Orthodox Cultures of The Balkans

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Belgrade

   Belgrade is an eclectic destination with a big-city feel, friendly locals, tasty cuisine and a very unique history. You’ll find all sorts of interesting architecture here, as well as galleries and museums that will really bring the local culture to life. While it might look a little rough around the edges, that just means there’s a real charm here waiting to be discovered. And discover it you will, from the daytime to the nightlife, as you experience the best this vibrant destination has to offer. While you’re exploring Belgrade, including the military ruins in the center, you’ll want to sample some of the local cuisine, including hearty grilled meats, local cheeses and breads, and vegetables cooked with seasonal herbs. Some of the sites you don’t want to miss include Kalmegdan Fortress, Republic Square and St. Sava Temple. Zemun, a bohemian neighborhood, is particularly rich in restaurants and cafes, and you also have the possibility of taking a food tour that will introduce you to some of the tastiest dishes. You’ll have fun in Belgrade, the perfect place to introduce yourself to this inviting region.

   When you arrive at Belgrade airport a driver will be waiting for you and will take you to your accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

   

   Traipse the Bohemian Quarter

   For your first night in Belgrade, we suggest taking a leisurely walk down Knez Mihajlova Street and through the Bohemian quarter of Skadarlija, often compared to Paris' Montmartre. These old areas reflect the local lifestyle and culture at its best. Here, you'll experience a blend of classical and modern architecture, together with lively cafeterias, street musicians, outdoor artists, interesting galleries, and shopping. In short, this is a great place to spend a few hours.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Belgrade

   

   Fruska Gora Monasteries and Sremski Karlovci Private Tour

   The slopes of Fruska Gora and Sremski Karlovci attract a wide variety of visitors. Some with a more spiritual bent come for the sixteen living monasteries, while some more hedonistic types visit some of the region's 60+ wineries, or just wish to enjoy the stunning nature offered by the pristine Fruska Gora National Park.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Belgrade

   

   Serbian Orthodox Heritage Private Walking Tour

   Ever wondered Serbs say their monasteries are doors to the world and windows to the heavens? By the time the Romans legalized Christianity in 313, Serbia had already converted. Religion has played an oversized role in this devout country, as shown by the Serbian monarchs who have been canonized as saints. Explore Serbian culture, customs, and traditions. Visit a church with a chandelier made from bullets and sabres. Drink the St. Petka Church's healing holy waters. Visit one of the world's largest churches, inspired by the Hagia Sophia. Delve into the differences between Orthodoxy and Catholicism, and learn why there is a Russian Church in Belgrade's center. Trace the evolution of architectural styles over the centuries, and learn the legends of the great men buried within Belgrade's churches.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Visit Belgrade's Museums

   As the capital of Serbia, Belgrade has more than a few museums, but three stand out and are especially worth seeing. The National Museum of Belgrade has opened all of its doors to visitors. Guests can explore a massive collection encompassing everything from the Paleolithic period to 20th-century art. Our second recommendation is the Nikola Tesla Museum. You'll explore his often fantastical inventions and unusual approach to life. Finally, be sure to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art. Its "permanent" exhibition actually changes every three to five years. As a rule, though, it's based on reconstructions of historical periods, movements, tendencies, and individual phenomena in the Yugoslav art space.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to Sofia by Private Transfer / Arrival in Sofia

   

   It's time to head to Bulgaria! Your driver will meet you at your accommodation and take you on a scenic drive. To break up the journey, and make it more interesting, you'll make a stop at the Manasija and Ravanica Monasteries, where you'll have guided tours. You an also enjoy lunch or coffee. The total duration of this trip is about eight hours.

   A city of gorgeous architecture, rich history, and a vibrant contemporary cultural life, Sofia is a gem. The historical center is nicely compact, so everything is within walking distance, giving this cosmopolitan city a quaint feel. It’s the perfect walking city, where you can enjoy stunning tourist attractions and also make your own itinerary, reveling in the lovely restaurants and cafes, and hidden surprises around every corner, including Roman and Byzantine ruins. The restaurants in Sofia are particularly impressive, with a mix of hearty traditional fare and creative twists on modern European cuisine. But there’s much more to do here than eat. Taking a tour with a local guide will help you get acquainted with all the city has to offer. When you’re ready to go a little farther afield, a day trip to one of Bulgaria's UNESCO sites is definitely worthwhile. Bulgaria’s past will come alive for you in these incredible destinations, which are popular with tourists and yet still feel very authentic. These short day trips will also give you a chance to explore the majestic landscape of Bulgaria as you leave the big city for more historic sites. Combining an alluring history with impressive architecture and world-class gastronomy, Sofia is a perfect destination for a fun, indulgent vacation.

   Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodation in the center of Sofia.

   

   Stroll the Streets

   Get a feel for Sofia's spirit and vibes by walking from the NDK subway station down Vitosha Boulevard towards the Palace of Justice and Saint Kyriaki Cathedral. On your way, have a quick stop on this pedestrian boulevard to enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of its numerous bars and outdoor terraces. From St. Kyriaki, head down Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard towards Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the world's largest and most impressive orthodox cathedrals in the world. On your way, you'll pass several landmarks, including the National Art Gallery, Sofia Synagogue, and Opera House. After taking some nice photos of the cathedral, you can head to the nearby Sense Hotel Rooftop Restaurant for dinner and a panoramic view over Sofia.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Sofia

   

   See Sofia on a Private Walking Tour

   Admire the National Library, Sofia University, Parliament, the St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the National Theater, St. Sofia Church, and Sofia's oldest building, the St. George Rotunda and other architectural gems. You will learn the history behind the sites but also some overall insights about Sofia’s rich culture. 

