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Bucharest to Athens Balkan Discovery Organized Group Tour
Discover the rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes of the Balkans on this unforgettable journey from Bucharest to Athens. This carefully designed itinerary takes you through some of Southeast Europe’s most fascinating destinations, including Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, and Ohrid.
Along the way, explore vibrant capitals, charming old towns, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, while experiencing a blend of Eastern and Western influences. From the legendary castles of Transylvania to the stunning monasteries of Meteora, this tour offers the perfect balance of guided sightseeing, cultural immersion, and leisure time. Ideal for travelers seeking both history and scenic beauty, this journey promises a truly memorable Balkan experience.
Tour Overview
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest

Upon arrival at Bucharest International Airport, Private transfer to the hotel (In case your flight is delayed, there is no reason to worry our driver will meet you accordingly. There are no additional charges for flight delays) to the hotel where you will be greeted with a warm welcome. After checking in, enjoy some leisure time to explore Bucharest at your own pace. Wander through the city’s charming streets or relax and soak in the local ambiance before retiring for a restful overnight stay in the heart of Bucharest. Hotel transfer by Sedan or Minivan depending on the number of guests.
Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia 4* or similar
Route: Bucharest – Hotel 30km
Day 2: Discover Bucharest

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then join a guided tour to explore Bucharest’s most iconic sights. You’ll visit Revolution Square, the impressive Romanian Athenaeum, and the charming Villa Crosse Passage, among other highlights. Stroll through the historic Old Town and see the historic Manuc’s Inn and Old Princely Court. After a day of sightseeing free time at Bucharest.
Meeting with the guide at 9:00 AM, followed by a 3-hour city tour and free time to enjoy the city senter, For the rest of the day, the guide can suggest any activity if desired.
Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia Bucharest 4* or simmiler
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Bucharest city tour with licensed guide
Day 3: Optional Transylvania Adventure

Following breakfast, set out on full-day trip(optional-150eur, per person) to the enchanting region of Transylvania. Optional tour includes visits to Bran (Dracula) Castle, the medieval town of Brașov, and the stunning Peles Castle. Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking scenery of Transylvania.
Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia 4* or similar
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visits: Fast Track Bran Castle and Peles Caste tickets are included.
Route: 377km
Route: 377km
Day 4: Bucharest –Veliko Tarnovo-Sofia

After a satisfying breakfast, you’ll head off on a comfortable transfer to another city of Balkan countries Sofia, Bulgarian’s lively capital. On your way will have lunch in another beautiful Balkan city In the town known as the capital of the former Bulgarian Empire – Veliko Tarnovo.
Once you arrive in Sofia, check into your hotel and then enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. It’s a great opportunity to start soaking in the vibrant atmosphere before settling in for the night.
You will be picked up at reception at 09:00 by an English-speaking driver, have lunch in Veliko Tarnovo, and arrive back at the hotel at 17:00.
Accommodation:Best Western Terminus Hotel 4*, Astoria 4* or similar
Meal:Daily Breakfast
Route: Bucharest -Velika Tarnovo 180km Velika Tarnova-Sofia 219km,
Day 5: Sofia
After breakfast, explore Sofia’s rich cultural heritage with a guided tour covering the city’s major landmarks. Visit the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a monumental symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and the historic St. Sophia Basilica, one of the city’s oldest churches. Continue your exploration with the National Art Gallery and the Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, enjoy free time in central Sofia to experience the city,Overnight at our hotel.
Meeting with the guide at 9:00 AM, followed by a 3-hour city tour and free time to enjoy the city senter, For the rest of the day, the guide can suggest any activity if desired.
Accommodation:Best Western Terminus Hotel4*, Astoria 4* or similar
Meal:Daily Breakfast
Visits: Sofia city tour
Day 6: Sofia to Skopje & Matka Canyon

After breakfast, enjoy free time until the time determined by your guide, then embark on a journey to Skopje, the vibrant capital of North Macedonia, another Balkan country. Along the way, consider a picturesque stop at Matka Canyon, a natural wonder renowned for its dramatic landscapes and serene lake (optional 25 euros per person). Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour exploring key landmarks such as the ancient Fortress overlooking the city, the iconic Stone Bridge spanning the Vardar River, the bustling Macedonia Square with its magnificent statue of Alexander the Great, and the historic Mustafa Pasha Mosque. Relax in the evening at your hotel in Skopje, anticipating the day’s adventures.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Hotel 4* or similar
Meal: Daily Breakfast & Dinner (Traditional earthenware pot with baked beans, salad, and soft drink)
Visits: City Tour Skopje,
Route: Sofia-Skopje 244km
Day 7: Skopje to Tirana via Prizren

