10-Day Road Trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania from Skopje to Sofia, Kyustendil, Bitola, and Tirana

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Skopje in North Macedonia. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Skopje for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to North Macedonia to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Skopje before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A tour of Skopje is not complete without a visit to the famous City Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,066 travelers.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Skopje. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Dine in style at Tribeca Restaurant & Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Balilla boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vodenica Mulino. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Skopje.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Capri, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Badu bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Chillin' Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Your multi-country road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, 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.

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Skopje in North Macedonia. 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 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sofia, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Skopje to Sofia may take around 3 hours 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sofia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Skopje — Mother Theresa Memorial House. About 2,599 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Church of St. Clement of Ohrid is another top sight in Skopje that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved cathedral in the area, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,638 visitors.

Skopje Fortress is a spectacular archaeological site and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Skopje, earning an impressive average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,854 enchanted visitors.

Set your GPS to Sofia, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sofia beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Divaka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Face bar & dinner. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sofia.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

As the night falls in Sofia, 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.

Wake up and see what day 3 of your great European road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Druzhba Park is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, 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 8,509 visitors.

In Sofia, don’t miss Sofia Zoo, a great zoo and place to see in the hamlet. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,962 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful South Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,763 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Ivan Vazov National Theater. This sightseeing destination and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,760 reviews.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Sofia. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don’t miss out on dining at Art Club Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider J. J. Murphy's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant "Staria Chinar". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this 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!

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In Sofia, the extraordinary Park "Zaimov" awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,209 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Sofia is the spectacular St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This attraction is a church that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Knyazheska Garden. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,672 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Eagles' Bridge is another attraction you might want to add to your Sofia exploration itinerary. This stone bridge is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,196 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Borisova Gradina Park. More than a popular park and attraction, Borisova Gradina Park offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Sofia. Borisova Gradina Park boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,346 traveler reviews.

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 Sofia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taj Mahal Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Take in the ambiance of Sofia 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!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Bulgaria, 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kyustendil, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Rila Monastery and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rila Monastery beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous National Palace of Culture. This incredible convention center and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Holy Trinity Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,768 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible North Park for an experience worth remembering. This local park and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,850 visitors.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rila Monastery. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 37 min. When you arrive in Rila Monastery, it's time to take a break from the road.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Rila Monastery, including the outstanding Rila Monastery. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,157 reviews, this fascinating monastery and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Kyustendil. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of North Macedonia's delectable cuisine at one of Kyustendil'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 city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Friends, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Ramira? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Vintage bar and dinner as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kyustendil.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vogue, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Skopje in North Macedonia, 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 Bitola. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Kyustendil’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Skopje, North Macedonia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 15 min. When you arrive in Skopje, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Skopje is the magnificent Old Bazaar. Around 19,595 visitors have rated this excellent čaršija and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Čifte Hammam on this leg of your adventure in North Macedonia. This attraction is a well-known hammam that has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 1,867 travelers.

The remarkable Skopje Zoo is known to be one of the best places to visit in Skopje, and its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,910 traveler reviews is proof.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bitola. 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 North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Epinal Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Bitola. If you're eager to try something different, consider GT Caffe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Belvedere. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bitola this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Carsija, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Porta Jazz, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cafe Pajton provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ohrid in North Macedonia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Tirana where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bitola, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ohrid. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Chinar Tree is a travelers’ favorite in Ohrid, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,342 visitors.

In Ohrid, don’t miss Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid, a great sightseeing destination and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,788 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Ohrid off your list when you visit the wonderful Old City Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,706 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Church of Saint John the Theologian. This church and place of interest has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 3,416 reviews.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Tirana’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 North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania.

Dine in style at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Artigiano boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tirana.

Keep the evening going at Radio Bar Tirana, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Kafe Flora, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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 8, you will wake up in Tirana with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Tirana before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated square and attraction in Tirana — Skanderbeg Square. About 8,412 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Fortress of Justinian is another top sight in Tirana that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved cultural monument of albania in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,459 visitors.

Et'hem Bej Mosque is a spectacular mosque and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Tirana, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,491 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Bunk’Art 2. Because of its allure and charm, around 4,293 visitors have rated this attraction and museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Tanners' Bridge. Echoing its popularity, 833 travelers have awarded this famous stone bridge and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of North Macedonia's delectable cuisine at one of Tirana'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 city’s most recommended bars.

Make sure to book a table at Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine, a popular restaurant in Tirana. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tirana at ejona, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Salt Rest. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Tirana tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bufe Wine Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Whisky Bar Tirana for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Komiteti Bar - Tiranë is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Tirana in Albania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Skopje, your home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards North Macedonia, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Skopje. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Tirana is the fantastic Rinia Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Rinia Park has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,691 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Grand Park of Tirana. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,933 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Dajti Ekspres, a standout gondola lift and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 449 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Bunk’Art. This history museum is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,736 visitor reviews.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Skopje. 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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Skopje. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pelister, a top-rated dining destination in Skopje. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Skopski Merak, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Daily Food & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Skopje this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Piazza Liberta is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Van Gogh Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Woodstock Craft Beer & Rock. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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!

On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Skopje 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 North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Maximize your last day in North Macedonia and go on a shopping spree in Skopje’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in North Macedonia, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of North Macedonia home with you through these charming souvenirs.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Get a last taste of North Macedonia’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Skopje 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 North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

The time has come to say farewell to Skopje for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania with fond memories. Safe travels!