9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Athens to Thessaloniki, Sofia, Plovdiv, Skopje, and Ohrid

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Athens for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A top thing to do today is to explore Plaka, a must-see neighborhood in Athens. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Monastiraki, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

No visit to Athens is complete without National Archaeological Museum Of Athens. This interesting museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Monastiraki Square 6, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Athens, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Acropolis Of Athens. This world-famous archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Parthenon, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Tiki Bar Athens stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brettos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Luxus Bar Bistro is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Thessaloniki.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Athens and set your GPS to Thessaloniki. 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 5 hours 20 min. Upon reaching Thessaloniki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos, a notable art installation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Agias Sofias Square and admire its photogenic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Aristotelous Square, a notable public square beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Thessaloniki. 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, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Thessaloniki. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

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

Continue your lively evening at Beetle Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Vogatsikou 3 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Souel ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence Sofia in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Sofia, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sofia beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Boyana Church, an often recommended church in Sofia. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, National Palace Of Culture. This captivating convention center is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most awe-inspiring church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the popular Borisova Gradina Park and discover what makes this park unique.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

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

As the night falls in Sofia, 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 5 of your multi-country road trip across Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Plovdiv in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Plovdiv. Your travel time is around 1 hour 40 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Alyosha Monument. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Singing Fountain, a locally renowned art installation. Conclude your sightseeing at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, known for its standout features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Rock Bar Download after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to North Star, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Skopje in North Macedonia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Skopje, your home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Skopje, North Macedonia. This car ride takes around 4 hours 54 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Old Bazaar and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Mustafa Pasha Türbe, another highlight in Skopje. When you’re done exploring the mosque, continue to Skopje Fortress, a breathtaking castle.

Nearby, you will also find Stone Bridge In Skopje. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Macedonia Square, a remarkable public square that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Skopje. 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, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Skopje.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Skopje. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Balilla, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sidro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Skopje this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mosh, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Capri offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Skopje. Badu Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Ohrid in North Macedonia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Ohrid where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Skopje’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ohrid. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 39 min. When you arrive in Ohrid, it's time to take a break from the road.

Church Of Saint John The Theologian is a worthwhile church we recommend visiting today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Plaošnik, a picture-perfect archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Church Of Saints Clement And Panteleimon, a breathtaking church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid, a history-steeped and truly unique archeological site. End your sightseeing at Ohrid, an increasingly popular park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Ohrid. 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, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria.

Don’t miss out on dining at Sky Corner, a top-rated dining destination in Ohrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizza Nemo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant „Aleksandrija“. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ohrid this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Irish Pub Dublin, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kafe Bar Coco Ohrid. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Shilla - Coffee & Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Ohrid as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. Today's main destinations are Kalambaka 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 Athens. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Greece, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kalambaka. This drive usually takes around 4 hours, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Meteora Digital Projection Center, an up-and-coming visitor center that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Greek Education Museum, where you can soak in the respected surroundings.

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

As the sun sets, 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.

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.

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

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria! Enjoy your evening in Athens to the fullest!