12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Athens to Ioannina, Durrës, Kolašin Municipality, Skopje, Sofia, Thessaloniki, and Trikala

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

In Athens, the extraordinary Temple Of Olympian Zeus awaits. This attraction is a valued archeological site that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 26,652 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens is the spectacular National Garden Of Athens. This attraction is a botanical garden that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,683 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Acropolis Museum. This local museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 814,565 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

Philopappos Hill is another attraction you might want to add to your Athens exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,588 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Hytra, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Spondi is one of the best restaurants for french cuisine in Athens. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Zillers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and greek cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Tiki Bar Athens, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Brettos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Athens. Luxus Bar Bistro is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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!

On day 3, you will wake up in Athens with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Athens before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Athens, including the outstanding Parthenon. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 74,124 reviews, this fascinating archeological site and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Athens is also home to the captivating Acropolis Of Athens, a local archeological site considered one of the highlights of the city. About 123,792 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 1,807,580 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Odeon Of Herodes Atticus is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Athens. This extraordinary archeological site and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 15,092 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Ancient Agora Of Athens will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing archeological site and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,962 reviews.

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Athens'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, Athens has them.

Savor the flavors at Cookoovaya, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Karamanlidika beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Estiatorio Auli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Athens tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kazu Cafe-bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Upupa Epops - The Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Gazarte 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 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Athens in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Ioannina where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Athens is the magnificent Technopolis City Of Athens. Around 15,919 visitors have rated this excellent cultural center and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing National Archaeological Museum Of Athens on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 29,596 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 594,219 people visit it every year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Athens, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gefyra Isthmou. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Gefyra Isthmou is the fantastic Corinth Canal East Entrance. As an appreciated historical landmark and local gem in the area, Corinth Canal East Entrance has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,514 reviews.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Ioannina. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Greece 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.

Dine in style at To Dodeka Cafe Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mustagogia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Accademia Del Panino. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ioannina.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at ⚜ V E D E M A ⚜. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Hogwarts Tales And Spirits, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Chevalier provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria, 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 Ioannina in Greece and Gjirokastra in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Durrës, where you will stay for 1 night.

A tour of Ioannina is not complete without a visit to the famous The Clock Tower Of Ioannina. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,053 travelers.

Make the most of your Ioannina travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Ioannina Castle. This castle and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,630 travelers.

Set your GPS to Gjirokastra, Albania and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gjirokastra beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Castle Of Gjirokastra. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 7,622 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Castle Of Gjirokastra is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

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 Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Durrës’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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pastarella, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vila Verde Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Royal G Hotel and Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Durrës.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Traiano Lounge Bar Durres, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sunset Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Posh Lounge, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Durrës in Albania and Podgorica in Montenegro. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kolašin Municipality, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Town Square Of Durrës - Sheshi Liria. This outstanding public square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 73 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Town Square Of Durrës - Sheshi Liria is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Durrës Amphitheatre is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This archeological site and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 4,471 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing monument, Venetian Tower Of Durrës. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,635 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

After soaking in Durrës’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Podgorica, Montenegro. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 45 min. When you arrive in Podgorica, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Podgorica is the magnificent Millennium Bridge. Around 1,025 visitors have rated this excellent monument and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restoran VODENICA, a popular restaurant in Kolašin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kolašin Municipality at Viline vode, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Lounge Bar Montana. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kolašin Municipality tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lounge Bar -"la Manche", a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Berane in Montenegro and Skopje 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Berane. This car ride takes around 43 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Berane is the fantastic Đurđevi Stupovi. As an appreciated monastery and local gem in the area, Đurđevi Stupovi has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 268 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Berane, 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 36 min.

Old Bazaar is a travelers’ favorite in Skopje, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,113 visitors.

In Skopje, don’t miss Čifte Hammam, a great art gallery and place to see in the town. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,881 reviews.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Skopje this evening.

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

Take in the ambiance of Skopje 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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria. 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.

Macedonia Square is a travelers’ favorite in Skopje, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,125 visitors.

In Skopje, don’t miss Stone Bridge In Skopje, a great historical landmark and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,177 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Skopje off your list when you visit the wonderful City park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,127 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Philip The Second Square - Avtokomanda. This public square and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 386 reviews.

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.

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 Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Saffron Indian Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Island Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Grijn Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar National, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your multi-country journey across Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Thessaloniki where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

In Sofia, the extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular Eagles' Bridge. This attraction is a monument 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 Borisova Gradina Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

South Park is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews.

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.

As the sun sets on day 9 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 Kitchen Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Greek? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Phanós as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Thessaloniki.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beetle Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Vogatsikou 3 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Thessaloniki. Souel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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!

On day 10 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria, 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 Trikala, where you will stay for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Thessaloniki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Aristotelous Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 42,109 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular White Tower Of Thessaloniki. This incredible attraction and monument holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 52,379 visitors. Up to 290,192 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

According to travelers in Thessaloniki, the extraordinary The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and art installation is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,884 visitors.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Trikala. 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 reserve a table at ALVEO, an iconic dining spot in Trikala. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Trikala Fortress, a popular restaurant in Trikala. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Palia Istoria, a hidden gem nestled in Trikala. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soyita Art Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Factory Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Love Shake is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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!

On day 11 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Trikala in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Athens, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Something that makes Trikala the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, Trikala City Center Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,007 visitors.

The famous Central Bridge is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Trikala's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 2,997 travelers have rated this incredible public square and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Trikala is also home to the extraordinary Matsopoulos Park, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 8,917 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Byzantine Castle Of Trikala. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 2,109 reviews, a visit to this wonderful castle and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Beer Tales, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oinomageireio Epirus (est.1898) is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at To Kafeneio. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Athens tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ipitou The Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Lot 51 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Klōstḗrion offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!