Balkan Tour : Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria and Romania

Memorable BALKAN TOUR : ALBANIA – MACEDONIA – BULGARIA – ROMANIA

Operated by the special Balkan pool of incoming travel agencies

Day 1 Arrival Tirana
Welcome at the Rinas Tirana Airport, transfer to the central 4 stars hotel, relax/rest after flight. Depending on the arrival time, Tirana city tour with highlights as the Ethem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, National Art Gallery and a stroll along the Boulevard and Skanderbey Square before optional dinner. Overnight in 4 stars Tirana hotel

Day 2 Tirana – Durres – Saranda
After breakfast start of the wonderful coastal drive along south of Albania. First short stop to explore the City of Durres, once a major Roman port where we visit the Amphitheater and Archeological Museum. Continue towards Apollonia site-Archaeo Park, the famous ancient Hellenic city founded in 558 BC by settlers from Corfu and Corinth, we visit both sites and the museum. After lunch break, leisurely continue our drive towards the south of Albania, driving along the beautiful Albanian Riviera direction of the coastal town of Vlora, with stops in few coastal villages for photo shooting, like the Porto Palermo Castle. Arrival in Saranda, a coastal tourist city of Albania opposite to the Greek island of Corfu. Accommodation and overnight at the 3/4 stars Saranda hotel.

Day 3 Saranda – Poenice site – Mesopotam Monastery – Gjirokastra
Visit the World Heritage site of Butrint, Albania’s most important archaeological site close to the Greek border. It was known in Ancient Greek as Bouthroton and in Latin as Buthrotum. Strategically located on a hill overlooking the Vivari Channel, the site has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Butrint was the site of an Epirot city, a Roman colony and a bishopric. After break for lunch, we continue to the Ancient City of Phoenice – main settlement of the Epirote Chaonians, later a Greek and Roman city, modern Finiq, which in the past controlled the Bistrica valley between Buthrotum, 17 km to the south and the Ionian Sea in the north, with the earliest archaeological remains dating back to the 5th century BC. In Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages, Phoenice remained inhabited. One of the most important buildings from this period is the Christian basilica with three naves and an atrium, dating from the 5th- or the 6th centuries. There we enjoy a short presentation about the ancient city of Phoenice, one of the great cities of Epirus with the theater accommodating 15,000-18,000 visitors and one the largest Roman theaters in the world. From Phoenice Archaeological Park we will continue to visit Mesopotam, the 12th century Byzantine Monastery mentioned in the Battle between the Norman Crusader army and the Byzantines. A countryside short drive to the City of Gjirokastra. Entering the Drinos Valley through the Pass of Muzine, you will surely be amazed by the beautiful landscape dotted with small villages nestled at the foot of the mountains. On the way spreads a splendid view of city of Hadrianopolis and then arrival in Gjirokastra, an UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the most venerable towns of Albania. Located 900 feet above sea level, Gjirokastra has a beautiful and dramatic setting on the side of a lush valley between the high Gjerë Mountains above the rushing Drinos River below. Our accommodations tonight is at an old lovelty refurbished authentic Gjirokastra house which has been turned into a comfortable B&B facility.

Day 4 Gjirokastra – Berat – Korca
After breakfast we stroll through the famous old bazaar, and visit the Ethnographic Museum in Gjirokaster. Drive through the rural and panoramic landscape to Korça, the regional capital of southeast Albania dominated by the Morava Mountains, that in the 1930’s was called “Little Paris” due to its thriving intellectual life. It is interesting from a historical point of view, due to its rich cultural traditions as well as some attractive sites and buildings from the Ottoman period. On our way to Korca we visit Berat /UNESCO heritage town/ with short walk aong the historical core, and optional wine tasting in the Cobo Winery. Tour of the following Korca highlights: Mirahori Mosque built in 1418 and also the unique Museum of Medieval Arts. Optional dinner at a local restaurant, overnight stay in Korça 4 stars hotel.

