The Grand Balkan Adventure Budapest to Athens & Cappadocia

Start your adventure in Budapest, you’ll meet your guide who will pick you up from the hotel and accompany you for the remaining part of this tour and head into Romania. After crossing the border at Arad, enjoy a brief walking tour of this culturally rich Transylvanian town. Discover Arad’s architectural gems, such as the City Hall Palace, the Palace of Culture, the neo-Gothic Red Church, the Roman Catholic Church, and the neoclassical State Theatre. You can also stop for lunch at a local restaurant if time permits. Than continue to overnight at a hotel in Timisoara.
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Accommodation: Hotel Continental or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Tours in Arad and Timisoara
Route: Budapest – Arad 265km; Arad – Timisoara 58km
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After breakfast, the day will start with a walking tour of the Old Town Timisoara, a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture influenced by Turkish and Austro-Hungarian styles. Timisoara was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Then visit Corvin Castle, one of Europe’s largest Gothic castles, rich with history and legends. Free time at the Castle then in the afternoon, arrive in Sibiu, a city known for its charming Old Town and cultural significance. Join a guided walking tour to learn about Sibiu’s history and see why it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Overnight at a hotel in Sibiu.
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Accommodation: Golden Tulip or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Entrance to Corvin Castle is included, City Tour Sibiu
Route: Timisoara – Alba Iulia 220km; Alba Iulia – Sibiu 77km
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Start your long day with early morning with travel to Bucharest at our way visit most famous castels at Transylvania Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula’s Castle. Learn about the history of Vlad Dracula as you explore this 14th-century fortress. Later, head to Sinaia to visit the stunning Peles Castle, a 19th-century royal residence that remains beautifully preserved. Continue your journey to Bucharest, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
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Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia Hotel or similar
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Entrance to Bran and Peles Castles is included
Route: Sibiu –Bran161km Bran –Peles 21km Peles –Bucharest 220km
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Start with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, then set out on a guided tour of Bucharest’s highlights. Explore iconic sites like Revolution Square, the Romanian Atheneum, and the charming Old Town. Take in landmarks such as Manuc’s Inn and the Old Princely Court. After your tour, relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries before spending another night in Bucharest.
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Accommodation: Hotel Lido by Phoenicia or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Bucharest city tour with Licensed local guide.

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After a satisfying breakfast, you’ll head off on a cotirmfortable transfer to another city of Balkan countries Sofia , Bulgarian’s lively capital. On your way will have lunch another beautiful Balkan city In the town known as the capital of the former Bulgarian Empire –Veliko Tarnovo.

Once you arrive at Sofia , 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.
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Accommodation: Best Western Terminus or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Bucharest city tour with Licensed local guide.
Route: Bucharest – Velika Tarnovo 180km Velika Tarnova-Sofia 219km
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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
Route: Sofia-Skopje 244km
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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.
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Accommodation: Albanopolis Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Panoramic City Tour, Aleksander Nevski Cathedral
Route: Skopje – Prizren 105km Prizren – Tirana 180km
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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Start your day with breakfast 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.
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Accommodation: Alexiou Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Kastoria, Lake Kastoria, Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake
Route: Ohrid – Kastoria 140km Kastoria – Meteora 135km
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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.
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Accommodation: Athens One Smart Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
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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.Overnight in Athens
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Accommodation: Athens One Smart Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Athens City tour with Licensed Local Guide
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Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight to Istanbul (included, with variable times). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the city on your own. Detailed information about this part of your trip will be provided in the afternoon.
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Accommodation: Armagrandi Spina Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Flight: Included
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After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be picked up from your hotel for a half-day city tour. You’ll experience the historical fabric of this city, which has hosted various civilizations throughout its history, learn about its cultural characteristics, historical significance, and popular stories from our guide, and enjoy street food while visiting key sites like Hagia Sophia, the Sultanahmet Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar in the Old City. After exploring the Old City, a delightful boat trip awaits you along the Bosphorus, where the Asian and European continents meet.
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Accommodation: Armagrandi Spina Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Istanbul city tour with licensed tour guide.
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Early in the morning, transfer from your hotel to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Kayseri. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to Cappadocia (North of Cappadocia). Discover the region’s natural wonders including Devrent Valley, Zelve Open-Air Museum, Monk Valley, Goreme Open-Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, and Uchisar Castle. After the tour, check into your cave hotel for an overnight stay.
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Accommodation: Cave Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Tour in Cappadocia
Flight: Included
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After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, enjoy a second-day tour of Cappadocia, visiting Kizilcukur, Cavusin Village, Derinkuyu Underground City, Ortahisar, and Catalkaya.
For an additional experience, join an early morning hot air balloon ride(optional) at 05:30 am.
After the tour, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, arriving at 20:50.

End of services.
See you on your next adventure with Ajdinis Travel.
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Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Tour in Cappadocia
Flight: Included
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