Balkan Kaleidoscope
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 14-day journey through the captivating Balkans, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge. This multi-day tour takes you through Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Albania, and Macedonia, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. From the vibrant streets of Sofia to the historic charm of Dubrovnik, and the cultural heritage of Kosovo to the scenic beauty of Ohrid, each day presents a new adventure. Enjoy guided tours, free exploration time, and comfortable accommodations (or similar) in each destination. Savor local cuisines, discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions of the Balkans. Whether you're exploring ancient monasteries, strolling through bustling bazaars, or admiring breathtaking coastal views, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of one of Europe's most diverse regions.
Included
Overnights in comfortable 3*** hotels - all overnights are based on double rooms with private WC/shower
When planing the size of your luggage please have in mind that some of the hotels do not have elevators
If we cannot match you with another person to share a room, Single supplement is a mandatory payment.
The trip is coordinated by a tour leader from Penguin Travel, who is responsible for the logistics of the tour – updating you on the daily itinerary, arranging your passport checks at the border-crossings, handling the check-ins at each hotel, communicating with the driver and arranging the local guides as scheduled in the program. Detailed information about the countries and some of the sites will be presented by the local city guides included in the itinerary.
13 Breakfasts.
Other meals are not included to give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat.
vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
Sarajevo – the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar whose old part is a World Heritage Site
Dubrovnik – the masterpiece of the Adriatic, the sea and commercial rival of Venice, under the auspices of UNESCO
The picturesque Kotor Bay and the town of Kotor, forming a beautiful ensemble of natural, historic and cultural heritage, under the auspices of UNESCO
Visoki Decani Monastery with the largest medieval church in the Balkans, under the auspices of UNESCO
Tirana – the capital of Albania
Ohrid – a medieval literary center and the last capital of the First Bulgarian Kingdom. Together with the Ohrid Lake the town is under UNESCOs protection
The type of the vehicle of the tour depends on the size of the group – for groups of up to 8 people you will travel in a minibus (8+1) with the tour leader being also the driver; for groups larger than 8 pax your vehicle will be a bigger bus with a separate driver.
all transport according to the itinerary in a comfortable tourist A/C minibus
airport transfers on days 1 and 14 (there is an additional charge for transfers on different dates pre- or post-tour. It's not possible to arrange transfers to/from other places than airport-scheduled hotel-airport)
Destinations
Sofia
Trebinje
Dubrovnik
Ohrid
Skopje
Tirana
Herceg Novi
Matka
Mostar
Belgrade
KotorMap
Attractions
Dervish House
Osman-paša Resulbegović mosque
National Park of Drilon
Sokol grad
Square „Macedonia“
Skopje Zoo
Old Bridge MostarDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Sofia
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
- Arapovo Monastery
- More
Welcome to the vibrant capital of Bulgaria, Sofia! Upon your arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel (check-in starts at 14:00). Spend your free time exploring the city at your own pace. Consider taking a day trip to the renowned Rila Monastery or the historic city of Plovdiv and Bachkovo Monastery. Enjoy the rich history and culture that Sofia has to offer.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Belgrade
- Sofia
- Belgrade
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After breakfast, embark on a journey to Serbia's capital, Belgrade. Upon arrival and hotel check-in, join a guided walking tour of the city center. Visit the iconic Saint Michael's Cathedral, explore the historic Belgrade Fortress in Kalemegdan Park, and stroll down the lively Skadarlija Street. Enjoy free time to delve deeper into the city's vibrant atmosphere. Overnight stay in Belgrade.
Day 3 – Day 3: Explore Sarajevo
- Belgrade
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- Pješčane piramide
- Tunnel Ravne
- Sarajevo City Hall
- More
Today, travel to the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo. After checking into your hotel, embark on a city tour that captures the essence of Sarajevo's rich history and culture. Begin at Pigeon Square, visit the Sarajevo City Hall, and see the site where Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. Pay homage at the Eternal Flame, a monument dedicated to Yugoslavia's former leader, Josip Broz Tito. Enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 4 – Day 4: Free Day in Sarajevo
- Istočno Sarajevo
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- War Childhood Museum
- Sarajevo City Hall
- Kasnoantička bazilika u Brezi
- Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide
- Tunnel of Hope
- More
Enjoy a day of leisure in Sarajevo, with the option to explore the city's fascinating sites. Visit the Tunnel of Hope, a lifeline during the Sarajevo siege, or the Abandoned Bobsled Track from the 1984 Winter Olympics. Discover the city's museums, such as the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide or the War Childhood Museum. Relax in a traditional hammam, like the Isa Begov Hammam Hotel, to unwind and recharge.
