Kosovo and the Balkans Grand Tour Starting from Diyarbakır with AJet, Including Optional Tours and Dinner Meals, 6 Nights TZL-SKP

Day 1: Diyarbakır – TZL Airport – Belgrade

Meeting at the Ajet Airlines counter in the departure terminal of Diyarbakır airport 3 hours before the flight. We move from Diyarbakır directly to TZL Airport with the scheduled flight of Ajet Airlines. After approximately a two-hour comfortable journey, we arrive. Following the country entry procedures, we start our pleasant journey towards the capital of Serbia, Belgrade, with our private vehicle waiting at the airport. Throughout history, Belgrade has been one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans, and it continues to attract attention today with its liveliness, vibrancy, and historical texture. We will have the opportunity to explore the intersection of Ottoman and European cultures in this fascinating city. After arriving in Belgrade, a panoramic city tour begins, where we will discover the city's splendor. Here, you can feel the historical atmosphere and explore the texture that merges Belgrade's past with the present. Then, we head to one of the city's most impressive points, where the Sava River meets the Danube River. Discovering this area, which has been the focal point of many conquests and victories throughout history, will be a great pleasure. While continuing to explore this ancient city, where Fatih Sultan Mehmed was wounded for its conquest, but its conquest was attributed to Kanuni Sultan Süleyman, you will encounter the Belgrade Fortress, which was used as a supply center for the Ottoman fleet. While tracing the traces of history in this fortress, we will visit important spots like Kalemegdan and Stone Square. During our visits, we will see the Tomb of Şehit Ali Pasha, one of the significant figures from the Ottoman period. During these visits, you will deeply explore Belgrade's rich history and learn about the cultural heritage left from the Ottoman period. At the end of our tour, we leave behind the history and vibrant atmosphere of the city and head to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Distance from TZL Airport to Belgrade: 197 km

Day 2: Belgrade – Sarajevo

After our morning breakfast, we head towards Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Upon arrival, we will visit a city that has been the cultural capital of the Balkans for centuries and historically marked as the spot where World War I broke out due to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary by Serbs in 1914. In the 1992 war, it suffered significant destruction due to the devastating wars among Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks, but Sarajevo has largely managed to preserve its beauty. During our panoramic city tour, we will see the famous Baščaršija, the historic Ottoman inn Morica Han, the Catholic Cathedral reflecting the city's religious cosmopolitanism, Synagogue, Gazi Husrev Bey and Ferhadija Mosques, the Latin Bridge where the assassination of Franz Ferdinand took place in 1914, the Old Library, and the western-style buildings that emerged during the 40 years of Austro-Hungarian rule. After our tour, we will transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Distance from Belgrade to Sarajevo: 294 km

Day 3: Sarajevo - Mostar - Blagaj - Počitelj - Medjugorje

After our morning breakfast, we depart from Sarajevo. Our first stop is Mostar, known for its historical and cultural richness. Here, we will see the Mostar Bridge, built in 1557 by Architect Hayreddin, and one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. This bridge was destroyed in 1992 but was rebuilt in 2004 with contributions from the Republic of Turkey. After exploring the captivating atmosphere of Mostar, we will visit the Koski Mehmet Pasha Mosque. Then we move on to Blagaj. Blagaj is located at the source of the Buna River, which is the strongest water source in Europe. After a short free time here, we proceed to Počitelj. We will visit Počitelj, known as the Turkish Village, where preserved historical structures from the 16th century built by the Ottomans can be seen. Finally, we head to Medjugorje, famous for its religious visitors and peaceful atmosphere. After arriving at our hotel, we retreat to our rooms to rest. Overnight at our hotel.

Mostar Tour INCLUDED! | Blagaj Tour INCLUDED! | Počitelj Tour INCLUDED!

