One-Week Road Trip to Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Sofia in Bulgaria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Sofia for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hadjidraganov's Houses Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,010 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Restaurant "Staria Chinar" while in Sofia. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,717 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Art Club Museum, a favorite in Sofia. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,570 discerning guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Bar Friday, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,410 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is The Cocktail Bar. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers.

One More Bar is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,228 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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

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.

Don't miss out on experiencing The Wrong Bar, a renowned dining spot in Sofia. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,293 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Taj Mahal Restaurant while immersing yourself in Sofia. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,423 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Luciano, a beloved dining establishment within Sofia. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,291 satisfied customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Halbite Beer Hall. This famous bar in Sofia has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,280 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Lime Cafe & Cocktails. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Lime Cafe & Cocktails has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,223 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend 5 Corners Pub. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,463 customers.

As the night falls in Sofia, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria and Thessaloniki in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Thessaloniki. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Sofia — Park "Zaimov". About 15,209 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is another top sight in Sofia that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved church in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,648 visitors.

Eagles' Bridge is a spectacular stone bridge and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, earning an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,196 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Borisova Gradina Park. Because of its allure and charm, around 27,346 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Thessaloniki, Greece. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Greece. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Thessaloniki. 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 Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Thessaloniki’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.

Make a reservation at Kanoula, a popular dining spot in Thessaloniki. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,335 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at rOOTS while indulging in the charm of Thessaloniki. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,104 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Kitchen Bar, a treasured establishment in Thessaloniki. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 9,067 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Thessaloniki. At Pulp, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,573 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Wall by Wall, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,128 reviews.

Loupino Restaurant is also one of the best places in Thessaloniki where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,657 customers.

As the night falls in Thessaloniki, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 4, you will wake up in Thessaloniki with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Thessaloniki before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Giok Balik, a popular restaurant in Thessaloniki. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,336 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Sebriko during your stay in Thessaloniki. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,978 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Charoupi, a renowned dining destination in Thessaloniki. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,912 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Thessaloniki. At Tribeca, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,262 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Castra- All Day Terrace Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,882 reviews.

The Blue Cup | Creative bar is also one of the best places in Thessaloniki where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,254 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Thessaloniki as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, 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 Thessaloniki in Greece and Skopje in North Macedonia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Skopje, where you will stay for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Thessaloniki today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Kapani. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,618 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Holy Church of Saint Demetrius, Patron Saint of Thessalonica. This incredible attraction and church holds an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, thanks to 5,909 visitors.

According to travelers in Thessaloniki, the extraordinary Atatürk Museum is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and house museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,650 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible tetrapylon, Arch of Galerius and Rotunda. Up to 12,215 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Thessaloniki, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for North Macedonia! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Skopje may take around 2 hours 51 min. Upon your arrival in Skopje, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Skopje’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Restaurant Skopski Merak, a distinguished dining establishment in Skopje. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 3,862 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Skopje is Pelister. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,679 happy diners.

St. Patrick stands out as a local favorite in Skopje. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,104 customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Amigos. This famous bar in Skopje has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,337 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, The Gallery Café. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. The Gallery Café has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,212 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Temov brewery. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 878 customers.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Skopje in North Macedonia and Kyustendil 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.

Something that makes Skopje the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding sightseeing destination, Macedonia Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,849 visitors.

The famous Stone Bridge in Skopje is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Skopje's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 4,994 travelers have rated this incredible footbridge and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Skopje is also home to the extraordinary City Park, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 4,066 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Old Bazaar. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 19,595 reviews, a visit to this wonderful čaršija and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Skopje exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Čifte Hammam up close. This fascinating hammam and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,867 travelers is proof.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Skopje and set your GPS to Kyustendil, Bulgaria. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Kyustendil, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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.

Don't miss out on experiencing Restaurant Friends, a renowned dining spot in Kyustendil. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 3,791 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Pizza Royal Kyustendil while immersing yourself in Kyustendil. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 673 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Hotel Ramira, a beloved dining establishment within Kyustendil. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 593 satisfied customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Passione, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Passione has charmed many with its 4.1 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 680 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Vintage bar and dinner, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Vintage bar and dinner captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 201 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Vogue, another local party gem in Kyustendil. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 63 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Plovdiv in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia. Sofia will be your home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Plovdiv and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Plovdiv beckons with new experiences!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sightseeing destination and attraction in Plovdiv — Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. About 17,603 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis is another top sight in Plovdiv that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved sightseeing destination in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,705 visitors.

“Tsar Simeon Garden” Park is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Plovdiv, earning an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,346 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Singing Fountains. Because of its allure and charm, around 12,362 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sofia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Plovdiv today.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sofia. 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 Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Sofia. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don't forget to book a table at Mamma Mia Ltd, a well-known eatery in Sofia. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,252 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Island Restaurant while exploring Sofia. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,035 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Марайа Класик / Maraia Classic, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,002 discerning diners.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at K. E. B. A. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,055 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at By the Way. This popular bar in Sofia is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 909 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Грийн бар. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Грийн бар has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,037 reviews.

Take in the ambiance of Sofia as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Optimize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Bulgaria, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

Get a last taste of Bulgaria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Sofia and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia.

Many previous guests have raved about this restaurant.

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Bulgaria, Greece, and North Macedonia with fond memories. Safe travels!