Istanbul to Athens: Capitals and Culture Expedition / 1 FLIGHT INCLUDED

10 Days

4.65

Join on a 10-day journey from Istanbul to Athens, exploring the fascinating capitals and beautiful landscapes of Southeast Europe. Starting in Istanbul, you’ll experience its rich history and vibrant markets. From there, travel to Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, Ohrid, and Meteora, each offering unique cultural experiences and stunning sights. Discover historical landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and take part in optional trips to natural and cultural gems like Matka Canyon and Sveti Naum Monastery. The adventure wraps up in Athens with a guided tour of its iconic attractions. This trip offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it an unforgettable experience.

This journey invites you to uncover the rich layers of history, culture, and natural beauty across the Balkans, leading to a grand finale in Athens. Along the way, you’ll discover historical landmarks that tell the stories of ancient civilizations and diverse cultures, while also enjoying the flavors of authentic local cuisine that reflect each region’s unique heritage.

For those seeking even more adventure, optional excursions provide opportunities to explore both natural and cultural treasures. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Matka Canyon, with its serene waters and rugged cliffs, or visit the peaceful Sveti Naum Monastery on the shores of Lake Ohrid, a site that combines spirituality, history, and natural beauty in perfect harmony. These experiences add depth and variety to your journey, giving you the chance to tailor your trip according to your interests.

The adventure reaches its conclusion in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the world-famous Acropolis, where ancient temples stand as enduring symbols of history and philosophy.

With its blend of historic sites, cultural encounters, and scenic landscapes, this tour promises not just a trip, but an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after your return.

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Tour Overview

Duration

10 Days

Hotel Rating

Starts

Istanbul

Ends

Athens

Age

13+

Tour Guide

English

Counties

Cities

Meals Included

Breakfast Included

Size of Group

3 – 12

Tour ID

I101 – 264369

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul and self transfer to the hotel. Check-in and enjoy some free time to explore the city at your leisure. Overnight in Istanbul.

Accommodation: Dosso Dossi Hotel or similar.

Day 2: Istanbul

After breakfast start your half day city tour with hotel pick up and visiting famous places like Spice Bazaar and Rustem Pasha Mosque. Cruise along from the Rumeli Hisarı Fortress along the Bosphorus Strait, take some photos, relax and watch the panoramic view of Istanbul.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) was built between 1597 and 1664, also it is the second oldest covered bazaar in the city. You can find exotic aromas and various spices. It contains fruit vegetable, flower and fish shops inside.
Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara and splits the European and Asian sides of Turkey. This romantic cruise along the Bosphorus will allow you to admire the Dolmabahce Palace, the Beylerbeyi Palace the Ciragan Palace. Ancient wooden villas and bridges and all the wonderful and unique maritime landscapes.

Accommodation: Dosso Dossi Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit:Istanbul city tour with licensed tour guide.

Day 3: Istanbul to Sofia (by flight)

After breakfast, organized transfer to the airport for your flight to Sofia, Bulgaria (flight included, with varying times). Upon arrival in Sofia, organized transfer to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city. In the evening, join a welcome meeting with your guide to learn more about the upcoming journey. Overnight in Sofia.

Accommodation: Best Western Terminus Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Included: Flight to Sofia

Day 4: Sofia to Skopje

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 National Art Gallery, Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, embark on a journey to another country of Balkan, capital city of North Macedonia 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.

Accommodation: Hotel Alexandar II or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Panoramic Sofia City Tour, Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, Skopje city tour, Vardar River, Stone Bridge.
Route: Sofia-Skopje 244km

Day 5: Skopje to Tirana via Matka Canyon and Prizren

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 25 euros per person). Continue to the city of Prizren, visiting another Balkan country Kosovo. Prizren is a charming city in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Explore 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 city of another Balkan country, Albania. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this dynamic city.

