I knew from the description that it would be a fast paced trip and that we would sleep in a different place each night and that’s exactly what I wanted = an overview so I could see whether I wanted to go back anywhere. If you’re like me, who enjoys going out for dinner and drinks each night, you would be very tired at the end of trip. However, many chose to stay in and go to bed and I believe for them the trip was not tiring, even for the older ones. Morning starts are reasonable - we left at 8am each day. Simon was a fabulous tour guide and the local guides were all wonderful. Do take small euro bills = you definitely need them. (also take coins for toilet stops). Definitely have a revolut, or similar, card. The optional activities, whilst nice,, are highly, highly over-priced, shame on the travel specialist! One thing I missed, was more. recommendations to authentic local food with local prices. All in all, a fabulous trip and I’m so glad I did it. I will use this agency again for their professionalism.
Travel safe in small group - all our tours are operated with up to 12 persons traveling together
Already in Skopje, but want to see more? Every Sunday we operate this guided full-day tour to the UNESCO protected Ohrid and Ohrid Lake, the most famous tourist destination in Macedonia.
The tour starts at 08:30 with a drive to Ohrid from Skopje. Arrive in Orhid after passing through the western part of Macedonia in less than 3 hours drive and with one refreshment stop. Once there, we will start with a walking tour of Ohrid with our experienced local guide. Expect 2-3 hours of light walking. Do not miss taking a scenic picture from Ohrid fortress. Other stops and highlights on the tour include a visit to the remains of the first Slavic university in the Balkans, a visit inside the recently rebuild Church of St Clement, passing by the unique church of St. John, Kaneo and finally, a visit to the cathedral church from 10th century, St. Sofia. Afterward, have lunch at any of the many traditional restaurants by Ohrid lake (optional).
In the afternoon, we'll have a light drive along the lake coast to visit another pearl located on the south part of the lake, the St. Naum monastery complex, with its unique church, originally built by St. Naum in the 9th century. As a final experience, you can have an unforgettable 40-minute boat ride above the springs of Black Drim river (optional, can be ordered and paid on the spot). Later on, transfer back to Skopje and arrive in Skopje early in the evening.
Join us on this fascinating Balkan Discovery to witness the living history as well as unparalleled natural beauty. Share a cup of tea with the lively and passionate people; fall in awe against the magnificent mountain range and crystal mirror-like lakes; meanwhile soak in the massive history that shaped the future of Europe. This Balkans tour takes you through all the highlights from palaces of the Tsars in Sofia and charming Belgrade to the pearl of Adriatic, Dubrovnik, to the pretty Montenegrin villages and Albanian towns, via the heart of stunning Macedonia.
Enjoy traveling with no other tourists and with the focused attention of an experienced local guide on this private day trip tour to Ohrid and Ohrid Lake from Skopje. Since 1979, the city and the lake of Ohrid are under the protection of UNESCO. Explore all the main attractions in Ohrid while avoiding crowds and keeping a social distance. Another perk of a private tour? Enjoy flexibility with timings and places visited, you can ask your driver or guide to make an extra stop or to extend a visit!
The trip will start in the morning with a private transfer from Skopje to Ohrid. Passing through the western part of Macedonia in less than 3 hours drive and with one coffee stop, you will arrive in Ohrid. Start with a walking tour of Ohrid with our experienced local guide. Expect 2-3 hours of light walking. Because of the religious importance and its numerous churches and monasteries, Ohrid is famous as the “Macedonian Jerusalem”. According the history facts, there used to be 365 churches - a church for each day! In 12th century, the city was also the seat of Archbishop of Ohrid. Do not miss taking a scenic picture from Ohrid fortress. Other stops and highlights on the tour include a visit to the remains of the first Slavic university in the Balkans, a visit inside the recently rebuild Church of St Clement (entrance fee included), passing by the unique church of St. John - Kaneo, a boat ride from Kaneo with a panoramic view of Old town (included in the price) and finally, a visit to the cathedral church from 10th century, St. Sofia (inside, entrance fee included). Afterward, have lunch at any of the many traditional restaurants by Ohrid lake (optional).
