20-Day Balkan Extravaganza Tour from Athens: Kalabaka, Sandanski, Sofia, Sighisoara, Belgrade, Dubrovnik, Venice | Ticket Admission Included | Hotel Breakfast Inlcuded

What you'll experience

Highlights

20 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Athens

   Welcome to Athens! We'll transfer you to the hotel and you'll have some free time. In the afternoon, you'll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.
   IMPORTANT:
   -Please note that hotel check-in time is usually at 02:00 p.m. At the reception, you will find an information board with our staff's telephone number and hours of assistance. Until then, you have free time to enjoy at your leisure. The hotel staff can assist you with any information you need.
   -During your trip, your guide may offer optional activities. we strongly recommend booking them as early as possible to ensure availability. Waiting until the last minute may result in missed opportunities due to limited tickets, bus seats, or other factors.
   Note: The schedules provided in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust them as needed to enhance the trip experience.
   Note: All mentioned hotels below are for your reference only, you might also check-in other same-level hotels.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel athenes(4 Michail Voda STR CP 104 39 ATENAS)
2. 2

   Day 2 — Athens

   Athens, city tour and evening transfer.
   We´ll embark on a city tour guided by a local expert, covering prominent sites such as the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the National Library, and the bustling squares of the city center. We´ll also explore the newer neighborhoods that developed after the 2004 Olympic Games. The tour will conclude at the Acropolis (admission not included).
   In the evening, we´ll provide a transfer to the historical neighborhood of Plaka, renowned for its charming Greek tavernas and vibrant atmosphere where you can experience the rich folklore of this country.

   

   Acropolis

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Novotel athenes(4 Michail Voda STR CP 104 39 ATENAS)
3. 3

   Day 3 — Athens - Kamena Vourla - Kastraki - Meteora - Kalabaka

   Total distance covered: 410 km.
   Scenery: Sea views and fantastic landscapes of the Meteora and Orthodox monasteries.
   Note: Wear appropriate clothing (women will be provided with skirts upon arrival at the monastery). Also, wear comfortable footwear as you will need to climb many steps!
   08:00 a.m. Departure from Athens. We'll head north and travel through pleasant Mediterranean landscapes.
   10:15 a.m. Kamena Vourla. This charming seaside tourist center offers magnificent scenery. You´ll have time for a stroll and a coffee.
   11:15 a.m. Departure from Kamena Vourla. Continuing through the Greek hinterland, we'll make a brief stop at the mountain pass where the Battle of Thermopylae took place.
   01:45 p.m. Kastraki. We´ll stop for lunch in this picturesque town at the foot of the Meteora, where the views are magnificent! After lunch, we´ll visit the Meteora, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage site with monasteries that seem to "hang" from the rocks. We´ll stop to visit one of the monasteries (admission included) and see the remaining ones perched atop immense rock formations.
   Accommodation will be in Kalabaka, a small town in the center of the Meteora region. Dinner will be included.

   

   Meteora

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Divani meteora(NATIONAL ROAD TRIKALON - IOANNINA)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Kalabaka - Thessaloniki - Melnik - Sandanski

   Total distance: 395 km.
   Scenery: Beautiful landscapes of northern Greece and on the way to Bulgaria, featuring mountains, secluded areas, and lush forests.
   Note: Remember to have your passport ready; you´ll need it to enter Bulgaria.
   08:00 a.m. – Departure from Kalabaka. We'll travel through northern Greece, enjoying pleasant landscapes, including agricultural regions and high mountain areas.
   11:15 a.m. - Thessaloniki. You´ll have time for a walk and lunch in Greece's second-largest city.
   02:00 p.m. – Departure from Thessaloniki. We'll make our way towards the Pirin Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site historically contested by regions influenced by Greek, Slavic, and Turkish cultures. We'll then cross the border into Bulgaria. Please note that this part of the journey may experience delays due to border procedures.
   04:45 p.m. - Melnik. We'll visit this picturesque museum-town, set in a beautiful wine-producing region. We'll explore the traditional Balkan way of life.
   05:45 p.m. – Departure from Melnik.
   06:15 p.m. - Sandanski - Arrival in this charming spa town, known as the birthplace of Spartacus. Dinner and accommodation will be provided.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Pirin park hotel(27 Hydrostroy Area)
5. 5

