16 Days Grand Balkan Countries Tour
|16 Days, 23 Destinations |Starts from Istanbul
Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits

Duration
16 days

Max Group Size
30

Tour Code
16DGBCT

Tour Type
Request as private tour

Departure Type
Scheduled

Age Requirement
12 - 90 Ages

Guiding Method
Fully guided

Operated In
English

Physical level
relax

Tour route map

Istanbul

Pickup Time:

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Zagreb

Dropoff Time:

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Activities

AdventureCombined CountryDiscoveryExplorerFamilyHistoricalIn-depth CulturalMuseumPhotographySailingSightseeingSolo TravelWalking TourSee Itinerary

Tour Overview

This exclusive tour is consisted of many different countries to include Turkey, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia and Greece with an exciting itinerary to let you enjoy the Adriatic coast and the Balkans entirely where you will also get to see Aegean Region and experience a journey through Greece. TOUR ROUTE: Istanbul – Turkey - Plovdiv - Sofia - Sandanski – Melnik - Bulgaria - Thessaloniki - Vergina - Kalambaka - Greece- Skopje – Ohrid - Macedonia – Tirana - Albania – Budva - Montenegro – Dubrovnik - Croatia - Mostar - Sarajevo – Visoco - Travnik – Bihac - Bosnia – Ljubljana – Bled - Slovenia – Zagreb - Croatia

Highlights

  • Embarking on a journey from Istanbul, Turkey, through Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, and concluding in Zagreb, Croatia, promises a rich exploration of diverse cultures, historical sites, and natural landscapes.
  • Istanbul, Turkey: Explore iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Take a Bosphorus cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the city's skyline and historic landmarks along the waterway.
  • Plovdiv, Bulgaria: Discover the charming old town of Plovdiv, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, colorful 19th-century architecture, and lively atmosphere. Visit landmarks such as the Roman Amphitheater, Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis, and the Old Town's cobblestone streets lined with cafes and galleries. Sofia, Bulgaria: Explore Bulgaria's capital city, Sofia, and discover its mix of ancient ruins, Ottoman mosques, and Soviet-era monuments. Visit landmarks such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sofia Church, Boyana Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the National Palace of Culture. Sandanski and Melnik, Bulgaria: Relax in the spa town of Sandanski, known for its mineral springs and therapeutic baths. Visit the picturesque town of Melnik, famous for its wine production and unique sandstone formations, and explore its medieval fortress and wine cellars.
  • Thessaloniki and Vergina, Greece: Explore Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki, and its rich history dating back to ancient times. Visit landmarks such as the White Tower, Rotunda of Galerius, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, and Byzantine city walls. Explore Vergina, the site of ancient Aigai, the first capital of Macedon, and discover its Royal Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kalambaka and Meteora, Greece: Visit Kalambaka, a town at the foot of the Meteora rock formations, and explore its monasteries perched atop towering cliffs. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery and spiritual ambiance of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its monasteries built on natural sandstone pillars.
  • Skopje and Ohrid, North Macedonia: Discover the capital city of Skopje and its eclectic mix of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern architecture. Visit landmarks such as the Skopje Fortress, Stone Bridge, and the Old Bazaar. Explore the charming town of Ohrid, situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, and its medieval old town, Byzantine churches, and ancient theater. Tirana, Albania: Explore the vibrant capital city of Tirana and discover its eclectic mix of Ottoman, Italian, and communist-era architecture. Visit landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, Et'hem Bey Mosque, Bunk'Art 2 (a Cold War-era nuclear bunker turned museum), and the National History Museum.
  • Budva and Kotor, Montenegro: Relax on the beaches of Budva, a popular resort town on the Adriatic coast, known for its sandy beaches, medieval old town, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor, nestled between mountains and the Bay of Kotor, and discover its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and ancient fortress. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," and explore its well-preserved medieval walls, cobblestone streets, and baroque architecture. Walk along the historic city walls, visit landmarks such as the Rector's Palace and Sponza Palace, and take in panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Explore the picturesque town of Mostar, famous for its Ottoman-era bridge, Stari Most, spanning the Neretva River. Visit the historic old town, with its cobblestone streets, mosques, and bustling bazaars, and learn about the city's multicultural heritage.
  • Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Discover the diverse culture and turbulent history of Sarajevo, Bosnia's capital city, known for its mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences. Visit landmarks such as the Latin Bridge, site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. Visočica Hill, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Explore the mysterious Visočica Hill, believed by some to be the site of ancient pyramids, and visit the Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun archaeological park. Travnik and Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Explore the charming town of Travnik, known for its Ottoman-era architecture, including the colorful houses along the riverfront. Discover the natural beauty of Bihać, situated on the banks of the Una River, and visit landmarks such as the Una National Park and the 13th-century Bihać Fort.
  • Ljubljana and Bled, Slovenia: Explore the charming capital city of Slovenia, Ljubljana, known for its picturesque old town, leafy riverbanks, and lively cultural scene. Visit landmarks such as Ljubljana Castle, Triple Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and the Central Market. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Bled, with its iconic island church, medieval castle, and stunning Alpine scenery.
  • Zagreb, Croatia: Conclude your journey in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, and explore its historic Upper Town and modern Lower Town. Visit landmarks such as St. Mark's Church, Zagreb Cathedral, Ban Jelačić Square, and the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Itinerary

