One-Week Road Trip in Greece and Albania from Athens to Patras, Gjirokastra, and Preveza

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Greece and Albania begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring town 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 town’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated ancient greek temple and attraction in Athens — Temple of Olympian Zeus. About 25,941 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Athens. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Greece. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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 town’s most recommended bars.

Hytra is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature modern meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 1-star Michelin restaurant in Athens, Spondi. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature french dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Athens you shouldn’t miss is The Zillers. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this restaurant’s contemporary and greek menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Couleur Locale, claiming it’s one of the best in the town. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,817 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is 360 Cocktail bar. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,580 customers.

Upupa Epops - The bar is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,915 customers.

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 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 town for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In Athens, the extraordinary National Archaeological Museum of Athens awaits. This attraction is a valued national museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,435 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 594,219 visitors every year, the amazing National Archaeological Museum of Athens is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens is the spectacular Ancient Agora of Athens. This attraction is an archaeological site that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,957 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This local odeon and wonder has an overall review score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 14,807 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Acropolis of Athens is another attraction you might want to add to your Athens exploration itinerary. This acropolis is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 120,655 reviews and annual visitor count of approximately 1,807,580 people.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Parthenon. More than a popular ancient greek temple and attraction, Parthenon offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Athens. Parthenon boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 72,080 traveler reviews.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Athens in Greece by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Athens’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Ama Lachei, a popular restaurant in Athens. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 4,018 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Efcharis restaurant during your stay in Athens. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 3,655 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Tavern Klimataria (est.1927), a renowned dining destination in Athens. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,650 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at The Clumsies, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the town. The Clumsies boasts an impressive 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 5,694 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Kuko's The Bar, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Kuko's The Bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,785 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Juan Rodriguez Bar •Compañia de Bebida. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5-star from 3,785 customers.

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 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Patras, where you will stay for 1 night.

Acropolis Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Athens, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 63,138 visitors. More than 814,565 people visit this extraordinary archaeological museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Athens, don’t miss Philopappos Hill, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,153 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Athens off your list when you visit the wonderful Philopappos Monument. This popular sight is an outstanding mausoleum, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,269 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Roman Agora. This square and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,799 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Monastiraki Square 6 awaits. This rescue excavation is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 16,181 visitors.

Patras’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Athens behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min.

To make your fun escapade in Patras, Greece even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Patras’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.

Don't forget to book a table at Bodegas, a well-known eatery in Patras. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,710 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Salumeria while exploring Patras. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,481 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sailing Club Of Patras, a popular restaurant in Patras. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,282 discerning diners.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Notos. This famous bar in Patras has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 708 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Distinto Rio. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Distinto Rio has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,864 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Carousello. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,922 customers.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Patras in Greece and Gjirokastra in Albania, 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 Gjirokastra. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Ioannina. This car ride takes around 2 hours 11 min.

As you arrive in Patras, it’s yet again time for a break from the road for some sightseeing and exploring. In this one-of-a-kind region in Greece, you’ll find some of the area’s most outstanding sights.

Something that makes Patras the perfect holiday destination is that the region offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding point of interest, Rion-Antirion Bridge. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,277 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Patras, prepare for your next destination. Enjoy the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gjirokastra, Albania. Your travel time is around 3 hours 16 min.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Patras, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Patras.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Gjirokastra. 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 lively vibes in central Gjirokastra. 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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Gjirokastra has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 3,078 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Restorant Tradicional Urat should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Gjirokastra, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,146 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Taverna Lani. This highly regarded restaurant in Gjirokastra has earned a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 410 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Hangover Cocktail Bar, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Gjirokastra. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars, backed by 332 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Submarine 105, consistently rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, one of the top-rated bars in Gjirokastra, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 128 satisfied customers.

As the night falls in Gjirokastra, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 5, you will wake up in Gjirokastra with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Gjirokastra before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Greece and Albania.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Gjirokastra, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Gjirokastra.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along 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 Gjirokastra. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Book a table at Te Kalaja Restaurant & Rooms, a famous dining establishment in Gjirokastra. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 358 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Gjirokastra is Corner of Bazaar, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 5 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 263 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Gjirokastra’s The Barrels-Te Fuçitë for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 5 out of 5 stars from 252 satisfied diners.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Hotel Bar Restaurant KODRA, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Gjirokastra. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 261 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular The Black Rose Pub, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Preveza in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Preveza. Preveza will be your home for 1 night.

In Gjirokastra, the extraordinary Skenduli house in Gjirokastër awaits. This attraction is a valued historic site that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 359 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Gjirokastra is the spectacular Старый город Гирокастры. This attraction is a point of interest that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 243 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Castle of Gjirokastra. This local sightseeing destination and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,120 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Ali Pasha Bridge is another attraction you might want to add to your Gjirokastra exploration itinerary. This point of interest is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 151 reviews.

After soaking in Gjirokastra’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Preveza, Greece. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 2 hours 48 min.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Greece by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of Preveza, immersing yourself in local customs and meeting new friends.

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

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

Reserve a table at Symposio, a renowned restaurant in Preveza. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 617 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Deli & Bar Preveza while in Preveza. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 146 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Preveza at Ανω Βλαντο (Ano Vlanto), a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 109 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the town, Mango Beach Bar. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,646 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Prevere Cafe bar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,346 customers.

Blue Island Bar, Monolithi cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 995 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

Take in the ambiance of Preveza 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 7 of your multi-country journey across Greece and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Corinth in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Athens. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Preveza, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Athens may take around 4 hours 17 min.

When you reach Corinth, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road and indulge in some sightseeing and adventure. Check out some of the top attractions in the region.

A tour of Corinth is not complete without a visit to the famous Corinth Canal East Entrance. This incredible point of interest and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,356 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Greece. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Corinth itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful region.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Greece extra special!

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.

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 town’s most popular bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Rosalia while you’re in Athens. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 3,226 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Athens is Kuzina. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 2,585 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Athens, enjoy LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant’s delectable dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 2,159 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Brettos, claiming it’s one of the best in the town. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,481 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Ippopotamos. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,396 customers.

Μαύρος Γάτος is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,357 customers.

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 8 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.

On your last day in Greece, take time to indulge in shopping at Athens’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, town’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Greece. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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 35,829 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 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 8-day European road trip in Greece and Albania with fond memories. Safe travels!