9-Day Road Trip in Greece, and Albania from Athens to Trikala, Gjirokastra, and Patras

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.

Something that makes Athens the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding ancient greek temple, Parthenon. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 74,124 visitors.

The famous Acropolis Of Athens is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area, with up to 1,807,580 people visiting it every year. As one of Athens's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 123,792 travelers have rated this incredible acropolis and travel destination an average of 4.8 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 Technopolis City Of Athens. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 15,919 reviews, a visit to this wonderful museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Athens exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic National Archaeological Museum Of Athens up close. This fascinating national museum and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,596 travelers is proof. Around 594,219 people travel to Athens each year just to see this famous attraction with their own eyes, so make sure to make time for this absolute gem.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hytra in Athens by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hytra offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Spondi, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing french cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Zillers, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary, and greek menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Brettos, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Upupa Epops - The Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Lot 51. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the night falls in Athens, 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 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, and Albania.

Temple Of Olympian Zeus 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 4.5 out of 5 stars from 26,652 visitors.

In Athens, don’t miss Acropolis Museum, a great archaeological museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 814,565 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Athens off your list when you visit the wonderful Philopappos Hill. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 18,588 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Ancient Agora Of Athens. This archaeological site and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,962 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Temple Of Hephaestus awaits. This ancient greek temple is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,335 visitors.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kuzina, a top-rated dining destination in Athens. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern Klimataria (est.1927), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Efcharis restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Athens this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at 360 Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bolivar Beach Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Juan Rodriguez Bar •compañia De Bebida offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece, and Albania. 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 Trikala where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Athens today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Monastiraki Square 6. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,322 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Hadrian's Library. This incredible attraction and building holds an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to 6,370 visitors.

According to travelers in Athens, the extraordinary Roman Agora is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,101 visitors.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Athens — Nea Filadelfeia Forest. About 8,392 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

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

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Σουίτα 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.

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 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 Gjirokastra, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kastraki.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kastraki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Meteora. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 37,365 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. This incredible attraction and place of worship holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 8,630 visitors.

According to travelers in Kastraki, the extraordinary Monastery Of Varlaam is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,965 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, 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.

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 Gjirokastra’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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, an iconic dining spot in Gjirokastra. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Taverna Brahimi, a popular restaurant in Gjirokastra. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restorant Tradicional Urat, a hidden gem nestled in Gjirokastra. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, known for its lively atmosphere. Hangover Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Ioannina 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 Patras. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ioannina, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Patras may take around 2 hours 14 min. Upon your arrival in Patras, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated show cave and attraction in Ioannina — Cave Of Perama. About 6,901 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Ioannina Castle is another top sight in Ioannina that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved castle in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,630 visitors.

Μουσείο Ελληνικής Ιστορίας Παύλου Βρέλλη is a spectacular museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Ioannina, earning an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,288 enchanted visitors.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Patras. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Carousello, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fork is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Marogia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Patras tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Χάραμα Θερινό after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Notos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Minimal also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Patras 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.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Holy Church Of Saint Andrew. This outstanding church and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 4,818 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Holy Church Of Saint Andrew is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This point of interest and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,442 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Patras and set your GPS to Palaio Faliro. 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 2 hours 19 min. Upon reaching Palaio Faliro, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Palaio Faliro today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Palaio Faliro. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,212 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kallithea. This car ride takes around 9 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kallithea is the fantastic Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. As an appreciated cultural center and local gem in the area, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 53,996 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Stavros Niarchos Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 37,443 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

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 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.

Dine in style at THE TRIKYKLO TAVERN - GREEK BEER - COFFEE TRIKYKLO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Buena Vista Social Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out nice n easy. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Athens.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Ippopotamos, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Laluk Cafe-bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Clumsies provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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!