13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania With Itinerary from Skopje to Petrich, Sofia, Plovdiv, Kyustendil, Bitola, and Tirana

On day 2 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 Skopje in North Macedonia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Petrich, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Skopje, including the outstanding Mother Theresa Memorial House. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,661 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Skopje is also home to the captivating Church Of St. Clement Of Ohrid, a local church considered one of the highlights of the city. About 1,691 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary City park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Skopje. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,127 travelers.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Petrich’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’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 Restaurant "Provence", an iconic dining spot in Petrich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restorant „Rayski Kat ”, a popular restaurant in Petrich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restorantche , Zharavata", a hidden gem nestled in Petrich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 3 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Holy Trinity 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 7,845 visitors.

In Sofia, don’t miss Borisova Gradina Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sofia off your list when you visit the wonderful Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This popular sight is an outstanding church, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,088 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This church and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,691 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic National Theater "ivan Vazov" awaits. This performing arts theater is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 visitors.

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 Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Urban Rebel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.

Day 5 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 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Druzhba Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,598 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker. This incredible attraction and church holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 5,066 visitors.

According to travelers in Sofia, the extraordinary National Palace Of Culture is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and convention center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,569 visitors.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. One More Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Teos Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bsd 2 Ndk. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous Golden Bridges. This incredible rock formation and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,232 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful South Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,985 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Sofia Zoo for an experience worth remembering. This local zoo and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 15,237 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous North Park. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 11,004 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Corner. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Gaba offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook K. E. B. A. , another top-rated bar in the area.

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 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 - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Plovdiv where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous Lions' Bridge. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,469 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Prince's Garden. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,695 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Eagles' Bridge for an experience worth remembering. This local monument and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Asenovgrad. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Asen's Fortress is a travelers’ favorite in Asenovgrad, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,157 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bachkovo, 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 Asenovgrad to Bachkovo may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bachkovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monastery and attraction in Bachkovo — Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". About 13,211 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to North Star for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Morado Bar & Dinner is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the night falls in Plovdiv, 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 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Plovdiv in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kyustendil, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Plovdiv is the magnificent Singing Fountain. Around 12,640 visitors have rated this excellent art installation and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing “tsar Simeon Garden” Park on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 15,537 travelers.

The remarkable Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis is known to be one of the best places to visit in Plovdiv, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,842 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Plovdiv by exploring the captivating Old Town Of Plovdiv. With a stellar average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,450 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Plovdiv exploration list!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plovdiv and set your GPS to Kyustendil. 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 2 hours 54 min. Upon reaching Kyustendil, 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.

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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Friends, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Ramira boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vintage bar and dinner. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kyustendil.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vogue, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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 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 Ohrid in North Macedonia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tirana, where you will stay for 2 nights.

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 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ohrid, including the outstanding Church Of Saint John The Theologian. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,537 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Ohrid is also home to the captivating Old City Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 1,731 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Ancient Macedonian Theatre Of Ohrid is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Ohrid. This extraordinary archeological site and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,848 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Chinar Tree will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing historical landmark and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,411 reviews.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Albania'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.

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.

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

Take in the ambiance of Tirana 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!

Wake up and see what day 11 of your great European road trip in North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania has in store for you! You will be staying in Tirana for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Tirana is the magnificent Skanderbeg Square. Around 8,676 visitors have rated this excellent public square and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Et'hem Bej Mosque on this leg of your adventure in Albania. This attraction is a well-known mosque that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 1,584 travelers.

The remarkable Bunk’art 2 is known to be one of the best places to visit in Tirana, and its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,602 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Tirana by exploring the captivating Fortress Of Justinian. With a stellar average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,904 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Tirana exploration list!

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.

Make sure to book a table at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, 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 Artigiano, 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 Hotel Elysee, Tirana. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

Take in the ambiance of Tirana 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!

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Tirana in Albania, 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 Skopje. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Rinia Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 2,783 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Rinia Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Regency Casino is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This casino and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 176 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Grand Park Of Tirana. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,065 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Skopje welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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 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.

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, Bulgaria, and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Skopje’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.

Savor the flavors at Vodenica Mulino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Gallery 7 beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Fast Food 7 - Aerodrom. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Skopje tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Heart Bar Skopje, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Chillin' Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Casa offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 Skopje to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.