From Bucharest to Istanbul Balkan Discovery & Greece Tour
From Bucharest to Istanbul Balkan Discovery & Greece Tour
$2422
From Bucharest to Istanbul Balkan Discovery & Greece Tour
13 Days Starting in Bucharest, Romania and ending in Istanbul, Türkiye
Visiting: Bucharest, Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, Ohrid, Kalabaka, Thessaloniki, İstanbul
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BI139
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 16
Age range:
10-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Experience an unforgettable 13-day journey through Eastern Europe and Greece, ending in Istanbul. Starting in Bucharest, explore Transylvania's wonders including Dracula's Castle, Peles Castle, and Brasov Old Town. Travel through Sofia, Skopje, Prizren, Tirana, Ohrid, and Meteora, and discover their rich histories and stunning landscapes. Continue to Thessaloniki, visit the renowned Rila Monastery, and conclude your adventure in Istanbul. Enjoy guided tours, historical sites, and vibrant cities, with meals, accommodation, and transport included.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Bucharest
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Peakture Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive in Bucharest and self transfer to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Bucharest.
Day 2 : Discover Bucharest
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Peakture Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, then set out on a guided tour of Bucharest’s highlights. Explore iconic sites like Revolution Square, the Romanian Atheneum, and the charming Old Town. Take in landmarks such as Manuc’s Inn and the Old Princely Court. After your tour, relax and reflect on the day's discoveries before spending another night in Bucharest.
Day 3 : Optional Transylvania Adventure
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Peakture Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy a day free to explore Bucharest at your own pace, or choose to join an optional day trip to Transylvania. This excursion includes visits to the legendary Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), the medieval town of Brasov, and the stunning Peles Castle. Return to Bucharest for an overnight stay, with time to unwind and enjoy the evening.
Day 4 : Journey To Sofia
Location: Sofia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Best Western Terminus Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, meet with your guide for a welcome briefing and get ready for the adventures ahead.
Day 5 : Sofia To Skopje
Location: Skopje
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Doa 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a hearty breakfast, delve into Sofia’s rich cultural heritage with a guided tour of its major landmarks. Visit the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a monumental symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and the historic St. Sofia Basilica, one of the city’s oldest churches. Continue your exploration with a visit to the National Art Gallery, housed in the former royal palace, and the Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, embark on a journey to Skopje, the bustling capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, enjoy a comprehensive city tour, discovering highlights such as the ancient Kale Fortress overlooking the city, the iconic Stone Bridge spanning the Vardar River, the lively Macedonia Square with its grand statue of Alexander the Great, and the historic Mustafa Pasha Mosque. Spend a relaxing evening at a comfortable Skopje hotel, reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Day 6 : Skopje To Tirana Via Matka Canyon And Prizren
Location: Tirana
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Albanopolis Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Tirana. Along the way, consider a picturesque stop at Matka Canyon, a natural wonder renowned for its dramatic landscapes and serene lake (optional). Continue to Prizren, a charming city in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy a guided city tour of Prizren, exploring notable sites such as Prizren Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, the elegant Sinan Pasha Mosque, the tranquil White Drin River, and the bustling Sadrvan Square. Take some time to shop for local handicrafts and savor traditional cuisine before proceeding to Tirana, the lively capital of Albania. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this dynamic city.
Day 7 : Tirana To Ohrid
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tino 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before setting out on a captivating panoramic tour of Tirana. Discover the vibrant heart of the city with highlights including Skanderbeg Square, the impressive Skanderbeg Statue, the elegant Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the historic Clock Tower. After exploring Tirana, journey to the enchanting city of Ohrid, renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. Wander through Ohrid's charming Old Town, soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid, and settle in for a comfortable overnight stay in this picturesque city.
Day 8 : Ohrid
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tino 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a full day to immerse yourself in the beauty of Ohrid. Stroll through its charming streets, or optional for a half-day tour to the Sveti Naum Monastery, a serene and historic site perched on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This optional excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the area's deep cultural roots and stunning natural landscapes.
Day 9 : Ohrid To Kastoria And Meteora (Kalabaka)
Location: Kalabaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Alexiou Hotel 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast and an optional visit to a renowned winery in North Macedonia. Continue to Kastoria, known for its stunning Byzantine churches, Ottoman-era architecture, and scenic lake. After exploring Kastoria, proceed to Meteora. Enjoy an overnight stay in Meteora, where you can rest and prepare for the next day's adventures.
Day 10 : Meteora (Kalabaka) To Thessaloniki
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Egnatia 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast before visiting the UNESCO-listed Meteora Monasteries. Enjoy breathtaking views and explore these cliff-top Byzantine marvels. Meet your Ajdinis Guide at Kalabaka and join the group to continue your journey to Thessaloniki, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Discover landmarks such as the White Tower and Arch of Galerius, then unwind with a comfortable overnight stay in Thessaloniki.
