 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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 8-day European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia with fond memories. Safe travels!