Welcome to Turkey Istanbul Airport. Meet with TravelShop Booking staff and transfer to your hotel. Transfer from airport & check in to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

(Breakfast included)

Pick up at 08:30am from your hotel for the daily tour of old Istanbul city. Visit to TOPKAPI PALACE The great palace of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries housing an exquisite collection of crystal, silver, and Chinese porcelain, robes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the Imperial Treasury, miniatures, the Holy Mantle; enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed. SULTANAHMET IMPERIAL MOSQUE Across from St. Sophia built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet, is known as the BLUE MOSQUE because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. HIPPODROME Ancient Hippodrome, the scene of chariot races, with the three monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine. Murtis Tour will then take you to the GRAND SPICE BAZAAR for Shopping. After the tour, transfer back to your hotel. Free Evening and optional Istanbul Evening Shows or Bosphorus Dinner Cruise including traditional Turkish entertainment and dinner. Overnight in Istanbul.

(Breakfast included)

After breakfast check out from the hotel and Depart for Bulgaria. Arrival in Plovdiv around noon in Bulgaria. Check in to hotel and rest of day is yours. Explore Plovdiv city, shop in the local markets, or enjoy many big party or games in Casinos. Overnight in Plovdiv.

(Breakfast included)

Departure for Sofia. Guided sightseeing tour of the city centre, including visit to Alexander Nevski Cathedral - one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in Europe, as well as one of Sofia’s symbols and a primary tourist attraction; St. George Rotunda, St. Sophia Church, built by the Roman Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, National Theatre, former Royal Palace, today housing the National Revival Art Gallery and the Ethnographic Museum, Presidency, etc. Upon request – dinner at a traditional restaurant with folklore music and dances. Overnight in Sofia.

(Breakfast included)

Departure for Rila Monastery - the most exquisite example of the monastery art and architecture in Bulgaria. Guided tour of the monastery complex. Visit to Nativity of the Virgin Church with its miracle icon of the Virgin and splendid gilded iconostasis, the old kitchen, the monastery museum where you can learn about the long and heroic history of the monastery, the wood carved cross made for a period of twelve years by a monk called Rafael, Hrelyo’s Tower and many spectacular views from the mountain and the surrounding nature. Drive to Sandanski in the afternoon. Overnight in Sandanski.

(Breakfast included)

