1st Day: Samsun - Skopje – Belgrade
Meeting at Samsun Çarşamba Airport, in front of the Ajet Airlines counter at the departure terminal, 3 hours before the flight. Departure from Samsun at 23:55 on Ajet Airlines scheduled flight VF4278, non-stop direct to Skopje. After an approximately two-hour comfortable journey, arrival in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, at 01:25. Following entry procedures, we begin a pleasant journey to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, with our private vehicle waiting at the airport. Belgrade, one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans throughout history, stands out today with its vibrancy, dynamism, and historical texture. In this fascinating city, we will have the opportunity to explore the intersection of Ottoman and European cultures. Upon arrival in Belgrade, a panoramic city tour begins, during which we will discover the city in all its splendor. Here, you can feel the historical atmosphere and explore the texture that brings Belgrade’s past and present together. Then we head to one of the city’s most impressive points: where the Sava River meets the Danube River. In this unique view, it will be a great pleasure to explore this region, which has been the focal point of many conquests and victories throughout history. As we continue to explore this ancient city, where Fatih Sultan Mehmed was wounded in pursuit of its conquest, but whose conquest came to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, you will come across Belgrade Fortress, which served as a supply center for the Ottoman navy. While tracing history in this fortress, we will see Kalemegdan and Tašmajdan, two important landmarks. During our tour, we will visit the Tomb of Şehit Ali Pasha, one of the important figures of the Ottoman period. These visits will allow you to deeply explore Belgrade’s rich history and learn about its cultural heritage from the Ottoman era. At the end of our tour, we leave behind the city’s history and vibrant atmosphere and transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Skopje – Belgrade: 430 km
2nd Day: Belgrade – Srebrenica – Sarajevo
After breakfast, we depart for Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. On our route, we first stop in Srebrenica. On this tour, we will visit the Bosniak cemetery, where one of the greatest atrocities of the last century during the Bosnian War took place, where thousands of Bosniaks were massacred and buried in mass graves, and where the first documented genocide in Europe since World War II and the largest massacre took place. Upon arrival in Sarajevo, a city that for centuries has been the cultural capital of the Balkans and went down in history as the place where World War I broke out after Austrian-Hungarian Crown Prince Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated by Serbs in 1914. During the devastating wars among Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks in 1992, the city suffered great destruction, yet Sarajevo managed to preserve much of 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, the Synagogue, the 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 formed during the city’s 40-year Austro-Hungarian rule. After the tour, transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Belgrade - Sarajevo: 294 km
Srebrenica Tour INCLUDED!
3rd Day: Sarajevo - Mostar - Blagaj - Počitelj - Međugorje
After breakfast, we depart from Sarajevo. Our first stop is the historic and culturally rich Mostar. Here, we will see the Mostar Bridge, built in 1557 by Mimar Hayreddin and considered one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. This bridge was destroyed in 1992, but was rebuilt in 2004 with the contribution of the Republic of Türkiye. After exploring the enchanting atmosphere of Mostar, we will visit the Koski Mehmet Pasha Mosque. Then we continue to Blagaj. Blagaj was established at the source of the Buna River, one of Europe’s strongest water springs. After a short free time here, we proceed to Počitelj. We will visit Počitelj, known as the Turkish Village, which has preserved its historical texture, and see the 16th-century Ottoman works there. Finally, we head to Međugorje. Međugorje is a peaceful place famous for its religious visitors. After arrival at our hotel, we retire to our rooms to rest. Overnight at the hotel.
Mostar Tour INCLUDED! | Blagaj Tour INCLUDED! | Počitelj Tour INCLUDED!
Sarajevo - Mostar: 130 km | Mostar - Blagaj: 12 km | Blagaj - Počitelj: 30 km | Počitelj - Međugorje: 20 km
Total distance covered: 192 km
4th Day: Međugorje – Kotor – Budva – Sv. Stefan – Shkodër
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and set off toward the enchanting Kotor. During our journey, you will enjoy magnificent scenery. When we arrive in Kotor, a walking tour in this medieval town, famous for its fjords in the Balkans, will allow you to feel the historical atmosphere of the narrow streets and the old town, and discover the heart of Kotor. With its unique architecture and sea view, this small town will take you on a journey through time. Next, we head to Budva, one of the Balkans’ most popular holiday destinations! We arrive in Budva, one of the Balkans’ most popular holiday destinations. Our city tour in Budva begins. On this walking tour, we will see the magnificent beaches and the vibrant nightlife of Budva, one of the Balkans’ most famous holiday resorts. After the city tour, we head to Sv. Stefan, famous for its rich history and breathtaking view. From the hilltop, we will admire the magnificent view of this islet. This region, postcard-perfect from every angle, is an ideal spot for photography. After all these discoveries, we continue to the beautiful Albanian city of Shkodër. After dinner at our hotel, we retire to our rooms to rest. Overnight at the hotel.