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Explore the Past via Sofia's Museums

   Sofia has a few dozen museums, but if your time is limited, make a beeline to the National History Museum. With a collection spanning over 700,000 objects, this is one of the largest museums on the Balkan Peninsula. Let it take you from prehistory to the golden treasures of the Thracians to today. We also recommend visiting the National Archaeology Museum. Housed within the city's largest (former) mosque, its diverse treasures will help you better understand Bulgaria's deep, diverse history.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your Second Full Day in Sofia

   

   Rila and Boyana Private Day Tour (UNESCO Heritage)

   In this private tour you will discover two of the most famous Bulgarian monasteries and understand their importance for local and world culture. Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century, is the most-visited UNESCO site in Bulgaria and an absolute must see. The arched balconies, unique frescoes, and the fabulous mountain views make this place truly special. Next stop is Boyana Church, which frescoes brought epochal changes to the mural painting style and are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance. 

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 6-7 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

7. Day 7 Traveling to Skopje by Private Transfer / Arrival in Skopje

   

   Today you're off to North Macedonia! Your driver will meet you at your accommodations, then stop at Osogovski Monastery, one of Macedonia's oldest monasteries. A guide will make sure you see all the main sights, and learn the place's history. The total duration of the trip is six hours.

   Please note on the border between Bulgaria and Macedonia there's a passport control. This process might be longer depending on the traffic. 

   The birthplace of Mother Teresa, Skopje is a city that reveres its past. You’ll find numerous landmarks and tributes to Mother Teresa here. But the statues in Skopje aren’t like those you’ve seen elsewhere. Several years ago, the government built monuments to many local historical figures. As a result, Skopje is like a living museum where the region’s culture and history come alive before your eyes. Skopje's atmosphere is unique, combining a little of the energy of Las Vegas with Eastern European charm. It’s really like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. Some of the decorations are a little over the top, but the city is a must for visitors to the region. As you explore the sites you should try the excellent local wine and food, which combines flavors from Balkan and Greek cuisines. Skopje’s Old Town is reserved for pedestrians, so its traditional atmosphere has been preserved. This is the best place to explore the Muslim influence on the region, as the city center features various bazaars and cozy alleyways. You’ll definitely feel like you’ve stepped back into a more traditional age, in contrast to the modern monuments throughout Skopje. But the city isn’t all there is to explore. The fortress on the hill is impressive and well worth the hike. About 20 minutes away you’ll find Matka Canyon, which offers spectacular outdoor activities including boating, kayaking and hiking. For another point of view on Skopje, take the funicular up to the famous cross that overlooks the city. This is an ever-changing and exciting destination that always offers visitors something new and never disappoints.

   Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in the center of Skopje.

   Taste Macedonia

   While you’re in Skopje you’ll certainly want to taste some of the delectable local cuisine. You’ll want to try at least one of the most famous dishes. Tavche Gravche is beans cooked with special spices in a delicious sauce. Ajvar is a tangy spread made from red bell peppers, eggplant, garlic and chilli. Kashkaval is a yellow sheep’s milk cheese made locally. All three dishes are uniquely flavorful comfort food.
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Skopje

   

   Scoping out Skopje

   This walking tour of Skopje includes all of the highlights of this fantastic city. You'll start with the old railway station, one of the most striking buildings in the Balkans. You'll also get to see the monument to Mother Teresa, the house of Mother Teresa and the Stone Bridge which is known as the most imposing monument in Macedonia. Another part of the tour takes you to Skopje's Old Town, with a walk through the Skopje Bazar, and finally a visit to a gorgeous church. You'll see the most interesting sights of this unique destination and get a real feel for its culture.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   Watch the video

   

   How Bazaar!

   Skopje’s Old Bazaar is the oldest part of the city, and also one of its most atmospheric. You’ll find it on the eastern bank of the Vardar River, from Stone Bridge to the Bit-Pazar, and from Skopje Fortress to the Serava River. A merchant’s quarter since the 12th century, the Old Bazaar is packed with local shops and salesmen with a little of everything.This is a unique place where you can really see the local culture and also find everything from crafts to curios, local produce and baked goods. Don’t forget to haggle!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Bone up on Macedonian History

   One of Skopje’s best museums is the National Archeological Museum, a brand new building on the river built in an eclectic mix of modern and classic styles. It’s impressive from the outside and even more so when you see the collection. Here you’ll find an incredible assortment of artifacts that attest to the history and culture of Macedonia. This is the best place to get an in-depth insight into what makes Skopje unique, a place where the past truly comes to life. It will give you a new point of view on everything else you see in Skopje.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Skopje

   

   Ohrid and St. Naum Private Day Trip

   Explore Lake Ohrid, and the history and architecture that makes it special (in addition to its own natural beauty). Continuously inhabited since ancient times, you'll visit the town's landmarks and best views, then delve further into the past. At the "Bay of Bones," you'll visit a replica of the Neolithic settlement that once safely sat on piles above the lake. Continuing along the picturesque lakeshore by boat, you'll come to the St. Naum Monastery. Situated in the lush area where the Black Drin river flows from the lake (a kilometer from the Albanian border), this is one of the region's highlights.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 10 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

10. Day 10 Departure Day

    Today, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you to the Skopje airport for your departing flight.