   Day 5 — Sandanski - Rila - Sofia

   Total distance covered: 225 km.
   Scenery: Mountains and forests as we approach Rila.
   Note: Wear appropriate clothing for visiting the Rila Monastery.
   08:30 a.m. – Departure from Sandanski.
   10:30 a.m. - Rila Monastery – You'll have time to visit this beautiful walled Orthodox monastery nestled among forests and mountains within a National Park.
   11:45 a.m. – Departure from Rila Monastery.
   03:00 p.m. - Sofia. After lunch, we'll include a city tour of Bulgaria´s capital, featuring St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Russian Church, the Mosque, and the city´s squares and avenues showcasing Stalinist architecture. Free time follows.

   

   Rila Monastery

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Ramada sofia(Maria Luiza 131 Blvd)
6. 6

   Day 6 — Sofia - Bachkovo - Plovdiv

   Total distance covered: 205 km.
   Scenery: Expansive agricultural plains.
   Note: Wear appropriate clothing for visiting the Bachkovo Monastery.
   08:30 a.m. – Departure from Sofia.
   11:00 a.m. - Bachkovo Monastery - Arrival at Bulgaria's second most important monastery, founded in the 11th century. This site, with its three churches, offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can observe the monks´ way of life.
   12:00 p.m. – Departure from Bachkovo Monastery.
   12:45 p.m. - Plovdiv - After lunch (included), we'll go on a panoramic tour of this city, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Our tour includes admission to the Roman Amphitheatre, the Old Pharmacy, and the Armenian House. You´ll then have free time to explore the beautiful historic streets and charming small shops.

   

   Bachkovo Monastery

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Ramada plovdiv trimontium(KAPITAN Raicho ST 2, St. Plovdiv, Bulgaria 4000)
7. 7

   Day 7 — Plovdiv - Kazanlak - Shipka - Etar - Arbanasi - Veliko Tarnovo

   Total distance covered: 230 km.
   Scenery: Rose Valley, which bursts with vibrant colors during the flowering season (May and June), and the beautiful Balkan Mountains.
   Note: Occasionally, the visit to Arbanasi may take place on Sunday morning.
   08:00 a.m. – Departure from Plovdiv. We'll travel along charming small roads through the interior of Bulgaria, reaching the Rose Valley.
   10:00 a.m. – Kazanlak. Admission is included to see the replica of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'll also learn about the local production of rose-based products.
   11:30 a.m. – Departure from Kazanlak. Amidst the mountains, we'll visit the Russian Shipka Memorial Church, a reminder of the strong ties between Bulgarians and Russians, and the support Bulgaria received from Russia during its war for independence against the Ottomans.
   01:15 p.m. - Etar - Arrival at this charming village and ethnographic museum. We'll stroll among its traditional houses and artisan workshops. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.
   03:30 p.m. – Departure from Etar.
   04:45 p.m. - Arbanasi - Arrival in this ancient trading city known for its fortress-houses. We'll visit the Nativity Church (admission included).
   05:45 p.m. Departure from Arbanasi.
   06:00 p.m. - Arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's former capital, featuring a picturesque medieval center and historic hilltop sites. You'll have time to explore.

   

   Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Bolyarski meridian(Veliko Tarnovo 5000, 53 Stefan Stambolov Str), Yantra grand hotel(Velchova Zavera Square Ul. Opalchenska 2)
8. 8

   Day 8 — Veliko Tarnovo - Dimitar Basarbovski - Bucharest

   Total distance covered: 190 km.
   Scenery: We'll cross the Danube River as we pass through the border.
   Note: Keep your passport handy, as it will be required at the Romanian border.
   08:30 a.m. – Departure from Veliko Tarnovo.
   10:00 a.m. - Basarbovski Monastery - We'll visit this pilgrimage site, carved into the rock.
   11:00 a.m. – Departure from Basarbovski. We'll cross the border and the Danube; please be aware that there may be delays at the border.
   12:45 p.m. - Bucharest. Time of arrival may change depending on border procedures. You'll have free time for lunch upon arrival.
   3:00 p.m. - City tour of Bucharest, featuring the historic center and the impressive Palace of Parliament. You´ll have free time afterward to explore the city at your leisure. Dinner will be included.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Doubletree by hilton bucharest unirii square(Strada Nerva Traian 3A, SECTOR 3, CP 031041 BUCAREST)
9. 9

