Cultural route – The Balkan Mosaic

12 days
12-15 members
Through the route Share

This journey will take you through time – both the natural history of our world and how it has shaped us as people and as cultures through the ages as well as what it looks like today. A rich tapestry of strong and resilient people who have made everything we see around us. Bask in the diversity of every single aspect of daily life – the differences in cuisine, traditional dress, and architecture from city to city and region to region, as well as the most important part – everything that brings us together.

 

VIA SERBIA

Serbia stands as a proud monolith to an ancient culture, full of rich tradition and heritage. It serves as a sanctuary connecting different flows of world traffic – East and West, North and South. With its colorful tapestry of cultural influences, Ottoman, Slavic and Austro-Hungarian together, and the welcoming and fun-loving attitude of its people, Serbia offers lifelong memories. 

 

VIA MACEDONIA 

Discover the essence of North Macedonia in a 4-day tour blending history, nature, and culture. Begin in Ohrid, where ancient streets lead to Byzantine churches and medieval fortresses, encapsulating centuries of charm. Journey to St. Naum Monastery, a tranquil oasis on Lake Ohrid’s shores, offering serene gardens and panoramic vistas. Explore Bitola’s Ottoman legacy and the ancient marvels of Heraclea Lyncestis before indulging in wine tasting in Kavadarci’s vineyards. In Skopje, traverse the bustling Old Bazaar and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Stone Bridge. Conclude your adventure with a serene boat ride through Matka Canyon’s majestic cliffs and emerald waters, immersing yourself in Macedonia’s breathtaking beauty.

 

VIA ALBANIA

Begin in Korca, immersing yourself in its rich history at the Old Bazaar and the Byzantine architecture of the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral. Journey through time in Gjirokaster by exploring its hilltop castle and Ethnographic Museum, capturing the essence of Ottoman-era life. Conclude with a visit to the ancient ruins of Butrint and the historic sites of Vlora, Apollonia, and Durres, ending your tour with a deep dive into Albania’s communist past at Tirana’s Bunk’Art museum.

  • We cast off on our journey in Belgrade.
  • Along our journey through Serbia, we will be traveling by boat and bus.
  • Enjoy the natural wonders of Djerdap, Lepterija, and the Sicevo gorge, along with the lovingly crafted architecture of Serbia’s cities and towns.
  • Tour the capital, Belgrade, along with Kladovo, Sokobanja and Niš.
  • Get a taste of Serbia’s vibrant culinary traditions in local kafanas and eateries.   
  • We continue our journey to the Morth Macedonia
  • Explore Ohrid’s ancient streets, adorned with Byzantine churches and medieval fortresses. 
  • Visit St. Naum Monastery, a serene sanctuary on Lake Ohrid’s shores, boasting panoramic views and tranquil gardens. 
  • Discover Bitola’s Ottoman heritage and the archaeological wonders of Heraclea Lyncestis. 
  • Indulge in wine tasting amid Kavadarci’s scenic vineyards. 
  • Explore Skopje’s vibrant Old Bazaar and iconic landmarks like the Stone Bridge. 
  • Conclude with a peaceful boat ride through Matka Canyon’s stunning cliffs and emerald waters.
  • Begin your journey in Korca, exploring the historic Old Bazaar and the Byzantine beauty of the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral. 
  • Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art and the Mirahori Mosque before enjoying a coffee break at a local café. 
  • Travel to Leskovik for lunch and end the day in Gjirokaster. 
  • The next morning, tour Gjirokaster Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Old Bazaar, concluding with a stroll through picturesque Ottoman-era neighborhoods.
  • Experience the ancient ruins and natural beauty of Butrint, relax in Himara and Llogara, and explore the historical sites of Vlora, Apollonia, and Durres before ending your trip with a city tour of Tirana and a visit to the Bunk’Art museum.

