10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Skopje to Sofia, Thessaloniki, Trikala, Athens, and Volos

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Skopje in North Macedonia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 2 nights.

Macedonia Square is a travelers’ favorite in Skopje, 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 3,125 visitors.

In Skopje, don’t miss Stone Bridge In Skopje, a great historical landmark and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,177 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Skopje off your list when you visit the wonderful Mother Theresa Memorial House. This popular sight is an outstanding museum, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,661 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Church Of St. Clement Of Ohrid. This church and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,691 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Skopje and set your GPS to Sofia, Bulgaria. 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 3 hours 32 min. Upon reaching Sofia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Sofia. 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 the city of Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Bulgaria.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Grijn Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cairo Relax Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar National is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip through North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Plovdiv in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Zaimov 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 15,334 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Plovdiv today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Singing Fountain. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 15,537 visitors.

According to travelers in Plovdiv, the extraordinary Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and archeological site is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,893 visitors.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

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

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Thessaloniki where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. Around 20,088 visitors have rated this excellent church and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Eagles' Bridge on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known monument that has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 10,319 travelers.

The remarkable Borisova Gradina Park is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating South Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Thessaloniki. 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 North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Thessaloniki. 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 Kitchen Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Thessaloniki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Greek, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Phanós. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Thessaloniki this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Beetle Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Vogatsikou 3 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Souel provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria! Enjoy your evening in Thessaloniki to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

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

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Thessaloniki, including the outstanding Aristotelous Square. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 42,109 reviews, this fascinating public square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Thessaloniki is also home to the captivating White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a local monument considered one of the highlights of the city. About 52,379 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 290,192 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Thessaloniki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kastraki. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kastraki is the fantastic Meteora. As an appreciated monastery and local gem in the area, Meteora has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 37,365 reviews.

When you arrive in Trikala, it's time to take a break from the road.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soyita Art Cafe. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Factory Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Love Shake 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!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kallithea 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 2 nights.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kallithea and set your GPS to Athens. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Athens, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kallithea today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Faros Tyflon Ellados. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 186 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Water Square. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 5,266 visitors.

According to travelers in Kallithea, the extraordinary Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and cultural center is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,996 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, Stavros Niarchos Park. Up to 37,443 visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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

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 North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Athens’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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Athens by reserving a table at Hytra. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Spondi, renowned for its delectable french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore The Zillers, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary and greek menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Athens.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Mayros Gatos, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kuko's The Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Revolt Street Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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

Something that makes Athens the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding archeological site, 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 archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Athens is also home to the extraordinary Acropolis Museum, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 65,819 traveler reviews. This stunning museum and local feature draws more than 814,565 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating National Garden Of Athens. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 36,683 reviews, a visit to this wonderful botanical garden and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Volos’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, Greece, and Bulgaria.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Steak House, a popular restaurant in Volos. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Volos at Staphylos, 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 Mikel Coffee. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Volos tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pleasures Seaside Cafe + More, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gala offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Grappa Vino & Aperitivo. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Take in the ambiance of Volos 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!