Izmir Departure Kosovo Big Balkan Tour Semester Special with Sun Express Airlines Extra Tours and Dinner Included
Day 1: Izmir - Sarajevo
After checking in for our flight, luggage, and boarding processes at Adnan Menderes Airport International Departure Terminal, we depart for Sarajevo at 17:10 on Sunexpress Airlines flight XQ826. After a comfortable and relaxing flight, we arrive at 14:30 local time, and after completing country entry procedures, we proceed with our private vehicle waiting at the airport. After our arrival, we will have a panoramic city tour of Sarajevo, which has been the cultural capital of the Balkans for centuries and is historically significant as the place where World War I began after Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary was assassinated by Serbians in 1914. Sarajevo suffered significant destruction during the wars among Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks in the 1992 war; however, it managed to largely preserve its beauty. During our city tour, we will see the famous Baščaršija, the historic Ottoman caravanserai Morica Han, the Catholic Cathedral reflecting the city's religious cosmopolitanism, the Synagogue, the Husein Bey and Ferhadija Mosques, the Latin Bridge where the assassination of Franz Ferdinand occurred in 1914, the Old Library, and the Western-style buildings developed during the 40 years of Austro-Hungarian rule. After the tour, we transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Day 2: Sarajevo – Počitelj – Blagaj – Mostar – Sarajevo
After breakfast, we depart from Sarajevo. Our first stop will be Mostar, famous for its historical, cultural, and architectural richness. We will see the Mostar Bridge, built in 1557 by Mimar Hayreddin, one of the students of Mimar Sinan, and regarded as one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. This bridge was destroyed during the war in 1992 but was rebuilt in 2004 with significant contributions from the Republic of Turkey and has since become a symbol of Mostar again. We will have the opportunity to explore the historical market and stone streets surrounding this bridge, which elegantly unites the two banks of the Neretva River. After discovering the enchanting atmosphere of Mostar, we will visit the Koski Mehmet Pasha Mosque, one of the city's significant religious structures. Here, we will examine the Ottoman architectural details and enjoy the magnificent view of the Mostar Bridge from the mosque's courtyard. Next, we head to Blagaj, known for its natural beauty and tranquil setting, founded at the spring of the Buna River, one of Europe's strongest water sources. After some time here, we will proceed to Počitelj, a village that conveys its historical texture with stone houses. In Počitelj, known as the Turkish Village, we will have the opportunity to see the architectural works constructed by the Ottomans in the 16th century and experience the unique atmosphere of the region. After the tour, we return to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Počitelj Tour INCLUDES! | Blagaj Tour INCLUDES! | Mostar Tour INCLUDES!
Sarajevo - Mostar: 120 km | Mostar - Blagaj: 12 km | Blagaj – Počitelj: 22 km | Počitelj - Sarajevo: 150 km
Total distance covered: 304 km
Day 3: Sarajevo – Belgrade
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and start a pleasant journey toward Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Historically one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans, Belgrade today attracts attention with its vibrancy, liveliness, and historical texture. In this fascinating city, we will have the opportunity to explore the intersection of Ottoman and European cultures. After arriving in Belgrade, we begin a panoramic city tour to uncover the city's full splendor. Here, you can experience the historical atmosphere and discover the fabric that merges Belgrade's past with the present. Next, we will head to one of the most impressive points of the city, where the Sava River meets the Danube River. Exploring this unique view, a focal point of many conquests and victories throughout history, will be a great pleasure. As we continue to explore this ancient city, we will encounter Belgrade Fortress, which was used as a supply center for the Ottoman navy. While tracing the traces of history in this fortress, we will see important points like Kalemegdan Park and the Old Square. During our tour, we will also visit the Shrine of Ali Pasha, an important figure from the Ottoman period, and the Bayraklı Mosque, one of the few remaining Ottoman structures in Belgrade. During these visits, you will delve into Belgrade's rich history and gain insight into the cultural heritage left over from the Ottoman period. At the end of our tour, we will leave behind the history and vibrant atmosphere of the city and head to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Sarajevo – Belgrade: 287 km
Day 4: Belgrade - Skopje
After breakfast, we head to the capital of North Macedonia, Skopje. Upon arrival, we embark on a city tour. Skopje, with its heritage from the Ottoman period and modern structures, is one of the important cultural centers of the Balkans. We will start our tour by visiting the city’s historical sites, beginning with the largest and most magnificent mosque, Mustafa Pasha Mosque, built in 1492. Next, we will visit the Murat Pasha Mosque, constructed in the 15th century, notable for its Ottoman era carvings and architecture. During our tour, we will also see Kapan Han and Sulu Han, located in the heart of Skopje. These structures are beautiful examples of Ottoman-era inns and were once crucial centers where merchants stayed. We will then visit the Stone Bridge, which has become the symbol of Skopje, built in the 15th century, connecting both banks of the Vardar River. Walking across the Stone Bridge, we will continue our tour by viewing the Turkish and Jewish neighborhoods along the riverside. During our riverside walk, we will pass through Macedonia Square, the largest and most central point in Skopje, surrounded by modern buildings. Here we will encounter the monument of Alexander the Great and other statues. We will also see the 15th-century Ottoman Bridge from the outside and visit the Davut Pasha Bath, experiencing the grandeur of the Ottoman period once again. Continuing our exploration of Skopje, we will walk toward the Turkish Bazaar. Before reaching the bazaar, we will see the Clock Tower, built in the 16th century, which is one of Skopje’s iconic structures. Finally, we will have some free time in the Turkish Bazaar, where you can find a variety of products from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After a pleasant time in the bazaar, we will return to our hotel for the night.