Day 1: Belgrade                                                                                                                                                                     

Our journey starts in Belgrade, bright and early,  with enough time to explore the many sights that Serbia’s capital offers,  such as the botanical gardens, the temple of Saint Sava,  the Avala tower and surroundings, and stopping for lunch  at the hotel with enough free time to explore shopping centers before dinner.

 

Day 2: Belgrade – Kladovo – Zajecar – Sokobanja 

After breakfast at the hotel, we set off on out  next destination – the city of Kladovo. Where we will  enjoy a cruise on Djerdap, and have lunch at the Jezero restaurant before moving on to the Lepenski Vir archeological site and the Felix Rumuliana.

 

Day 3: Sokobanja – Nis

After hotel breakfast, we will be exploring Hajduk Veljko’s cave in  Sokobanja, the wealth of natural wonders that is Lepterija.  Following that, we will be relaxing in the historic Turkish baths and  enjoying a pleasant free evening with dinner at the hotel.

 

Day 4: Nis

Our next destination is thevibrant city of Niš and  its surrounding curiosities. The Medijana archeological  site, the Febrary 12th concentration camp, Skull Tower  and the gorgeous Sićevo gorge. Following lunch at one  of Niš’s well known restaurants, a scenic walk through the  historically diverse and significant Fortress that lies in the heart  of Niš, where there will be free time to explore the city centre.  Continue journey to Skopje. 

 

Day 5: Skopje and Matka Canyon

Begin your adventure in Skopje, the capital city bursting with energy and history. Explore the enchanting Old Bazaar, where the echoes of centuries-old traditions blend with the bustling modern life. Afterward, venture to the serene Matka Canyon, where towering cliffs and emerald waters offer a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.

 

Day 6: Stobi-Kavadarci

Travel to Kavadarci, a haven for wine enthusiasts nestled amidst picturesque vineyards. Dive into the region’s ancient past with a visit to Stobi, an archaeo- logical site boasting ruins from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Then, indulge your senses with a wine tasting experience, savoring the exquisite flavors of Macedonian wine amidst the scenic beauty of Kavadarci.

 

Day 7: Bitola

Continue your journey to Bitola, a city steeped in history and architectural wonders. Explore the ancient ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, where the remnants of a once-great civilization whisper tales of bygone eras. Immerse yourself in Bitola’s charming streets, adorned with Ottoman-era buildings and lively cafes, before bidding farewell to this historical gem.

 

Day 8: Ohrid

Begin your journey in Ohrid, a town steeped in history on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Explore the old town’s cobblestone streets, where Byzantine churches and medieval fortresses stand as silent witnesses to the past. Lose yourself in the enchanting atmosphere, where every corner reveals a new story from centuries gone by.

 

Day 9: Korca 

Explore Korca’s charm in a condensed one-hour tour:

  • Begin at the Old Bazaar, soaking in the historic ambiance.
  • Visit the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral for Byzantine beauty.
  • Quick stop at the National Museum of Medieval Art for cultural insights. 
  • Pass by or briefly visit the Mirahori Mosque for a glimpse of Korca’s heritage.
  • Enjoy a coffee break at a local café. 
  • Conclude with a stroll through the city center and main square, capturing the essence of Korca in a short time.
  • Then we travel to Leskovik when we have lunch and end the first day at the town of Gjirokaster.

 

Day 10: Gjirokaster

Experience a captivating three-hour tour of Gjirokaster starting at 9:00 am and concluding at 12:00 pm.

  • Begin your journey at 9:00 am, exploring the historic Gjirokaster Castle perched atop the hill. Delve into its fascinating history and panoramic views of the city. 
  • Next, visit the Ethnographic Museum located within the castle grounds. Discover traditional Albanian life, culture, and artifacts displayed in this well-preserved museum. 
  • Take a leisurely walk through Gjirokaster’s Old Bazaar, a bustling market showcasing local crafts, souvenirs, and culinary delights. Engage with local artisans and shop for unique treasures.
  • Pause for a refreshing coffee break at a traditional cafe, immersing yourself in Gjirokaster’s laid-back atmosphere and mingling with friendly locals. 
  • Continue your tour with a visit to the Gjirokaster Mosque, appreciating its architectural beauty and cultural significance as a historic religious site.
  • Conclude your three-hour tour by exploring the picturesque neighborhoods of Gjirokaster, admiring the Ottoman-era houses and vibrant streetscapes. This comprehensive tour offers a glimpse into Gjirokaster’s rich history, cultural heritage, and authentic Albanian charm within a convenient three-hour timeframe.