Distance from Sarajevo to Mostar: 130 km | Distance from Mostar to Blagaj: 12 km | Distance from Blagaj to Počitelj: 30 km | Distance from Počitelj to Medjugorje: 20 km

Total distance covered: 192 km

Day 4: Medjugorje – Kotor – Budva – Sv. Stefan – Shkodra

After our morning breakfast, we leave our hotel and head towards the enchanting Kotor. During our journey, you will enjoy the stunning views. As we arrive in Kotor, we will embark on a walking tour of this medieval town famous for its fjords in the Balkans, where you can feel the historical atmosphere of the narrow streets and the old town. With its unique architecture and sea views, this small town will take you on a journey through time. Next, we arrive at Budva, one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Balkans! Our city tour of Budva begins. During this walking tour, we will see the magnificent beaches and vibrant nightlife of Budva, one of the most famous holiday centers in the Balkans. After our city tour, we move towards Sv. Stefan, known for its rich history and dazzling views. We will enjoy the breathtaking view of this island from above, a postcard-perfect spot. After all these explorations, we proceed to the beautiful city of Shkodra in Albania. After our dinner at the hotel, we retreat to our rooms to rest. Overnight at our hotel.

Kotor Tour INCLUDED! | Budva Tour INCLUDED!

Distance from Medjugorje to Kotor: 191 km | Distance from Kotor to Budva: 22 km | Distance from Budva to Sv. Stefan: 15 km | Distance from Sv. Stefan to Shkodra: 85 km

Total distance covered: 313 km

Day 5: Shkodra – Tirana - Elbasan – Ohrid

After our morning breakfast, we leave our hotel and head towards Tirana, the capital of Albania. An impressive tour awaits us to explore this beautiful city, rich in history and culture, known as the center of Bektashism in Europe. Upon arrival in Tirana, we will visit the Ethem Bey Mosque, one of Albania’s cultural heritages, which began construction in 1789 and was completed in 1923. We will take a short break at Skanderbeg Square, where we will see the Skanderbeg Statue proudly rising in the center. The Clock Tower of Tirana, built by Ethem Bey in 1821, will also be one of the highlights of our tour. During this tour, the modern face and historical past of Tirana come together to create unforgettable memories. After some free time, we pass through Elbasan and embark on an exciting journey towards St. Naum, located at the source of Lake Ohrid and the St. Naum Monastery, often referred to as "A Piece of Heaven in the Balkans." In this beautiful place, you will have the opportunity to photograph the unique beauties of the landscape nestled in nature. During our free time, we will enjoy exploring this historic and natural wonder. After a day filled with unforgettable memories and wonderful photos, we head to Ohrid, the pearl of the Balkans. Along the way, breathtaking views will accompany us. Upon arrival in Ohrid, we will have a tour introducing the historic city of Ohrid, which was one of the significant bases of the Ottomans in the Balkans. The places we will see during this tour include: the Monument of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who are believed to have developed the Cyrillic alphabet in the 9th century, and the Church of St. Sophia. Additionally, we will stroll through Chinar Square, giving us the chance to visit the Ottoman-era Turkish Bazaar, where we can explore the Halveti Tekkesi and closely feel the cultural fabric of the city. After exploring the new market and Ohrid Bazaar, we will witness the daily life of the local people. Lastly, the famous lake of Ohrid and its mesmerizing view will accompany our tour. After the tour, we will have free time and transfer to our hotel. Overnight and dinner at our hotel. After dinner, enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Ohrid in the quiet of the evening by taking a short walk along the lakeshore or retreating to your rooms to rest.

Tirana Tour INCLUDED! | Sveti Naum Tour INCLUDED!

