Ancient Macedonia
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Ancient Macedonia, where history and culture intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant city of Sofia to the serene shores of Lake Ohrid, this journey takes you through Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Greece, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore ancient monasteries, charming towns, and vibrant cities, each with its own unique story to tell. Discover the architectural wonders of Sofia, the historical treasures of Skopje, and the cultural heritage of Thessaloniki. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Matka Gorge and Galicica National Park, and savor the flavors of local cuisines along the way. With comfortable accommodations and expert guides, this tour promises an enriching adventure through the captivating lands of Ancient Macedonia.
Included
13 nights standard hotel
1 nights standard monastery
hotel: 13 night(s), monastery: 1 night(s);
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
14 Breakfasts
1 Dinners
vegetarian, vegan, halal, meat
All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.
Bus, Boat, Ferry
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
Destinations
Sofia
Kavala
Mavrovo
Bansko
Ohrid
Skopje
ThessalonikiMap
Attractions
Old Swimming Court
Robev Family House
Old City Park
White Tower of Thessaloniki
National Museum of Natural History
Ancient theatre of Philippi
National Park „Pelister“
Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
Mavrovo Lake
Square „Macedonia“
Sveti Mina
Vrelo Cave
St George Church
Aristotelous Square
Lighthouse of KavalaDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Sofia
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
- Earth and People National Museum
- Borisova Gradina Park
- National Museum of Natural History
- Dragalevski Monastery
- St Mina Monastery
- More
Begin your journey through Ancient Macedonia in the vibrant city of Sofia, Bulgaria's capital. With its rich history and youthful energy, Sofia offers a unique blend of cultural experiences. Arrive at your leisure and join your tour leader for a welcome meeting at 6 PM. Explore the city's fascinating museums, such as the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Socialist Art, or wander through the ancient ruins of Serdica. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Vitosha Nature Park and Dragalevtsi Monastery offer scenic hiking routes and historical intrigue. In the evening, savor the hearty flavors of Bulgarian cuisine with dishes like shopska salata and kebapche.
Day 2 – Day 2: Sofia to Saint Joakim Osogovski Monastery
- Sofia
- More
- Vassil Levski Monument
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Embark on a guided walking tour of Sofia, starting at 9 AM, to explore its architectural gems, including the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. After lunch, journey to North Macedonia, where you'll spend the night at the historic Saint Joakim Osogovski Monastery. Nestled in picturesque hillside forests, this 12th-century monastery offers a unique overnight experience. Enjoy dinner at the monastery, surrounded by vibrant frescoes and a serene atmosphere.
Day 3 – Day 3: Saint Joakim Osogovski Monastery to Skopje
- Skopje
- More
- Old Bazaar
- Vrelo Cave
- St George Church
- More
Begin your day with a visit to the historical town of Kratovo, known for its Ottoman towers and stone bridges. Enjoy a traditional lunch accompanied by local music before heading to Skopje, North Macedonia's capital. Explore the city's rich history with a guided tour, visiting landmarks like Fortress Kale, the Church of Saint Spas, and the vibrant Old Turkish Bazaar. In the evening, savor Macedonian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Day 4 – Day 4: Skopje and Matka Gorge
Day 4: Skopje and Matka Gorge
- Square „Macedonia“
- More
Venture to the stunning Matka Gorge, where you'll marvel at the karst formations and Matka Lake. Choose between a scenic boat ride or a leisurely walk along the gorge to explore its natural beauty. Return to Skopje in the afternoon, where you can continue exploring the city's museums, mosques, and galleries at your own pace.
Day 5 – Day 5: Skopje to Ohrid
- Mavrovo
- Ohrid
- More
- Vevčani Springs
- National park Mavrovo
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Travel through the scenic Black Drim River Valley to Lake Ohrid, stopping at the renowned Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery. Admire its intricate wood-carved iconostasis before visiting the charming village of Vevchani. Arrive in Ohrid, where you'll have time to unwind and explore the lakeshore or enjoy dinner in the town center.