In the afternoon, we'll have a light drive along the lake coast to visit another pearl located on the south part of the lake, the St. Naum monastery complex (inside, entrance fee included), with its unique church, originally built by St. Naum in the 9th century. As a final surprise - have an unforgettable 40-minute boat ride above the springs of Black Drim river (optional, can be ordered and paid on the spot). Later on, you can have a private transfer back to Skopje and arrival in Skopje early in the evening.
Join on a discovery of the iconic cities and impressive highlights of the Balkans. Get to discover Sofia, Skopje, Belgrade, Sarajevo and Tirana. Roam the ever-popular and lively Croatian coast while craving the calming serenity and charm of Albania and Montenegro. Chase Alexander the Great from Macedonia to Greece and uncover the mysteries of floating monasteries of Meteora. Meet the Oracle of Delhi before climbing up to the Acropolis to get a panoramic view of a capital of ancient world, Athens. Above all, touch shoulders with countless Balkan civilizations as you witness their beautiful interaction and create lifelong travel memories.
This 3 day round trip in west part of Macedonia is our best seller and includes visit to Vodno mountain and St Panteleimon monastery from 12th century, Stobi archeological site, the famous Tikvesh wine region where you will visit the oldest winery and have a chance to taste some of the best Macedonian wines during your lunch. The second day is reserved to visit Bitola, the second biggest town in Macedonia, Prespa lake and to have unforgettable panoramic drive across Galichica National park. This day will end with visit to the pearl fo Ohrid lake - St Naum monastery complex. On the last day, before drive back to Skopje, a light walking tour in Old Ohrid will be offered after breakfast.
Spend a week tracing the shared history of three nations.
Travel to Tirana, Prishtina, Skopje, and the UNESCO site of Ohrid and Prizren to understand how the area’s complex past has shaped each destination’s culture. As you venture from city to countryside, learn about the local traditions from the resilient people who call this region home.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Mostar, Budapest, Vienna, Tirana
Mostar, Budapest, Vienna, Tirana, Bratislava, Kotor, Belgrade, Shkoder, Sarajevo, Novi Sad, Kruje, Berat, Ioannina, Prizren, Ohrid, Meteora, Gjirokaster, Subotica, Athens
Sirma was terrific. She took us to little out of the way places (like the Kommittee bar) and really gave us a good overview of the city, Tirana history, etc. We wanted to sample some local cuisine and we definitely did (yum, barek). Highly recommend!
Belgrade to Athens/Corfu tour is an exhilarating journey that takes you to 7 Balkan countries in 14 days. Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Belgrade, where the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers create a dynamic backdrop for exploration. From the Serbian capital, marvel at the captivating landscapes and historical narratives of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the cobbled streets of Sarajevo beckons with tales of resilience. Discover the picturesque wonders of Montenegro, from the dramatic Bay of Kotor to the medieval charm of Kotor’s Old Town. Albania invites you with its rugged beauty and ancient archaeological sites, while Kosovo offers a unique blend of Ottoman heritage and lively street scenes.
Visit North Macedonia, where the serene Lake Ohrid and the bustling capital, Skopje, showcase the country’s diverse facets. Culminating in Greece, this odyssey takes you from the iconic landmarks of Athens to the sun-drenched paradise of Corfu. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of these seven Balkan nations, creating memories that resonate with the vibrant spirit of the region.
For more details, please see our itinerary.
Discover the treasures of the Balkans and Transylvania on this immersive 19 day adventure packed with the perfect mix of charm, culture, history, architecture and scenery. Go back in time to a world of Saxon villages and hilltop citadels in Transylvania as you delve into the myths and legends of Dracula. Bathe in the turquoise waters of the sun-drenched Adriatic coast. Witness the incredible ancient ruins of Athens. Experience the quirky and historical capital cities of Sofia, Skopje, Tirana and Belgrade. Uncover the hidden gems and wonders of Transylvania and the Balkans on this ultimate adventure!
Experience the highlights of the Balkans and Transylvania on this 16 day adventure. Explore the historic capital of Bucharest, delve into the legend of Dracula at Bran Castle, learn about the humbling history of Bosnia, be amazed by the coastlines and fjords of Montenegro and take a dip in Macedonia’s beautiful Lake Ohrid. You’ll experience it all with the perfect balance of history, culture, adventure, night-life and scenery.