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Tirana. Continue to the city of Prizren, visiting another Balkan country Kosovo. Prizren is a charming city in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Explore notable sites such as Prizren Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, the elegant Sinan Pasha Mosque, the tranquil White Drin River, and the bustling Sadrvan Square. Take some time to shop for local handicrafts and savor traditional cuisine before proceeding to Tirana, the lively capital city of another Balkan country, Albania. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this dynamic city.
Departure at 08:00 in the morning. Guests who wish to can visit Matka Canyon,
those who do not wish to can wait at the hotel,
Afterwards, departure to Prizren city, estimated arrival at 14:30,
arrival at our hotel in Tirana at 19:00
Accommodation: Golden City hotel 4* or similar
Meal: Daily Breakfast & Dinner (Chiken, salad & dessert or Pizza &S oft drink)
Visit: Sadrvan Square, Sinan Pasha Mosque
Route: Skopje – Prizren 105 km Prizren – Tirana 180 km
Day 8: Tirana to Ohrid

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before setting out on a captivating panoramic tour of Tirana. Discover the vibrant heart of the city with highlights including Skanderbeg Square, the impressive Skanderbeg Statue, the elegant Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the historic Clock Tower. After exploring Tirana, we set off from Tirana, the capital of Albania, passing through the ruins of Enver Hoxha’s communist state and arriving at our next stop, Ohrid, the city known as the pearl of the Balkans.
After the customs procedures, we will visit Ohrid, a city named after Lake Ohrid, one of the largest lakes in the Balkans. Visit the charming Old Town of Ohrid, famous for its magnificent scenery and rich cultural heritage, offering panoramic views of the Ohrid Port, Quarantine Church, Ancient Via Egnatia, Hagia Sophia Church, Hagia Sophia Monastery and Samoil’s Fortress. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid and settle in for a comfortable night’s accommodation in this picturesque town.
After breakfast, departure time will be as determined by the guide: If there is a tour coming from Dubrovnik, the city tour will be completed and departure will be around 12:00 noon.
Accommodation: Hotel Sky Corner 4* or simmilar
Meal: Daily Breakfast & Dinner (Traditional earthenware pot with baked beans, salad, and soft drink)
Visit: Panoramic Tirana City Tour, Skanderbeg Square, Ancient Via Egnatia, Hagia Sophia Church
Route: Tirana – Ohrid 131km
Day 9: Ohrid

After a Macedonian breakfast in Ohrid, the pearl of the Balkans, and a full day to immerse yourself in the beauty of Ohrid. Stroll through its charming streets or optionally take a half-day tour to Sveti Naum Monastery, a quiet and historical place on the shores of Lake Ohrid for 45 Euros. We visit the source of Lake Ohrid, which will take your breath away with its breathtaking views. This optional excursion offers a unique opportunity to discover the deep cultural roots and stunning natural landscapes of the region.
At 9:00 AM we depart for Sveti Naum. After a half-hour journey, we’ll enjoy a boat trip on the sources of Lake Ohrid to appreciate the natural beauty. Following this, you’ll have an hour of free time in Sveti Naum, and then a wine tasting upon returning to the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Sky Corner 4* or similar
Meal: Daily Breakfast & Dinner (Macedonian sauce plate, meatballs with cheese & live music )
Visit: Pearl of the Balkan St. Naum Monastery (half day tour 45 eu)
Route: Ohrid – St. Naum – Ohrid 70km
Day 10: Ohrid to Kastoria and Meteora (Kalabaka)

Start your day with breakfast and then cross into Greece, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and after customs, continue towards Kastoria, known for its magnificent Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake. After exploring Kastoria, continue towards Meteora.
Stay overnight in Meteora, rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Accommodation: Alexiou Hotel 3* or similar
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Kastoria, Lake Kastoria, Byzantine churches,
Route: Ohrid – Kastoria 140km; Kastoria – Meteora 135km
Day 11: Meteora (Kalabaka) - Athens Transfer

After breakfast at your hotel, visit the UNESCO-listed Meteora to tour the magnificent cliff-top monasteries. Explore two of these impressive Byzantine monasteries, each perched atop towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views. Following your visit, free time at Meteora until 17.00 oclock, than transfer to Athens by reserved shuttle transfer to your Athens hotel, check in, othernight at Hotel.
Accommodation: One Smart Hotel 4* or similar
Meals: Daily Breakfast
Route: Meteora-Athens 344km
Day 12: Athens

After breakfast end of service:
Important note: Since we arrive in Athens on Friday, you can choose any cruise tour you like, or we can add accommodation and a city tour.
Meals: Daily Breakfast
What's Included
What's Not Included
Map of the Route
Available on all departures booked at least 40 days in advance. Cancel or change your booking for FREE for up to 7 days after booking.