Kotor Tour INCLUDED! | Budva Tour INCLUDED!
Međugorje - Kotor: 191 km | Kotor - Budva: 22 km | Budva - Sv. Stefan: 15 km | Sv. Stefan - Shkodër: 85 km
Total distance covered: 313 km
5th Day: Shkodër – Tirana – Elbasan – Sveti Naum – Ohrid
After breakfast, we depart from our hotel and head toward Tirana, the capital of Albania. In this beautiful city, rich in historical and cultural value, an impressive tour awaits us as we explore Tirana, considered the center of Bektashism in Europe. Upon arrival in Tirana, we visit the Ethem Bey Mosque, one of the city’s most important symbols. Started in 1789 and completed in 1923, this structure is one of Albania’s cultural heritage sites. We take a short break at Skanderbeg Square and see the Skanderbeg Statue proudly standing in the middle of the square. The Clock Tower of Tirana, built by Ethem Bey in 1821, is another highlight of our tour. During this tour, Tirana’s modern face and historical past come together, allowing you to create unforgettable memories. After some free time, we continue through Elbasan toward St. Naum, where the source of Lake Ohrid and St. Naum Monastery are located, in what is known as “A Corner of Heaven in the Balkans.” In this fascinating place, you will have the opportunity to photograph the unique beauty of the landscapes in the heart of nature. During our free time, we will enjoy exploring this historical and natural wonder. After a day full of unforgettable memories and wonderful photos, we continue on to Ohrid, the pearl of the Balkans. Along the way, breathtaking scenery accompanies us. Upon arrival in Ohrid, we take a tour introducing this historic city, once one of the important strongholds of the Ottomans in the Balkans. Among the places we will see during the tour are the Monument to Saints Cyril and Methodius, the 9th-century Byzantine monks believed to have developed the Cyrillic alphabet, and the Holy Sophia Church. We will also walk through Çınar Square, the heart of the city, and have the opportunity to visit the Old Turkish Bazaar from the Ottoman era. Here, you may visit the Halveti Tekke and feel the cultural fabric of the city up close. Then we will visit the New Bazaar and the Ohrid Market, witnessing the daily life of the local people. Finally, Ohrid’s famous lake and its breathtaking view will accompany our tour. After the tour, free time and transfer to our hotel. Overnight and dinner at our hotel. After dinner, you may enjoy Ohrid’s enchanting atmosphere in the silence of the night, take a short walk along the lake, or retire to your rooms to rest.
Tirana Tour INCLUDED! | Sveti Naum Tour INCLUDED!