Day 5 Korca – Qafe Thane – Struga – Ohrid
Following breakfast we enjoy the local town with a stroll through the city for a late morning start toward the border where you will cross over to experience North Macedonia! Welcome by the Macedonian guide – driver on the border crossing of Qafasan. Visit of the village Kalista and Monastery of the Birth of the Holy Virgin as well as one of the cave churches. Further, sightseeing of Struga – city of poetry and time for lunch by the Shore of Crni Drim River. Drive to Ohrid, accommodation in ¾ stars hotel. In the late afternoon visit of the famous store of Ohrid pearls. Free time for leisure and swimming. Overnight.

Day 6 Ohrid – Bitola – Popova Kula Demir Kapija
Morning Ohrid historical core sightseeing tour: Saint Sofia Church, Ancient Theatre, Tsar Samuel’s fortress, Plaosnik and the Church of Saint Pantelejmon, Saint John of Kaneo Church. Drive to the Bay of Bones, visit and activities, lunch in the fishermen village. Early afternoon drive to Saint Naum Monastery, sightseeing,optional boat ride on the springs of the Crni Drim River. Ride over Galicica NP to Prespa Lake to Bitola, walk along the pedestrian Shirok Sokak, the clock tower, short refreshment + cake. Late afternoon departure to Demir Kapija for dinner with wine tasting in the famous winery-hotel Popova Kula. Overnight.

Day 7 Demir Kapija – Stobi site – Skopje
After the breakfast departure to archeological site of Stobi – the eternal place, a city founded on the sunset of the ancient Macedonian kingdom. The place where the traders through the ancient Roman road Via Egnatia were supplied with gold, white and pink marble, wine, and iron. City among whose walls were issued money with the inscription “Municipium Stobensium”. Jewel of the ancient basilicas adorned with wonderful fresco paintings of sumptuous marsh birds, mosaics of peacocks and deer, with the apse that presents to the eye geometric figures in the form of scales. Upon arrival in capital of Macedonia walking tour of Skopje – the Old Railway station; the Alexander the Great monument on horse, and numerous monuments of Skopje Millennium 2014 Square,… famous Stone Bridge and part of the old bazaar. Overnight in lovely small 4 stars hotel near the city center.

Day 8 Skopje – St George Staro Nagoricaneo – Kokino megalithic Observatory – Kratovo
After breakfast we head to the east with first stop for visit to the wonderfully fresco painted, /11th century/ Saint George Monastery in Staro Nagoricane village. We continue to Kokinofor visit to the ‘Macedonian Stonehenge’ – the Macedonian Megalithic Observatory of “Kokino”. According to NASA this is the 4th oldest observatory in the world, some researchers claim one of the oldest /more than 11000 years old/. The Kokino Observatory defines the four main positions of the moon and three main positions of the sun, the autumnal and vernal equinox, and winter and summer solstice. Tour of the room of rituals and the thrones. On our way to Kratovo optional tour of the unique Kuklica site – hundreds of naturally formed stone figures that resemble humans. Tour of the historical core of Kratovo, once prosperous mining town set on the bottom of the former volcano. Accommodation in comfortable 4 stars Boarding house, dinner and overnight.

Day 9 Arrival in Bulgaria & Rila Monastery
After breakfast drive to the Monastery of St Joachim Osogovski near Kriva Palanka – for centuries an important cultural, religious and educational center positioned in the lush woods of the Osogovo Mountains. The monastic complex consists of the church of Saint Joachim Osogovski, a smaller 14th century church dedicated to the Holy Mother of God, a three-story dormitory, a bell tower with a charnel house at the bottom, a passage building, guard-house, new dormitories and the residency of the Head of the Macedonian Orthodox Church. Founded in the 12th century, it was devastated by an earthquake in the 16th century but was rebuilt soon afterward. The large temple dedicated to Joachim Osogovski is also a masterpiece by one of the greatest Macedonian architects, Andreja Damjanov.… Afternoon arrival to Bulgaria (around 14:30h) at Gyueshevo border point. Welcome by your Bulgarian guide/driver. After quick refreshment we continue east towards the most emblematic landmark of Bulgaria – the Rila monastery, one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. 16:00h Arrive at Rila monastery area and explore the monastery complex. Rila monastery /10-th century/ is positioned high in the Rila Mountains, its impressive imposing architecture, arcade entrances, numerous staircases and bay-windows, beautiful frescoes, mural paintings and wood-carvings, awesome mountain wings, … make part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Accommodation in a 2-star family hotel in the monastic area.

