9-Day Road Trip to Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania 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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Park "Zaimov". This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 visitors.

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 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Divaka, another premier location with a delectable menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Halbite Beer Hall offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Lime Cafe & Cocktails is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania 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.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding Druzhba Park. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,509 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Sofia is also home to the captivating Eagles' Bridge, a local stone bridge considered one of the highlights of the city. About 10,196 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.4 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Borisova Gradina Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Sofia. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,346 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing church and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,648 reviews.

Soak in Sofia's rich culture at the fantastic Ivan Vazov National Theater. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Sofia is its overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,760 visitor reviews.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Face bar & dinner, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Sofia at Art Club Museum, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Sofia 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 Skopje. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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 Skopje, North Macedonia. Your travel time is around 3 hours 32 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding National Palace of Culture. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,510 reviews, this fascinating convention center and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Sofia is also home to the captivating Sofia Zoo, a local zoo considered one of the highlights of the city. About 14,962 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.3 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary South Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Sofia. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,763 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful North Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,850 reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Skopje. 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 Skopje. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Balilla offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vodenica Mulino. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Skopje.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Capri after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Badu bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Chillin' Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Tirana in Albania and Skopje in North Macedonia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tirana, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Tirana is the magnificent Dajti Ekspres. Around 449 visitors have rated this excellent gondola lift and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Bunk’Art on this leg of your adventure in Albania. This attraction is a well-known history museum that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 1,736 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Skopje and set your GPS to Tirana, Albania. 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 4 hours 18 min. Upon reaching Tirana, 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 zoo, Skopje Zoo. This local gem has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,910 visitors.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, an iconic dining spot in Tirana. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Artigiano, a popular restaurant in Tirana. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Radio Bar Tirana, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Kafe Flora 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, North Macedonia, and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Tirana to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Wake up and see what day 5 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Tirana for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Something that makes Tirana the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Skanderbeg Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,412 visitors.

The famous Rinia Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Tirana's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 2,691 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Tirana is also home to the extraordinary Bunk’Art 2, which boasts a 4.4 out of 5 star rating in 4,293 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Grand Park of Tirana. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 3,933 reviews, a visit to this wonderful urban park and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine, a top-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ejona, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Salt Rest. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bufe Wine Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Whisky Bar Tirana is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Komiteti Bar - Tiranë also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Lubanishta in North Macedonia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bitola, your home for 1 night.

Something that makes Lubanishta the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding monastery, Monastery of Saint Naum. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,144 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ohrid, North Macedonia. This car ride takes around 2 hours 25 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sightseeing destination and attraction in Ohrid — Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid. About 3,788 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Museum „The Bay of Bones“ is another top sight in Ohrid that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved museum in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,524 visitors.

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

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Epinal Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, GT Caffe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Belvedere. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bitola tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Carsija, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Porta Jazz offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cafe Pajton. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Skopje in North Macedonia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Kyustendil where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Skopje and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Skopje beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Skopje is not complete without a visit to the famous Old Bazaar. This incredible čaršija and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,595 travelers.

Make the most of your Skopje travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Stone Bridge in Skopje. This footbridge and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,994 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Macedonia Square for an experience worth remembering. This local sightseeing destination and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,849 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Kyustendil. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Restaurant Friends, a highly-rated dining destination in Kyustendil. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Ramira, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vintage bar and dinner. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kyustendil this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vogue, known for its lively atmosphere.

Take in the ambiance of Kyustendil as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, 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 Plovdiv in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Plovdiv, 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 Kyustendil to Plovdiv may take around 2 hours 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Plovdiv today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,603 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis. This incredible attraction and point of interest holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 7,705 visitors.

According to travelers in Plovdiv, the extraordinary “Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,346 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, Singing Fountains. Up to 12,362 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at J. J. Murphy's, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Sofia at Restaurant "Staria Chinar", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

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, North Macedonia, and Albania. 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, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Bulgaria. Keep the spirit of your trip to Bulgaria alive with these special souvenirs.

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, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Taj Mahal Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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, North Macedonia, and Albania with fond memories. Safe travels!