Visit The Balkans In 6 Days
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Item Code: 17-101
Overview
Embark on a memorable 6-day journey through the heart of the Balkans, where history, culture, and nature come together. Starting in Albania, the tour will take you to iconic landmarks such as the ancient Apollonia ruins and the stone city of Gjirokastra.
From there, you’ll cross into Greece to marvel at the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora. In North Macedonia, explore the picturesque town of Ohrid and its ancient treasures.
The tour continues through Kosovo, where you’ll experience the capitals of Skopje and Prishtina, before concluding in the cultural cities of Peja, Prizren, and Kruja. This immersive adventure offers a perfect blend of historical exploration, natural beauty, and local traditions.
Details
Day 1: Gjirokastra The Stone City
- Your first stop on the tour will be Apollonia. a vital center for education, philosophy, and arts in antiquity.
- Explore the ancient archeological park and visit several landmarks like: Temple of Apollonia, the Amphitheatre of Apollonia, Triumph Arch, the museum of Apollonia and much more.
- After arriving in Gjirokastra you will visit the bustling Gjirokastra Bazaar.
- After exploring the bazaar, we’ll ascend the winding road leading to the magnificent Gjirokastra Castle, a true architectural marvel.
- Within its walls, we’ll discover the castle’s museum and the castle’s notorious old prison. Continuing our journey within the castle, we’ll make our way to its highest point, where the iconic clock tower is located.
- A last stop is made at the Zekate House, a local fortress house where you can learn how the rich families used to live back in the day.
Day 2: Enter Greece
- Journey to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Greece’s most treasured cultural landmarks, where towering rock formations create an awe-inspiring landscape.
- Upon arrival, explore the stunning cliffs and visit six historic monasteries, marveling at their ancient architecture and deep history.
- Step inside two of these monasteries to gain insight into the quiet monastic life, discovering religious icons, frescoes, and centuries-old traditions.
- End the day in the village, enjoying the local hospitality and reflecting on your memorable experiences on Meteora.
Day 3: Enter North Macedonia
- Depart Meteora for Ohrid, North Macedonia. After a 3-hour travel, drive along the lake perimeter to arrive in Saint Naum.
- Visit the 1000-year-old monastery build by Saint Naum. Enjoy the stunning lake views.
- Head towards the picturesque Ohrid, exploring Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, the Ancient Theatre, and the awe-inspiring frescoes in the Church of St. Sophia.
- Immerse yourself in the lively Old Bazaar, shopping for souvenirs and visiting local mosques. Enjoy an overnight stay in Ohrid
Day 4: The Capitals: Skopje & Prishtina
- Start your journey towards Skopje. A merely 16km before Skopje we will stop in one of the most famous nature attractions of North Macedonia, Matka Canyons.
- Take a boat tour by the canyon and explore the cave and the secret lake of Matka Canyon.
- Visit Skopje. Situated in the northwestern part of North Macedonia, along the Vardar River, Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia.
- Uncover Skopje’s neoclassical charm, wandering through Macedonia Square, the Art Bridge, and the Old Bazaar.
- Continue your journey towards Prishtina, Kosovo’s capital, for a captivating walking tour of the city center.
- Check in at the hotel for an overnight stay in Kosovo.
Day 5: Explore Peja
- Drive towards one of the most beautiful nature sites in the region (Rugove – Peje)(50 minutes)
- Visit the Peja Bazaar and Cheese market, Regional Ethnological & Archaeological Museum in Peja. Orthodox Patriarchate of Peja.
- Visit The White Drin Waterfall and the Sleeping beauty cave
- Enjoy the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of Peja.
Day 6: The Cultural Capitals: Prizren & Kruja
- Depart Tirana for Prizren, Kosovo. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, exploring landmarks like Kalaja Fortress, the Albanian League of Prizren House, Carshia e Vjeter, Sinan Hoxha Mosque, and St. George’s Orthodox Cathedral.
- Begin your exploration with a visit to the remarkable Kruja Bazaar, a 500-year-old market.
- Embark on a walking tour within the castle’s wall.
- Ascend to the summit of Kruja mountain, 1100 meters elevation, where Tirana, Durres, Kruja and the Adriatic Sea will be in the palm of your hands.
- Conclude the tour on the top of mountain of Kruja, where the center of Bektashi religion is found. Enjoy the breathtaking views created by the sun setting on the Adriatic Sea.
Included
- Accommodation + breakfast (5 nights)
- Private English Tour Leader
- Comfortable transportation
- Car WIFI
- Entrance fees (tickets to castles, churches, museums, parks etc)
- Border taxes
- Boat tour
Tour Essentials
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Lightweight backpack
- Protection from sun
- PASSPORT