Call us at +389 72 641 066

info@ajdinistravel.com

From Bucharest to Sofia Balkan Discovery & Greece Tour

11 Days

4.75

Discover the best of Eastern Europe on this unforgettable 11-day adventure, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together. Begin your journey in Bucharest, Romania, exploring its vibrant streets, grand boulevards, and iconic landmarks. From here, experience the legendary region of Transylvania with optional tours to Bran (Dracula’s Castle), the fairy-tale Peles Castle, and the medieval charm of Brasov.

Continue south into Bulgaria, where Sofia welcomes you with its mix of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Travel west to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, and enjoy an optional excursion to the stunning Matka Canyon, known for its breathtaking landscapes and hidden caves.

Next, journey to Prizren in Kosovo, with its Ottoman bridges and cultural flair, before heading to Tirana, Albania’s colorful and lively capital. From there, visit Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage gem famous for its crystal-clear lake and centuries-old churches, followed by Bitola, rich in history and character.

The adventure continues with a visit to the world-famous monasteries of Meteora, dramatically perched on towering rock formations. Conclude your journey in Sofia, where culture, history, and hospitality bring your trip full circle.

This tour offers a perfect blend of guided experiences, cultural exploration, and free time for personal discovery.

Tour Overview

Duration

11 Days

Hotel Rating

4*

Starts

Bucharest

Ends

Sofia

Age

13+

Tour Guide

English

Counties

Cities

Meals Included

Breakfast Included

Size of Group

3 – 12

Tour ID

B103 – 272371

Itinerary

 

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.

Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia or similar.
­ ­

 

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.
­
Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Bucharest city tour with Licensed local guide.
­

 

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 or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Included: Bran Castle and Peles Caste tickets are included. Licensed tour guide.
Route: 377km
­

 

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 another beautiful Balkan city In the town known as the capital of the former Bulgarian Empire –Veliko Tarnovo.

Once you arrive at 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.

Accommodation: Best Western Terminus Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Route: Bucharest -Velika Tarnovo 180km Velika Tarnova-Sofia 219km
­

 

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 National Art Gallery, Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, embark on a journey to another country of Balkan, capital city of North Macedonia 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.
­ ­
Accommodation: Hotel Alexandar II or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Panoramic City Tour, Aleksander Nevski Cathedral
Route: Sofia-Skopje 244km
­

 

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 25 euros per person). 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.
­
Accommodation: Albanopolis Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Sadrvan Square, Sinan Pasha Mosque
Route: Skopje – Prizren 105km Prizren – Tirana 180km
­

 

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 or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
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
­

 

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 or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Pearl of the Balkan St. Naum Monastery(45 eu)
Route: Ohrid – St. Naum – Ohrid 70km
­

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 or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Kastoria, Lake Kastoria, Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake
Route: Ohrid – Kastoria 140km Kastoria – Meteora 135km
­

Small group tours in Croatia and Greece Best Greece tour packages 2025 Summer 2025 trips to Greece

 

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 or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
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
­

 

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. Conclude your tour upon arrival in Sofia.
End of the tour.
­
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Included: Rila Monastery ticket is included.
Route: Thessaloniki-Rila Monastery 232km; Rila Monastery-Sofia 117km
­ ­

What's Included

Accommodation:

Stay in 4 -star hotels: Enjoy comfortable accommodations throughout the expedition in double or twin rooms. Bed and Breakfast Service: Start each day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your explorations.

Guide:

Professional Guide: A guided tour in Bucharest, Skopje, Ohrid and Meteora covering iconic landmarks and historical sites with local guide. Professional and knowledgeable guides accompanying you from Day 5 in Sofia through to Day 11 in Sofia, ensuring an insightful and enriching experience throughout your journey.

Meals:

Daily breakfast provided at the hotels.

Additional Services:

Immerse in Culture: Engage with the local culture through visits to historic sites, museums, and old town areas. Free Time for Exploration: Personalized Exploration: Enjoy free time in each location for self-guided exploration, shopping, and savoring local cuisine. Flexibility: Strike the perfect balance between structured tours and independent discovery.Important reminder: Entrance fees to museums and historical sites, airport transfers and any other items not explicitly specified in the program are not included in the tour price and must be covered directly by the guests. Please note that Romania applies a local city/tourist tax for hotel stays. The tax is approximately €2 (10 RON) per person, per night, depending on the city and is payable directly at the hotel.

Transport:

Transportation: Luxurious bus journey for the specified routes, ensuring a pleasant travel experience. Coordination with the Ajdinis Group for specific parts of the journey, enhancing the overall experience. We customize our vehicle selection according to group size and needs. Sedans are deployed for smaller groups of up to 3 people, while minivans accommodate groups of up to 8 individuals. For larger groups exceeding 8 passengers, we rely on Sprinter vans. This special approach has been designed to ensure the comfort and efficiency of all passengers, regardless of group size, providing a seamless travel experience for everyone onboard.

What's Not Included

Flights:

Flights not included.

Insurance:

Not included, yet highly recommended.

Optional:

Transylvania full day 120eu, Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu, St. Naum in Ohrid 45eu, local winery visit and testing 55 eu

Important reminder:

Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, airport transfers, city taxes in Greece, and any other items not specified in the program are not included in the tour price. These expenses must be covered directly by the guests.

Have questions about "From Bucharest to Sofia Balkan Discovery & Greece Tour" tour?

Contact Us

Reviews

Ajdinis Travel place picture
5.0
Based on 118 reviews
powered by Google
View All Reviews

Map of the Route