Sofia to Athens: Balkan Treasures & Greek Legends

8 Days

Experience 8-day adventure from Sofia to Athens and dive into the heart of the Balkans and Greece. Start your journey in Sofia, then discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Skopje, Tirana, and Prizren. Explore the scenic beauty of Ohrid and Bitola, and be awe-inspired by the dramatic Meteora monasteries. Your trip concludes in Athens with a tour of the city and the iconic Acropolis. This tour blends historic sites, stunning landscapes, and local flavors, offering a memorable experience of the region’s diverse heritage.

Your journey continues with the enchanting lakeside town of Ohrid, often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans.” Stroll along its cobbled streets, explore centuries-old churches, and admire the sparkling waters of Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, head to Bitola, a city that seamlessly blends Ottoman charm with modern culture. With its bustling bazaar, elegant architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, Bitola offers a true glimpse into North Macedonia’s rich heritage.

The adventure deepens as you cross into Greece to witness one of the most breathtaking sights in Europe—the Meteora monasteries. Perched dramatically atop towering rock formations, these spiritual sanctuaries are both an architectural wonder and a place of profound peace. The panoramic views will leave you speechless, while the stories of monks who built and preserved these monasteries add a deeper layer of history and meaning.

Your trip concludes in the timeless city of Athens, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. Walk in the footsteps of philosophers at the iconic Acropolis, marvel at the Parthenon, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Plaka’s charming streets.

This tour is the perfect blend of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and authentic flavors, offering an unforgettable exploration of the region’s diverse heritage.

Tour Overview

Duration

8 Days

Hotel Rating

Starts

Sofia

Ends

Athens

Age

13+

Tour Guide

English

Counties

Cities

Meals Included

Breakfast Included

Size of Group

3 – 12

Tour ID

S102 – 264209

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Sofia

Arrive in Sofia self-transfer to the hotel, concluding the day with a hotel check-in, free time and enjoy the Sofia night life, later in the evening, welcome meeting at your hotel with your Guide will provide you with information about the upcoming journey.

Accommodation: Best Western Terminus Hotel or similar.

Day 2: Sofia to Skopje

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 Sofia City Tour, Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, Skopje city tour, Vardar River, Stone Bridge.
Route: Sofia-Skopje 244km

Day 3: Skopje to Tirana via Matka Canyon and Prizren

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

Day 4: 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 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

Day 5: 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 or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Pearl of the Balkan St. Naum Monastery(45 eu)
Route: Ohrid – St. Naum – Ohrid 70km

Day 6: 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: Hotel Alexiou or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Kastoria, Lake Kastoria, Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake
Route: Ohrid – Kastoria 140km Kastoria – Meteora 135km

Day 7: Meteora (Kalabaka) - Athens Transfer

After breakfast at your hotel, visit the UNESCO-listed Meteora to tour the magnificent cliff-top monasteries. Explore two of these impressive Byzantine monasteries, each perched atop towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views. Following your visit, transfer to Athens by reserved shuttle or train. Self-transfer to your Athens hotel, check in, and enjoy a comfortable stay. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Athens’ nightlife at your leisure.

Accommodation: thens One Smart Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast

Day 8: Athens - End of the Tour

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Check out, and embark on a half-day guided tour of Athens, including a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Enjoy a coach journey past iconic landmarks such as the Greek Parliament and Panathenaic Stadium, followed by an on-foot exploration of the Acropolis and the timeless Parthenon. This tour marks the end of your journey, concluding your memorable adventure in Athens.

Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Athens City tour with Licensed Local Guide

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 Athens, Meteora, Ohrid and Skopje covering iconic landmarks and historical sites with local guide. Professional and knowledgeable guides accompanying the group throughout the 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.

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:

Enhance your experience with optional excursions, Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu, and St. Naum in Ohrid 30eu. Important reminder: Museum and historical site entrance fees belong to the guests. City tax in hotels in Greece is cash and belongs to the guest.