Distance from Shkodra to Tirana: 100 km | Distance from Tirana to Ohrid: 135 km

Total distance covered: 235 km

Day 6: Ohrid - Resen - Bitola – Skopje

After our morning breakfast, we depart for a tour of Resen and Bitola, famous for its magnificent nature and historical riches. Our first stop is Resen, where we will see the Palace of Resneli Niyazi Bey, an important figure in Balkan history, from a panoramic perspective. Resen offers a captivating atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman remnants. After a short break here, we head towards Bitola, which was once one of the most important cultural and trade centers of the Ottomans. Upon reaching Bitola, we will visit the Military Academy where the great leader Atatürk studied and the Atatürk Museum from the outside. In this magical city, we will also explore historical sites such as the Turkish Bazaar, the Bedesten, Isak Pasha Mosque, and the New Mosque, which are all relics from the Ottoman period. While feeling the historical texture of Bitola, you will have the chance to enjoy a pleasant walk in the nostalgic streets of the city. After our visit, we head towards Skopje. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Skopje, with its Ottoman-era heritage and modern structures, is one of the significant cultural centers of the Balkans. We start our tour with the historical sites in Üsküp, the city where the famous Turkish poet Yahya Kemal Beyatlı was born. Our first stop is the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the city, built in 1492. Then, we visit the Murat Pasha Mosque, built in the 15th century and known for its decorations and architecture from the Ottoman period. During our tour, we will see Kapan Han and Sulu Han, which are beautiful examples of Ottoman-period inns where merchants used to stay and trade. Later, we visit the Stone Bridge, which has become a symbol of Skopje. This bridge was built in the 15th century and connects both sides of the Vardar River. From the Stone Bridge, we continue our tour by walking through the Turkish and Jewish neighborhoods along the Vardar River. During our walk along the river, we will pass through Macedonia Square, the largest and most central point of Skopje surrounded by modern buildings, where we will encounter the statue of Alexander the Great and other monuments. Afterwards, we see the Ottoman Bridge from the 15th century from outside and visit the Davut Pasha Hammam, experiencing the grandeur of the Ottoman period once again. We continue to explore the city by walking toward Skopje’s Turkish Bazaar. Before reaching the bazaar, we will see the Clock Tower, one of the emblematic structures of Skopje, built in the 16th century. Here, we will visit the Sultan Murat Mosque and the Isa Bey Mosque, which are important parts of the city's Islamic heritage with their attention-grabbing architecture. Lastly, we have free time in the Turkish Bazaar, where you can find a wide variety of products from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After spending pleasant moments in the bazaar, we will return to our hotel for the evening.

Dinner: An unforgettable dinner awaits you accompanied by traditional Balkan music and local dance performances. This special Balkan night will allow you to experience the entertaining and cultural side of Skopje in one of the most distinguished venues in the region, Restaurant Gardenia. With performances by our artists, all of whom are students and teachers from the conservatory, presented live without playback, we will transform this night into an authentic experience. We are happy to host you at our own restaurant, Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Overnight at our hotel in Skopje.

Resen Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola Tour INCLUDED!

Distance from Ohrid to Resen: 34 km | Distance from Resen to Bitola: 31 km | Distance from Bitola to Skopje: 170 km

Total distance covered: 235 km

Day 7: Skopje – Matka Canyon – Pristina – Prizren – Skopje

After our morning breakfast, we leave our hotel and head towards Matka Canyon, surrounded by lush mountains. Are you ready to explore Matka Canyon, which is located amid the mesmerizing forests and vast pastures of Vodno Mountain? This Nature wonder, encompassing about 5,000 hectares, will take you to medieval mystical monasteries and soothing lake views. As you walk on the rugged cliffs, you can observe the endemic plant and animal species of the region. For nature lovers, walking on the green paths is the best way to connect with nature. After our Matka Canyon tour, we head to Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Upon our arrival, we embark on a panoramic city tour where we will explore modern and historical aspects of Kosovo. During our tour, we will visit many valuable structures dating back to the Ottoman period. We will see the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque and the 18th-century Yaşar Pasha Mosque. While exploring the historical heritage of the city, we will have the chance to visit the Tomb of Sultan Murad I, who was killed in the Kosovo Plain as a result of the Kosovo Battle of 1389 and remember this significant historical event and its place in Ottoman history. After our tour in Pristina, we head to Prizren, known as the cultural capital of Kosovo. Upon arrival, we begin to explore the narrow streets of Prizren, reminiscent of an Ottoman city, filled with Turkish signage shops. We will visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of the most important Ottoman structures in the city. Other important Ottoman artifacts to be seen include the Halveti Tekkesi, the Bayraklı Mosque, and the Mehmet Pasha Bath. After some free time in Prizren, we start our return journey to Skopje. Upon arrival in Skopje, we will have some free time as determined by our guide until the transfer to the airport.

Pristina Tour INCLUDED! | Prizren Tour INCLUDED! | Matka Canyon Tour INCLUDED!

