Welcome to Bulgaria! Upon your arrival at Sofia Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Sofia. Take a moment to settle in and breathe in the energy of a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour that will introduce you to the many layers of this captivating capital.

Your journey begins at the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, its golden domes shining like a beacon of faith and strength. From there, delve into history as you explore the Serdica ruins, remnants of Roman Sofia intricately woven into the city’s modern landscape.

Stroll through City Garden, a tranquil green oasis where locals gather to play chess and enjoy the shade of century-old trees. As you pass by the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, take a moment to admire its elegant neo-Baroque architecture—a true gem of Bulgarian culture and a symbol of artistic heritage.

Finally, allow the lively ambiance of Vitosha Boulevard draw you in with its buzzing cafes and charming boutiques. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Sofia’s main pedestrian street, where every corner reveals a new story.

Highlights of the Day:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – A majestic symbol of Bulgaria’s spiritual heritage, the cathedral stands as a powerful tribute to Bulgarian history and faith, featuring a peaceful interior perfect for quiet reflection.
• City Garden & National Theatre – Stroll through the tranquil City Garden, where locals gather to relax and play chess. The nearby Ivan Vazov National Theatre impresses with its elegant neo-Baroque façade and cultural significance.
• Serdica Roman Ruins – Explore the ancient Roman streets and ruins at the heart of the city, where the archaeological remains offer a fascinating glimpse into Sofia’s rich and layered history.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~15 km (city exploration and airport transfer); Overnight in Sofia (-/-/-).

Begin your day with a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of the Balkans, heading toward Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. As you wind through lush green valleys and rolling hills, each turn in the road reveals a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty and rich history. 

Upon arriving in Skopje, you will be greeted by a city where tradition intertwines with transformation. Your city tour begins at Macedonia Square, the vibrant heart of the city, where the towering statue of Alexander the Great stands as a symbol of strength and legacy. Crossing the Stone Bridge, you can feel the weight of centuries beneath your feet, as this ancient Ottoman structure connects the modern city with its historic old town.

In the Old Bazaar, immerse yourself in a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, filled with the aromas of freshly brewed coffee and the vibrant hum of daily life. This centuries-old market is alive with color and tradition, offering everything from handwoven textiles to artisan jewelry.

The tour ends with a visit to the Mother Teresa Memorial House, a poignant and inspiring tribute to the beloved humanitarian who was born here. In this quiet, unassuming place, her legacy of compassion and hope feels more alive than ever. 

Highlights of the Day:

• Old Bazaar – A vibrant insight into Skopje’s cultural heritage. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with traditional shops, inviting cafes, and Ottoman-era architecture in one of the oldest marketplaces in the Balkans.
• Stone Bridge – A timeless link between old and new. This 15th-century bridge spans the Vardar River, connecting Skopje’s modern center with its historic old town—a walk through centuries of history.
• Mother Teresa Memorial House – A tribute to compassion and service. This serene memorial honors Mother Teresa’s life and mission, displaying personal artifacts and stories that inspire kindness and humanity.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~250 km; Border crossing between Bulgaria and North Macedonia; Overnight in Skopje. (B / -/ -).

Your adventure begins with a short morning drive to Matka Canyon, a genuine natural wonder located just outside Skopje. With its towering cliffs and tranquil turquoise waters, the canyon is a sanctuary of peace and beauty. Embark on a serene boat ride through the canyon, gliding past lush vegetation and rugged rock formations. If you’re fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of the rare birds and butterflies that call this place home.

After soaking in the tranquility of the canyon, continue your journey to Ohrid, often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans.” Upon arrival, explore the Old Town, a maze of cobbled streets, charming houses, and centuries-old churches. Climb to Samuel’s Fortress, where breathtaking panoramic views of Ohrid Lake await. The lake’s shimmering waters extend into the distance, framed by rolling hills and ancient walls.

