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

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

Your adventure in Athens is only getting started when you visit National Archaeological Museum Of Athens, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Acropolis Museum. This famous museum is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Athens's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Odeon Of Herodes Atticus. This visually striking archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Acropolis Of Athens is also worth visiting, along with Parthenon. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Athens. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Greece in a new light.

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 contemporary and greek foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

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

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence 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.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the interesting Temple Of Olympian Zeus and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Roman Agora, an awe-inspiring archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ancient Agora Of Athens, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Temple Of Hephaestus.

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 slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Trikala. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ALVEO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trikala Fortress offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Palia Istoria. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trikala.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soyita Art Cafe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Factory Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Love Shake is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate day 3 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 4 of your multi-country journey across Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Trikala in Greece. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bitola where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Trikala City Center Square brings Trikala's character to life. This instagrammable public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Central Bridge, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kastraki may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Kastraki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Meteora, a captivating monastery that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Bitola. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Epinal Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Bitola. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider GT Caffe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Belvedere. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bitola this evening.

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

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

On day 7 of your European tour in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, you’ll start and end your day in Plovdiv, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Plovdiv in Bulgaria. Sofia remains your base for 1 night more.

Kapana Creative District is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Plovdiv, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 1 hour 39 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Singing Fountain. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This captivating park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site. Next, take your journey to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, an interesting archeological site.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Sofia in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Thessaloniki, your home for 1 night.

To truly experience Sofia, make sure to drop by Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This interesting church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Eagles' Bridge, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Borisova Gradina Park, one of the most captivating places to see in Sofia. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, South Park. Wander around and soak in the serene atmosphere this park offers.

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

As the sun sets, 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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Beetle Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Vogatsikou 3, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Souel likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence Thessaloniki in Greece. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Volos, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Check out the well-known public square, Aristotelous Square. Afterward, continue to White Tower Of Thessaloniki, a monument every traveler should visit. As you explore Thessaloniki’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to The Umbrellas Sculpture By Zogolopoulos. This interesting art installation is an essential stop.

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

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Volos's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Steak House, a top-rated dining spot in Volos. If you're in the mood for something new, try Staphylos, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mikel Coffee. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Volos.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pleasures Seaside Cafe + More after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gala for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Grappa Vino & Aperitivo is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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