Diyarbakır Departure Kosovo Full Balkan Tour Extra Tours and Dinner Included
Day 1: Diyarbakır - Skopje - Belgrade
Gathering at Diyarbakır Airport's departure terminal on Saturday evening at 21:00. Departure from Diyarbakır to Skopje on Ajet Airlines scheduled flight at 00:05. After approximately two and a half hours of a comfortable journey, we arrive at 01:50. After arrival, we start our pleasant journey towards the capital of Serbia, Belgrade. Throughout history, Belgrade has been one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans, and today, it draws attention with its liveliness, mobility, and historical texture. In this enchanting city, we will have the opportunity to discover the intersection of Ottoman and European cultures. After arriving in Belgrade, we embark on a panoramic city tour to explore the city's magnificence. Firstly, we will see the Old Palace, which bears traces of the Ottoman period and is known for its magnificent carved ceilings. Here, you can feel the historical atmosphere and discover the texture that brings together Belgrade's past and present. Next, we will head to one of the city's most impressive points, where the Sava River meets the Danube River. Exploring this unique view, which has been the focal point of many conquests and victories throughout history, will be a great pleasure. As we continue to explore this ancient city, which Fatih Sultan Mehmet was wounded for but whose conquest was granted to Kanuni Sultan Süleyman, you will encounter the Belgrade Fortress, which served as the supply center for the Ottoman navy. While tracing the traces of history at this fortress, we will see important points such as Kalemegdan and the Stone Square. During our tour, we will visit the Tomb of Şehit Ali Pasha, an important figure of the Ottoman period, and the Bayraklı Mosque, one of the rare Ottoman structures still standing in Belgrade. During these visits, you will deeply explore Belgrade's rich history and gain insights into the cultural heritage remaining from the Ottoman period. Our tour will continue with a visit to the Military Museum. This museum is filled with artifacts that shed light on Belgrade's military history and provides a highly impressive experience for visitors. At the end of our tour, we leave behind the city's history and vibrant atmosphere and head to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Distance from Skopje to Belgrade: 430 km
Day 2: Belgrade – Sarajevo
After our breakfast, we set off for Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Upon arrival, we will explore this city that has been the cultural capital of the Balkans for centuries, and is historically significant as the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in 1914, which sparked World War I. The city suffered great destruction during the wars between Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks in 1992, but Sarajevo has managed to maintain much of its beauty. During our panoramic city tour, we will see the famous Baščaršija, the historical Ottoman caravanserai Morica Han, the Catholic Cathedral reflecting the city's religious cosmopolitanism, a Synagogue, Husein Bey and Ferhadija Mosques, the Latin Bridge where Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, the Old Library, and the western-style buildings that emerged during the 40-year Austro-Hungarian administration. After our tour, we will transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Distance from Belgrade to Sarajevo: 294 km
Day 3: Sarajevo - Mostar - Blagaj - Počitelj - Medugorje
After 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 by Architect Hayreddin in 1557, one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. This bridge was destroyed in 1992 but was reconstructed in 2004 with the contributions of the Republic of Turkey. After exploring the enchanting atmosphere of Mostar, we will visit the Koski Mehmet Pasha Mosque. Next, we proceed to Blagaj. Blagaj is located at the source of the Buna River, which is the strongest water source in Europe. After a brief free time here, we move on to Počitelj. We will visit Počitelj, which has a preserved historical texture and is known as the Turkish Village, to see the works built by the Ottomans in the 16th century. Finally, we head to Medugorje, a peaceful place famous for its religious visitors. After arriving at our hotel, we will rest in our rooms. Overnight stay 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 Medugorje: 20 km
Total distance traveled: 192 km
Day 4: Medugorje – Kotor – Budva – Sv. Stefan – Shkodra
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and head towards the enchanting city of Kotor. During our journey, you will enjoy the magnificent scenery. Upon arrival in Kotor, famous for its fjords, we will take a walking tour of this medieval town, where we will feel the historical atmosphere of the narrow streets and the old town, discovering the heart of Kotor. With its unique architecture and sea view, this small town will transport you back in time. Next, we will head to Budva, one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Balkans! After a panoramic city tour, we will move towards Sv. Stefan, famous for its rich history and stunning views. We will admire the magnificent view of this islet from above. This postcard-like area is an ideal spot for taking photos. After all these explorations, we will pass to the beautiful city of Shkodra in Albania. After our dinner at the hotel, we will rest in our rooms. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Kotor Tour INCLUDED! | Budva Tour INCLUDED!
