The Grand Balkan Adventure Budapest to Athens & Cappadocia

Enjoy the Adventure

Experience a breathtaking journey through history and culture, beginning in the enchanting city of Budapest and concluding in the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul. This meticulously crafted tour will take you through the heart of Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece, offering a rich tapestry of experiences, stunning landscapes, and a deep dive into the unique heritage of the Balkans.

Itenirary

Day 1: Budapest – Arad – Timisoara


Start your adventure in Budapest, where you’ll meet your guide 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.In the afternoon, continue to 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. Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Timisoara.

Day 2: Timisoara – Corvin Castle – Alba Iulia – Sibiu

 

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Corvin Castle, one of Europe’s largest Gothic castles, rich with history and legends.Next, head to Alba Iulia, a city steeped in history. Explore its Old Town, where Romania’s unification treaty was signed in 1918.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 centrally located hotel in Sibiu.

Day 3: Sibiu – Sighisoara – Brasov

 

Start your day with a visit to Sighisoara, a fairy-tale town and the birthplace of Vlad Dracula in 1431. Explore the medieval streets and historic sites on a guided walking tour.In the afternoon, travel to Brasov, one of Romania’s most beloved cities. Take a walking tour of the Old Town, where you’ll see the famous Black Church and the historic city gates. Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Brasov.

Day 4: Brasov – Bran Castle – Peles Castle – Bucharest

 

In the morning, visit 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.

Day 5: Bucharest

 

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then join a guided tour to explore Bucharest’s most iconic sights. You’ll visit Revolution Square, the impressive Romanian Athenaeum, and the charming Villa Crosse Passage, among other highlights. Stroll through the historic Old Town and see the historic Manuc’s Inn and Old Princely Court. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy your evening in Bucharest, reflecting on your journey.

Day 6: Journey to Sofia

 

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, meet with your guide for a welcome briefing and get ready for the adventures ahead.

Day 7: 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 8: 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 9: 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 10: 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.

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.

Day 12: 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.

Day 13: Athens

 

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 than free time at Athens,othernight at Athens.

Day 14: Athens to Istanbul (by Flight)

 

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.

Day 15: Istanbul

 

After breakfast start your day visiting famous places like Spice Bazaar and Rustem Pasha Mosque. Cruise along from the Rumeli Hisarı Fortress along the Bosphorus Strait, take some photos, relax and watch the panoramic view of Istanbul.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) was built between 1597 and 1664, also it is the second oldest covered bazaar in the city. You can find exotic aromas and various spices. It contains fruit vegetable, flower and fish shops inside.
Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara and splits the European and Asian sides of Turkey. This romantic cruise along the Bosphorus will allow you to admire the Dolmabahce Palace, the Beylerbeyi Palace the Ciragan Palace. Ancient wooden villas and bridges and all the wonderful and unique maritime landscapes.

Day 16: Istanbul to Cappadocia (by Flight)

 

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.

Day 17: Cappadocia to Istanbul (by Flight)

 

Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride: For an additional experience, join an early morning hot air balloon ride at 05:30 am. 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. After the tour, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, arriving at 20:50. 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.
Guide:
Professional Guide: A guided tour in Sibiu, Sighisoara, Bucharest,Sofia,Meteora,Athens,Istanbul and Cappadocia covering iconic landmarks and historical sites with local guide. Professional and knowledgeable guides accompanying you from Day 6 in Sofia through to Day 11 in Meteora, 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.
Transportation:
Seamless Transfers: Transportation is included for the entire journey, ensuring smooth transitions between destinations. Comfortable Travel: Travel in style and comfort as you explore the Europe and Balkans. 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.
Flights:
Flights included: Day 14 Athens-Istanbul flight is included. Day 16 Istanbul –Kayseri flight is included. Day 17 Kayseri –Istanbul flight is included.

Excluded

Insurance:
Not included, yet highly recommended.
Optional:
Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu, St. Naum in Ohrid 45eu,Local winery 55eu, Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride price is variable in Cappadocia.
Important reminder:
Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, airport transfers, 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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