9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Albania With Itinerary from Athens to Kalambaka, Gjirokastra, and Saranda

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 1 night more before hitting the road again.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Athens is Ermou Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Plaka, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Immerse yourself in Athens’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at National Archaeological Museum Of Athens. This heritage-rich museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Acropolis Of Athens, a must-visit archeological site in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Parthenon, an impressive archeological site.

Visit Monastiraki 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 Monastiraki has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a popular restaurant in Athens. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Athens at 42 Barstronomy Athens, 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 O Babas. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Athens tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tiki Bar Athens. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brettos, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Luxus Bar Bistro provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your European tour in Greece and Albania, you’ll start and end your day in Kastraki, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Kalambaka for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Kastraki in Greece to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s agenda in Kalambaka includes an observation deck and a monastery. Main Observation Deck Of Meteora is must-visit observation deck and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora, a beloved monastery, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Holy Monastery Of Saint Stephan, a stunning monastery, also available for your discovery today.

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

Take in the ambiance of Kalambaka 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 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania. Today's main destinations are Ioannina 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 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Ioannina Castle. This interesting castle is a romantic place to see in Kalambaka. Continue your discovery at Cave Of Perama, an eye-catching cave with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Kalambaka, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Castle Of Gjirokastra. This beloved castle offers a picture-perfect encounter with Kalambaka. Next, make your way to Staryj Gorod Girokastry to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kalambaka.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taverna Brahimi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant Tradicional Urat. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Hangover Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

As the night falls in Gjirokastra, 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.

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Saranda for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Vrinë in Albania.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Saranda allows for both. Start by heading to Butrint National Park. This worthwhile archeological site provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Venetian Castle, a historic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Edon-bina Beach, an underrated beach. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Himara Castle.

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 Saranda. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Jericho Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

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

Get ready for an exciting day in Saranda. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a park, and an archeological site. Begin your adventure at The Clock Tower Of Ioannina. This is a locally appreciated monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Litharitsia Park, an up-and-coming park in Saranda.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Archaeological Site Of Dodoni.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cookoovaya, a top-rated dining spot in Athens. If you're in the mood for something new, try Karamanlidika, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Auli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Athens.

Keep the evening going at Kazu Cafe-bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Upupa Epops - The Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gazarte, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!