End your day at the Church of St. John at Kaneo, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the lake—a truly magical spot for reflection and admiration. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside as the sun sets, soaking in the timeless beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights of the Day:

• Matka Canyon – Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, Matka Canyon is a haven of tranquility, renowned for its emerald waters, hidden caves, and ancient monasteries.
• Samuel's Fortress – Perched atop the highest point in Ohrid, Samuel’s Fortress offers sweeping views of the town and Ohrid Lake. Stroll along its ancient walls, imagining the fortress in its prime as a medieval stronghold, and enjoy the stunning vistas that extend across the lake and the surrounding mountains..
• Ohrid Lake – Known as one of Europe’s oldest lakes, Ohrid Lake is a jewel of North Macedonia. A stroll along the lakeside unveils picturesque views, fishing boats gently bobbing on the water, and cozy cafes along the promenade.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~210 km; Overnight in Ohrid. (B / -/ -).

Leave the serene beauty of Ohrid behind and cross the border into Albania, a country where every corner tells a story of resilience and rebirth. The drive offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and traditional villages, serving as a quiet prelude to the vibrant energy of Tirana, the nation's capital.

Upon arrival, feel the pulse of the city at Skanderbeg Square, the heart of Tirana. Named after Albania’s national hero, this vast plaza is surrounded by landmarks that reflect the country’s complex past and dynamic present. It’s a place of gathering, celebration, and reflection, where the past and future meet.

Descend into the depths of the Bunk’Art Museum for an emotional journey through Albania’s communist past. Housed within a massive underground bunker, the museum intertwines stories of hardship, courage, and survival through personal artifacts, haunting photographs, and immersive installations. Here, history feels tangible, with each room offering a glimpse into a different chapter of Albania’s journey.

End your day with a visit to the Et’hem Bey Mosque, a symbol of Tirana’s cultural soul. Its delicate frescoes depict flowers and landscapes, which are rare in Islamic art, reflecting both beauty and resilience. As you stand in its peaceful courtyard, surrounded by the vibrant streets of modern Tirana, you will sense the city’s spirit—hopeful, creative, and alive.

Highlights of the Day:

• Skanderbeg Square in Tirana – The vibrant heart of Tirana, where history and modern life converge.
• Bunk’Art Museum – An emotional journey into Albania’s communist past, housed in an underground bunker.
• Et’hem Bey Mosque – A beautifully restored cultural treasure featuring stunning frescoes and a rich history.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~135 km; Border crossing between North Macedonia and Albania; Overnight in Tirana. (B / -/ -).

Set off on a journey south through Albania’s countryside, where rolling hills and dramatic mountains lead you to Gjirokastër, a city of stone and stories. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gjirokastër is more than just a collection of ancient streets and Ottoman-era architecture—it’s a place where history and literature come to life.

Often called the "City of Stone," Gjirokastër is the birthplace of one of Albania’s most celebrated writers, Ismail Kadare, whose novels beautifully capture the soul of this historic town. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you may feel as though you have stepped into the pages of his stories, where towering stone houses and winding alleyways create a backdrop for tales of life, struggle, and resilience.

Visit the magnificent Gjirokastër Castle, a fortress that has witnessed centuries of conflict and change. Walk its ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the Drino Valley, a landscape that inspired many of Kadare’s literary descriptions. The castle’s museum offers insight into the region’s tumultuous history, while the quiet of its stone corridors encourages reflection.

In the evening, soak in the town’s timeless charm. Savor a traditional dinner at a cozy local tavern, where you can enjoy the flavors of southern Albania while observing the rhythm of daily life—locals sharing stories, shopkeepers closing for the night, and children playing in the narrow stone alleys.

Highlights of the Day:

• Gjirokastër Castle – Explore this ancient fortress, which offers panoramic views of the valley that inspired local legends and the writings of Ismail Kadare.
• Ottoman Architecture – Explore the beautifully preserved stone houses that reflect the town's rich history and culture.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~230 km; Overnight in Gjirokastër; (B/-/-).

Leave the cobblestone streets of Gjirokastër behind and cross into Greece, where majestic landscapes and ancient history await. Your first stop is Monodendri, a charming mountain village in the Zagori region, renowned for its traditional stone architecture and breathtaking views of Vikos Gorge. As you stroll through its streets, the crisp mountain air fills your lungs, and the scent of pine mingles with the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from nearby tavernas.

Stand at the edge of Vikos Gorge, one of the world’s deepest canyons, and take in the awe-inspiring view. The silence of the gorge is broken only by the gentle whisper of the wind and the distant calls of birds soaring over the cliffs. It is a place that leaves you feeling both humbled and inspired.

