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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Greece, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Skopje is the fantastic Skopje Fortress. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Skopje Fortress has earned an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,894 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Church Of St. Clement Of Ohrid. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,691 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Mother Theresa Memorial House, a standout museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,661 reviewers.

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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Sofia’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, Bulgaria, and Albania.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Vodenitzata, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saffron Indian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Island Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Grijn Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cairo Relax Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar National provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 of your European tour in North Macedonia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Plovdiv in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

In Sofia, the extraordinary South Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,985 travelers' reviews.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Plovdiv. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Plovdiv, it's time to take a break from the road.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Plovdiv, including the outstanding Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,842 reviews, this fascinating archeological site and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Plovdiv is also home to the captivating Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a local archeological site considered one of the highlights of the city. About 17,893 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Singing Fountain is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Plovdiv. This extraordinary art installation and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful “tsar Simeon Garden” Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,537 reviews.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Plovdiv. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Plovdiv, it's time to take a break from the road.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Urban Rebel likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Thessaloniki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Zaimov Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 15,334 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Zaimov Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This church and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing convention center, National Palace Of Culture. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Borisova Gradina Park, an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Sofia considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 travelers.

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

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

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.

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.

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 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Thessaloniki in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Volos, your home for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated market and attraction in Thessaloniki — Kapani. About 11,747 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Agias Sofias Square is another top sight in Thessaloniki that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved public square in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,374 visitors.

White Tower Of Thessaloniki is a spectacular monument and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Thessaloniki, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 52,379 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. Because of its allure and charm, around 13,884 visitors have rated this attraction and art installation an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Aristotelous Square. Echoing its popularity, 42,109 travelers have awarded this famous public square and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Volos's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Greece 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, Volos has them.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Steak House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Staphylos offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mikel Coffee. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Volos.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pleasures Seaside Cafe + More, known for its lively atmosphere. Gala is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Grappa Vino & Aperitivo offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate day 5 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 6 of your multi-country journey across North Macedonia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Athens in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Athens where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Athens welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

National Archaeological Museum Of Athens is a travelers’ favorite in Athens, 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 29,596 visitors. More than 594,219 people visit this extraordinary museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Athens, don’t miss Acropolis Museum, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 65,819 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 814,565 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Athens off your list when you visit the wonderful Temple Of Olympian Zeus. This popular sight is an outstanding archeological site, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,652 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding National Garden Of Athens. This botanical garden and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,683 reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Athens. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Athens by reserving a table at Hytra. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Spondi, recognized for its delicious french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Zillers, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and greek cuisine in Athens. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and greek foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Mayros Gatos. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kuko's The Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Revolt Street Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in Athens, 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 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Athens. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Athens is the magnificent Ancient Agora Of Athens. Around 32,962 visitors have rated this excellent archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Philopappos Hill on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 18,588 travelers.

The remarkable Odeon Of Herodes Atticus is known to be one of the best places to visit in Athens, and its average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 15,092 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Athens by exploring the captivating Acropolis Of Athens, which draws the attention of nearly 1,807,580 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 123,792 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Athens exploration list!

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 42 Barstronomy Athens offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, O Babas is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Athens.

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kallithea, 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 Athens to Kallithea may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kallithea, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Stavros Niarchos Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 37,443 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Stavros Niarchos Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This cultural center and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 53,996 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Kallithea, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Palaio Faliro. Your travel time is around 7 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Palaio Faliro is the magnificent Palaio Faliro. Around 8,212 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Palaio Faliro, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thermopyles. Your travel time is around 2 hours 9 min.

Memorial To Leonidas And 300 Spartans is a travelers’ favorite in Thermopyles, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,824 visitors.

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soyita Art Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Factory Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Love Shake 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, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Trikala to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across North Macedonia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Trikala 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 Korçë. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

In Trikala, the extraordinary Matsopoulos Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,917 travelers' reviews.

Kastraki’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Trikala behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Kastraki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kastraki is the fantastic Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. As an appreciated monastery and local gem in the area, Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,630 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Monastery Of Varlaam. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,965 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Meteora, a standout monastery and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 37,365 reviewers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Korçë. 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 Albania's delectable cuisine at one of Korçë'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.

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!

Wake up and see what day 11 of your great European road trip in North Macedonia, Greece, 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.

In Tirana, the extraordinary Grand Park Of Tirana awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,065 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Tirana is the spectacular Bunk’art 2. This attraction is a museum that is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,602 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing National Historical Museum. This local museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,079 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Skanderbeg Square is another attraction you might want to add to your Tirana exploration itinerary. This public square is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,676 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Rinia Park. More than a popular park and attraction, Rinia Park offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Tirana. Rinia Park boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,783 traveler reviews.

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, Greece, 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 Hotel Elysee, Tirana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tirana.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kafe Flora, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bufe Wine Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whisky Bar Tirana also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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!