6-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Albania With Itinerary from Athens to Kalambaka and Gjirokastra
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Embark on an unforgettable 6-day multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Athens, Delphi, Kalambaka, and Gjirokastra sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Greece and 1 night in Albania.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Greece, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Athens and begin your adventure from there. Explore Athens, Delphi, Kalambaka, Kastraki, and Ioannina, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Albania. Immerse yourself in the allure of Gjirokastra, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Gjirokastra’s Castle Of Gjirokastra. 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 Greece and Albania 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 6-day self-drive adventure in Greece and Albania. 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 Greece and Albania.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Athens - Arrival day
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- Temple of Olympian Zeus
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Greece and Albania begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Athens in Greece. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Athens for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Greece to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Athens 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.
Athens 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 Temple Of Olympian Zeus, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Athens. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Athens’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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Zampano, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rosalia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NJV Athens Plaza. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Athens.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Mayros Gatos, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kuko's The Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Revolt Street Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Your multi-country road trip in Greece 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
- Athens
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Drive 7 km, 36 min
- National Archaeological Museum of Athens
- Acropolis of Athens
- Parthenon
- Ermou Street
- Plaka
- Monastiraki
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On day 2, 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 and Albania.
Set aside time today to explore Ermou Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Plaka, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.
Today’s agenda in Athens includes a museum and an archeological site. National Archaeological Museum Of Athens is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Acropolis Of Athens, a timeless archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Parthenon, a respected archeological site, also available for your discovery today.
Visit Kolonaki in Athens for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Kolonaki has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Athens. 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.
Savor the flavors at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 42 Barstronomy Athens beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider O Babas. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Athens tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Tiki Bar Athens is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Brettos, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Luxus Bar Bistro. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Athens
- Meteora
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Drive 405 km, 5 hours 35 min
- Tholos of Delphi
- Delphi Archaeological Museum
- Temple of Apollo
- Greek Education Museum
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania. Today's main destinations are Delphi in Greece, 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 Kalambaka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Athens allows for both. Start by heading to Tholos Of Delphi. This increasingly popular archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Delphi Archaeological Museum, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Temple Of Apollo In Delphi, a curiosity-inducing archeological site. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Greek Education Museum.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Kalambaka of your choice.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the town of Kalambaka boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Greece.
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
- Meteora
- Gjirokastra
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Monastery of the Holy Trinity at Meteora
- Main Observation Deck of Meteora
- The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour
- Ioannina Castle
- Ali Pasha Bridge
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On day 4 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 Kalambaka in Greece and Gjirokastra in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gjirokastra, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Kalambaka. Begin your sightseeing with Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora. This locally appreciated monastery is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Main Observation Deck Of Meteora, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Kalambaka, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. This curiosity-inducing monastery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Ioannina Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Ali Pasha Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Gjirokastra.
As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Gjirokastra's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Albania to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Gjirokastra has them.
Savor the flavors at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Taverna Brahimi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restorant Tradicional Urat. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Gjirokastra tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Hangover Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.
Take in the ambiance of Gjirokastra 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 5
- Gjirokastra
- Athens
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Drive 508 km, 6 hours 12 min
- Skënduli House
- Ethnographic Museum
- Castle of Gjirokastra
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Gjirokastra in Albania. 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.
Today’s agenda in Gjirokastra includes a museum and a castle. Skenduli House In Gjirokastër is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ethnographic Museum, a frequently visited museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Castle Of Gjirokastra, a picture-perfect castle, also available for your discovery today.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Athens. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
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 Athens. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Cookoovaya, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Karamanlidika offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Estiatorio Auli is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 6
- Athens - Departure day
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- Syntagma Square
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On day 6 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Athens 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 Greece and Albania. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Syntagma Square, a culturally significant public square before you head out.
Get a last taste of Greece’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Athens 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 Greece and Albania.
The time has come to say farewell to Athens for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 6-day European road trip in Greece and Albania with fond memories. Safe travels!
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