Drive to Melnik - the smallest town in Bulgaria famous for its excellent wines and sandstone rocky pyramids. Visit to Kordopulova museum-house. Around noon departure for Greece. It is your free day to explore and enjoy Thessaloniki on your own. Depending on the time of arrival, you can spend the day walking around, doing the shopping or relaxing in one of many cafeterias or Taverns in Thessaloniki down town. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, drive to Vergina, the most important remains of the monumental palace of the Kingdom of Macedonia, lavishly decorated with mosaics and painted stuccoes, and the burial ground with more than 300 tombs some of which date from the 11th century B.C. One of the royal tombs is identified as that of Philip II, who conquered all the Greek cities, paving the way for his son Alexander and the expansion of the Hellenistic world. Lunch will be offered at a local restaurant in Vergina. After lunch, drive to Kalambaka. Overnight in Kalambaka.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel and check out to proceed to Ohrid. Arrival at Ohrid City, transfer for City Tour. A visit to Hadzi Turgut Mosque, Old Bazaar, Zeynel Abidin Pasha Tekke, Krst Dazmija. Lunch at a local restaurant in Ohrid. Proceed to Tirana, arrival and On Foot Tour of Tirana. Visit Mosque of Ethem Bey, the Clock Tower and free time for shopping. Check in to the hotel. Overnight in Tirana.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at the Hotel and check out to proceed to Montenegro via Shkodra, old town of Shkodra- visit the traditional road built in the XXth Century which bears the distinctive features, stop for taking photos at Molo Promenade, Shetitorja, Skadar Lake, continue to drive to Budva, visiting Sveti Stefan, Old City Budva. Lunch in Tivat, continue drive to Dubrovnik. Check in to the hotel. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel, city tour of this UNESCO protected pearl of the Adriatic and its Cathedral , Rector’s Palace, Fransican Monastery (included Old Pharmacy), Clock Tower, Orlando’s Columns, Sponze Plaza, Dubrovnik City. Lunch in the old City, Free time. Overnight at hotel in Dubrovnik.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast, Check out hotel. Transfer to Mostar), Proceed for city tour – visit Karadjoz Bey mosque and Muslibegovic house – walk through the old town and old bridge listed as UNESCO heritage site. Continue drive to Sarajevo, Lunch at Local Restaurant on the Way at Jablanica, arrive at Sarajevo, Free time at Old City and check-in the hotel. Overnight in Sarajevo.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel. Proceed for tour to visit Vrelo Bosne – spring of river Bosnia, Tunnel museum – the only means of going in and out during the siege of Sarajevo in last war. On Foot Tour of old town Bascarsija, Latin bridge, place where the Austro Hungarian Archduke was assassinated, what triggered the 1st World War; Brusa bezistan – covered market place; Gazi Husref Bey Mosque- built in 1530 year during the Ottoman era – and Gazi Husref Bey Madrass; Morica Han built in 1551 ; Vijecnica – town hall for the Austro-Hungarian era. Lunch at the local restaurant. Afternoon, free for shopping. Back to hotel. Overnight in Sarajevo.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel, check-out the hotel to Bihac on the way visit of the Pyramids of Bosnia Visoco, Visoco Mountain,that is the first European pyramid located in the heart of Bosnia. Continue driving to Travnik, visit to the mosque in Travnik including Suleimania. Travnik is located 90 km to the west of the city of Sarajevo, the Bosnian governor from 1697 to 1850 , Lunch at Local Restaurant in Travnik , continue drive to Bihac , Check-in the hotel , Leisure time enjoying the waterfalls and Una river which is best for Rafting. Overnight in Bihac.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel, Check-Out and proceed to Ljubljana, towards Plitvice National Park, a well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour of the 16 crystal - blue lakes cascading into 92 spectacular waterfalls. Walk on the wooden promenades with magnificent views on the waters where every turn leads to a breathtaking scenery and yet another waterfall. Surrounded by dense woods, Plitvice Lake is a natural phenomenon of rare and unique beauty. Continue drive to Ljubljana, view the Central open-air Market, Baroque Town Hall, Robba's Fountain, the Three Bridges, and Lunch at Local Restaurant, Check-in the hotel. Overnight at the Hotel in Ljubljana.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel, Check-Out to proceed to Zagreb and drive to Lake Bled, a beautiful glacial lake in the Julian Alps. Lake Bled is set amid forests and mountains and is one of the most picturesque destinations in Europe, Continue drive to Zagreb, arrive Zagreb, City Tour with a wealth of historic monuments. Visit of the highlights including the upper and lower town, the majestic Cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, Lunch at Local Restaurant , free time exploring the winding streets of the old town .Proceed to hotel , Check-In , free time. Overnight at the Hotel in Zagreb.

(Breakfast included)

Breakfast at hotel. Check-out the hotel. Departure to the airport. We hope this was a memorable tour for you and looking forward to see you again on another tour of ours. Thank you for joining us.

Trip includes

Included

2 Nights’ accommodation in Istanbul - Pullman Hotel or 5 Star La Quinta by Wyndham Istanbul

1 Night accommodation in Plovdiv - Ramada Trimontsium Hotel

1 Night accommodation in Sofia - Princess Hotel Sofia/Jasmin Hotel

1 Night accommodation in Sandanski - Sveti Nikola 4*

1 Night accommodation in Thessaloniki - Ramada Hotel 4*

1 Night accommodation in Kalambaka - Antoniadis 4*

1 Night accommodation in Tirana - Mondial Hotel

2 Nights’ accommodation in Dubrovnik - Neptun Hotel 4*

2 Nights’ accommodation in Sarajevo - Hollywood Hotel 4* /Grand Hotel 3*

1 Night accommodation in Bihac - Kostelski Buk Deluxe 4*

1 Night accommodation in Ljubljana - Plaza hotel 4*

1 Night accommodation in Zagreb - Movie hotel 3*

PS: If This hotel list not available at the time of your booking then we will arrange similar other hotel for your group.

If you prefer a Different category hotel, there might be an additional cost

Hotel

Professional English speaking tour guides

Guiding Method
Fully guided

English

Meals mentioned in above Itinerary

Vegetarian Halal Meat

All Airport transfers mentioned in above program

All coach transportation by fully equipped buses

Coach / BusMini-coachPrivate Vehicle

All Guided Sightseeing Trips with entrance fees as above

Excluded

International flights

Insurance: All types

City Tax

Country entry Visas

Optional land excursion

Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry

Any others expenses which are not mentioned at the included section.

Hotel room taxes

Tipping

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