Balkan Discovery: 12-Day Cultural Expedition

Your exhilarating 12-day journey through the Balkans kicks off in Macedonia’s vibrant capital, Skopje. A city where ancient history gracefully intersects with contemporary culture.As you land in Skopje, you’ll be warmly greeted by our knowledgeable guide at the airport. A comfortable transfer will escort you and your fellow adventurers to our carefully selected 4-star hotel. Check into your room, unwind, and familiarize yourself with the hotel’s amenities. In the evening, convene with your travel companions for a special welcoming dinner.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in Skopje, then explore Macedonia Square, the city’s vibrant center. Cross the historic Stone Bridge and wander through the Old Bazaar to the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. Visit Kale Fortress for panoramic views and historical insights. Admire Alexander the Great’s statue and walk along the Vardar River. Your tour concludes with visits to the Murat Pasa and Yahya Pasha Mosques, showcasing unique architectural stories.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Skopje, check out and set off on a beautiful 3-hour drive to the captivating city of Ohrid. Your exploration starts at the stunning Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient history and ecological diversity. Visit the historical Amphitheater, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cinar Square, and be awed by the medieval Church of St. Sophia.The day’s highlight is a serene boat trip to St. Naum Monastery, located along Lake Ohrid’s peaceful shores. There, discover historical frescoes and experience the mystical allure of the “Ohrid Pearl” spring, a moment sure to be a memorable part of your journey.

After breakfast and checking out from your hotel in Ohrid, prepare for a scenic 2 hour and 30 minute journey to Tirana, the dynamic capital of Albania. This drive offers a smooth transition from the calm of lakeside Ohrid to the energetic pulse of urban Tirana. Upon reaching Tirana, you’ll discover a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. Start your visit at Skenderbeg Square, a symbol of national pride dedicated to the Albanian hero Skenderbeg. Just a short walk from the square, the Ethem Bey Mosque, with its exquisite early 19th-century Ottoman architecture, provides a serene retreat. Here, take a moment to enjoy the artistic and spiritual ambiance, a quiet contrast to the lively city surroundings.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast in Tirana, then check out of your hotel and set off on a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to the scenic city of Shkoder. In Shkoder, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Skadar National Park. Don’t miss the historic Rozafa Castle, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the meeting points of the Drin, Buna, and Kir rivers.Continue your journey with a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to Virpazar, an ideal gateway to Skadar National Park. Here, experience the tranquility of Skadar Lake, a birdwatcher’s haven with over 270 bird species.End your day with a short 30 minute trip to Podgorica, Montenegro’s lively capital. In Podgorica, enjoy the blend of historical allure and modern vitality, exploring its picturesque streets, squares, and rich cultural offerings.

After breakfast and checking out of your hotel in Podgorica, start your journey to the beautiful coastal towns of Budva, Kotor, Perast, and Dubrovnik. First, head to the historical island of Sveti Stefan, about an hour away. Explore the fortified village and the 12th-century Church of Sveti Stefan, adorned with ancient frescoes.Next, take a short drive to Budva’s old town, a mix of ancient history and lively modernity. Then, a 30-minute journey brings you to the UNESCO-listed Old City of Kotor, full of charm and historical intrigue.Enjoy a boat cruise from Perast to Our Lady of the Rocks, blending scenic beauty with cultural significance. End your day with a 2-hour drive to the stunning city of Dubrovnik, known for its beautiful coastline and rich history, providing a grand finale to your day.

Enjoy breakfast and check out from your hotel in Dubrovnik, setting off for a day of architectural discovery. Start in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, walking along the cobbled Stradun, lined with historical landmarks like the Orlando Sculpture and the Dubrovnik Clock Tower. Next, take a 2-hour drive to the historical village of Pocitelj. Immerse yourself in its timeless atmosphere, exploring the notable clock tower and the Ali Pasha Mosque. Continue for about 40 minutes to Blagaj, where the tranquil Blagaj Tekija, a Dervish monastery, awaits by a river and cliff. End your day with a 20-minute journey to Mostar, checking into your accommodation to rest up for the adventures ahead.

After breakfast and checking out from your hotel in Mostar, start your journey with a visit to the iconic Stari Most, a symbol of resilience in Mostar. Then, drive about an hour to Jablanica to learn about the Battle of Neretva at the local museum. Continue for 30 minutes to Konjic and admire the Old Bridge, a landmark of architectural heritage. Finally, take a one-hour drive to Sarajevo. Explore the Old Town’s historical sites, including the Eternal Flame, City Hall, Bascarsija market, and Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.

After breakfast and checking out from your hotel in Sarajevo, begin your journey with a 1 hour and 30-minute drive to Travnik, the Ottoman era’s Bosnian capital. Explore its historic fortress, a symbol of the town’s rich past. Next, head to Jajce, about 1 hour and 15 minutes away, to witness its stunning waterfall and the peaceful Pliva Lakes. Conclude your day with a 3-hour drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice Lakes in Croatia. Known for its terraced lakes and cascading waterfalls, it’s a natural wonder. Check into your nearby hotel, ready for tomorrow’s exploration of this magnificent landscape.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Plitvice and start your day at the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its waterfalls and clear lakes. Then, drive 4 hours to Bled, Slovenia. Visit Bled Castle and St. Mary’s Church on Lake Bled’s island, accessible by Pletna boat. End the day with a 45-minute drive to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital. Check into your hotel, ready for tomorrow’s exploration.

After breakfast and hotel checkout in Ljubljana, start your day at the Triple Bridge, admiring its unique architecture. Visit the Dragon Bridge, a symbol of the city’s resilience, and then explore Ljubljana Cathedral’s grandeur. Ascend to Ljubljana Castle for stunning city views. Next, travel 45 minutes to the Postojna Cave to witness its subterranean wonders. Conclude with a 2-hour drive to Zagreb, Croatia, where you’ll check into your hotel, preparing for tomorrow’s exploration of the city’s vibrant culture.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, embark on the final part of your Balkan tour. Start with a visit to the magnificent Zagreb Cathedral, a historic landmark dominating the city’s skyline. Then, head to Zagreb’s lively Main Square, the city’s bustling heart. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and charming architecture. Next, admire the grandeur of the Parliament Building, a symbol of Croatia’s democracy. Conclude at St. Mark’s Church, famous for its colorful roof with coat of arms. As your journey ends, take home memories of the Balkans’ beauty and magic. Safe travels back home!