 

Day 11: Saranda

Embark on a two-and-a-half-hour tour of Butrint from Saranda, starting at 3:00 pm. 

  • Depart from Saranda and enjoy a scenic drive to Butrint. 
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Butrint, including the amphitheater, Roman baths, and Byzantine basilica. 
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Butrint National Park, admiring the natural beauty and serene lakes. – Pause for a delightful dinner at a restaurant near Butrint, savoring Albanian cuisine. 
  • Visit the Butrint Museum to delve deeper into the history and artifacts of the site. 
  • Conclude your tour and head back to Saranda, filled with the enriching experience of Butrint’s history and scenic landscapes

 

Day 12:  Vlora and Durres

Embark on a relaxing day tour from Saranda to Vlora:

  • Depart from Saranda at 8:30 am. 
  • Arrive in Himara at 10:00 am for a coffee break and visit Himara Castle, perched on a hilltop. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea coastline, with rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and distant islands creating a mesmerizing tableau. 
  • Relax on a Himara beach and have lunch by the sea. 
  • Depart Himara at 3:00 pm for Llogara, stopping for a coffee break in the scenic Llogara National Park. – Continue to Vlora, arriving at 7:00 pm, where you can explore the city’s waterfront and historical sites.

 

Embark on a historical and scenic tour from Vlore to Durres via Apollonia:

  • Depart from Vlore in the morning and enjoy a picturesque drive to Apollonia. 
  • Spend two hours exploring Apollonia’s ancient ruins, including the Archaeological Museum, Agora, Temple of Artemis, Odeon, and Bouleuterion. 
  • Depart Apollonia and continue the journey to Durres, soaking in the coastal views and passing through charming villages. 
  • Arrive in Durres, known for its historical significance and lively atmosphere, ready to explore its rich cultural heritage and coastal beauty. Discover Durres in a three-hour tour focused on its historical treasures: 
  • Begin with a detailed exploration of the impressive Durres Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans. – Continue to the ancient Roman Spa, learning about its architecture and bathing traditions. 
  • Engage in a hands-on mosaic-making workshop to create your own art piece with plaster.
  • Take a break for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. 
  • Conclude your tour with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Durres’ ancient past, enriched by the Amphitheater and Roman Spa experiences. 

Experience a seamless tour from Durres to Tirana, complete with a city tour and a taste of local culture: 

  • Depart Durres for Tirana at 16:30, arriving at your hotel for check-in. 
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner at 7:00 pm, savoring Albanian cuisine.

 

Day 13: Tirana (departure day)

 Begin your Tirana city tour at 9:00 am, exploring iconic landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower. 

  • Visit the fascinating Bunk’Art museum, offering insights into Albania’s communist era and its impact on the country. 
  • After a full day of exploration, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant to immerse yourself in Tirana’s culinary delights. 
  • Depart Tirana at 9:00 pm for the airport, ending your tour with memories of Durres, Tirana’s vibrant cityscape, and the fascinating history revealed at Bunk’Art museum

Experience comfort and convenience throughout your 12 days tour with carefully selected accommodations in each destination. From centrally located hotels, to charming vineyard guesthouses, lakeside hotels each stay promises a unique experience. With comfortable lodgings in each destination, your adventure is sure to be memorable and rejuvenating.

It is recommended to follow the description that we set. You can also go in the opposite direction or visiting each country in different time slots.

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