13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Albania With Itinerary from Athens to Trikala, Thessaloniki, Gjirokastra, Ksamil, Preveza, and Corinth

On day 2, you will wake up in Athens with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Athens before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Greece and Albania.

Something that makes Athens the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, National Archaeological Museum Of Athens. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,596 visitors and gets around 594,219 visits every year.

The famous Acropolis Museum is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area, with up to 814,565 people visiting it every year. As one of Athens's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 65,819 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Athens is also home to the extraordinary Odeon Of Herodes Atticus, which boasts a 4.9 out of 5 star rating in 15,092 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Acropolis Of Athens, which hosts up to 1,807,580 visitors every year. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 123,792 reviews, a visit to this wonderful archeological site and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Athens exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Parthenon up close. This fascinating archeological site and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 74,124 travelers is proof.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Athens by reserving a table at Hytra. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Spondi, recognized for its delicious french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Zillers, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and greek cuisine in Athens. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and greek foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

Wake up and see what day 3 of your great European road trip in Greece and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Athens for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Athens — Philopappos Hill. About 18,588 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Roman Agora is another top sight in Athens that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved archeological site in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,101 visitors.

Monastiraki Square 6 is a spectacular public square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Athens, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,322 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Ancient Agora Of Athens. Because of its allure and charm, around 32,962 visitors have rated this attraction and archeological site an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Temple Of Hephaestus. Echoing its popularity, 8,335 travelers have awarded this famous archeological site and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Visit Omonoia Square in Athens for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Omonoia Square has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cookoovaya, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Karamanlidika? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Estiatorio Auli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Athens.

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

Take in the ambiance of Athens 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece and Albania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Trikala where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable The Museum Escape Games. This outstanding escape room and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 160 travelers, a visit to the remarkable The Museum Escape Games is worth pages in your travel diary.

When you’ve had your share of Thiva, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thermopyles. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

Archaeological Museum Of Thebes is a travelers’ favorite in Thiva, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,698 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Thiva and set your GPS to Thermopyles. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Thermopyles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Thermopyles is the magnificent Memorial To Leonidas And 300 Spartans. Around 4,824 visitors have rated this excellent war memorial and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at ALVEO, a top-rated dining destination in Trikala. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trikala Fortress, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palia Istoria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trikala this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soyita Art Cafe, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Factory Café, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Love Shake likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the night falls in Trikala, 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 multi-country road trip across Greece 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 Kastraki 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 Kastraki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Edessa. Your travel time is around 2 hours 40 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Kastraki is the magnificent Meteora. Around 37,365 visitors have rated this excellent monastery and travel destination an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known monastery that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 8,630 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Edessa. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Waterfalls Park, Edessa. This outstanding waterfall and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 19,690 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Waterfalls Park, Edessa is worth pages in your travel diary.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki. 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 Greece and Albania.

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Beetle Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Vogatsikou 3 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Souel provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Thessaloniki 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 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Thessaloniki. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Tsimiski Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Thessaloniki, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many other must-see landmarks.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Thessaloniki, including the outstanding Aristotelous Square. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 42,109 reviews, this fascinating public square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Thessaloniki is also home to the captivating White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a local monument considered one of the highlights of the city. About 52,379 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 290,192 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Thessaloniki. This extraordinary art installation and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,884 travelers.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Thessaloniki’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 and Albania.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mamalouka, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Thessaloniki at Clochard, 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 Sofi's House Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Thessaloniki tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Castra- All Day Terrace Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Barbaben - Bar/ba/ben offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Apallou, another top-rated bar in the area.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Gjirokastra in Albania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ksamil, your home for 2 nights.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Staryj Gorod Girokastry. This outstanding historical landmark and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 291 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Staryj Gorod Girokastry is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Castle Of Gjirokastra is another of the town's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,622 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing museum, Skenduli House In Gjirokastër. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 409 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Zekate House, an outstanding historical landmark, is one place you should visit while in Gjirokastra considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 368 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gjirokastra, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ksamil may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Ksamil, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Ksamil is the magnificent Plazhi Ksamilit. Around 3,654 visitors have rated this excellent beach and travel destination an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Papu Gyros, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar One beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Veranda By Apollonia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ksamil tonight.

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

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ksamil in Albania and Parga in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Preveza, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ksamil, including the outstanding Lori Beach. Having an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,366 reviews, this fascinating beach and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the village.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ksamil and set your GPS to Vrinë. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Vrinë, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated archeological site and attraction in Vrinë — Butrint National Park. About 9,869 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Vrinë, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parga, Greece. Your travel time is around 2 hours 10 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Parga is the fantastic Venetian Castle Of Parga. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Venetian Castle Of Parga has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,018 reviews.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Preveza’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 Greece and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Preveza. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ano Vlanto (Ano Vlanto), an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ventura Tavern offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Monolithi Beach Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Preveza.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Roloi offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Markus Espresso & Wine Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Metropolis Cafe (mitropolis Kafe) is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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!