9-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia from Sofia to Thessaloniki, Larissa, Bitola, and Skopje

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 Zaimov Park. Around 15,334 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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 sets on day 1 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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Halbite Beer Hall, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another popular option for a drink or two.

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 Eagles' Bridge. This attraction is a stone bridge that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,319 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Prince's Garden. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,695 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This church is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,088 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — National Theater "Ivan Vazov". More than a popular point of interest and attraction, National Theater "Ivan Vazov" offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Sofia. National Theater "Ivan Vazov" boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 traveler reviews.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Divaka, 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 Face bar & dinner, 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 Art Club Museum. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sofia tonight.

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

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Reduta in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Thessaloniki, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Sofia Zoo. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular South Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 30,985 visitors.

According to travelers in Sofia, the extraordinary National Palace of Culture is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Reduta, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Reduta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Reduta is the magnificent Geo Milev Park. Around 10,414 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Thessaloniki’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

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 Thessaloniki’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Savor the flavors at Kitchen Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Greek beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Phanós. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Thessaloniki tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Beetle Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Vogatsikou 3, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Souel provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Thessaloniki for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Edessa in Greece.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Thessaloniki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,316 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Agias Sofias Square. This incredible attraction and square holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 10,374 visitors.

According to travelers in Thessaloniki, the extraordinary Arch of Galerius and Rotunda is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and tetrapylon is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,542 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible sightseeing destination, Heptapyrgion of Thessaloniki. Up to 5,777 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in Thessaloniki’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Edessa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Edessa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Edessa the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding urban park, Waterfalls Park, Edessa. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,690 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Thessaloniki and set your GPS to Edessa. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. Upon reaching Edessa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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 delicious dinner at Mamalouka, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Clochard offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sofi's House Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Thessaloniki.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Barbaben - Μπαρ/Μπα/Μπεν provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Apallou offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 5 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 - Thessaloniki in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Larissa where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Kapani. This outstanding market and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 11,747 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Kapani is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Aristotelous Square is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This square and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,109 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing fortified tower, White Tower of Thessaloniki, which hosts approximately 290,192 visitors per year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 52,379 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, an outstanding market, is one place you should visit while in Thessaloniki considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,165 travelers.

Explore the magnificent The Umbrellas Sculpture by Zogolopoulos and discover what makes this local sightseeing destination and wonder one of the best attractions in Thessaloniki. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 13,884 travelers.

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

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 Larissa. 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 Nonna Rossa, a popular restaurant in Larissa. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Larissa at Βόσπορος | Restaurant • Bar, 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 THE ALLEY. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Larissa tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, sherlock easy bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kiou is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Wisedog is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 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 Trikala in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bitola, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Larissa and set your GPS to Trikala. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 56 min. Upon reaching Trikala, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

In Trikala, the extraordinary Matsopoulos Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,917 travelers' reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trikala, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kastraki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron -Transfiguration of the Saviour. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,630 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Meteora. This incredible attraction and monastery holds an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, thanks to 37,365 visitors.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of North Macedonia's delectable cuisine at one of Bitola'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.

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

Keep the evening going at Bar Carsija, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Porta Jazz, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cafe Pajton, 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bitola 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.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bitola, including the outstanding Clock Tower. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,302 reviews, this fascinating sightseeing destination and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bitola is also home to the captivating House of the Army, a local sightseeing destination considered one of the highlights of the city. About 286 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary NI Institute and Museum Bitola is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Bitola. This extraordinary museum and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,411 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bitola and set your GPS to Skopje. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 30 min. Upon reaching Skopje, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Skopje the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding čaršija, Old Bazaar. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,113 visitors.

The famous Čifte Hammam is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Skopje's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 1,881 travelers have rated this incredible hammam and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

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.

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

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mosh, known for its lively atmosphere. Café Capri is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Badu bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. Today's main destinations are Skopje in North Macedonia, 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.

Something that makes Skopje the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding zoo, Skopje Zoo. This local gem has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,982 visitors.

The famous City Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Skopje's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 4,127 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Skopje is also home to the extraordinary Macedonia Square, which boasts a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in 3,125 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Stone Bridge in Skopje. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 5,177 reviews, a visit to this wonderful footbridge and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

Set your GPS to Sofia, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sofia beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ресторант VICTORIA България, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Park Hotel "MOSKVA". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

As the night falls in Sofia, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 9 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.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding North Park. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,004 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations 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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider J. J. Murphy's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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