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

On day 2, 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.

Plaka is a fantastic place you can explore today in Athens. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Athens-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Monastiraki, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Parthenon. This top-rated archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Acropolis Of Athens, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Acropolis Museum, one of the most top-rated places to see in Athens. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Monastiraki Square 6. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this public square offers.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Athens. If you're in the mood for something new, try 42 Barstronomy Athens, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at O Babas. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Athens.

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.

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 3 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 - Delphi in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Kalambaka where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Athens, including an archeological site and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Tholos Of Delphi. This increasingly popular archeological site is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Delphi Archaeological Museum, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Athens on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Temple Of Apollo In Delphi, an underrated archeological site in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Greek Education Museum.

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

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 Kalambaka’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.

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

On day 4 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 Kalambaka in Greece and Gjirokastra in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gjirokastra, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Kalambaka includes a monastery, a castle, and a museum. Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora is must-visit monastery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monastery Of Varlaam, a worthwhile monastery, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ioannina Castle, a history-steeped castle, also available for your discovery today.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Gjirokastra. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Albania 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Hangover Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Gjirokastra.

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 exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Gjirokastra in Albania. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Saranda, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Gjirokastra. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Skenduli House In Gjirokastër is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Gjirokastra. Next, head to Staryj Gorod Girokastry, an underrated historical landmark, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Castle Of Gjirokastra. This culturally significant castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Blue Eye and The Blue Eye. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Italian Mattarello pizzeria, a popular restaurant in Saranda. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Saranda at Gerthela, 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 Meat House Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Saranda tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Elvis Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Tipsy Drinks And More, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jamaica 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, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Vrinë in Albania and Ioannina 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.

Today’s itinerary in Saranda covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a monument, and a mosque. Start your adventure at Venetian Castle. This worthwhile castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Ali Pasha's Tomb, a must-see monument in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Fethiye Mosque. This worthwhile mosque offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cookoovaya, an iconic dining spot in Athens. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Karamanlidika, a popular restaurant in Athens. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Estiatorio Auli, a hidden gem nestled in Athens. 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 Kazu Cafe-bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Upupa Epops - The Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Gazarte offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take in the ambiance of Athens 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!