   Day 9 — Bucharest - Sinaia - Bran - Sighisoara

   Total distance covered: 325 km.
   Scenery: Beautiful landscapes featuring the Carpathian Mountains and small, picturesque villages along the way.
   Note: Sinaia is in the mountains, so we recommend warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
   08:00 a.m. – Departure from Bucharest. We'll leave the bustling metropolis and head toward the mountains, where we'll enjoy beautiful Alpine landscapes.
   10:30 a.m. - Sinaia. We'll explore the gardens of the Peles and Pelisor Castles (we'll only visit the gardens as the castle interiors are closed on Mondays).
   12:00 p.m. – Departure from Sinaia. We'll continue through high mountain regions.
   01:00 p.m. - Bran - Arrival at the 14th-century fortress known as "Dracula's Castle" (tickets included). You´ll have time for lunch and to explore the charming town center after.
   03:30 p.m. – Departure from Bran. As we journey on, you'll observe the unique architecture of some villages, reflecting the influence of German settlers in the region.
   05:45 p.m. - Sighisoara - Arrival at this beautiful walled medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, where you´ll enjoy a special dinner at Count Dracula's restaurant, located in the house where Vlad the Impaler was born.
   Note: Hotel capacity in Sighisoara is limited. On certain dates, accommodation may be provided in Sibiu (departing from Sighisoara after dinner). In these cases, the stop in Biertan will be replaced with a visit to the city of Alba Iulia.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Doubletree sighisoara cavaler(6, Consiliul Europei St)
10. 10

    Day 10 — Sighisoara - Biertan - Sibiu - Hunedoara - Timisoara

    Total distance covered: 395 km.
    Scenery: Beautiful and varied landscapes, with little villages en route.
    Note: From November to March, due to shorter days and monument opening hours, we won´t be able to visit the interior of the church in Biertan. However, we will make a brief stop to view it from the outside.
    08:30 a.m. – Departure from Sighisoara. In Transylvania, there are many fortified churches in areas that were historically inhabited by people of German origin. Some of these churches are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and we'll visit one in Biertan.
    09:00 a.m. - Biertan - Arrival to visit the fortified church (tickets included).
    10:30 a.m. – Departure from Biertan.
    11:45 a.m. - Sibiu - Arrival in this important economic and cultural center, which was once the capital of Transylvania. Take some time to stroll through its bustling narrow streets and squares and enjoy lunch.
    02:30 p.m. – Departure from Sibiu. We'll drive along the highway through picturesque agricultural regions.
    04:15 p.m. - Hunedoara - We will visit the impressive Hunedoara Castle (tickets included), considered the most beautiful castle in Romania.
    05:15 p.m. – Departure from Hunedoara.
    07:45 p.m. - Timisoara. This city, with Roman origins, is home to diverse communities. Its beautifully restored classical and pedestrian center is perfect for an evening stroll.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Timisoara(Str Marasesti nr 1-3)
11. 11

    Day 11 — Timisoara - Belgrade

    Total distance covered: 170 km.
    Note: Please have your passport handy, as it will be required at the Serbia border.
    08:30 a.m. – Departure from Timisoara. We'll journey through pleasant landscapes as we head towards Serbia. The border crossing may occasionally cause some delays.
    11:30 a.m. - Belgrade. We'll take a city tour of this lively capital situated at the confluence of the Danube and the Sava. We'll explore the bustling city center, the parliament, and enjoy a stroll through the Kalemegdan Fortress. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Yugoslavia, where Tito's Mausoleum is located. You'll have free time in the afternoon to further explore the city at your own pace.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Nobel palace(Ruzveltova 23 CP 11000 BELGRADO)
12. 12

