Istanbul to Sofia: Capitals and Cultures of the Balkans
- Tour ID: IS142/272379
- Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights - 1 FLIGHT INCLUDED
- Transportation: Included
- Guide: English
- From: Istanbul
- To: Sofia
- Hotels: 3* - 4*
- Meals / Breakfast
Enjoy the Adventure
Join for a 10-day journey from Istanbul to Sofia, discovering the charm and history of the Balkans. Begin in Istanbul, where you’ll explore its iconic landmarks before flying to Sofia. From there, travel through Skopje, Prizren, Tirana, and Ohrid, each with its own unique character. Enjoy scenic spots in Kastoria and Meteora, and wrap up your adventure in Thessaloniki before returning to Sofia. This trip blends vibrant cities, beautiful landscapes, and fascinating history into one unforgettable experience.
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.
Begin with breakfast and journey back to Sofia, stopping to visit the Rila Monastery, the largest and most renowned Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. Conclude your tour upon arrival in Sofia.
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