Distance from Medugorje 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 traveled: 313 km
Day 5: Shkodra – Tirana - Ohrid
After breakfast, we depart from our hotel and head towards Tirana, the capital of Albania. This beautiful city, rich in history and culture, awaits us for an impressive tour as the center of Bektashism in Europe. Upon our arrival in Tirana, we will visit the most important symbol of the city, the Ethem Bey Mosque. Started in 1789 and completed in 1923, this structure is one of Albania's cultural heritage. We take a short break in Skanderbeg Square, where we can see the proud statue of Skander Bey in the middle of the square. The Clock Tower, built by Ethem Bey in 1821, is another highlight of our tour. Next, we will visit the Peace Bell, a meaningful work made from melted lead by children from Shkodra during the uprising in 1999. During this tour, the modern face of Tirana and its historical past come together, allowing you to create unforgettable memories. After some free time, we head towards Ohrid. Nefes kesen views accompany us along the way. Upon arrival in Ohrid, we will conduct a tour introducing the historical city of Ohrid, which was an important base of the Ottomans in the Balkans. During our tour, we will see important sites such as the Statue of Saints Cyril and Methodius, believed to have developed the Cyrillic Alphabet in the 9th century, the Church of Hagia Sophia, and the Ancient Theatre from the Roman period. We will also have the opportunity to stroll in Çınar Square, which is the heart of the city, and visit the Turkish Bazaar, where you can visit the Halveti Tekke and closely feel the city's cultural texture. Afterward, we will explore the New Bazaar and Ohrid Market, getting a glimpse of the daily life of the local people. Finally, the famous lake and the enchanting view of Ohrid accompany our tour. After our tour, there will be some free time, and we will transfer to our hotel. Overnight stay and dinner at our hotel. After our dinner, you can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Ohrid in the silence of the night, take a short walk by the lakeshore, or retreat to your rooms to rest.
Tirana Tour INCLUDED!
Distance from Shkodra to Tirana: 100 km | Distance from Tirana to Ohrid: 135 km
Total distance traveled: 235 km
Day 6: Ohrid – Resne – Bitola - Skopje
After breakfast, we set off for a tour of Resne and Bitola, known for their magnificent nature and historical richness. Our first stop is Resne, where we will see the Palace of Resneli Niyazi Bey, a significant personality in Balkan history, from a panoramic perspective. Resne offers a captivating atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman traces. After a short break here, we head towards Manastır (Bitola), which was once one of the most important cultural and commercial centers of the Ottomans. 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 magical city, we'll also explore historical artifacts from the Ottoman era, such as the Turkish Bazaar, Bedesten, Isak Pasha Mosque, and Yeni 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 head towards Skopje, accompanied by the lush mountains. During the journey, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Macedonia. Upon arrival in Skopje, our first stop will be the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the city, built in 1492. Next, we will visit the Murat Pasha Mosque, constructed in the 15th century, known for its decorations and architecture from the Ottoman period. Our tour continues with a visit to Kapan Han and Sulu Han, located in the heart of Skopje. These buildings, which are beautiful examples of Ottoman period hans, were once important centers where merchants stayed and traded. Then we will visit the Stone Bridge, which has become a symbol of Skopje. This bridge, constructed in the 15th century, connects both banks of the Vardar River. After walking across the Stone Bridge, we will continue our tour by exploring the Turkish and Jewish neighborhoods along the riverbank. During our stroll by the river, we will pass through Macedonia Square, the largest and most central point of Skopje, surrounded by modern buildings. Here, we will encounter the statue of Alexander the Great and other monuments. Next, we will see the Ottoman Bridge from the 15th century from the outside and visit the David Pasha Hammam, experiencing the grandeur of the Ottoman period once more. We will continue to discover the city by walking towards the Turkish Bazaar. Before arriving at the bazaar, we will see the Clock Tower, one of Skopje's symbolic structures, which was built in the 16th century. Here, we will visit Sultan Murat Mosque and Isa Bey Mosque, both of which are important parts of the city’s Islamic heritage with their remarkable architecture. Finally, we will have some free time in the Turkish Bazaar, where you can find various products from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After enjoying your time in the bazaar, we will transfer to Restaurant Gardenia for the Balkan Night. After that, we will be transferred to our hotel and then retire to our rooms. Overnight stay at our hotel in Skopje.
Dinner: An unforgettable dinner awaits you, accompanied by traditional Balkan music and local dance performances. This special Balkan night offers you the opportunity to discover Skopje's entertaining and cultural side, hosted in one of the region's finest venues, Restaurant Gardenia. With live performances by artists, all of whom are conservatory students and teachers, this evening will be transformed into an authentic experience without playback. We would be delighted to host you at Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Thank you for your understanding. Overnight at our hotel in Skopje.
Resne Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola Tour INCLUDED! | Balkan Night INCLUDED!