Continue to Ioannina, a city steeped in a rich tapestry of history and tradition. Begin your exploration at Ioannina Castle, where ancient stone walls encircle stories from the Byzantine era to Ottoman rule. The scent of aged stone and wildflowers lingers as you stroll through its tranquil courtyards and gaze out over Lake Pamvotis.

Take a leisurely walk along the lake’s promenade, where the late afternoon light dances on the water. Swans glide gracefully across the surface, while locals relax at lakeside cafés, sipping coffee and savoring the peaceful rhythm of life. This is a moment to pause, breathe, and let the serene beauty of Ioannina sink in.

Highlights of the Day:

• Monodendri & Vikos Gorge – Experience the grandeur of nature as you take in one of the world’s deepest canyons.
• Ioannina Castle & Lake Pamvotis Promenade – Explore centuries of history within the ancient walls of Ioannina Castle, then enjoy a tranquil stroll along the lakeshore, soaking in the calm waters and the enduring charm of the region.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~150 km; Border crossing from Albania to Greece; Overnight in Ioannina; (B/-/-).

Begin your day with a journey into the spiritual world of Meteora, a place of awe and wonder. Towering rock pillars rise majestically from the earth, crowned by ancient monasteries that appear to touch the sky. As you walk among these sacred cliffs, you will experience the profound serenity that has drawn monks here for centuries. The air is filled with the scent of pine and wild herbs, while breathtaking views of the surrounding plains stretch endlessly before you. Inside the monasteries, discover ancient frescoes and candlelit chapels—reminders of the enduring power of faith and solitude.

From Meteora’s peaceful heights, travel north to Thessaloniki, a city that pulses with life and rich history. Upon your arrival, allow the city's vibrant energy to captivate you. Explore the iconic White Tower, standing proudly by the waterfront, serving as a silent witness to Thessaloniki's complex past. Step inside the Rotunda, an ancient structure that has evolved over the centuries, resonating with the stories of empires long gone.

As the sun sets, stroll through Aristotelous Square, where the hum of conversations fills the air. Locals gather at open-air cafés, and the salty breeze from the sea carries with it the promise of new discoveries. Thessaloniki presents a perfect blend of ancient history and contemporary charm, leaving you enchanted by its warmth and energy.

Highlights of the Day:

• Meteora Monasteries – Experience the serene beauty of this sacred site, complete with breathtaking views.
• Thessaloniki's Landmarks - Explore the White Tower, the city's iconic symbol by the waterfront, and visit the ancient Rotunda, a testament to Thessaloniki's rich history. End your walk at Aristoteles Square, the city’s lively hub, where history meets modern life.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~260 km; Overnight in Thessaloniki; (B/-/-).

Your final day begins with a visit to Pella, the ancient capital of the Macedonian Kingdom and the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Once a vibrant political and cultural center, Pella’s influence extended far beyond the borders of ancient Macedonia. Walk through the remnants of this once-glorious city, marveling at its exquisite floor mosaics that depict mythological scenes and daily life from over 2,000 years ago. It was here that Alexander was born and raised, laying the foundations for the man who would later conquer much of the known world.

From ancient history, transition into spiritual discovery as you travel north to Rila Monastery, nestled in the heart of the Rila Mountains. Founded in the 10th century by St. Ivan of Rila, the monastery has long been a center of Bulgarian culture and faith, enduring through wars and centuries of change. The richly decorated church, adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings, stands as a testament to the monastery’s artistic and spiritual significance. Take a moment to reflect in the peaceful courtyard, surrounded by mountain peaks, where the monastery’s bell echoes across the valley—a reminder of its enduring presence.

End your journey with an evening arrival in Sofia. As you reflect on your adventure through the Balkans, you will carry with you memories of ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage that unites these countries.

Highlights of the Day:

• Pella – Explore the ancient capital of Macedon and the birthplace of Alexander the Great, renowned for its well-preserved mosaics and rich history.
• Rila Monastery – Explore Bulgaria’s most revered monastery, a symbol of faith and resilience for over a thousand years.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~400 km; Evening arrival in Sofia. End of Tour; (B/-/-).