19 Days Europe Balkan Countries Tour
|19 Days, 22 Destinations |Starts from Istanbul
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Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits
Duration

19 days

Max Group Size

30

Departure Type

Scheduled

Guiding Method

Fully guided

Physical level

relax

Operated In

English

Age Requirement

10 - 90 Ages

Tour Overview

Experience the rich history, cultural treasures, and stunning landscapes of Southeast Europe on this immersive 19-day Balkan tour. Spanning 8 countries, this journey takes you through ancient empires, Byzantine churches, Ottoman towns, coastal paradises, and alpine beauty.

Begin your adventure in Istanbul, the vibrant gateway between Europe and Asia. Travel through the historical heart of Bulgaria, from Plovdiv's Roman ruins to the charming town of Melnik. In Greece, explore Thessaloniki, the sacred site of Vergina, legendary Thermopylae, the classical majesty of Athens, and the breathtaking Meteora monasteries in Kalambaka.

Continue north to Ohrid, Macedonia’s lakeside gem, before discovering the spirited city of Tirana in Albania. Enjoy the Adriatic beauty of Budva and the walled city of Dubrovnik, before moving through Bosnia and Herzegovina, with cultural stops in Mostar, Sarajevo, Travnik, and Bihac. End your journey in Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana and the charming old town of Zagreb, Croatia.

In-depth CulturalPhotographySightseeingSolo TravelWalking TourAdventureCombined CountryDiscoveryExplorerFamilyHistorical

Route

Starts from

Istanbul

Ends in

Zagreb

Pickup Location

Istanbul Airport

Dropoff Location

Zagreb

Tour route map

Highlights

Embarking on a journey from Istanbul, Turkey, through Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia, and concluding in Zagreb, Croatia, promises an enriching 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, 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. Vergina and Thermopylae, Greece: Visit Vergina, the site of ancient Aigai, the first capital of Macedon, and explore the Royal Tombs of Vergina (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Explore the historic battlefield of Thermopylae, where the famous battle between the Spartans and Persians took place. Athens, Greece: Discover the cradle of Western civilization in Athens, home to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, and Temple of Olympian Zeus. Explore the Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum to learn more about Greece's ancient history and culture. 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. Ohrid, North Macedonia: Discover the charming town of Ohrid, situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, and explore its medieval old town, Byzantine churches, and ancient theater. Visit landmarks such as the Church of St. Sophia, Church of St. John at Kaneo, and Samuel's Fortress overlooking the town. 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, 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 Budva's historic landmarks, including the Citadel, Church of St. John, and the Holy Trinity Church. 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. 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, 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. 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

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

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Pick up at 08:30 am from your hotel for the daily tour of old Istanbul city.
Visit 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 BulgariaArrive in Plovdiv around noon.in Bulgaria.
Check in to the hotel and the rest of the day is yours. Explore Plovdiv city, shop in the local markets, or enjoy many big parties or games in Casinos.Overnight in Plovdiv.

(Breakfast included)
Departure for Sofia.Guided sightseeing tour of the city center, including a 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, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Departure for Rila Monastery - the most exquisite example of the monastery art and architecture in Bulgaria.
Guided tour of the monastery complex.
Visit Nativity of the Virgin Church with its miraculous 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. Dinner at the hotel and overnight in Sandanski.

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Drive to Melnik - the smallest town in Bulgaria famous for its excellent wines and sandstone rocky pyramids.
Visit Kordopulova museum-house. Around noon departure for GreeceIt 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 downtown. Dinner in Thessaloniki

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 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 back to Athens. On the way, make a short stop at Thermopylae where a fierce battle took place between the Persians and Greeks during the Persian invasion of 480-479 BC. The Greek force (300 strong) was very small but was determined to make a stand against the huge Persian army. Overnight in Athens.

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
After Breakfast Athens's full-day city tour starts with a visit to Acropolis, Parthenon, Olympic Stadium, Olympian Zeus Temple, Lycabettus Hill, and Greek Ancient Market. Lunch and Shopping afterward at Syntagma Square, MonastirakiBack to hotel, Dinner and overnight at hotel

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included).
Proceed to KalambakaLunch at arrival. 
Half-day city tour with a visit to Meteora, Theopetra CaveCheck-in hotel. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Kalambaka

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included) Breakfast.
Proceed to OhridArrival, lunch.
Half-day city tour with a visit to Hadzi Turgut Mosque, Old Bazaar, Zeynel Abidin Pasha Tekke, Krst DazmijaCheck-in and have dinner at the hotel

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Proceed to Tirana.
Half-day city tour: Mosque of Ethem Bay, Clock Tower, National Museum. Lunch. Proceed to Budva.
Arrival, check-in hotel. Dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Budva

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Half-day city tour of Old town BudvaLunch at arrival.
Proceed to DubrovnikArrival, check-in at the hotel. Dinner and Overnight in Dubrovnik.

