Tirana to Transylvania: Legends & Landscapes

9 Days

Experience an extraordinary 9-day journey from Tirana to the heart of Transylvania, blending cultural exploration, historic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in Tirana, Albania’s lively capital, where modern vibrance meets rich history. Continue to the lakeside city of Ohrid, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage churches and scenic beauty, then explore Bitola, a charming town with Ottoman and neoclassical influences.

Cross into Greece to marvel at the dramatic Meteora monasteries, perched high on towering rock formations, followed by a visit to Thessaloniki, a bustling port city with Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman treasures. Journey on to Sofia, Bulgaria’s cultural heart, where landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral showcase centuries of history and tradition.

Your adventure then leads to Bucharest, Romania’s dynamic capital, renowned for its elegant boulevards, historic Old Town, and vibrant atmosphere. For those seeking deeper discovery, optional excursions include Bran Castle (famously linked to Dracula), the medieval charm of Brasov, and the regal Peles Castle, one of Europe’s most beautiful royal residences.

With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transport, this tour offers the perfect balance of history, culture, and scenic wonders. From Albania’s lively streets to Romania’s mystical castles, it’s a Balkan journey you’ll never forget.

Tour Overview

Duration

9 Days

Hotel Rating

Starts

Tirana

Ends

Bucharest

Age

13+

Tour Guide

English

Counties

Cities

Meals Included

Breakfast Included

Size of Group

3 – 12

Tour ID

T101 – 264005

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana

Arrive to Tirana self-transfer to your reserved hotel, concluding the day with a hotel check-in, free time and enjoy the Tirana city, Later in the evening, welcome meeting at your hotel with your Guide, he will provide you with information about the upcoming journey.

Accommodation: Albanopolis Hotel or similar.

Day 2: 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: Albanopolis Hotel 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 3: 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 4: Ohrid to Kastoria and Meteora (Kalabaka)

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.

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

Day 5: 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. Meet your Ajdinis Guide at Kalabaka and join the group to 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.

Accommodation: Hotel Egnatia or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Monastery entrance ticket is included (Note: Appropriate clothing is required. Ladies should not wear short skirts and must have long sleeves. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.)
Route: Meteora-Thessaloniki 228km

Day 6: Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards to the Balkans country,capital city of Bulgaria to the Sofia. En route, make a significant stop at the Rila Monastery, an architectural and spiritual gem nestled in the Rila Mountains. As Bulgaria’s largest and most celebrated Eastern Orthodox monastery, Rila Monastery is renowned for its intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and serene mountain setting. Explore the monastery’s rich history and artistic treasures before continuing your journey. Upon arrival in Sofia 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 :With the guide decision, the Sofia city tour can be postponed the next day morning!

Accommodation: Best Western Terminus Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Rila Monastery ticket is included.
Route: Thessaloniki-Rila Monastery 232km Rila Monastery-Sofia 117km

Day 7: Sofia to Bucharest

After a satisfying breakfast, you’ll head off on a comfortable transfer to another city of Balkan countries Bucharest, Romania’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 Bucharest , 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.

Accommodation: Peakture Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Route: Sofia-Velika Tarnovo 219km, Velika Tarnova-Bucharest 180km

Day 8: Bucharest Highlights and Farewell

Following breakfast, set out on a full-day trip(optional-120eur, per person) to the enchanting region of Transylvania. Optional tour includes visits to Bran (Dracula) Castle, the medieval town of Brașov, and the stunning Peles Castle. Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking scenery of Transylvania.

Make sure to sign up for these tours in advance if you’re interested.

Accommodation: Peakture Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Bran Castle and Peles Caste tickets are included. Licensed tour guide.
Route: 377km

Day 9: Enchanting Transylvania Experience

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. End of the service.

Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Bucharest 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 Ohrid, Meteora and Bucharest 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 St. Naum in Ohrid 30eu, Alistratis Cave, and a local winery visit in Kavala 75eu, and Transylvania full day 95eu. 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.