Accommodation: Albanopolis Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Sadrvan Square, Sinan Pasha Mosque
Route: Skopje – Prizren 105km Prizren – Tirana 180km

Day 6: Tirana to Ohrid

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, we set off from Tirana, the capital of Albania, passing through the ruins of Enver Hoxha’s communist state and arriving at our next stop, Ohrid, the city known as the pearl of the Balkans.

After the customs procedures, we will visit Ohrid, a city named after Lake Ohrid, one of the largest lakes in the Balkans. Visit the charming Old Town of Ohrid, famous for its magnificent scenery and rich cultural heritage, offering panoramic views of the Ohrid Port, Quarantine Church, Ancient Via Egnatia, Hagia Sophia Church, Hagia Sophia Monastery and Samoil’s Fortress. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid and settle in for a comfortable night’s accommodation in this picturesque town.

Accommodation: Hotel Sky Corner or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Panoramic Tirana City Tour, Skanderbeg Square, the impressive Skanderbeg Statue, Ohrid Port, Quarantine Church, Ancient Via Egnatia, Hagia Sophia Church
Route: Tirana – Ohrid 131km

Day 7: Ohrid

After a Macedonian breakfast in Ohrid, the pearl of the Balkans, and a full day to immerse yourself in the beauty of Ohrid. Stroll through its charming streets or optionally take a half-day tour to Sveti Naum Monastery, a quiet and historical place on the shores of Lake Ohrid for 45 Euros. We visit the source of Lake Ohrid, which will take your breath away with its breathtaking views. This optional excursion offers a unique opportunity to discover the deep cultural roots and stunning natural landscapes of the region.

Accommodation: Hotel Sky Corner or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Pearl of the Balkan St. Naum Monastery(45 eu)
Route: Ohrid – St. Naum – Ohrid 70km

Day 8: Ohrid to Kastoria and Meteora (Kalabaka)

Start your day with breakfast and an optional visit to a famous winery in North Macedonia (55Eur). Then cross into Greece, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and after customs continue towards Kastoria, known for its magnificent Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake. After exploring Kastoria, continue towards Meteora. Stay overnight in Meteora, rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Accommodation: Hotel Hotel Alexiou or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: City Kastoria, Lake Kastoria, Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture and scenic lake
Route: Ohrid – Kastoria 140km Kastoria – Meteora 135km

Day 9: Meteora (Kalabaka) - Athens Transfer

After breakfast at your hotel, visit the UNESCO-listed Meteora to tour the magnificent cliff-top monasteries. Explore two of these impressive Byzantine monasteries, each perched atop towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views. Following your visit, transfer to Athens by reserved shuttle or train. Self-transfer to your Athens hotel, check in, and enjoy a comfortable stay. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Athens’ nightlife at your leisure.

Accommodation: Athens One Smart Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast

Day 10: Athens

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Check out, and embark on a half-day guided tour of Athens, including a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Enjoy a coach journey past iconic landmarks such as the Greek Parliament and Panathenaic Stadium, followed by an on-foot exploration of the Acropolis and the timeless Parthenon. This tour marks the end of your journey, concluding your memorable adventure in Athens.

Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Athens City tour with Licensed Local Guide

What's Included

Accommodation:

Stay in 4 -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.

Flights:

Flights included. Day 3: From Istanbul to Sofia.

Guide:

Professional Guide: A guided tour in Istanbul, Skopje, Ohrid, Meteora and Athens covering iconic landmarks and historical sites with local guide. Professional and knowledgeable guides accompanying you from Day 4 in Sofia through to Day 9 in Meteora, ensuring an insightful and enriching experience throughout your journey.

Meals:

Daily breakfast provided at the hotels.

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.

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

Insurance:

Not included, yet highly recommended.

Optional:

Enhance your experience with optional excursions, such as Canyon Matka in Skopje 25eu, and St. Naum in Ohrid 45eu,visiting and testing Local Vinery 55eu

Important reminder:

Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, airport transfers at the start and end of the tour are not included., city taxes in Greece, and any other items not specified in the program are not included in the tour price. These expenses must be covered directly by the guests.