7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia With Itinerary from Tirana to Bitola, Kyustendil, and Skopje
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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 Albania, Bulgaria, 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 3 nights in Albania, 1 night in Bulgaria, and 2 nights in North Macedonia.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Albania, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Tirana and begin your adventure from there. Explore Tirana, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Bulgaria. Immerse yourself in the allure of Kyustendil, Nevestino, Ovchartsi, and Bistritsa, 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 Ohrid, Lubanishta, Bitola, and Skopje.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Kyustendil’s Hisarlaka Fortress and Ohrid's iconic Church Of Saint John The Theologian. 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 Albania, Bulgaria, 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 Albania, Bulgaria, 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 Albania, Bulgaria, 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
- Tirana - Arrival day
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- Blloku
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Tirana in Albania. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Tirana for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Albania to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Tirana 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.
Tirana 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 Blloku, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Tirana. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Albania. 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 slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Tirana. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Boutique Kotoni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at il Gusto Ristorante as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Tirana.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Observator Wine And Piano Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Radio Bar Tirana is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Your multi-country road trip in Albania, Bulgaria, 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.
Day 2
- Tirana
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Drive 8 km, 50 min
- Tirana Park
- Fortress of Justinian
- Bunk’Art 2
- Skanderbeg Square
- Rruga Murat Toptani
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Tirana. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
Rruga Murat Toptani is a fantastic place you can explore today in Tirana. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Tirana-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tirana, including a park, a castle, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your day at Grand Park Of Tirana. This eye-catching park is an increasingly popular place to see in Tirana. Then, wander over to Fortress Of Justinian. If culturally significant sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Bunk’art 2. This culturally significant museum is a favorite among visitors.
Tirana offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Skanderbeg Square is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Tirana. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Savor the flavors at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Artigiano beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tirana tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kafe Flora, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bufe Wine Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tirana. Whisky Bar Tirana is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Take in the ambiance of Tirana 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!
Day 3
- Tirana
- Bitola
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Drive 259 km, 5 hours 17 min
- Church of Saint John the Theologian
- Monastery of Saint Naum
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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 Ohrid 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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Tirana on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Church Of Saint John The Theologian is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic church before continuing your journey. Monastery Of Saint Naum is your next stop. This up-and-coming monastery is one of the best-rated sights in Tirana.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Bitola.
As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Bitola'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, Bitola has them.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Epinal Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try GT Caffe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Belvedere as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bitola.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Carsija, known for its lively atmosphere. Porta Jazz is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Pajton 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!
Day 4
- Bitola
- Kyustendil
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Drive 273 km, 4 hours 12 min
- Clock Tower
- NI Institute and Museum Bitola
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On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Albania, Bulgaria, 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 Bitola in North Macedonia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kyustendil, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bitola, including a monument and a museum. Start your day at Clock Tower. This breathtaking monument is a locally appreciated place to see in Bitola. Then, wander over to Ni Institute And Museum Bitola. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Kyustendil of your choice.
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 Kyustendil'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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Friends, a top-rated dining spot in Kyustendil. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Ramira, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vintage bar and dinner. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kyustendil.
Keep the evening going at Vogue, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 5
- Kyustendil
- Skopje
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 55 min
- Hisarlaka Fortress
- Kadin Bridge
- Ovchartsi Waterfall
- Rila
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Kyustendil in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Skopje where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Kyustendil on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing castle, Hisarlaka Fortress. Afterward, continue to Kadin Bridge, a monument every traveler should visit.
As you explore Kyustendil’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Ovchartsi Waterfall “goritsa”. This increasingly popular waterfall is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rila, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Skopje. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Balilla offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sidro is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Skopje.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mosh, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Capri offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Skopje. Badu Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Albania, Bulgaria, 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 relaxing.
Day 6
- Skopje
- Tirana
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Drive 290 km, 5 hours 1 min
- Old Bazaar
- Skopje Zoo
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Albania, Bulgaria, 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 Tirana. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Skopje is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Old Bazaar, a notable market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Skopje Zoo, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal.
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.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Tirana. 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 Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, a top-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villa Tafaj, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Komiteti Bar - Tiranë after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Hemingway Bar Tirana for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tribeca Bar Tirana is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Tirana - Departure day
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- Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Tirana 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 Albania, Bulgaria, 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 Albania by visiting Tirana’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Pazari i Ri. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Albania.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit, a street that captures the true essence of Tirana. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Get a last taste of Albania’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Tirana 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 Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Tirana 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 Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia with fond memories. Safe travels!
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