From Bucharest to Istanbul Balkan Discovery & Greece Tour
- Tour ID: BI139/272365
- Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights - 1 FLIGHT INCLUDED
- Transportation: Included
- Guide: English
- From: Bucharest
- To: Istanbul
- Hotels: 3* - 4*
- Meals / Breakfast
Enjoy the Adventure
Experience an unforgettable 13-day journey through Eastern Europe and Greece, ending in Istanbul. Starting in Bucharest, explore Transylvania’s wonders including Dracula’s Castle, Peles Castle, and Brasov Old Town. Travel through Sofia, Skopje, Prizren, Tirana, Ohrid, and Meteora, and discover their rich histories and stunning landscapes. Continue to Thessaloniki, visit the renowned Rila Monastery, and conclude your adventure in Istanbul. Enjoy guided tours, historical sites, and vibrant cities, with meals, accommodation, and transport included.
Itenirary
Arrive in Bucharest and self transfer to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Bucharest.
Start with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, then set out on a guided tour of Bucharest’s highlights. Explore iconic sites like Revolution Square, the Romanian Atheneum, and the charming Old Town. Take in landmarks such as Manuc’s Inn and the Old Princely Court. After your tour, relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries before spending another night in Bucharest.
After breakfast, enjoy a day free to explore Bucharest at your own pace, or choose to join an optional day trip to Transylvania. This excursion includes visits to the legendary Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), the medieval town of Brasov, and the stunning Peles Castle. Return to Bucharest for an overnight stay, with time to unwind and enjoy the evening.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, meet with your guide for a welcome briefing and get ready for the adventures ahead.
After a hearty breakfast, delve into Sofia’s rich cultural heritage with a guided tour of its major landmarks. 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 a visit to the National Art Gallery, housed in the former royal palace, and the Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, embark on a journey to Skopje, the bustling capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, enjoy a comprehensive city tour, discovering highlights such as the ancient Kale Fortress overlooking the city, the iconic Stone Bridge spanning the Vardar River, the lively Macedonia Square with its grand statue of Alexander the Great, and the historic Mustafa Pasha Mosque. Spend a relaxing evening at a comfortable Skopje hotel, reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Tirana. Along the way, consider a picturesque stop at Matka Canyon, a natural wonder renowned for its dramatic landscapes and serene lake (optional). Continue to Prizren, a charming city in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy a guided city tour of Prizren, exploring 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 of Albania. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this dynamic city.
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, journey to the enchanting city of Ohrid, renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. Wander through Ohrid’s charming Old Town, soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid, and settle in for a comfortable overnight stay in this picturesque city.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a full day to immerse yourself in the beauty of Ohrid. Stroll through its charming streets, or optional for a half-day tour to the Sveti Naum Monastery, a serene and historic site perched on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This optional excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s deep cultural roots and stunning natural landscapes.
Start your day with breakfast and an optional visit to a renowned winery in North Macedonia. Continue to Kastoria, known for its stunning Byzantine churches, Ottoman-era architecture, and scenic lake. After exploring Kastoria, proceed to Meteora. Enjoy an overnight stay in Meteora, where you can rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
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.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards 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 in Sofia, check in to your comfortable hotel and unwind after a day of exploration with an overnight stay in this vibrant city.
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.
Following breakfast, immerse yourself in Istanbul’s highlights with a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. The tour concludes, marking the end of your memorable adventure.
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