Day 11 : Thessaloniki To Sofia Via Rila Monastery
Location: Sofia
Accommodation Name: Best Western Terminus Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards Sofia. En route, make a significant stop at the Rila Monastery, an architectural and spiritual gem nestled in the Rila Mountains. As Bulgaria’s largest and most celebrated Eastern Orthodox monastery, Rila Monastery is renowned for its intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and serene mountain setting. Explore the monastery's rich history and artistic treasures before continuing your journey. Upon arrival in Sofia, check in to your comfortable hotel and unwind after a day of exploration with an overnight stay in this vibrant city.
Day 12 : Sofia To Istanbul (Flight Transfer)
Location: İstanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barin Hotel 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time. Detailed information about this part of your journey will be provided in the afternoon.
Day 13 : Istanbul - End Of The Tour
Location: İstanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following breakfast, immerse yourself in Istanbul’s highlights with a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. The tour concludes, marking the end of your memorable adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay in 4 or 3-star hotels: Enjoy comfortable accommodations throughout the expedition in double or twin rooms. Bed and Breakfast Service: Start each day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your explorations.
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Additional Services
Immerse in Culture: Engage with the local culture through visits to historic sites, museums, and old town areas. Free Time for Exploration: Personalized Exploration: Enjoy free time in each location for self-guided exploration, shopping, and savoring local cuisine. Flexibility: Strike the perfect balance between structured tours and independent discovery.
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Meals
Daily breakfast provided at the hotels.
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Transport
Transportation: Luxurious bus journey for the specified routes, ensuring a pleasant travel experience. Coordination with the Ajdinis Group for specific parts of the journey, enhancing the overall experience. We customize our vehicle selection according to group size and needs. Sedans are deployed for smaller groups of up to 3 people, while minivans accommodate groups of up to 8 individuals. For larger groups exceeding 8 passengers, we rely on Sprinter vans. This special approach has been designed to ensure the comfort and efficiency of all passengers, regardless of group size, providing a seamless travel experience for everyone onboard.
What's Not Included
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Insurance
Not included, yet highly recommended.
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Optional
Transylvania full day 120eu, Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu, St. Naum in Ohrid 45eu, local winery visit and testing 55eu.
Mode of Transport
Transportation:
Luxurious bus journey for the specified routes, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
Sofia Hotel to Sofia Airport & Istanbul Airport to Istanbul Hotel Local Transfers
Coordination with the Ajdinis Group for specific parts of the journey, enhancing the overall experience.
We customize our vehicle selection according to group size and needs. Sedans are deployed for smaller groups of up to 3 people, while minivans accommodate groups of up to 8 individuals. For larger groups exceeding 8 passengers, we rely on Sprinter vans. This special approach has been designed to ensure the comfort and efficiency of all passengers, regardless of group size, providing a seamless travel experience for everyone onboard.
Accommodation
Stay in 4 or 3-star hotels: Enjoy comfortable accommodations throughout the expedition in double or twin rooms.
Bed and Breakfast Service: Start each day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your explorations.
Check out our Q&As
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes, at Ajdinis Travel, we prioritize your safety and well-being. All accommodations included in our tours comply with local health and safety regulations. We carefully select our partners to ensure that they maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety protocols. We regularly review the accommodations to ensure they adhere to the latest health guidelines and regulations. If you have any specific concerns or questions about the accommodations on your tour, please feel free to reach out to our customer service team. Your safety is our top priority!
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Before your trip, you will receive several important documents to help you prepare for your journey: Booking Confirmation: This document will outline your tour details, including dates, itinerary, and accommodation information. Travel Itinerary: A detailed itinerary will provide you with day-by-day activities, including departure and arrival times, locations, and any included services. Travel Vouchers: If applicable, you will receive vouchers for accommodations, excursions, or other services included in your package. Packing List: We will provide recommendations on what to pack based on your destination, weather conditions, and activities planned. Emergency Contact Information: This document will include important contact details for our local representatives, should you need assistance during your trip. Please review all documents carefully and reach out to our customer service team if you have any questions or require further assistance.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
At Ajdinis Travel, we believe in giving back to the communities we visit and support. By booking a tour with us, you’re helping us make a positive impact! A portion of our proceeds goes toward local charities and initiatives aimed at environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and community development in the regions we operate. We partner with various charitable organizations that align with our mission for responsible tourism, ensuring that your travel experiences support local communities in meaningful ways. If you’d like to learn more about our charity partnerships or ways to get involved, please feel free to reach out!
