One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Greece and Albania With Itinerary from Athens to Kalambaka, Ioannina, and Saranda

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Athens. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Plaka is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Athens, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Monastiraki, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Athens.

Start your day at National Archaeological Museum Of Athens. This historic museum is a locally renowned place to see in Athens. Then, wander over to Monastiraki Square 6. If visually striking sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Acropolis Of Athens. This UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Athens offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Parthenon is a spectacular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Bring home unique finds from Athens's bustling shopping hub, Ermou Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Ermou Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Athens's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Harvest Coffee & Wine, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try 42 Barstronomy Athens? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at O Babas as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Athens.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tiki Bar Athens. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brettos, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Luxus Bar Bistro provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Delphi in Greece. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kalambaka, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Athens’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Delphi. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 22 min. When you arrive in Delphi, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tholos Of Delphi. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Delphi Archaeological Museum. This popular museum is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Temple Of Apollo In Delphi. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site.

Kalambaka’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Delphi behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Kalambaka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Greek Education Museum, a locally appreciated museum in Kalambaka. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Kalambaka. 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 Greece and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Kalambaka’s local cuisine.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Greece and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Kalambaka to the fullest!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Greece and Albania. Today's main destinations are Kastraki 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 Ioannina. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Kalambaka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kastraki. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Main Observation Deck Of Meteora and explore the UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Next, make your way to Holy Monastery Of The Great Meteoron -transfiguration Of The Saviour, another highlight in Kastraki. When you’re done exploring the monastery, continue to Monastery Of Varlaam, a historic monastery.

Set your GPS to Ioannina and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 52 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ioannina beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ic Kale Acropolis Of Ioannina and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Ioannina Castle, another highlight in Ioannina. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to The Clock Tower Of Ioannina, a picture-perfect monument.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Greece's delectable cuisine at one of Ioannina'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 To Dodeka Cafe Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Ioannina. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mustagogia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Accademia Del Panino. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ioannina this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to ⚜ V E D E M A ⚜, known for its inviting atmosphere. Hogwarts Tales And Spirits is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Chevalier provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Greece and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Gjirokastra in Albania. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Saranda, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ioannina, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gjirokastra, Albania. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Albania. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castle Of Gjirokastra, an up-and-coming castle known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Skenduli House In Gjirokastër, an increasingly popular museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Ethnographic Museum and uncover the details of this photogenic museum.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gjirokastra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Krongj. This drive usually takes around 48 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Blue Eye, a frequently visited karst spring that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Saranda’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 Greece and Albania.

Make sure to reserve a table at Italian Mattarello pizzeria, an iconic dining spot in Saranda. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gerthela, a popular restaurant in Saranda. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Meat House Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Saranda. 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 Elvis Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Tipsy Drinks And More, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jamaica likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip through Greece and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Vrinë in Albania. With 1 night left in Saranda, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vrinë. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Butrint National Park and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Venetian Castle, another highlight in Vrinë.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Manastir, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Vrinë to Manastir may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Manastir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Edon-bina Beach is a curiosity-inducing beach we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at MARINI, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bagaron Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Taverna Fish Land. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Saranda tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Jericho Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

As the night falls in Saranda, 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.