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

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 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 to drive to SarajevoLunch at Local Restaurant on the Way at Jablanica, arrive at Sarajevo, Free time at Old City and check-in the hotel, Dinner, and Overnight in Sarajevo

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Breakfast at the 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, a place where the Austro Hungarian Archduke was assassinated, what triggered the 1st World War; Brusa resistant – covered market place; Gazi Husref Bey Mosque- built-in 1530 year during the Ottoman era – and Gazi Husref Bey Madras; Monica Han built-in 1551; Vijecnica – town hall for the Austro-Hungarian era. Lunch at the local restaurant. Afternoon, free for shopping. Back to hotel, Dinner, and Overnight in Sarajevo

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Breakfast at hotel, check-out the hotel to Bihac on the way visit of the Pyramids of Bosnia.
Continue driving to Travnik, visit the mosque in Travnik including Suleiman. Travnik has 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 to drive to Bihac, Check-in the hotel, Leisure time enjoying the waterfalls and Una river which is best for Rafting, Dinner, and Overnight in Bihac.

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 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 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, Dinner, and Overnight at the Hotel.

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Proceed to city visit of the highlights after the breakfast 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, free at leisure for the rest of the day, Dinner and Overnight at the Hotel.

(Open buffet 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 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 Hotel 4*
1 Night accommodation in Thessaloniki - Holiday Inn Hotel
2 Nights’ accommodation in Athens - Polis Grand Hotel 4*
1 Night accommodation in Kalambaka Antoniadis Hotel 4*
1 Night accommodation in Ohrid - Miracle Hotel
1 Night accommodation in Budva - Tino Hotel & SPA
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

Tour Highlights
Multinational journey across 8 stunning Balkan countries
UNESCO sites: Meteora (Greece), Ohrid Lake (North Macedonia), Dubrovnik & Plitvice Lakes (optional extension)
Guided visits to Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Athens’ Acropolis, and Sarajevo’s old bazaar
Panoramic drives through mountain passes, lakes, coastlines, and historic battlefields
Culinary experiences and cultural immersion in local traditions and folklore

Good to Know – 19-Day Europe & Balkans Tour
General Info
Duration: 19 Days / 18 Nights
Countries Visited: Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia
Language: English-speaking tour guide (local guides in select cities)
Group Type: Private tour 

Travel Requirements
Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after travel

Visa:
Turkey: e-Visa may be required
Schengen area & Balkans: Many countries share visa rules under the Schengen agreement; others have individual policies (check by nationality)
Health Insurance: Strongly recommended for medical and border entry purposes
Multiple border crossings – ensure all documents are easily accessible

Currency by Country
Turkey: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Bulgaria: Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
Greece, Slovenia, Montenegro, Croatia: Euro (EUR)
North Macedonia: Macedonian Denar (MKD)
Albania: Albanian Lek (ALL)
Bosnia & Herzegovina: Convertible Mark (BAM)

Packing Recommendations
Comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and archaeological sites
Layered clothing for variable climates (coastal areas are warmer, inland may be cooler)
Swimwear for coastal towns like Budva & Dubrovnik
Modest attire for religious sites (e.g., monasteries in Meteora, mosques in Sarajevo)
Travel adapter (Europe: 230V, plugs C/F)

Food & Culinary Tips
Turkey: Kebab, simit, Turkish delight, tea
Bulgaria: Banitsa, grilled meats, yogurt-based dishes
Greece: Moussaka, souvlaki, baklava, feta-based salads
North Macedonia & Albania: Grilled meats, byrek, ajvar, local wines
Montenegro & Croatia: Seafood, black risotto, ćevapi, local cheeses
Bosnia: Burek, Bosnian coffee, pita
Slovenia: Carniolan sausage, štruklji (sweet rolls), cream cake

Transport & Terrain
Modern, air-conditioned coach transport
Optional boat and ferry rides in coastal areas
Moderate to extensive walking in historical centers and hillside towns
Some long driving days with scenic routes and comfort stops

 Cultural Etiquette
Respect religious customs at churches and mosques (remove shoes, cover shoulders)
Tipping is appreciated (5–10% in restaurants; guides and drivers at discretion)
Smoking indoors is restricted in most countries
Public restrooms may require small coins

Internet & Communication
Free Wi-Fi available in most hotels and restaurants
EU travelers benefit from roaming in Greece, Croatia, and Slovenia
Local SIM cards available for non-EU travelers in major cities

Time Zone
All countries operate in Central European Time (CET) or Eastern European Time (EET) depending on the country. Daylight saving applies in most areas.


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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