Distance from Skopje to Pristina: 90 km | Distance from Pristina to Prizren: 85 km | Distance from Prizren to Skopje: 160 km

Total distance covered: 335 km

Day 8: Skopje – Diyarbakır

After ticket, luggage, and passport procedures, we fly directly to Diyarbakır with Ajet Airlines' scheduled flight. After a comfortable and relaxing flight, we arrive at Diyarbakır airport, and the tour ends. We bid farewell to our valued guests with the hope of seeing you again on your next trip.

*Balkan Special Cancellation Guarantee Package: 50 Euro*

(With the cancellation guarantee package application, we offer our guests the right to cancel their reservations without penalty under any circumstances. With this application, it is possible to cancel your reservation up to 9 days prior to the tour departure date. In case of cancellation, the full tour fee is refunded while the cancellation guarantee package fee and any additional service fees (Visa, insurance, etc.) are not refunded.)

**The specified cancellation guarantee package does not apply to group reservations.**

**Limited capacity is available for each tour.**

Positive Aspects of the Tour

• Comprehensive Visits: A broad travel program covering key cities and tourist spots of the Balkans is offered. Important cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid, and Skopje are visited.

• Ottoman History: Significant structures and cultural heritages from the Ottoman period are visited, providing an enjoyable experience for history enthusiasts.

• Religious and Cultural Richness: By visiting buildings of different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues), the cultural diversity of the region is explored.

• Natural Beauties: Stunning natural locations like Lake Ohrid are experienced throughout the tour.

• Visa-Free Travel: It includes destinations that do not require a visa, reducing additional paperwork and costs.

• Professional Guidance: Detailed insights about cities and historical sites are provided by a guide.

• Local Cuisine Experience: Dinner includes traditional Bosnian meals, Balkan cuisine, and local delicacies, allowing participants to experience a gastronomic adventure.

• Restaurant Gardenia Experience: You can enjoy regional tastes and a special Balkan night at Restaurant Gardenia Skopje, one of Üsküp's most select restaurants.

• All Tours Included: All nearby excursions and extra tours included in the program are part of the tour price, allowing participants to visit all important points without incurring additional costs.

• Dinners Included: Dinner is included in the program every day, preventing participants from making extra expenses while tasting local flavors.

• No Need for Spending: The tour is ideal for guests who do not wish to spend. Except for lunches, taxes, optional tips, and souvenirs for their loved ones, no extra money is required from your pocket.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

• Intense Program: Traveling to a different city every day makes the tour extremely rich and full. However, this intense tempo can be tiring for those who want to explore more.

• Long Journeys: Intercity distances (for example between Skopje and Belgrade) are enjoyable with beautiful views along the way, but there may be days where the bus journey takes longer. Nevertheless, comfortable travel is ensured with breaks provided along the way.

• Limited Free Time: Due to the comprehensive nature of the tour program, free time may be limited. However, there is an opportunity to visit all important points accompanied by the guide.

• Weather Conditions Dependent on Season: Weather conditions in the Balkans can vary at certain times of the year. Therefore, appropriate clothing selection can make this situation comfortable.

• Accommodation and Service Quality: The hotels included in the tour are meticulously chosen from options reflecting the region’s character and local culture, but some hotels in smaller towns may not offer as extensive facilities as luxury hotels in Turkey. However, comfort and cleanliness are emphasized in these hotels.

• Food and Culinary Experience: The opportunity to taste the region's unique local flavors is offered throughout the tour. Balkan cuisine is rich and delicious, but some participants may find unfamiliar tastes. This is a great opportunity to closely learn about the local culture and cuisine, so it may be beneficial to keep in mind that you may encounter different flavors.

City Hotel Breakfast Dinner

Belgrade 4* Nobel vb. Hotel Hotel

Sarajevo 4* Holiday vb. Hotel Hotel

Medjugorje 4* Kaktus vb. Hotel Hotel

Shkodra 4* Holiday Koplik vb. Hotel Hotel

Ohrid 4* Beograd vb. Hotel Hotel

Skopje 4* Vlaho vb. Hotel Restaurant Gardenia

With Ajet Airlines

Departure Location Destination Location Departure Time Arrival Time

Diyarbakır TZL Airport 01:10 03:50

Skopje Diyarbakır 02:30 04:30