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

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

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Regional History Museum Of Sofia and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a breathtaking church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Boyana Church, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pernik. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vitosha Nature Park and explore the majestic features.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

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!

Greet day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Stob in Bulgaria. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sofia and set your GPS to Stob. 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 Stob, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stob Earth Pyramids. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the rock formation before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rila, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stob to Rila may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rila, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering “bohemia Falls” Ecotrail, a frequently visited waterfall known for its serene features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rila. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Rila Monastery, a notable monastery in Rila. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring 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.

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation 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 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thessaloniki, Greece. Your travel time is around 3 hours 33 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a spectacular monument known for its stunning features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki, an underrated museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos and uncover the details of this noteworthy art installation. Make sure to also explore Aristotelous Square, a notable public square.

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

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

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Thessaloniki tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Beetle Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Vogatsikou 3 is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Souel also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 European tour in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you’ll start and end your day in Kastraki, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Kastraki in Greece. Thessaloniki remains your base for 1 night more.

Whether you decide to explore Kastraki on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

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 53 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour, a worthwhile monastery known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Main Observation Deck Of Meteora, a curiosity-inducing observation deck.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kalambaka may take around 3 min. Upon your arrival in Kalambaka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora, an intriguing monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Castra- All Day Terrace Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Apallou is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Thessaloniki as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 6 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 Skopje. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Skopje, North Macedonia. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to North Macedonia. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 46 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Skopje Zoo, a curiosity-inducing zoo that everyone visiting Skopje should see. Next, head to Mustafa Pasha Türbe. This culturally significant mosque is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Old Bazaar, a historic market popular among locals as well as travelers. Stone Bridge In Skopje is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this intriguing historical landmark before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Macedonia Square, a masterful public square and a top attraction in the city.

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.

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 Skopje.

Savor the flavors at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Balilla beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sidro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Skopje tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mosh. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. 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.

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!

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Ohrid in North Macedonia. With 1 night left in Skopje, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Ohrid Old Town. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ohrid.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ohrid, an up-and-coming park in Ohrid. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Chinar Tree. This frequently visited historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting archeological site in the region.

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

Savor the flavors at Vodenica Mulino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Gallery 7 beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Fast Food 7 - Aerodrom. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Skopje tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Plovdiv in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sofia where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Sofia, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Sofia may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sofia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an underrated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Gate "hisar Kapia", Plovdiv, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Next, explore Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, yet another interesting place to see in the area.

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

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.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Corner, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gaba offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, K.e.b.a. 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!