Day 10  Rila Monastery – Sofia

Morning drive towards the capital city of Bulgaria – Sofia. In the vicinity of the town, at the foot of Vitosha  Mountain we will visit the Boyana Church – the UNESCO’s World Heritage site, probably the most remarkable monument of the Bulgarian medieval painting art, and also one of the best preserved architectural monuments. The wall-paintings date back from the 13th century and are very precious and irrefutable contribution in the European art culture. Another interesting visit there is the National museum of history – one of the largest history museum on the Balkans with 650 000 items and the largest archaeological and historical archive. The museum’s collections are its greatest treasure from the Prehistoric ages, the Roman Age, Middle Ages and National Revival till the modern history of Bulgaria – kind of a “journey through time. Accommodation at 4-star central Sofia hotel, time for walking around the historical centre: the majestic second-largest Orthodox Church on the Balkan Peninsula – Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the fascinating historical remains of the Ancient Serdika, the elegant “Ivan Vazov” National Theatre, the iconic National Assembly, the ornate Central Baths, the prestigious “Kliment
Ohridski” University, the vivid and picturesque “St. Nikolai” Russian Church, the historic and serene “St. Nedelya” Church, and many others. Overnight in 4 stars Sofia hotel.

Day 11 Sofia – Bachkovo Monastery – Plovdiv

After breakfast drive to the idyllically set Bachkovo monastery /11th century/, famous for the original Byzantine frescoes, along with everything grown or is being manufactured in the Rhodopi Mountains – rare herbs, home-made jams of wild fruits, yogurt and white cheese made of sheep or buffalo’s milk, woolen carpets, etc. Short drive to the second largest city in Bulgaria – Plovdiv – one the most ancient living towns of Europe, nearly a contemporary of Troy, built upon cultural layers, where Thracian, Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Bulgarian Revival arts meet. Here we can explore the Ethnographical museum, the ancient theatre, the ancient Roman stadium, the old fortified walls and the well-preserved old houses from the Revival period. Overnight in 4 stars hotel in Plovdiv.

Day 12  Rose Valley – Etar open air museum – Veliko Tarnovo
Breakfast and drive to the heart of the Valley of Roses with a visit to a rose-distillery complex, where you will be introduced into the cultivation of oil roses and processing them to the so-called rose attar. A few other countries produce such attar. The oil rose grows in Bulgaria only in this region – the Thracian Valley. We will observe the process of distilling of the rose attar, followed by a tasting of rose honey amidst the garden of the distillery. Short drive further to the city of Kazanluk for visit to the replica of the famous Thracian Tomb /4th – 3rd century BC/ – UNESCO heritage site, where you can learn about the lifestyle of the ancient Thracians. After that you hit the road heading towards the heart of the Balkan mountain where you will visit the Etura Ethnographic complex – a museum that recreates the architecture, lifestyle and handicrafts the way they existed during the National Revival Period. It has been laid out as a typical Revival Period mountainous settlement of craftsmen with markets and shops, bakeries and workshops, water mills, fulling mills, little bridges and drinking fountains, a clock tower and cozy houses. You can observe traditional crafts and works as wood- carving, pottery, coppersmith, furriery, cutlery, tailoring etc. Further drive to Veliko Tarnovo 4 stars hotel for overnight.

Day 13 Veliko Tarnovo – Ivanovo – Rousse
After breakfast morning tour around the old-Balkan town of Veliko Tarnovo. During our walk we will see the street of the craftsmen, Samovodskata charshia /market place/, and the Tsarevets hill where the residence (palace) of the Bulgarian tsars /kings/ was to be found. Not far away from Veliko Tarnovo we will visit the Preobrazhenski monastery. It is a presently active monastery founded in 14 century. Its unique architecture does not resemble any of the other Bulgarian monasteries. Truly amazing are the artistic decorations created by the renown Bulgarian painter Zahari Zograf. His most famous masterpieces are the paintings and the icons on the altar as well as the beautiful wall-painting “The Circle of Life” on the outer wall of the monastery. We continue north across the Danube River valley towards the archeological reserve of “Ivanovo Rock Monasteries” whose story begins in the Late Medieval Period /12th – 14th century/ when many monks came to live in the hollows of the rocks. The Ivanovo Monastery owes its cultural and historic value predominantly to the mural paintings dating from the 13th and 14th century, preserved in 6 of the rock chapels. The paintings in the church of “Virgin Mary” are recorded on the UNESCO List of World Cultural Heritage. In the late afternoon you will arrive in the romantic town of Rousse, situated at the bank of the Danube River. Overnight in 4 stars hotel in Rousse.

