14-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria With Itinerary from Skopje to Sofia, Samokov, Thessaloniki, Ioannina, Athens, Trikala, and Bitola

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Skopje in North Macedonia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Macedonia Square. This outstanding public square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 3,125 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Macedonia Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Stone Bridge In Skopje is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This historical landmark and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,177 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing museum, Mother Theresa Memorial House. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,661 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Church Of St. Clement Of Ohrid, an outstanding public square, is one place you should visit while in Skopje considering its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,691 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Skopje, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sofia, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 3 hours 32 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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 2 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 delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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!

Day 3 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 1 night more before hitting the road again.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Sofia is Tsar Ivan Shishman Street. Allow yourself some time to leisurely explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding South Park. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Sofia is also home to the captivating Borisova Gradina Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 27,635 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Sofia. This extraordinary church and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful National Theater "ivan Vazov" will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing performing arts theater and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,932 reviews.

As the sun sets on day 3 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Hotel Forum, 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 Turquoise 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.

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

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

On day 4 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Samokov, where you will stay for 1 night.

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.

Plovdiv’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sofia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. Plovdiv welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

Something that makes Plovdiv the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding art installation, Singing Fountain. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,640 visitors.

The famous “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Plovdiv's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 15,537 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Plovdiv is also home to the extraordinary Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 17,893 traveler reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Plovdiv, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Samokov. Your travel time is around 1 hour 43 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the town of Samokov 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 Khaĭduti, an iconic dining spot in Samokov. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kalipso, a popular restaurant in Samokov. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Velcheva Zavera, a hidden gem nestled in Samokov. 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 Defected Bar & Café, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Ioannina in Greece. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Athens, your home for 4 nights.

In Ioannina, the extraordinary The Clock Tower Of Ioannina awaits. This attraction is a valued monument that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,053 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Ioannina is the spectacular Litharitsia Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,169 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Antirio. This car ride takes around 2 hours 17 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Antirio — Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio Bridge. About 5,442 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Athens’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 an outstanding dining experience at Hytra, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Spondi, known for its delicious french cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Athens is The Zillers, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious contemporary and greek menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Mayros Gatos, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kuko's The Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Revolt Street Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

On day 8 of your European tour in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Mykines, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Athens for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Mykines in Greece to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Mykines. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

A tour of Mykines is not complete without a visit to the famous Mycenae. This incredible archeological site and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,529 travelers, and is visited by 342,854 people every year.

Make the most of your Mykines travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful "treasury Of Atreus" Or "tomb Of Agamemnon". This archeological site and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,843 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mykines, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kallithea may take around 1 hour 29 min. Upon your arrival in Kallithea, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Kallithea, the extraordinary Water Square awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,266 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Kallithea is the spectacular Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. This attraction is a cultural center that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,996 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Stavros Niarchos Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,443 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Harvest Coffee & Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Athens. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 42 Barstronomy Athens, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at O Babas. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Athens this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Tiki Bar Athens. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brettos offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Luxus Bar Bistro, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 9, you will wake up in Athens with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Athens before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria.

Adrianou Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Athens, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many other must-see landmarks.

A tour of Athens is not complete without a visit to the famous Parthenon. This incredible archeological site and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 74,124 travelers.

Make the most of your Athens travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Acropolis Of Athens. This archeological site and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 123,792 travelers and gets around 1,807,580 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible Odeon Of Herodes Atticus for an experience worth remembering. This local archeological site and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 15,092 visitors.

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 Athens. 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 Cookoovaya, a highly-rated dining destination in Athens. If you're eager to try something different, consider Karamanlidika, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Estiatorio Auli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Athens this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kazu Cafe-bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Upupa Epops - The Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gazarte, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Wake up and see what day 10 of your great European road trip in North Macedonia, Greece, and Bulgaria has in store for you! You will be staying in Athens for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Plaka is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Athens. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

In Athens, the extraordinary Monastiraki Square 6 awaits. This attraction is a valued public square that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,322 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Athens, which gets around 814,565 annual visits, is the spectacular Acropolis Museum. This attraction is a museum that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 65,819 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Philopappos Hill. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 18,588 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Beer Tales, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Oinomageireio Epirus (est.1898) offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss To Kafeneio. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Athens.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ipitou The Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Lot 51 offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Klōstḗrion is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

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

One place travelers keep coming back to in Athens is the magnificent National Garden Of Athens. Around 36,683 visitors have rated this excellent botanical garden and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Temple Of Olympian Zeus on this leg of your adventure in Greece. This attraction is a well-known archeological site that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 26,652 travelers.

The remarkable National Archaeological Museum Of Athens is known to be one of the best places to visit in Athens, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,596 traveler reviews is proof. Attracting more than 594,219 visitors in a single year, it's clear that the wonderful National Archaeological Museum Of Athens is a perfect add-on to your itinerary.

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

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 Trikala’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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soyita Art Cafe, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Factory Café, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Love Shake likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 12 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 Trikala in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bitola, where you will stay for 1 night.

Something that makes Trikala the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, Trikala City Center Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,007 visitors.

The famous Central Bridge is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Trikala's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 2,997 travelers have rated this incredible public square and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 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 34 min. Kastraki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Kastraki, including the outstanding Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,630 reviews, this fascinating monastery and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Kastraki is also home to the captivating Meteora, a local monastery considered one of the highlights of the city. About 37,365 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.9 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

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

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

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

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

Take in the ambiance of Bitola 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!