Published in Best of Balkans and Europe, Europe Tours
Destination: Milan, Italy
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is a city where history, art, and modern life seamlessly blend. Known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, luxurious shopping streets, and world-class museums, Milan has long been a center of culture and commerce. As you step into the city, you’ll be captivated by the elegance of its iconic landmarks, from the Duomo’s soaring spires to the treasures housed in the Sforza Castle. Milan is more than just a city of fashion; it’s a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Milan
Destination: Milan – Venice
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Venice, the City of Canals, is a place unlike any other. Built on a series of islands, this romantic city is known for its narrow waterways, stunning palaces, and majestic bridges. Venice's grandeur dates back to the Venetian Republic, a powerful maritime state that shaped the history of Europe for over a thousand years. Today, it remains a city of unmatched beauty, where each corner tells a story of ancient splendor.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Venice
Destination: Venice – Vienna
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vienna, Austria’s imperial capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Once the heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna is renowned for its magnificent palaces, grand opera houses, and coffeehouse culture. The city’s rich musical heritage is reflected in its stunning architecture, from the grand Hofburg Palace to the opulent Vienna State Opera. Vienna truly feels like a living museum, where every street is a testament to centuries of artistic and intellectual achievement.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Vienna
Destination: Vienna – Zagreb
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is a vibrant city with a rich mix of medieval and modern charm. Its cobblestone streets and charming squares are filled with historical landmarks, cozy cafes, and bustling markets. Zagreb’s Upper Town is where you’ll find its most iconic sights, including the St. Mark Church and the famous Ban Jelačić Square. The city also offers plenty of green spaces and parks, making it a perfect blend of history and nature.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Zagreb
Destination: Zagreb – Karlovac – Bihac
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The town of Karlovac, located near the confluence of four rivers, offers a peaceful escape with its natural beauty and rich history. Known for its star-shaped fortress and scenic river walks, Karlovac is a charming stop en route to the Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the heart of Croatia, is famous for its cascading lakes and lush greenery, making it one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Europe.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Bihac
Destination: Bihac – Travnik – Sarajevo
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West, where cultures and religions blend in perfect harmony. Known for its Ottoman-era bazaar, ancient mosques, and vibrant street life, Sarajevo has a rich and complex history that has shaped its unique character. From the famous Baščaršija bazaar to the poignant Latin Bridge, Sarajevo offers a fascinating glimpse into its storied past and its resilience through times of conflict.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Sarajevo
Destination: Sarajevo – Mostar – Kotor – Budva
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mostar, a town in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, is best known for the Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bridge, originally built by the Ottomans, was destroyed during the Bosnian War and later rebuilt as a symbol of reconciliation. The city’s old town, with its cobblestone streets and traditional Ottoman architecture, offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Budva
Destination: Budva – Tirana – Ohrid
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital, is a city of surprising charm and color. With its rapidly developing landscape and history that spans Roman, Ottoman, and Communist periods, Tirana offers a unique blend of cultures. From the bright, painted buildings to the bustling Skanderbeg Square, the city is a testament to Albania’s transformation. After a brief tour, continue your journey to Ohrid, known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans.” Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its ancient churches and monasteries, making it one of the most beautiful cities in the region.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Ohrid
Destination: Ohrid – Skopje – Sofia
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a fascinating city that blends ancient and modern influences. With its Ottoman mosques, Roman ruins, and impressive monuments, Skopje is a city with a unique character. The famous Alexander the Great statue stands proudly in Macedonia Square, representing the city’s ancient roots. From the Old Bazaar to the imposing Kale Fortress, Skopje offers a mix of history and modernity. Continue on to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, a city with over 2,000 years of history. From its Roman ruins to its grand Orthodox churches, Sofia offers a deep dive into Bulgaria’s past and a lively cultural scene.
Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Sofia
Destination: Sofia – Plovdiv – Istanbul
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Known for its Roman theater, ancient ruins, and charming Old Town, Plovdiv offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s long history. The city’s picturesque streets are lined with colorful houses and cobblestone paths, leading to impressive monuments like the Ancient Theater and the Nebet Tepe Hill. After exploring Plovdiv, continue your journey to Istanbul, Turkey’s vibrant cultural capital. A city that straddles two continents, Istanbul is a place where East meets West, with stunning mosques, palaces, and markets that showcase its rich history and diverse heritage.
Accommodation: 5* Hotel in Istanbul
Destination: Istanbul
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Istanbul, the city that connects Europe and Asia, is a place of immense historical significance. Once the capital of three empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—this city offers a unique mix of ancient monuments and modern culture. Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, the grand Blue Mosque, and the impressive Topkapi Palace, once the home of Ottoman sultans. A visit to the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar will immerse you in the lively atmosphere of this ancient trading hub. Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture will leave you mesmerized at every turn.
Accommodation: 5* Hotel in Istanbul
Destination: Istanbul (Departure)
Meal Plan: Breakfast
After an exciting and enriching journey through nine countries, your tour comes to an end. Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time to enjoy the bustling city of Istanbul one last time before heading to the airport. With its vibrant streets, stunning historical sites, and colorful markets, Istanbul has certainly left a lasting impression. Your guide will assist with your transfer to the airport for your departure, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free end to your unforgettable journey.
Accommodation: None