Shkodër – Tirana: 100 km | Tirana – Ohrid: 135 km
Total distance covered: 235 km
6th Day: Ohrid – Resen – Bitola – Tetovo – Skopje
After breakfast, we depart for our tour of Resen and Bitola, known for their magnificent nature and historical richness. Our first stop is Resen, where we will see the Resen Palace of Niyazi Bey, an important figure who left his mark on Balkan history, from the outside. Resen offers a fascinating atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman traces. After a short break here, we continue to Bitola, once one of the most important cultural and trade centers of the Ottoman Empire. Upon arrival in Bitola, we will visit the Military High School where the Great Leader Atatürk studied and the Atatürk Museum from the outside. In this charming city, we will also discover Ottoman-era historical works such as the Turkish Bazaar, the Bedesten, Ishak Pasha Mosque, and the New Mosque. While feeling the historical texture of Bitola, you will have the chance to take a pleasant walk through the city’s nostalgic streets. After our visit, we continue our journey to explore the unique nature and cultural treasures of Macedonia. Our first stop is Tetovo, one of Macedonia’s most striking towns. Here, we will visit the Painted Mosque, one of the most colorful and impressive mosques in the Balkans. Built in the 15th century, this mosque will fascinate you with its vibrant exterior colors and detailed decorations. As we explore this exceptional example of Ottoman architecture, we embark on a journey deep into history. After our visit in Tetovo, we continue to Skopje. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Skopje is one of the important cultural centers of the Balkans, with its Ottoman heritage and modern structures. We begin our tour with historical sites in Skopje, the city where the famous Turkish poet Yahya Kemal Beyatlı was born. Our first stop is the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, built in 1492, one of the city’s largest and most magnificent mosques. Then we visit the Murat Pasha Mosque, built in the 15th century. This mosque is especially notable for its Ottoman-era decorations and architecture. Continuing our tour, we will see Kapan Han and Sulu Han in the heart of Skopje. These are fine examples of Ottoman-era inns that once served as important centers for merchants to stay and trade. We then visit the Stone Bridge, which has become one of Skopje’s symbols. Built in the 15th century, this bridge connects the two banks of the Vardar River. Walking across the Stone Bridge, we continue our tour by seeing the Turkish and Jewish quarters along the Vardar River. During our walk by the river, we pass through Macedonia Square. This square is Skopje’s largest and most central point, surrounded by modern buildings. Here, we will encounter the statue of Alexander the Great and other monuments. Then we see the Ottoman Bridge, dating back to the 15th century, from the outside and visit the Davut Pasha Bath to once again feel the splendor of the Ottoman era. We continue exploring the city by walking toward Skopje’s Turkish Bazaar. Before reaching the bazaar, we will see the Clock Tower, built in the 16th century and one of Skopje’s symbolic structures. Here, we will visit the Sultan Murad Mosque and the Isa Bey Mosque, among the early mosques of the Ottoman Empire. The mosques are an important part of the city’s Islamic heritage and stand out with their architecture. Finally, we provide free time in the Turkish Bazaar. In this bazaar, you can find many products ranging from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After enjoying your time in the bazaar, we return to our hotel in the evening.
Dinner: An unforgettable dinner awaits you, accompanied by traditional Balkan music and folk dance performances. While discovering Skopje’s fun and cultural side with this special Balkan night, you will be hosted at one of the region’s most distinguished venues, Restaurant Gardenia. With the best live Balkan music and folklore performed by artists consisting entirely of conservatory students and teachers, and with no playback, we will turn this night into an authentic experience. We will be delighted to host you at our own venue, Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Overnight at our hotel in Skopje.
Resen Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola Tour INCLUDED! | Tetovo Tour INCLUDED! | Balkan Night INCLUDED!
Ohrid – Resen: 34 km | Resen – Bitola: 31 km | Bitola – Tetovo: 145 km | Tetovo – Skopje: 40 km
Total distance covered: 250 km
7th Day: Skopje – Matka Canyon – Pristina – Prizren – Skopje
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and head to Matka Canyon surrounded by lush green mountains. Are you ready to discover Matka Canyon, nestled among the enchanting forests and wide meadows of Mount Vodno? This natural wonder, covering approximately 5,000 hectares, will take you to mystical medieval monasteries and serene lake views. While walking along the rugged cliffs, you can observe the region’s endemic plant and animal species. For nature lovers, walking along the green trails is the best way to be alone with nature. After our Matka Canyon tour, we set off for Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Upon arrival in Pristina, we begin our panoramic city tour, during which we will discover Kosovo’s modern and historical sides. During the tour, we will also visit many valuable Ottoman-era structures. We will see the Fatih Sultan Mehmed Mosque and the 18th-century Yaşar Pasha Mosque. During this journey through the city’s historical heritage, we will visit the Tomb of Sultan Murad I Hüdavendigâr, who was killed on the Kosovo Plain following the 1389 Battle of Kosovo, giving us the opportunity to commemorate this important 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 exploring Prizren’s narrow streets, whose architecture resembles an Anatolian Ottoman city and whose shops are filled with Turkish signage. In the city, we will visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of the most important works of Ottoman architecture. The Halveti Tekke, Bayraklı Mosque, and Mehmet Pasha Hammam are among the other important Ottoman works to be seen. After free time in Prizren, we begin our return journey to Skopje. Upon arrival in Skopje, free time until the hour specified by our guide. Then transfer to the airport.
Pristina Tour INCLUDED! | Prizren Tour INCLUDED! | Matka Canyon Tour INCLUDED!
