7-Day Road Trip in Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia from Athens to Trikala, Bitola, Petrich, and Larissa

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia 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 1 night.

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.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Athens, including the outstanding Temple Of Olympian Zeus. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 26,652 reviews, this fascinating ancient greek temple and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Find your way to your hotel in Athens. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Greece. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Athens’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, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rosalia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvest Coffee & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cookoovaya. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Athens.

Continue your lively evening at Μαύρος Γάτος, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kuko's The Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tiki Bar Athens ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Your multi-country road trip in Greece, 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.

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, 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 Athens in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trikala, where you will stay for 1 night.

In Athens, the extraordinary Acropolis Museum awaits. This attraction is a valued archaeological museum that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 814,565 visitors every year, the amazing Acropolis Museum is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens is the spectacular Parthenon. This attraction is an ancient greek temple that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 74,124 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Acropolis Of Athens. This local acropolis and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 1,807,580 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.

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

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, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Trikala’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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trikala this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Σουίτα Art Cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Factory Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Love Shake 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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia. Today's main destinations are Trikala 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 Bitola. You’ll stay here 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 park, Matsopoulos Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,917 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Trikala, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kastraki. Your travel time is around 37 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kastraki is the fantastic Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. As an appreciated place of worship and local gem in the area, Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,630 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Meteora. This attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 37,365 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

After soaking in Kastraki’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bitola, North Macedonia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 56 min. When you arrive in Bitola, it's time to take a break from the road.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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.

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.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bitola in North Macedonia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Petrich where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bitola today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Clock Tower. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,302 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Ni Institute And Museum Bitola. This incredible attraction and museum holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 2,411 visitors.

According to travelers in Bitola, the extraordinary Heraclea Lyncestis is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and archaeological site is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,204 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bitola, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Smolari may take around 3 hours 1 min. Upon your arrival in Smolari, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Smolare Falls is a travelers’ favorite in Smolari, 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 612 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Provence", a highly-rated dining destination in Petrich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ресторант „Райски Кът ”, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ресторантче , Жаравата". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Petrich this evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Melnik in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Larissa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Melnik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Petrich behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. Melnik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

In Melnik, the extraordinary Kordopulov House awaits. This attraction is a valued building that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,374 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Melnik is the spectacular Melnik. This attraction is a point of interest that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,060 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Melnik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kyustendil. Your travel time is around 27 min.

In Kyustendil, the extraordinary Park "st. Vrach" awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,762 travelers' reviews.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Larissa. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nonna Rossa, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Βόσπορος | Restaurant • Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss THE ALLEY. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Larissa.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Sherlock Easy Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kiou provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Wisedog offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Larissa 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!

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 Thermopyles in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Athens, your home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Larissa, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Thermopyles may take around 1 hour 42 min. Upon your arrival in Thermopyles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Memorial To Leonidas And 300 Spartans is a travelers’ favorite in Thermopyles, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,824 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kallithea. This car ride takes around 2 hours 8 min.

Something that makes Kallithea the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Water Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,266 visitors.

The famous Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Kallithea's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 53,996 travelers have rated this incredible cultural center and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Kallithea is also home to the extraordinary Stavros Niarchos Park, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 37,443 traveler reviews.

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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Athens by booking a table at The Zillers. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary, and greek cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to CTC Urban Gastronomy, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Hytra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Brettos, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Upupa Epops - The Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Lot 51 provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 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, 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 Greece by visiting Athens’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Greece.

In Athens, the extraordinary National Garden Of Athens awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,683 travelers' reviews.

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, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia.

Savor the flavors at Kuzina, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tavern Klimataria (est.1927) beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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 7-day European road trip in Greece, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia with fond memories. Safe travels!