9 days Balkans Tour from Bucharest to Budapest

Embark on a captivating journey from Bucharest to Bulgaria, crossing the Danube River into the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, known as the 'City of Tsars'. Explore the majestic Tsarevets Fortress and the vibrant Samovodska charshia. Continue to the enchanting Devetashka Cave and the stunning Krushuna Falls, before settling in for the night at a 4-star hotel in Lovech (or similar).

Begin your day with a visit to Lovech's iconic Covered Bridge, a unique architectural marvel. In the afternoon, travel to Sofia, Bulgaria's vibrant capital. Discover the city's rich history with a walking tour that includes the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Saint Sofia Church, Banya Bashi Mosque, and the Sofia Synagogue. Stroll along Vitosha Boulevard, the city's main shopping street, before retiring to a 4-star hotel in Sofia (or similar) for the night.

Set off for the renowned Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beacon of Bulgarian culture and spirituality. Marvel at the exquisite artistry of its church, adorned by master craftsmen. Continue your journey southward, crossing into Macedonia, and arrive in Skopje by evening. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city before settling into your centrally located 4-star hotel in Skopje (or similar).

Explore Skopje, the birthplace of Mother Teresa, with a guided tour of its historic landmarks, including the Old Bazaar and the Kale Fortress. Visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa and Macedonia Square. Later, travel to the picturesque town of Ohrid, nestled by the ancient Lake Ohrid. Discover the old city center, the Ancient Theater, and the famous Sveti Sofia Church. Spend the night in a 4-star hotel in Ohrid (or similar).

Depart from Ohrid and cross into Albania, heading towards its capital, Tirana. Discover the city's vibrant heart with a walking tour of Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. Admire the statue of Skanderbeg before continuing to Shkoder, one of Albania's most authentic cities. Enjoy an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel in Shkoder (or similar).

Journey from Shkoder to the stunning coastal town of Kotor in Montenegro. Explore the fortified old town, Stari Grad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, continue to Trebinje in Bosnia & Herzegovina, where you'll spend the night in a 4-star hotel (or similar).

Travel to Mostar, where you'll explore the historic old town and the iconic Old Bridge. Learn about its significance and the tradition of bridge diving. Continue through the scenic Jablanica Lake and Neretva River Canyon to reach Sarajevo. Discover the city's rich history with a walking tour of its Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian quarters, including the Latin Bridge. Spend the night in a 4-star hotel in Sarajevo (or similar).

Depart from Sarajevo and head to Belgrade, Serbia's lively capital. Explore the city's highlights, including Republic Square, the National Theater, and the National Museum. Wander through the Bohemian Quarter of Skadarlija and visit Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress. Capture the iconic Victor Monument before retiring to a 4-star hotel in Belgrade (or similar) for the night.

Conclude your Balkan adventure with a journey to Budapest, stopping in Novi Sad, the European Capital of Culture 2021. Stroll along Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska Streets, and admire the Petrovaradin Fortress. Arrive in Budapest, the 'Queen of the Danube', by evening, marking the end of this unforgettable tour.