Dinner: An unforgettable dinner awaits you accompanied by traditional Balkan music and local dance performances. You will have the opportunity to discover Skopje’s entertaining and cultural side during this special Balkan night, hosted at one of the region's finest establishments, Restaurant Gardenia. With the best music and folklore of the Balkans performed live by artists composed entirely of conservatory students and teachers, this evening will be transformed into an authentic experience. We look forward to welcoming you at our own Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Thank you for your understanding. Overnight in our hotel in Skopje.
Balkan Night INCLUDED!
Belgrade – Skopje: 430 km
Day 5: Skopje – Pristina – Prizren – Shkodra
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and head toward Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Following our journey, we will begin a panoramic city tour to uncover the modern and historical aspects of Kosovo. During our tour, we will also visit many valuable structures from the Ottoman period, including the Fatih Sultan Mehmed Mosque and the 18th-century Yaşar Pasha Mosque. As we explore the city’s historical heritage, we will visit the Tomb of Sultan Murad Hüdavendigâr, who was killed in the 1389 Kosovo Battle in the Kosovo Field, an opportunity to commemorate this significant historical event and its place in Ottoman history. After our tour in Pristina, we will proceed to Prizren, known as the cultural capital of Kosovo. Upon arrival, we will start exploring the narrow streets of Prizren, recalling an Anatolian Ottoman city with its architecture and signboards in Turkish. We will visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of the most important Ottoman buildings in the city, along with the Halveti Teke, the Bayraklı Mosque, and the Mehmet Pasha Bath, which are other significant Ottoman works to be seen. After our free time in Prizren, we will move towards the historic city of Shkodra in northern Albania. Shkodra, with its natural beauty and rich historical texture, will enchant you. Overnight and dinner at our hotel.
Pristina Tour INCLUDED! | Prizren Tour INCLUDED!
Skopje – Pristina: 90 km | Pristina – Prizren: 85 km | Prizren – Shkodra: 190 km
Day 6: Shkodra – Tirana - Ohrid
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and head to Tirana, the capital of Albania. This beautiful city, rich in history and culture, will offer us an impressive tour as we explore Tirana, considered the center of Bektashism in Europe. Upon arrival in Tirana, we will visit one of the city's most important symbols, the Ethem Bey Mosque, which began construction in 1789 and was completed in 1923, recognized as one of Albania's cultural heritages. We take a short break in Skanderbeg Square, where we see the Skanderbeg Statue proudly standing in the middle of the square. The Clock Tower of Tirana, which was built by Ethem Bey in 1821 and is a symbol of the city, is another highlight of our tour. During this tour, the modern face of Tirana and its historical past will come together, allowing you to create unforgettable memories. After some free time, we will proceed to Ohrid. The breathtaking views along the way will accompany us. Upon arrival in Ohrid, we will embark on a tour introducing the historical city of Ohrid, which was one of the important bases of the Ottomans in the Balkans. During our tour, we will see important sites such as the Monument of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who are believed to have developed the Cyrillic alphabet in the 9th century, and the Church of Saint Sophia. We will also stroll around Chinar Square, the heart of the city, and have the opportunity to explore the Turkish Bazaar, which dates back to the Ottoman period. Here, you can visit the Halveti Teke and feel the cultural fabric of the city closely. We will then visit the New Bazaar and Ohrid Market, witnessing the daily lives of local people. Finally, 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. Dinner and overnight in our hotel. After dinner, you can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Ohrid in the silence of the night, take a short walk by the shore of the lake, or retreat to your rooms to rest.
Tirana Tour INCLUDED!