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Unfortunately, once a tour has departed, we cannot accommodate late joiners. To ensure a seamless experience for all participants, it’s essential that everyone begins the tour together. We recommend arriving at the designated starting point on time to avoid missing any part of the itinerary. If you anticipate needing to join the tour after its departure, please contact our customer service team prior to your trip. We may be able to assist you in making alternative arrangements or provide guidance on how to meet up with the group at a later destination, if applicable.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Ajdinis Travel, we are committed to promoting ethical travel practices and ensuring a positive impact on the communities we visit. Here are some of the key ethical travel credentials we uphold: Sustainable Tourism Certifications: Ajdinis Travel is certified by reputable organizations that promote sustainable tourism. This includes adherence to environmental standards and community engagement initiatives. Community Engagement: We actively engage with local communities in the destinations we visit, supporting local businesses and promoting cultural exchange. Our tours are designed to provide authentic experiences that benefit local economies. Responsible Wildlife Practices: We prioritize responsible wildlife tourism by ensuring that our tours adhere to ethical guidelines. This includes avoiding activities that exploit animals and promoting conservation efforts. Carbon Offset Initiatives: We are dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability. We participate in carbon offset programs that invest in renewable energy projects and reforestation efforts. Partnerships with Ethical Organizations: We collaborate with NGOs and ethical travel organizations that focus on conservation, community development, and sustainable practices, ensuring that our operations align with these values. Training and Education: Our staff members receive training on responsible travel practices, enabling them to educate travelers about cultural sensitivity, environmental conservation, and ethical tourism. If you have any questions about our ethical travel practices or would like to learn more about our credentials, feel free to reach out to us!
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
At Ajdinis Travel, we understand that plans can change. If you need to alter your holiday dates after booking, please contact our customer service team as soon as possible. We will do our best to accommodate your request, depending on availability and any applicable terms and conditions. Please note that changes may incur additional fees, especially if they are made close to the departure date. For detailed information about our policies regarding date changes, we recommend reviewing the terms outlined in your booking confirmation or reaching out directly for assistance. We're here to help ensure your travel experience is as seamless as possible!
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
At Ajdinis Travel, the health and safety of our travelers is our top priority. We have implemented several policies in response to Covid-19 to ensure a safe travel experience: Health and Safety Protocols: We follow all local and international health guidelines, including regular sanitization of vehicles, accommodations, and shared spaces. Masks may be required in certain situations, depending on local regulations. Flexible Booking Policies: To accommodate any changes due to Covid-19, we offer flexible booking options. If your travel plans need to be adjusted, please contact us for assistance. Health Declarations: Travelers may be required to complete a health declaration form prior to departure to ensure that no one is exhibiting symptoms of Covid-19. Monitoring Local Guidelines: We continuously monitor updates from health authorities and adjust our policies accordingly. This includes adhering to any travel restrictions or quarantine measures in place at your destination. Travel Insurance Recommendations: We encourage all travelers to obtain travel insurance that covers Covid-19-related disruptions, including cancellations or medical emergencies. Communication: We will keep our travelers informed of any changes to our policies or procedures as they arise, ensuring transparency and clarity. We are committed to providing a safe travel environment and appreciate your understanding and cooperation during these challenging times. If you have any questions or concerns regarding our Covid-19 policies, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
When you book a tour with Ajdinis Travel, you can expect to travel with a diverse group of companions. Here’s what you can anticipate: Group Size: Our tours typically accommodate a range of group sizes, usually between 4 to 18 travelers, depending on the itinerary. This allows for a more intimate and engaging experience. Diverse Backgrounds: You’ll be traveling with fellow adventurers from various backgrounds, including different countries, cultures, and age groups. This diversity enhances the travel experience, allowing for cultural exchange and new friendships. Shared Interests: Most of our travelers share a common interest in exploration, adventure, and experiencing new cultures. This shared passion often leads to camaraderie and lasting connections. Optional Single Share: If you’re traveling solo and prefer not to pay for a private room, we offer a “single share” option. This allows you to share accommodations with another solo traveler of the same gender, fostering new friendships along the way. Group Dynamics: While we aim to create a friendly and inclusive environment, group dynamics can vary. Our experienced tour guides are skilled in facilitating group interactions to ensure everyone feels comfortable and engaged. Connecting Before the Tour: We often provide opportunities for travelers to connect before the tour starts, whether through social media groups or pre-departure meet-ups, helping you get to know your companions in advance. If you have any specific questions about your potential traveling companions or our tour groups, feel free to reach out to us!
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, Ajdinis Travel offers a “single share” option for travelers who prefer to book their own room without needing to find a travel companion. Here’s how it works: Single Supplement Fee: When you choose the “single share” option, you will be required to pay a single supplement fee. This fee covers the additional cost of having a private room. Private Accommodation: You will be provided with your own private accommodation throughout the tour. This ensures comfort and privacy during your travel experience. Room Sharing Possibility: If you prefer to avoid the single supplement fee, you can also opt for a room-sharing arrangement with another traveler of the same gender. We can assist in finding a suitable roommate, but this is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. Booking Process: To select the “single share” option, simply indicate your preference when booking your tour. Our team will then confirm the arrangements and any applicable fees. Cancellation Policy: If you need to cancel your booking, please be aware of our cancellation policy regarding the single share option, as it may differ from regular bookings. If you have any further questions or would like more details about the “single share” option, please feel free to contact our customer service team!
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Ajdinis Travel has been proudly operating in the travel industry since 2020. With over 4 years of experience, we have established a reputation for delivering exceptional travel experiences across the Balkans and Europe. Our commitment to quality service, responsible tourism, and customer satisfaction continues to drive our success as we help travelers create unforgettable memories. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out!
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Ajdinis Travel requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of ajdinis travel charges.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 10% of booking price.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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