    Day 12 — Belgrade - Sremska Mitrovica - Republic of Srpska - Sarajevo

    Distance traveled: 295 km
    Scenery: forests, mountains, rushing rivers, and small towns. Strong contrasts mark our journey through Bosnia.
    Note: Keep your passport close to you, as we will cross the border into Bosnia.
    08:00 a.m. – Belgrade. Departure. We begin our beautiful journey traveling to the region of Vojvodina.
    09:15 a.m. – Sremska Mitrovica. Arrival in this city with a pleasant historic center on the banks of the Sava River. Once one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire, it served as the capital of the province of Pannonia. Entrance to the Imperial Palace of Sirmium is included, offering insights into this period.
    10:30 a.m. – Departure from Sremska Mitrovica. We continue toward Bosnia, traveling through beautiful landscapes along the Drina River. Border crossing (delays are possible). Stop en route for lunch. The road continues across the Republic of Srpska—the Serbian Republic of Bosnia—passing through small villages, forests, and hills.
    5:30 p.m. – Sarajevo. Arrival in the late afternoon. Time to explore the historic center, where you can stroll through the enchanting bazaar, the old Ottoman market known for its architecture, oriental atmosphere, and traditional shops. Dinner included.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Hollywood(DR. MUSTAFE PINTOLA, 23)
13. 13

    Day 13 — Sarajevo - Mostar - Herzegovina - Dubrovnik Cavtat

    Total distance traveled: 280 km
    Scenery: Spectacular landscapes with mountains, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and picturesque villages. Arrival in Dubrovnik features stunning coastal views.
    Note: Please bring your passport, as we will be crossing into Croatia.In the morning, we'll enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Sarajevo, a captivating city known as the "Jerusalem of Europe" for its coexistence of multiple religions. Mosques, churches, and synagogues showcase its rich diversity. We'll explore the old town's strong Ottoman influence, highlighted by a magnificent 500-year-old mosque and a beautiful fountain.
    11:15 a.m. – Sarajevo. Departure. We travel through breathtaking mountain and valley landscapes.
    01:45 p.m. – Mostar. Free time to stroll and have lunch in this charming city, with its enchanting historic center and iconic stone bridge that unites and separates the Orthodox, Muslim, and Catholic communities.
    4:30 p.m. – Mostar. Departure. We continue our journey across the rocky and mountainous landscapes of the historic region of Herzegovina toward Croatia.
    7:30 p.m. – Dubrovnik/Cavtat. Arrival. Dinner included.
    Note: Depending on the date, accommodation may be in Dubrovnik or in Cavtat, a coastal town nearby.

    

    Mostar Old Town

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Valamar lacroma(Ulica Iva Dulicica 34)
14. 14

    Day 14 — Dubrovnik - Cavtat

    09:00 a.m. - We'll enjoy a panoramic tour of Dubrovnik with a local guide in the morning. We will undoubtedly be in one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, perched on a cliff, surrounded by walls and kissed by the Adriatic Sea. Its intact historic center is a jewel of world architectural heritage. We'll have the opportunity to enjoy a stunning view of the city from a scenic viewpoint along the road. The tour includes tickets to the Franciscan Monastery, home to the oldest pharmacy in Europe, and the Assumption Cathedral. We'll also take a boat trip to Lokrum, a small island just 15 minutes away that is home to the ruins of an eleventh-century Benedictine monastery, a popular setting for the series Game of Thrones. Afterward, you'll have free time to explore at your leisure before returning to the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner will be included.
    Note: On some occasions, accommodation may be in Cavtat, a coastal town near Dubrovnik. From November to March, there is no boat service to Lokrum, so we will not visit the island during these months.

    

    Dubrovnik Town

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Valamar lacroma(Ulica Iva Dulicica 34)
15. 15

    Day 15 — Dubrovnik - Ston - Split

    Total distance covered: 235 km.
    Scenery: Stunning coastal landscapes along the Dalmatian coast.
    08:00 a.m. - Departure from Dubrovnik. Today's route will be thrilling, offering beautiful landscapes along the Dalmatian coast.
    09:15 a.m. - Ston. We'll stop to visit this picturesque town, known for its impressive ancient walls, which are among the longest in the world.
    10:00 a.m. - Departure from Ston. We'll continue through scenic landscapes, featuring the remarkable Pelješac Bridge.
    12:30 p.m. - Split. We'll have time for lunch before a tour with a local guide. We'll explore this impressive city, focusing on the immense Diocletian's Palace (tickets included). We'll visit the Roman palace, wander through the alleys, and enjoy stunning sea views. The tour will last about two and a half hours. Afterward, enjoy some free time before settling into your accommodation. Dinner will be included.

