Balkan Express: four countries in one week - SMALL GROUP
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the heart of the Balkans. This multi-day tour will take you through the captivating cities of Belgrade, Novi Sad, Nis, Sofia, Skopje, Ohrid, Elbasan, and Tirana. From the historic fortresses of Serbia to the vibrant streets of Bulgaria, the natural beauty of North Macedonia, and the cultural richness of Albania, this tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You'll explore iconic landmarks, enjoy local cuisines, and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant cultures of these fascinating countries. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, this tour has something for everyone.
Included
Entrance fees: Saint Sava Temple, Wine tasting during the Novi Sad trip, The Scull Tower, The Red Cross, Nazi Concentration Camp, Matka Canyon boat ride, Rozafa Castle
All fuel costs, parking fees, and road tolls
City taxes
VAT
Tour organization and 24/7 assistance from a licensed incoming tour operator
Services of English-speaking tour guide throughout
CLASSIC PACKAGE:
3 nights in Belgrade / hotels = Mark 4*, Royal Inn 4*, Holiday Inn Express 4* or similar
1 night in Sofia / hotels = BW Premier 4*, BW Terminus 4*, or similar
1 night in Skopje / hotels = Ibis Skopje 4*, Queens 4*, or similar
1 night in Ohrid / hotels = City Palace 4*, Millenium Palace 4*, or similar
1 night in Tirana / hotels = Art 4*, Senator 4*, or similar
UPGRADED PACKAGE:
3 nights in Belgrade / hotels = Belgrade Art Hotel 4*, Mercure Excelsior 4*, or similar
1 night in Sofia / hotels = hotel Anel 5*, Eurostars Sofia City 4*, or similar
1 night in Skopje / hotels = Park hotel 5*, Arka 5*, or similar
1 night in Ohrid / hotels = hotel Su 4*, Tino Hotel & SPA 4*
1 night in Tirana / hotels = Rogner 5*, Mak Albania 5*, or similar
Arrival airport transfer
Private transportation per given itinerary in a modern air-conditioned vehicle (sedan car, a mini-van, or a mini-bus, depending on the number of guests)
7 meals: 7 breakfasts
vegetarian, vegan, halal, meat
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Belgrade
- Belgrade - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Serbia! Upon your arrival at Nikola Tesla International Airport, our guide will meet you and assist with your check-in at your hotel in Belgrade. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure, perhaps following your guide's recommendations for dinner. Overnight in Belgrade.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Ada Ciganlija
- Old Sava Bridge
- Belgrade Fortress
- More
After breakfast, we'll embark on a sightseeing tour of Belgrade. We'll visit the imposing Belgrade Fortress, the modern architecture of New Belgrade, the charming area of Zemun, and the luxurious residential area of Dedinje. We'll also visit the Saint Sava Temple, one of the world's largest Orthodox churches. In the evening, we'll explore the Old Bohemian Quarter of Skadarlija, known for its artistic atmosphere. Overnight in Belgrade.
Day 3 – Day 3: Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci
- Novi Sad
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- Futoški Park
- Petrovaradin Fortress's Clock
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After breakfast, we'll head to the city of Novi Sad, stopping at the cultural hub of Sremski Karlovci along the way. We'll visit the first Serbian High School, the Old Patriarch's Court, and the Theological Lyceum. We'll also sample the region's famous Bermet wine. In Novi Sad, we'll explore the Petrovaradin Fortress and the charming Zmaj Jovina pedestrian zone. After a day of exploration, we'll return to Belgrade for the night.
Day 4 – Day 4: From Nis to Sofia
- Niš
- Sofia
- More
Today, we'll leave Serbia and head to Bulgaria, stopping at the city of Nis along the way. We'll visit the Niš Fortress, the Banovina Building, the Niš Liberators Monument, and the infamous Skull Tower. We'll also visit the Red Cross Nazi Concentration Camp, now a museum. After lunch, we'll continue our journey to Sofia, where you'll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. Overnight in Sofia.
Day 5 – Day 5: Sofia to Skopje
- Sofia
- Skopje
- More
After breakfast, we'll embark on a walking tour of Sofia, visiting the St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the National Theatre, St. George Rotunda, and the Ruins of Serdica. After a quick coffee break, we'll hit the road again and head to North Macedonia. Upon arrival in Skopje, we'll explore the city's main squares and streets, visit the Skopje Fortress and Čaršija (Ottoman Old Town), and see the birthplace of Mother Theresa. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps sampling the local cuisine and wines. Overnight in Skopje.
Day 6 – Day 6: Matka Canyon and Ohrid
- Ohrid
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- Church of Saint John the Theologian
- Square „Macedonia“
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After breakfast, we'll head to Matka Canyon, one of the most beautiful places in North Macedonia. Enjoy a one-hour boat ride and admire the stunning scenery. We'll then continue to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as 'The Jerusalem of the Balkans'. After a walking tour of the Old Town and a visit to the hilltop Church of St John at Kaneo, you'll have the evening free to explore at your leisure. Overnight in Ohrid.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Ohrid to Tirana via Elbasan
- Tirana
- Elbasan
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- Palace of Culture
- House of Leaves Museum
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After breakfast, we'll leave North Macedonia and head to Albania, stopping at the city of Elbasan along the way. We'll visit the Castle of Elbasan, the King's Mosque, and the Clock Tower. We'll then continue to Tirana, where we'll explore the city's vibrant streets and visit the Mosque of Et'hem Bey and the Watch Tower. Spend the afternoon discovering Tirana at your leisure. Overnight in Tirana.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Tirana
- Tirana - Departure day
- More
After breakfast, you'll have some free time until your flight. Our guide will assist with your transfer to the airport, marking the end of our unforgettable journey through the Balkans.
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