Skopje – Pristina: 90 km | Pristina – Prizren: 85 km | Prizren – Skopje: 160 km
Total distance covered: 335 km
8th Day: Skopje – Samsun
After ticketing, baggage, and passport procedures, departure on Ajet Airlines scheduled flight VF4279 at 02:25, non-stop direct flight to Samsun. After a comfortable and pleasant flight, arrival at Samsun Çarşamba Airport at 05:50 and the end of our tour. We bid farewell to our valued guests, hoping to see you again on your next trip.
*Balkan Optional Cancellation Guarantee Package: 50 Euro*
(With the cancellation guarantee package application, our guests are granted the right to cancel their reservation without penalty under any circumstances. With this application, it is possible to cancel your reservation up to 9 days before the tour departure date. In case of cancellation, the full tour fee will be refunded, while the cancellation guarantee package fee and any additional service fees (visa, insurance, etc.) are non-refundable.)
**The stated cancellation guarantee package is not valid for group reservations.**
**Limited quota is available for each tour.**
Positive Aspects of the Tour
• Comprehensive Visits: A wide-ranging tour program covering the important cities and tourist spots of the Balkans is offered. Many important cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid, and Skopje are visited.
• Ottoman History: Important structures and cultural heritage from the Ottoman period are visited, offering a delightful experience for those interested in history.
• Religious and Cultural Richness: Structures belonging to different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues) are visited, allowing the region’s cultural diversity to be explored.
• Natural Beauty: Magnificent natural beauties such as Lake Ohrid are experienced throughout the tour.
• Visa-Free Travel: It includes destinations that do not require a visa, reducing extra paperwork and costs.
• Professional Guidance: The opportunity to gain detailed information about cities and historical sites with a guide.
• Local Cuisine Experience: Guests enjoy a gastronomic experience with traditional Bosnian dishes, Balkan cuisine, and regional delicacies during the included dinners.
• Restaurant Gardenia Skopje Experience: The opportunity to enjoy regional flavors and a special Balkan night at Restaurant Gardenia Skopje, one of Skopje’s most distinguished restaurants.
• All Tours Included: All side trips and extra tours in the program are included in the tour price, so participants can visit all important points without additional cost.
• Dinner Included: Dinner is included every day, preventing extra expenses while tasting local delicacies.
• No Need to Spend: This tour is ideal for guests who do not want to spend money. Except for lunch, taxes, optional tips, and souvenirs for loved ones, no extra money will come out of your pocket.
Situations to Consider
• Intensive Program: Traveling to a different city every day makes the tour highly rich and full. However, this intense pace may be tiring for those who want to explore more.
• Long Journeys: Intercity distances (for example, between Skopje and Belgrade) are covered amid beautiful scenery during the tour, but there may be long hours spent on the bus. Nevertheless, comfortable travel is ensured with breaks along the way.
• Limited Free Time: Since the tour program is comprehensive, free time may be limited. However, there is the opportunity to visit all important points with a guide.
• Weather Conditions Depend on the Season: Weather in the Balkans can be variable during certain periods. Therefore, choosing appropriate clothing can make this comfortable.
• Accommodation and Service Quality: The hotels included in the tour are carefully selected among options that reflect the region’s character and local culture, but some small-city hotels may not offer facilities as extensive as luxury hotels in Türkiye. However, comfort and cleanliness are prioritized in these hotels.
• Food and Culinary Experience: Throughout the tour, the opportunity to taste the region’s unique local flavors is offered. Balkan cuisine is rich and delicious, but some participants may encounter unfamiliar tastes. This is a great opportunity to get to know the local culture and cuisine closely, though it may be helpful to keep in mind that you may come across different flavors.
City Hotel Breakfast Dinner
Ohrid 4* Beograd etc. Hotel Hotel
Shkodër 4* Holiday Koplik etc. Hotel Hotel
Međugorje 4* Kaktus etc. Hotel Hotel
Skopje 4* Vlaho etc. Hotel Restaurant Gardenia
Belgrade 4* Nobel etc. Hotel Hotel
Sarajevo 4* Holiday etc. Hotel Hotel
With Ajet Airlines
Departure Arrival Departure Time Arrival Time
Samsun Skopje 23:55 01:25
Skopje Samsun 02:25 05:50