Day 14 Rousse –Peles Castle – Brasov
Your Romanian portion of the Balkan adventure begins as you meet your expert Romanian guide /driver in private departures / ready to operate the further of your Balkan tour. Crossing into Romania, you will head toward the majestic Carpathian Mountains, with the first stop at the breathtaking Peles Castle. Nestled in the enchanting town of Sinaia, this Neo-Renaissance masterpiece was once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family. Marvel at the castle’s intricate architecture and lavish interiors, adorned with exquisite woodwork, stained glass, and an impressive collection of art and weaponry. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the castle’s history and the Romanian monarchs who called it home, making this visit a highlight of the day. Continuing to Brasov, one of Transylvania’s most picturesque cities for walking tour through the vibrant Council Square, lined with colorful baroque buildings and lively cafes, the imposing Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Romania. Discover hidden gems like the narrow Rope Street and admire the well-preserved city walls that once defended this bustling Saxon settlement. Overnight in Brasov 4 stars hotel.

Day 15  Brasov – Bran Castle – Viscri Village – Sighisoara
Begin your day with a visit to the legendary Bran Castle, often associated with Dracula’s myth. This imposing 14th-century fortress, perched on a rocky hilltop, offers captivating views of the surrounding Transylvanian landscape. As you explore its labyrinthine corridors and grand halls, your guide will reveal the castle’s intriguing history and connections to Vlad the Impaler. Next, travel to the Saxon Village of Viscri, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its fortified church and traditional way of life. Immerse yourself in the village’s timeless charm with an Exclusive Viscri Village Tour which includes a horse-drawn cart ride through the serene countryside and a demonstration by a skilled blacksmith. Enjoy a Traditional Lunch prepared with fresh, organic ingredients by local hosts, offering an authentic taste of rural Transylvanian hospitality. In the afternoon, drive on to the enchanting medieval town of Sighisoara, another UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Embark on a Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets, lined with brightly colored houses and steeped in history. Visit landmarks such as the Clock Tower, which houses the town’s history museum, and the Church on the Hill, offering panoramic views of the citadel. Overnight in Sighisoara. Optional: Transylvanian wine
or palinka tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara

Day 16 Sibiu Walking Tour – Transfagarasan Highway – Bucharest
After breakfast departure to Sibiu, and morning walking Tour  to explore a cultural gem and former European Capital of Culture. Explore its beautifully preserved medieval center, adorned with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and the iconic “eyes of Sibiu”—the distinctive attic windows that give the city its unique character. Visit landmarks such as the Large and Small Squares, the Bridge of Lies, and the Lutheran Cathedral, where you can admire breathtaking views from its steeple. After soaking in Sibiu’s charm, embark on a scenic journey along the Transfagarasan Highway, hailed as one of the most spectacular roads in the world. Winding through the majestic Carpathian Mountains, this engineering marvel offers awe-inspiring views of cascading waterfalls, rugged peaks, and serene alpine landscapes. A stop at Balea Lake, nestled at 2,034 meters above sea level, allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this glacial gem. As you descend from the high altitudes, pause at the Poenari Citadel, perched dramatically on a Cliffside. While you’ll admire the citadel from the base, your guide will share the history of this imposing fortress, famously associated with Vlad the Impaler. The view of this medieval stronghold surrounded by untouched wilderness is a poignant reminder of Transylvania’s storied past. Continue to Bucharest, where the day concludes with your arrival in Romania’s vibrant capital. Reflect on the day’s stunning landscapes and rich historical encounters as you prepare for the final leg of your Balkan adventure. Overnight in Bucharest 4 stars hotel.