    

    Diocletian's Palace

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: President(Ulica Ante Starceviceva 1)
16. 16

    Day 16 — Split - Plitvice - Opatija

    Total distance covered: 450 km.
    Scenery: Varied, including mountains, lakes, and plateaus.
    Note: Wear comfortable shoes, as you will need them in Plitvice Lakes National Park. We also recommend wearing warm clothing.
    08:00 a.m. - Departure from Split. We'll travel north along the Croatian coast.
    11:30 a.m. - Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning lakes. Admission to the park is included, allowing you to use the boats to get close to the falls or take the park's train to reach the most picturesque spots. You'll have time to explore and have lunch.
    03:00 p.m. - Departure from Plitvice National Park. We'll continue our journey north.
    06:15 p.m. - Opatija. Arrival in this elegant Croatian coastal town reminiscent of the French and Italian Rivieras. Dinner and accommodation.

    

    Plitvice Lakes National Park

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Agava(M. TITA 89)
17. 17

    Day 17 — Opatija - Postojna - Bled - Ljubljana

    Total distance traveled: 230 km
    Scenery: Very different from previous days—alpine landscapes with forests, high peaks, and lakes.
    Note: Please keep your passport handy, as it may be required when crossing into Slovenia. Bring a jacket for the interior of the Postojna Cave, where the temperature drops significantly compared to outside.
    08:00 a.m. – Opatija. Departure. We cross into Slovenia, traveling through forested mountains and picturesque villages along the way.
    10:00 a.m. – Postojna. Arrival. We will venture underground to explore the Postojna Caves, the most visited caves in Europe, with over 20 km of galleries and chambers. Part of the visit will be made on a small train, covering 3 km of this natural wonder of stalactites and stalagmites (entrance and train ride included). Free time for lunch.
    12:30 p.m. – Departure from Postojna after lunch.2.30 p.m.- Bled. Arrival. A stunning Slovenian enclave nestled among mountains and forests, on the shores of a beautiful lake. We include a boat ride to the island in the middle of the lake, where the monastery is located.
    4:00 p.m. – Bled. Departure.
    5:00 p.m. – Ljubljana. Arrival. Time to explore the charming Slovenian capital, a Central European city that has long been a meeting point of Slavs, Germans, and Mediterraneans. Its castle is one of its highlights. We will enjoy a two-hour guided tour with a local guide to learn about the unique character of this small country and its capital. Dnner and accommodation included.

    

    Postojna Cave

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Park ljubljana-urban green(TABOR 9, 1000 LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIJA)
18. 18

    Day 18 — Ljubljana - Venice

    Total distance covered: 240 km.
    Scenery: Mediterranean landscapes.
    Note: Please have your passports with you, as we are entering Italy. There may be delays at the border due to crowding.
    Enjoy free time to explore Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia. This beautiful Central European city is a historic meeting point for Slavs, Germans, and Mediterranean peoples. Its castle is a notable highlight.
    04:30 p.m. - Departure from Ljubljana. We'll cross mountains covered in dense forests, reach the Adriatic Sea, and enter Italy.
    08:00 p.m. - Venice. Accommodation in the Mestre area.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Elite(Via Forte Marghera 119)
19. 19

    Day 19 — Venice

    08:30 a.m. - We'll start the day with a boat transfer to the St. Mark´s area in Venice, a city built on over 100 islands connected by bridges. We'll include a walking tour with a local guide around the city of canals. Afterwards, we'll visit the Murano Glass Factory to admire the technique of glass blowing. You´ll have free time afterward. In the afternoon, you may enjoy an optional gondola trip along the canals.
    06:30 p.m. - We'll transfer back to the hotel from the St. Mark´s area. You'll have the opportunity to have dinner in the Mestre area, where you can choose from a variety of restaurants, including Indian, Oriental, Italian, and more.

    

    St. Mark's Square

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Elite(Via Forte Marghera 119)
20. 20

    Day 20 — Venice

    After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
    Note: Please be aware that the hotel check-out time is usually 10:00 a.m. You can leave your luggage in reception upon check-out, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. You can retrieve your luggage at your convenience later in the day. If you require additional time to use your room, we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your tour.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Cancellation policy

Important info

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