12 days Balkans Tour from Sofia
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of the Balkans and Eastern Europe, where history and culture intertwine to create a rich tapestry of experiences. From the sacred halls of Rila Monastery to the vibrant streets of Budapest, this journey offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, delve into the stories of ancient fortresses, and wander through charming old towns. With comfortable accommodations in 3 and 4-star hotels (or similar) and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour promises an enriching adventure through Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Hungary, and Romania. Join us for an exploration of Europe's hidden gems and iconic destinations, where each day brings new discoveries and unforgettable memories.
Included
Breakfasts included.
Overnight in 3/4* Hotel with breakfast included as indicated in the itinerary
All breakfasts included
Transport by minibus / coach with air conditioning
English speaking Tour Manager that will accompany the group for the duration of the tour
Overnight in 3/4* Hotel with breakfast included as indicated in the itinerary
Professional Tour Manager
Local tour guide in Romania, Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, Sarajevo
Transport by minibus / coach with air conditioning
Destinations
Sofia
Sibiu
Trebinje
Shkoder
Ohrid
Skopje
Tirana
Budapest
Mostar
Rila
Novi Sad
Belgrade
Kotor
Sinaia
Brasov
Sighișoara
Bucharest
TimișoaraMap
Attractions
Children's Town Bucharest
Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti
Ohrid City Park
Peleș Castle
Macedonian Holocaust Museum
Kretzulescu Palace
Kotor
Novi Sad Synagogue
Muzeul De Istorie Sighișoara
Sarajevo Viewpoint
Bran Castle
Porat Dubrovnik
Old Bazaar
Bucharest Fountains
Sibiu Walk of Fame
Palace Casino Bucharest
Budva Riviera
Riva
Belgrade Fortress
Sphinx
Brașov Zoo
Cluj-Napoca Art MuseumDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Rila Monastery to Skopje
- Skopje
- Sofia
- Rila - Arrival day
- More
Embark on a journey to the iconic Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Bulgarian mountains. This revered site, founded in the 10th century, is a testament to Bulgaria's rich cultural and religious history. Explore the monastery's church, adorned with exquisite artworks by renowned 19th-century artists. As the day unfolds, travel southward, crossing the Bulgarian-Macedonian border, and arrive in Skopje by evening. Enjoy an orientation tour of Macedonia's vibrant capital before settling into a comfortable 4-star hotel (or similar) for the night.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Skopje and Ohrid
- Skopje
- Ohrid
- Sofia
- More
- Macedonian Holocaust Museum
- National Gallery of Macedonia Daut Pasha Hammam
- Lake Matka
- Old Bazaar
- Square „Macedonia“
- More
Begin your day with a walking tour of Skopje, exploring its rich history and cultural landmarks. Visit the bustling Old Bazaar, the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, and the ancient Kale Fortress. Stroll through Macedonia Square, where the impressive statue of Alexander the Great stands tall. In the afternoon, journey to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning lake and historical significance. Explore the charming old city center, with its ancient theater and iconic churches. Spend the night in a 4-star hotel (or similar) in Ohrid.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Ohrid to Tirana and Shkoder
- Ohrid
- Tirana
- Shkoder
- More
After a hearty breakfast, cross the Macedonian-Albanian border and head to Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital. Discover the city's main attractions, including the expansive Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque. Admire the statue of Skanderbeg, a national hero, before continuing your journey to Shkoder. Known for its authenticity, Shkoder offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian life. Relax in a comfortable 4-star hotel (or similar) for the night.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discover Kotor and Trebinje
- Kotor
- Shkoder
- Trebinje
- More
- Stari Most
- More
Depart from Shkoder and cross into Montenegro to explore the fortified old town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its charming streets and soak in the historical ambiance. As the day winds down, travel to Trebinje in Bosnia & Herzegovina, where you'll spend the night in a cozy 4-star hotel (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: From Mostar to Sarajevo
- Mostar
- Trebinje
- More
- Latin Bridge
- Old Bridge Mostar
- More
Travel to Mostar, where the iconic Old Bridge stands as a symbol of the city's resilience. Explore the old town and learn about the bridge's historical significance. Continue your journey through the picturesque Neretva River canyon to Sarajevo. Discover Sarajevo's rich history, from its medieval roots to its role in the 1984 Winter Olympics. Visit the Latin Bridge, where the events leading to WWI unfolded. Enjoy an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel (or similar) in Sarajevo.
