Sofia to Istanbul Grand Journey

Enjoy the Adventure

Experience a captivating 10-day journey from Sofia to Istanbul, exploring the rich history and vibrant cultures of the Balkans and Greece. Starting in Sofia, you’ll discover its landmarks before traveling to Skopje, Tirana, and Prizren. Continue to Ohrid, Bitola, and Meteora, then head to Thessaloniki and return to Sofia.
Your adventure concludes with a flight to Istanbul, where you’ll delve into the city’s iconic sights. From the majestic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, this tour offers a deep dive into the wonders of Istanbul, wrapping up your memorable journey through diverse and historic landscapes.

Itenirary

Day 1: Arrival in Sofia

 

Arrive to 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.

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 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.

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). 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.

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, 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.

Day 5: Ohrid

 

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.

Day 6: Ohrid to Kastoria and Meteora (Kalabaka)

 
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.

Day 7: Meteora (Kalabaka) to Thessaloniki

 

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.

Day 8: Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery

 

Begin with breakfast and journey back to Sofia, stopping to visit the Rila Monastery, the largest and most renowned Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. Othernight at Sofia hotel.

Day 9: Sofia to Istanbul (Flight Transfer)

 

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time. Detailed information about this part of your journey will be provided in the afternoon.

Day 10: Istanbul

 

After breakfast at your hotel, dive into the captivating sights of Istanbul. On today’s guided tour, visit iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmet Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. This tour marks the end of your unforgettable journey. End of services.

Included

Accommodation:
Stay in 4 or 3-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.
Flights:
Flights included. Day 9: from Sofia to Istanbul
Guide:
Professional Guide: A guided tour in Skopje, Ohrid, Meteora and Istanbul covering iconic landmarks and historical sites with local guide. Professional and knowledgeable guides accompanying you from Day 2 in Sofia through to Day 8 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.
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.

Excluded

Insurance:
Not included, yet highly recommended.
Optional:
Enhance your experience with optional excursions, such as Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu, St. Naum in Ohrid 45eu, Local Vinnery 55eu.
Important reminder:
Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, airport transfers at the start and end of the tour are not included., 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.

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