12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania With Itinerary from Skopje to Ohrid, Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastra, Saranda, Ioannina, Kalambaka, and Thessaloniki

On day 2, you will wake up in Skopje with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Skopje before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania.

Don’t miss Debar Maalo today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Let Skopje Zoo set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect zoo before continuing your journey. Museum Of The Macedonian Struggle is your next stop. This increasingly popular museum is one of the best-rated sights in Skopje.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Stone Bridge In Skopje. This romantic historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Macedonia Square and Millennium Cross.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Old Bazaar, the top shopping destination in Skopje. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Old Bazaar has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Skopje.

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.

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

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania. 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.

Set your GPS to Ohrid and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ohrid beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Church Of Saint John The Theologian, a curiosity-inducing church 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 Plaošnik and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid, an intriguing archeological site beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Church Of St. Sophia, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Ohrid, a romantic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Ohrid. 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, Greece, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Ohrid.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Irish Pub Dublin, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kafe Bar Coco Ohrid is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Shilla - Coffee & Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Linzë in Albania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tirana, your home for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Albania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Linzë may take around 2 hours 28 min. Upon your arrival in Linzë, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Bunk’art and explore the eye-catching features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Linzë and set your GPS to Tirana. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Tirana, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Skanderbeg Square. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Et'hem Bej Mosque. This frequently visited mosque is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Bunk’art 2. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Fortress Of Justinian, an increasingly popular castle.

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

As the sun sets, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Boutique Kotoni is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at il Gusto Ristorante. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tirana tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Observator Wine And Piano Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Radio Bar Tirana offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Berat in Albania. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gjirokastra, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Onufri Iconographic Museum is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This monumental museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Berat Castle, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited castle renowned for its enchanting features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gjirokastra. This car ride takes around 2 hours 32 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Castle Of Gjirokastra, a worthwhile castle that everyone visiting Gjirokastra should see. Next, head to Staryj Gorod Girokastry. This history-steeped historical landmark is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

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 sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Gjirokastra's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Taverna Brahimi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restorant Tradicional Urat is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gjirokastra.

Keep the evening going at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Hangover Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

As the night falls in Gjirokastra, 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 7 of your multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania, 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 Gjirokastra in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Saranda, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make time for Ethnographic Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Zekate House, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Ali Pasha Bridge. This monument is one of the town’s most intriguing spots.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gjirokastra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Manastir. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Savor the day by heading to Edon-bina Beach, a locally appreciated beach that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Manastir, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vrinë. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Venetian Castle and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Butrint National Park, another highlight in Vrinë.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Albania's delectable cuisine at one of Saranda's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

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

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

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Krongj in Albania and Ioannina in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Ioannina where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Greece, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ioannina. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Silversmithing Museum Of Ioannina and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Fethiye Mosque, another highlight in Ioannina. When you’re done exploring the mosque, continue to Ic Kale Acropolis Of Ioannina, a history-steeped archeological site.

Nearby, you will also find Ioannina Castle. This locally renowned castle is a top place to see in the area.

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

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

Dine in style at To Dodeka Cafe Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mustagogia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Accademia Del Panino. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ioannina.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at ⚜ V E D E M A ⚜, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Hogwarts Tales And Spirits provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Chevalier offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Ioannina in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kalambaka, your home for 1 night.

One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is The Clock Tower Of Ioannina. This breathtaking monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Litharitsia Park and learn what makes this enchanting park unique.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kastraki may take around 1 hour 45 min. Upon your arrival in Kastraki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Meteora, an interesting monastery 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 Main Observation Deck Of Meteora and admire its eye-catching features.

Kalambaka’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kastraki behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Kalambaka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kalambaka is Monastery Of The Holy Trinity At Meteora, an intriguing monastery that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Kalambaka. 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 Kalambaka. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Take in the ambiance of Kalambaka 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 10 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Kastraki 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.

When you’ve had your share of Kalambaka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kastraki. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour is a curiosity-inducing monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Monastery Of Varlaam, a picture-perfect monastery that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Kastraki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thessaloniki. Your travel time is around 2 hours 54 min.

Agias Sofias Square is an interesting public square we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour to Aristotelous Square, a visually striking public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Thessaloniki’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 Albania.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Beetle Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Vogatsikou 3, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Souel also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 11 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Thessaloniki in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Skopje, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Visiting Kapani is always a good idea. This locally renowned market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Atatürk Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

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 Arch Of Galerius And Rotunda. This well-known monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to White Tower Of Thessaloniki, where you can take in breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Archaeological Museum Of Thessaloniki and The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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 Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Skopje’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Balkanika Rustikana, a popular restaurant in Skopje. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Skopje at Pelister, 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 Restaurant Skopski Merak. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Skopje tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Nano, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Konak, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Piazza Liberta 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, Greece, and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Skopje to the fullest!