Istanbul to Bucharest: A 13-Day Tour of History and Culture
- Tour ID: IB141/272375
- Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights
- Transportation: Included
- Guide: English
- From: Istanbul
- To: Bucharest
- Hotels: 3* - 4*
- Meals / Breakfast
Enjoy the Adventure
Experience a fascinating 13-day adventure from Istanbul to Bucharest, exploring rich cultural landmarks and scenic beauty across Eastern Europe. Starting in Istanbul, you’ll discover the city’s historic treasures before flying to Sofia. From there, journey through North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece, visiting vibrant cities like Skopje, Tirana, Ohrid, and Meteora. Finally, immerse yourself in the charm of Bucharest and the allure of Transylvania. Highlights include guided tours of ancient sites, optional excursions to stunning natural landscapes, and plenty of free time to soak in the local atmosphere.
Itenirary
Arrive in Istanbul and self transfer to the hotel. Check-in and enjoy some free time to explore the city at your leisure. Overnight in Istanbul.
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a guided tour of Istanbul’s Old Town. Discover the city’s most famous landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. After the tour, enjoy some free time to explore Istanbul on your own. Overnight in Istanbul.
After breakfast, organized transfer to the airport for your flight to Sofia, Bulgaria (flight included, with varying times). Upon arrival in Sofia, organized transfer to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city. In the evening, join a welcome meeting with your guide to learn more about the upcoming journey. Overnight in Sofia.
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 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 a satisfying breakfast, you’ll head off on a comfortable transfer to Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital. Once you arrive, 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.
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, enjoy your last evening in Bucharest, reflecting on your journey.
Following breakfast, set out on a day trip to the enchanting region of Transylvania. Optional tours include visits to Bran (Dracula) Castle, the medieval town of Brașov, and the stunning Peles Castle. Make sure to sign up for these tours in advance if you’re interested. Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking scenery of Transylvania before heading back to Bucharest to wrap up your incredible trip. Enjoy!
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