12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania With Itinerary from Skopje to Ohrid, Tirana, Sofia, and Plovdiv

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

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Debar Maalo, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Skopje. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Skopje. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Skopje Fortress is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Skopje. Next, head to Stone Bridge In Skopje, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark, known for its enchanting 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 Macedonia Square. This masterful public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find City park and Skopje Zoo. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Skopje’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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vodenica Mulino, an iconic dining spot in Skopje. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gallery 7, a popular restaurant in Skopje. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Fast Food 7 - Aerodrom, a hidden gem nestled in Skopje. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

As the night falls in Skopje, 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 4 of your European tour in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, you’ll start and end your day in Ohrid, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ohrid for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ohrid in North Macedonia to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Continue your journey to Plaošnik, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid. When you're finished at the archeological site, Museum „the Bay Of Bones“ awaits your visit. This museum is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a monastery - the locally appreciated Monastery Of Saint Naum.

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 Ohrid'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 delicious dinner at Pizza Via Sacra, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Royal View offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Panorama. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ohrid.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Corner Bistro, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cuba Libre Beach & Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jazz Inn provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Ohrid 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 Tirana in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tirana, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Ohrid is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Skanderbeg Square, an intriguing public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find National Historical Museum, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Et'hem Bej Mosque. This mosque is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Ohrid at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Fortress Of Justinian.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Tirana. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Boutique Kotoni offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss il Gusto Ristorante. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tirana.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Observator Wine And Piano Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Radio Bar Tirana, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Tirana for your remaining 2 nights in the city 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 Berat in Albania.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tirana, including a museum, a castle, and a historical landmark. Start your day at Onufri Iconographic Museum. This UNESCO world heritage-designated museum is a worthwhile place to see in Tirana. Then, wander over to Berat Castle. If enchanting sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Old Town Berat. This history-steeped historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Tirana offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Gorica Bridge is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a popular restaurant in Tirana. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tirana at Artigiano, 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 Hotel Elysee, Tirana. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tirana tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kafe Flora, known for its lively atmosphere. Bufe Wine Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whisky Bar Tirana offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip through North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Durrës in Albania. With 1 night left in Tirana, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Tirana, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Venetian Tower Of Durrës, a frequently visited monument in the city. Then, head to Durrës Amphitheatre and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Tirana, and when you are ready for more, go to Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming standout spots of interest.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, a top-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villa Tafaj, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Komiteti Bar - Tiranë, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Hemingway Bar Tirana, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tribeca Bar Tirana provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Tirana today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this instagrammable convention center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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

As the sun sets on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Sofia has them.

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

Keep the evening going at Grijn Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cairo Relax Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar National, 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!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Plovdiv in Bulgaria, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv, a worthwhile historical landmark, known for its instagrammable 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 Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Alyosha Monument and “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Plovdiv. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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