Day 6 – Day 6: Explore Belgrade
- Belgrade
- More
- Ada Ciganlija
- Park of Republika Srpska
- Kalemegdan
- National Museum
- Belgrade Fortress
- Prince Mihailo Monument
- More
Depart for Belgrade, Serbia's dynamic capital. Discover the city's highlights, including Republic Square, the National Theater, and the National Museum. Stroll through the Bohemian Quarter of Skadarlija and visit Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress. Marvel at the Victor Monument, a symbol of the city, and enjoy the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Spend the night in a 4-star hotel (or similar) in Belgrade.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Belgrade to Budapest via Novi Sad
- Budapest
- Novi Sad
- More
- Porat Dubrovnik
- More
Journey to Novi Sad, the European Capital of Culture 2021. Stroll along Zmaj Jovina Street and Dunavska Street, admiring the 19th-century architecture. Visit the Petrovaradin Fortress, offering panoramic views of the Danube. Continue to Budapest, Hungary's enchanting capital, known as the 'Queen of the Danube.' Relax in a 3-star hotel (or similar) for the night.
Day 8 – Day 8: Explore Budapest at Your Leisure
- Budapest
- More
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Heroes' Square
- Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
- Dohány Street Synagogue
- More
Enjoy a free day in Budapest to explore its magical charm at your own pace. Visit the iconic Heroes' Square and stroll along the UNESCO-listed Andrássy Avenue. Discover the grandeur of St. Stephen's Basilica and the historic Dohány Street Synagogue. Wander through the picturesque Castle District in Buda. Spend another night in a 3-star hotel (or similar) in Budapest.
Day 9 – Day 12: From Bran to Bucharest
- Brasov
- Bran
- Sinaia
- Bucharest
- More
- University's Square
- Peleș Castle
- The Triumphal Arch
- Bran Castle
- More
Visit the legendary Bran Castle, often associated with Dracula's myth. Continue to Sinaia to explore the exquisite Peles Castle, a masterpiece of architecture. Conclude your journey with a panoramic tour of Bucharest, Romania's capital, featuring landmarks such as the Triumph Arch, Atheneum, and Revolution Square. No overnight stay is provided for this day.
Day 10 – Day 9: Journey to Timisoara
- Budapest
- More
- Most Musala
- Sarajevo Viewpoint
- More
Cross the border into Romania and visit Timisoara, a city renowned for its unique architectural style influenced by various cultures. As the European Capital of Culture in 2023, Timisoara offers a vibrant atmosphere and rich history. Enjoy an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel (or similar) in Timisoara.
Day 11 – Day 10: From Timisoara to Sibiu
- Sibiu
- Timișoara
- More
- Natural History Museum
- Colț Monastery
- More
Visit the magnificent Corvin Castle, one of Eastern Europe's most stunning Gothic castles. Continue to Sibiu, the European Capital of Culture in 2007, and explore its medieval charm. Visit the Brukenthal Museum and admire the city's beautiful squares and architecture. Spend the night in a 3-star hotel (or similar) in Sibiu.
Day 12 – Day 11: Explore Sighisoara and Brasov
- Brasov
- Sighișoara
- Sibiu - Departure day
- More
- Târgu Mureș Palace of Culture
- The Clock Tower
- More
Travel to Sighisoara, home to the imposing Clock Tower and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Explore this well-preserved citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Brasov, a charming Transylvanian town known for its German architecture and cultural vibrancy. Spend the night in a 3-star hotel (or similar) in Brasov.
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