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Dubrovnik to Istanbul Trip From Kotor Bay to Istanbul Grand Voyage
Explore a captivating journey from Dubrovnik to Istanbul over 8 days, where ancient wonders and vibrant cultures await. Starting in Dubrovnik, you’ll travel through Kotor and Tirana, discovering the rich history of Ohrid and the charm of Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries. Continue to Thessaloniki, Sofia, and end in the vibrant city of Istanbul. Along the way, enjoy guided city tours, optional excursions like Sveti Naum Monastery and local wineries, and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of each destination. The tour concludes in Istanbul, where you’ll experience the city’s most famous landmarks and bustling bazaars.
A guided city tour introduces you to iconic landmarks like the White Tower, Aristotelous Square, and the Rotunda of Galerius, giving you a true taste of the city’s vibrant spirit.
From there, the adventure moves north to Sofia, the charming capital of Bulgaria. Here, you’ll stroll through wide boulevards and leafy parks, explore the striking Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and discover layers of history that span Thracian, Roman, and Ottoman influences. Optional excursions, such as a visit to the picturesque Sveti Naum Monastery near Lake Ohrid or a wine-tasting experience at local wineries, add extra flavor to your journey and showcase the region’s rich traditions.
The grand finale awaits in Istanbul, where East meets West. Guided tours highlight the city’s most famous treasures, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. By the time your journey concludes, you will have experienced a unique blend of cultures, flavors, and landscapes that make the Balkans and Turkey truly unforgettable.
Tour Overview
Itinerary
Day 1: Dubrovnik to Tirana via Kotor

Begin your journey with pick up and a scenic drive from Dubrovnik hotel to capital city of Albania- Tirana. This day will be a short Balkan trip, stopping along the way to explore Famous city of Montenegro- Kotor. With the guidance of our local expert, discover landmarks like Triphun Cathedral, the archive museum, and the famous Wall of Shame. After enjoying some free time to wander Kotor at your own pace, continue your journey to Tirana, where you’ll check into your hotel and settle in for the evening.
Accommodation:
Albanopolis Hotel Tirana
Lunch and Dinner:
Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the Kotor Castle.
Visit:
Kotor city tour with Local Guide
Route:
Dubrovnik-Kotor 92km Kotor-Tirana 201km
Important notice: because of seasonal crowds, there may be a delay in arrival times at the hotel.
Day 2: 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.
Accommodation:
Hotel Sky Corner 4*
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Lunch and Dinner:
Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.
Visit:
Panoramic Tirana City Tour, Skanderbeg Square, the impressive Skanderbeg Statue, Ohrid Port, Quarantine Church, Ancient Via Egnatia, Hagia Sophia Church
Route:
Tirana – Ohrid 131km
Day 3: 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.
Accommodation:
Hotel Sky Corner 4*
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Lunch and Dinner:
Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.
Visit:
Pearl of the Balkan St. Naum Monastery(45 eu)
Route:
Ohrid – St. Naum – Ohrid 70km
Day 4: Ohrid to Kastoria and Meteora (Kalabaka)
Start your day with breakfast and an optional visit to a famous winery in North Macedonia (55Eur). 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
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Lunch and Dinner:
Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.
Visit:
City Kastoria, Lake Kastoria, Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake
Route:
Ohrid – Kastoria 140km Kastoria – Meteora 135km
Day 5: Meteora (Kalabaka) to Thessaloniki
Start your day with breakfast before visiting the UNESCO-listed Meteora Monasteries. Enjoy breathtaking views and explore these cliff-top Byzantine marvels. Meet your Ajdinis Guide at Kalabaka and join the group to continue your journey to Thessaloniki, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Discover landmarks such as the White Tower and Arch of Galerius, then unwind with a comfortable overnight stay in Thessaloniki.
Accommodation:
Hotel Egnatia, Thessaloniki
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Lunch and Dinner:
Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.
Included:
Monastery entrance ticket is included (Note: To enter in the monasteries, appropriate clothing is required. Ladies should not wear short skirts and must have long sleeves. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.)
Route:
Meteora-Thessaloniki 228km
Day 6: Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards to the capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia. En route, make a significant stop at the Rila Monastery, an architectural and spiritual gem nestled in the Rila Mountains. As Bulgaria’s largest and most celebrated Eastern Orthodox monastery, Rila Monastery is renowned for its intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and serene mountain setting. Explore the monastery’s rich history and artistic treasures before continuing your journey. Upon arrival visit the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a monumental symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and the historic St. Sofia Basilica, one of the city’s oldest churches, Continue your exploration with National Art Gallery, Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance :With the guide decision, the Sofia city tour can be postponed the next day morning!
Accommodation:
Best Western Terminus Hotel Sofia
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Lunch and Dinner:
Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.
Included:
Rila Monastery ticket is included.
Route:
Thessaloniki-Rila Monastery 232km; Rila Monastery-Sofia 117km
Day 7: Sofia to Istanbul (Flight Transfer)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time. Detailed information about this part of your journey will be provided in the afternoon.
Accommodation:
Dosso Dossi Hotel or Recital Hotel Istanbul
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Day 8: Istanbul

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, pick up for half day city tour a visiting famous places like Spice Bazaar and Rustem Pasha Mosque. Cruise along from the Rumeli Hisarı Fortress along the Bosphorus Strait, take some photos, relax and watch the panoramic view of Istanbul.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) was built between 1597 and 1664, also it is the second oldest covered bazaar in the city. You can find exotic aromas and various spices. It contains fruit vegetable, flower and fish shops inside.
Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara and splits the European and Asian sides of Turkey. This romantic cruise along the Bosphorus will allow you to admire the Dolmabahce Palace, the Beylerbeyi Palace the Ciragan Palace. Ancient wooden villas and bridges and all the wonderful and unique maritime landscapes.
End of the service.
Meal:
Daily Breakfast
Lunch:
Lunch will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.
Visit:
Istanbul city tour with licensed tour guide
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.



















