Sofia to Dubrovnik: Express Cultural Expedition

5 Days

Join for a captivating 5-day journey from Sofia to Dubrovnik. Discover the vibrant history and culture of the Balkans and Greece as you explore Sofia’s historic landmarks, experience Skopje’s rich heritage, and visit Prizren and Tirana. Enjoy the natural beauty of Matka Canyon and the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor before ending your adventure in the stunning city of Dubrovnik. This tour offers a perfect blend of historic sites, cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery.

Your adventure begins with the striking natural beauty of Matka Canyon, a hidden gem just outside Skopje. Surrounded by towering cliffs and tranquil waters, this breathtaking landscape invites you to explore by boat or simply enjoy the serenity of its rugged charm. Caves, monasteries, and winding trails make Matka a destination where nature and history coexist in perfect harmony.

From there, journey to the Adriatic coast to discover the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor. Enclosed by medieval walls and nestled between mountains and sea, Kotor feels like stepping into another era. Wander its narrow stone streets, admire Venetian architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal treasure.

Your tour reaches its grand finale in Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” With its iconic city walls, terracotta rooftops, and sweeping sea views, Dubrovnik offers a picture-perfect ending to your journey. Explore the historic Old Town, walk along the walls for unforgettable vistas, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Blending historic sites, cultural experiences, and awe-inspiring landscapes, this tour is designed to showcase the best of the Balkans and Adriatic. From canyon cliffs to coastal gems, every moment promises lasting memories.

Tour Overview

Duration

5 Days

Hotel Rating

Starts

Sofia

Ends

Dubrovnik

Age

13+

Tour Guide

English

Counties

Cities

Meals Included

Breakfast Included

Size of Group

3 – 12

Tour ID

S103 – 264211

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival to 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 Kotor (Montenegro) and Dubrovnik

Enjoy a flavorful breakfast in Tirana before departing for another Balkan countries Montenegro and Croatia to Dubrovnik. Meeting with your driver at your hotel and continue to the journey, visit the historic city of Kotor, guided by a local expert who will unveil the city’s secrets. Discover Kotor’s captivating highlights, including the medieval Castle of Kotor perched high on the city walls, the stunning Triphun Cathedral, the intriguing Archive Museum, and the renowned Wall of Shame, a testament to the city’s storied past. Kotor Bay, with its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring Kotor, relish some free time to soak in the picturesque views and local atmosphere before continuing to Dubrovnik. Arrive in Dubrovnik, check in at your hotel, and spend the night in this enchanting city, known for its stunning old town and crystal-clear waters.

Accommodation: Ivka Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Kotor old town
Route: Tirana-Kotor 201km; Kotor-Dubrovnik 92km
Important notice: because of seasonal crowds, there may be a delay in arrival times at the hotel.

Day 5: Dubrovnik

After breakfast, self-transfer to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your tour.

Meal: Daily Breakfast

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 Skopje and Kotor 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, such as Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu. 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.