Day 17 Bucharest City Tour with Parliament Palace and Ceausescu Residence & 80s Communist
Apartment – Bucharest Old Town
Your full day in Romania begins with a comprehensive City Tour of Bucharest, a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends historical grandeur with modern energy. Your guide will lead you through the city’s most iconic landmarks, starting with the monumental Parliament Palace, the second-largest administrative building in the world whose opulent halls and grand chambers truly represent the history and the controversial legacy of Nicolae Ceausescu. Next is the private world of Romania’s former dictator with a visit to the Ceausescu Residence, also known as the Spring Palace – a fascinating glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of the Ceausescu family, showcasing luxurious furnishings, elaborate décor, and personal artifacts. Delve deeper into Romania’s communist past at the 80s Communist Apartment, which is experience that brings history to life, offering a rare insight into the challenges and routines of Romanian citizens under the regime. Afternoon guided stroll of Bucharest Old Town, a lively district brimming with history, culture, and charm – picturesque cobblestone streets, mix of neoclassical and Baroque architecture, Stavropoleos Monastery and Manuc’s Inn, the oldest operating inn in Bucharest. Free time for the bustling cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife of Old Town at your leisure. At the end of the tour, bid farewell to your local guide. Second night in Bucharest.

Day 18 Departure from Bucharest
As your incredible Balkan adventure ends, enjoy a leisure morning or a final stroll through Bucharest’s vibrant streets that reflect on the rich melt of landscapes, history, and culture you’ve experienced over the past days. Your transfer to Henri Coandă International Airport for departure flight, end of tourservices.

Package price per person :minimum 2-5 participants    EUR; 6-10 participants    EUR; 11-15 participants    EUR

Single supplement:

Package price includes: comfortable car transportation for private departures /Nissan Qashqai or Skoda Superb or similar available vehicle/, or van/minibus/bus driven by expert local drivers throughout the tour; 1 BB in 4 stars Tirana hotel; entrance fees for Durres amphitheater and the Archaeological  Musem; entrance fee for the Apollonia site; 1 BB in 4 stars Saranda hotel; entrance fee for Butrint Park site and the ancient city-archaeological park of Phoinice; entrance- donation for the Mesopotam Monastery; 1 BB in ¾ stars Boarding house in Gjirocaster; entrance fee for Gjirokaster Ethnographic Museum and the Castle; entrance fee for the Museum of Medieval Arts in Korca; 1 BB in Korça 4 stars hotel; donation for the Monastery of the Holy Virgin in Kalista; 1 BB in 4 stars Ohrid hotel; entrance fees in Ohrid / Saint Sofija Church, Ancient Theatre, Tsar Samuel’s fortress, Plaosnik and the Church of Saint Pantelejmon, Saint John of Kaneo Church, Bay of Bones site/, 1 HB with wine tasting at the Popova Kula Winery/hotel; entrance fee for the Stobi site; 1 BB in 4 stars Skopje hotel; donation – entrance fee for St George monastery in Staro Nagoricane; 1 BB with tasty dinner in comfortable boarding house in Kratovo; entrance fee for the Kuklica site and the St Joachim of Osogovo donation-entrance; 1 BB in a 2-star hotel in Rila Nature Park; 4 overnights in 3-4 star hotels /Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Ruse/; Entrance fees for Boyana Church, National Museum of History (Sofia), Rila Monastery Museum, Roman Theater in Plovdiv, Bachkovo Monastery dining room, Kazanluk Thracian Tomb, Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex, Tsarevets Fortress, Transfiguration Monastery, Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches; Damascena Rose Complex with tasting; 3 BB in 3-star hotels /Brasov, Sighisoara, Bucharest/; entrance fees for Peles Castle, Black Church /Brasov/, Bran Castle and Sighisoara; traditional Transylvanian lunch in Viscri Village; Exclusive horse carriage ride and blacksmith demonstration in Viscri Village; 24 hours professional English speaking guidance /all expenses of drivers-guides included/; 24 hours support – logistics of Panacomp Wonderland Travel and selected affiliates;

Not included: other non mentioned costs, meals, drinks, personal expenses.

APPLICATION DEADLINE : 180 DAYS PRIOR DEPARTURE