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Ohrid
- Ohrid
- More
- Old Swimming Court
- Robev Family House
- National park „Galičica“
- Church of Saint John the Theologian
- Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon
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Discover the cultural and spiritual heart of Ohrid with a guided walking tour. Visit Tsar Samuel's Fortress, Saint Sophia's Church, and the Roman amphitheatre for breathtaking views. Continue to Saint Clement's Church and the Plaosnik archaeological site before descending to the Church of Saint John at Kaneo. Enjoy a boat ride back to the town center, and spend the afternoon exploring Ohrid's cobbled streets or relaxing by the lake.
Day 7 – Day 7: Ohrid to Albania
Day 7: Ohrid to Albania
- Plaoshnik
- More
Embark on a full-day excursion to Albania, starting with a drive through Struga and across the border. Visit the quaint fishing village of Lin and explore the town of Podgradec, where you can relax by the Ohrid springs or visit historical sites. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and savor the local specialty of Ohrid trout before returning to Ohrid, completing a scenic loop around the lake.
Day 8 – Day 8: Ohrid to Pelister National Park
Day 8: Ohrid to Pelister National Park
- Old City Park
- Heraclea Lyncestis
- Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon
- Ethno Museum
- More
Explore the natural beauty of Galicica National Park, starting with a visit to the picturesque Saint Naum Monastery. Enjoy a rowing boat trip to the springs feeding Lake Ohrid before crossing the park to Lake Prespa. Visit the Ethno Museum in Podmochani village and the ancient site of Heraclea. Conclude your day with a drive to Pelister National Park, where you'll spend the night surrounded by nature.
Day 9 – Day 9: Pelister National Park to Thessaloniki
Day 9: Pelister National Park to Thessaloniki
Cross into Greece and explore the ancient city of Vergina, once the capital of the Macedonian kings. Visit the royal tombs with a local guide before heading to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Discover its famous mosaics before arriving in Thessaloniki, where you can enjoy a delightful Greek dinner and explore the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discovering Thessaloniki
- Thessaloniki
- More
- Acropolis of Thessaloniki
- White Tower of Thessaloniki
- Roman Forum of Thessaloniki
- Aristotelous Square
- More
Explore the rich history of Thessaloniki with a guided tour, visiting iconic landmarks like the Roman Rotunda, White Tower, Acropolis, and Saint Demetrius Church. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Thermaic Gulf. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring museums or savoring local cuisine at a traditional taverna.
Day 11 – Day 11: Thessaloniki to Kavala
- Kavala
- More
- Trimi beach
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Travel across the Halkidiki Peninsula to Kavala, passing through scenic landscapes. Take a boat trip along the coast of Mount Athos, a monastic region with a rich history. Enjoy free time for lunch or relaxation on the beach before arriving in Kavala, a charming city with a picturesque harbor and Byzantine fortress.
Day 12 – Day 12: Kavala to Thassos Island
- Kavala
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- The House of Shadow
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Set sail for Thassos Island, where you'll have the day to explore its natural beauty and historical sites. Discover the ancient Roman theatre and medieval fortress in Limenas or relax on the island's pristine beaches. Return to Kavala in the afternoon, where you can enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
Day 13 – Day 13: Kavala to Bansko
- Bansko
- Kavala
- More
- Holy Baptistery of Saint Lydia of Philippi
- Ancient theatre of Philippi
- More
Journey back to Bulgaria, stopping at the ancient site of Philippi for a guided tour. Explore its historical significance and visit the Baptistery of Lydia. Continue to Bansko, a charming town nestled in the Pirin Mountains, where you can explore its cobbled streets and enjoy the local hospitality.
Day 14 – Day 14: Bansko to Sofia
- Sofia
- More
- Rila Monastery
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Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rila Monastery, a cultural and religious landmark in Bulgaria. Admire its vibrant frescoes and learn about its historical significance. Return to Sofia for your final evening, where you can explore the city's charming streets and indulge in some last-minute shopping.
Day 15 – Day 15: Departure from Sofia
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
Conclude your journey through Ancient Macedonia in Sofia. With no scheduled activities, you are free to depart at your convenience. If your flight is later in the day, take advantage of the hotel's luggage storage facilities to explore more of the city before heading to the airport.
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