Distance from Ohrid to Resne: 34 km | Distance from Resne to Bitola: 31 km | Distance from Bitola to Skopje: 70 km
Total distance traveled: 134 km
Day 7: Skopje - Pristina - Prizren - Skopje
After breakfast, we depart from our hotel and head towards Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Following our journey, we arrive in Pristina and begin our panoramic city tour to explore the modern and historical aspects of the city. During this tour, we will visit Germia Park, one of Pristina’s most important natural beauties. Next, we will see the Kosovo Museum, which showcases Kosovo’s cultural heritage. In our tour, we will also visit many valuable structures from the Ottoman period, including the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque and the 18th-century Yaşar Pasha Mosque. During our exploration of the historical heritage of the city, we will have the opportunity to visit the Tomb of Sultan Murad I, who was killed in the Kosovo Battle of 1389 in the Kosovo Plain, allowing us to commemorate this important historical event and its place in Ottoman history. After our tour in Pristina, we will move to Prizren, known as the cultural capital of Kosovo. Upon arrival, we will begin exploring the narrow streets of Prizren, reminiscent of an Anatolian Ottoman town, filled with signs in Turkish. We will visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of the most significant structures of Ottoman architecture in the city. The Halveti Tekkesi and Mehmet Pasha Hammam will also be among the other significant Ottoman artifacts seen. After our free time in Prizren, we will start our journey back to Skopje in the evening. Overnight stay at our hotel in Skopje.
Pristina Tour INCLUDED! | Prizren Tour INCLUDED!
Distance from Skopje to Pristina: 90 km | Distance from Pristina to Prizren: 85 km | Distance from Prizren to Skopje: 165 km
Total distance traveled: 340 km
Day 8: Skopje – Istanbul – Diyarbakır
After breakfast, check out of the rooms and depart from our hotel for transfer to the airport at the time specified by the guide. After ticket, baggage, and passport procedures, we will depart for Istanbul on Pegasus Airlines flight PC352 at 11:50. Arrival at Sabiha Gökçen Airport at 14:15, followed by the flight from Istanbul to Diyarbakır on Pegasus Airlines flight PC2384 at 18:35. Arrival in Diyarbakır at 20:25 marks the end of our tour. We bid farewell to you, our valued guests, with the hope of seeing you again on your next trip.
Positive Aspects of the Tour
• Comprehensive Visits: A wide travel program covering the important cities and tourist spots of the Balkans is offered. Cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Kotor, Ohrid, and Skopje are visited.
• Ottoman History: Important structures and cultural heritages from the Ottoman period are visited, ensuring a delightful experience for those interested in history.
• Religious and Cultural Richness: Buildings of different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues) are visited, exploring the cultural diversity of the region.
• Natural Beauties: Stunning natural beauties such as Kotor's fjords and Ohrid Lake are experienced throughout the tour.
• Visa-Free Travel: The destinations do not require a visa, minimizing additional paperwork and costs.
• Professional Guidance: Opportunity to gain detailed information about cities and historical sites with a tour guide.
• Local Cuisine Experience: Traditional Bosnian dishes, Balkan cuisine, and local delicacies are included in dinners, allowing participants to enjoy a gastronomic experience.
• Restaurant Gardenia Skopje Experience: The chance to savor local flavors and enjoy a special Balkan night at one of Skopje’s finest restaurants, Restaurant Gardenia Skopje.
• All Tours Included: All excursions and additional tours included in the program are covered in the tour price, ensuring participants visit all important points without incurring extra costs.
• Dinners Included: Each day's dinner is included in the program, preventing participants from having to spend extra money while tasting local delights.
• No Need for Extra Expenses: The tour is ideal for guests who do not wish to spend. Only lunch, optional tips, and souvenirs for loved ones may result in additional expenses.
Considerations to Keep in Mind
• Intensive Program: Traveling to a different city every day makes the tour rich and full. However, this intense pace may be tiring for those who wish to explore more.
• Long Journeys: Intercity distances (e.g., between Skopje and Belgrade) pass by with beautiful scenery, but there may be lengthy hours spent on the bus. However, with breaks given along the way, a comfortable journey is provided.
• Limited Free Time: Due to the comprehensive nature of the tour program, free times may be limited. However, opportunities are available to visit all important points with a guide.
• Weather Conditions Depending on the Season: Weather conditions in the Balkans may vary at certain times. Therefore, appropriate clothing selection can ensure comfort in this situation.
• Quality of Accommodation and Services: The hotels included in the tour are carefully selected from options that reflect the region's character and local culture, yet some hotels in smaller towns may not offer the same level of amenities as luxury hotels in Turkey. However, care is taken to ensure comfort and cleanliness in these hotels.
• Food and Culinary Experience: The opportunity to taste local flavors unique to the region is provided throughout the tour. The Balkan cuisine is rich and delicious, but some participants may encounter unfamiliar tastes. This is a great chance to get to know the local culture and cuisine, but it may be useful to keep in mind that you could face different flavors.