Day 5 – Day 5: Journey to Mostar and Trebinje
- Mostar
- Blagaj
- Trebinje
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- Dervish House
- Old Bridge Mostar
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Begin your day with a visit to Mostar, renowned for its picturesque old houses and the iconic Old Bridge, symbolizing cultural harmony. Continue to the historic Blagaj Tekija, a Sufi monastery nestled at the source of the Buna River. In the afternoon, travel to the charming town of Trebinje, where you'll spend the night, soaking in its serene atmosphere.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discover Dubrovnik
- Trebinje
- Dubrovnik
- More
- Zavala Monastery
- Špilja Vjetrenica
- More
Embark on a journey to the stunning city of Dubrovnik, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic.' Enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic part of the city, visiting the Pile Gate, Stradun Street, and the Franciscan Monastery. Discover the Dominican Church, Sponza Palace, Rector's Palace, and St. Blaise Cathedral. Spend the afternoon exploring Dubrovnik at your own pace. Overnight stay in Dubrovnik.
Day 7 – Day 7: Montenegro's Coastal Gems
- Dubrovnik
- Kotor
- Perast
- Herceg Novi
- More
- Pasjača
- Sokol grad
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Today, venture into Montenegro, starting with a visit to Herceg Novi, a city with a rich blend of architectural styles. Continue to Perast, a town known for its Venetian architecture and numerous historical sites. Arrive in Kotor, where you'll enjoy a walking tour of the city's fortress walls, St. Luka Square, Beskuća Palace, and St. Trifon's Cathedral. Overnight stay in Kotor.
Day 8 – Day 8: Scenic Drive to Pec
- Kotor
- More
Start your day with a scenic drive along the road above Kotor Bay, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Continue your journey to the vibrant town of Pec in Kosovo, where you'll spend the night. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and the unique charm of this region.
Day 9 – Day 9: Cultural Heritage of Kosovo
- District of Prizren
- More
Begin your day with a visit to the Visoki Decani Monastery, a significant cultural heritage site in Kosovo. Continue to Prizren, the country's second-largest city, for a walking tour of the town center. Explore the Sinan Pasha Mosque, Our Lady of Ljevis, and the Old Stone Bridge. Overnight stay in Prizren.
Day 10 – Day 10: Explore Tirana
- Tirana
- District of Prizren
- More
- Tanners' Bridge
- Skanderbeg Square
- TERRACE OF DURRËS
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Travel to the capital of Albania, Tirana, known as Shqiperi by the locals. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of the city, visiting Skanderbeg Square, Tanner's Bridge, and the residence of Enver Hoxha. Discover the city's unique history and vibrant culture. Overnight stay in Tirana.
Day 11 – Day 11: Discover Ohrid
- Ohrid
- Tirana
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- Ohrid City Park
- Kitino Fort
- The Bay of Bones
- Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon
- Ethno Museum
- More
Journey to Macedonia, starting with a visit to the St. Naum Monastery, offering stunning views of Ohrid Lake. Continue to the city of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the afternoon exploring the shores of Ohrid Lake and the city's narrow streets, visiting Samuil's Fortress, St. John Kaneo, and St. Pantaleimon. Overnight stay in Ohrid.
Day 12 – Day 12: Explore Skopje
- Skopje
- Ohrid
- Matka
- More
- Old Bazaar
- Square „Macedonia“
- More
Travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia. Begin your day with a visit to Matka Canyon, the country's oldest artificial lake and home to several medieval monasteries. Check into your hotel in Skopje and enjoy an afternoon walking tour of the city. Visit the Old Bazaar, the largest marketplace in the Balkans, and explore the architecture and statues around Macedonia Square. Overnight stay in Skopje.
Day 13 – Day 13: Return to Sofia
- Skopje
- Sofia
- More
Conclude your Balkan adventure by returning to Sofia, Bulgaria's capital. Enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure, revisiting your favorite spots or discovering new ones. Overnight stay in Sofia.
Day 14 – Day 14: Departure from Sofia
- Sofia - Departure day
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As your unforgettable Balkan journey comes to an end, you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich histories you've experienced over the past two weeks. Safe travels!
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