Shkodra – Tirana: 100 km | Tirana – Ohrid: 135 km
Total distance covered: 235 km
Day 7: Ohrid - Resne - Bitola – Skopje
After breakfast, we begin our tour of Resne and Bitola, which are famous for their stunning nature and historical richness. Our first stop will be Resne, where we will see the palace of Resneli Niyazi Bey, an important figure in Balkan history. Resne offers a captivating atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman influences. After a short break here, we will head to Bitola, once one of the most significant centers of culture and trade in 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 enchanting city, you will also have the chance to explore historical sites such as the Turkish Bazaar, the Bedestan, the Ishak Pasha Mosque, and the New Mosque, all remnants of the Ottoman period. While feeling the historical fabric of Bitola, you will have the opportunity for a pleasant walk in the city’s nostalgic streets. After all these rich cultural stops, we begin our journey to Skopje. Dinner and overnight in our hotel.
Resne Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola Tour INCLUDED!
Ohrid – Resne: 34 km | Resne – Bitola: 31 km | Bitola – Ohrid: 69 km
Total distance covered: 134 km
Belgrade - Sarajevo: 294 km
Day 8: Skopje - Izmir
After breakfast, we check out of the rooms and transfer to Skopje Airport. After boarding procedures, we fly with Sunexpress Airlines on the scheduled flight XQ897 at 11:20. Arriving at Adnan Menderes Airport at 14:45, our tour concludes. We bid farewell, looking forward to seeing you on your next journey.
*Balkan Special Cancellation Guarantee Package: 50 Euros*
(With the cancellation guarantee package, we offer our guests the right to cancel their reservations without penalty in any case. With this application, it is possible to cancel your reservation up to 9 days before the tour's departure date. In cancellation, the full tour fee will be refunded, while the cancellation guarantee package fee and any additional service fees (Visa, insurance, etc.) will not be refunded.)
**The cancellation guarantee package does not apply to group reservations.**
**There are limited spots available for each tour.**
Positive Aspects of the Tour
• Comprehensive Visits: A wide tour program covering the significant cities and touristic points of the Balkans is offered. Many important cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Kotor, Ohrid, Skopje are visited.
• Ottoman History: Important Ottoman-era structures and cultural heritages are visited, providing an enjoyable experience for history enthusiasts.
• Religious and Cultural Richness: Structures of different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues) are visited, allowing for the exploration of the region's cultural diversity.
• Natural Beauties: Stunning natural beauties such as Kotor fjords and Ohrid Lake are experienced throughout the tour.
• Visa-Free Travel: It includes destinations that do not require a visa, reducing extra paperwork and costs.
• Professional Guidance: Accompanied by a guide, guests have the opportunity to gain detailed information about cities and historical sites.
• Local Cuisine Experience: Guests enjoy a gastronomic experience with traditional Bosnian dishes, Balkan cuisine, and local delicacies during dinner.
• All Tours Included: All excursions and extra tours included in the program are part of the tour price, allowing participants to visit all significant points without any additional cost.
• Dinner Included: Dinner is included in the program every day, preventing participants from incurring additional expenses while tasting local flavors.
• No Need for Extra Expenditure: An ideal tour for guests who do not want to spend. Apart from lunch, gratuities, and souvenirs for their loved ones, there is no extra money needed.
Considerations to Take into Account
• 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) are covered amidst beautiful landscapes, but there may be days with long periods spent on the bus. Nevertheless, comfortable travel is ensured with breaks throughout the journey.
• Limited Free Time: Free time may be limited due to the comprehensive nature of the tour program. However, there is an opportunity to visit all significant points with a guide.
• Weather Dependent Conditions: Weather conditions in the Balkans can be variable during certain periods. Hence, choosing suitable clothing can make this situation comfortable.
• Accommodation and Service Quality: The hotels included in the tour are carefully selected from options that reflect the character and local culture of the region, although some hotels in small towns may not offer as extensive facilities as luxury hotels in Turkey. However, care is taken to ensure comfort and cleanliness in these hotels.
• Food and Culinary Experience: The tour offers an opportunity to try local flavors unique to the region. 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’s good to keep in mind that you may come across different flavors.
City Hotel Breakfast Dinner
Skopje 4* Vlaho, etc. Hotel Restaurant Gardenia
Skopje 4* Vlaho, etc. Hotel Hotel
Ohrid 4* Sileks, etc. Hotel Hotel
Belgrade 4* Palace, etc. Hotel Hotel
Sarajevo 4* Holiday, etc. Hotel Hotel
Medugorje 4* Sole, etc. Hotel Hotel
Shkodra 4* Holiday Koplik, etc. Hotel Hotel
With SunExpress Airlines
Departure Location Destination Time of Departure Time of Arrival
Izmir Sarajevo 17:10 17:05
Sarajevo Izmir 17:55 21:45
Excluded Services:
• Foreign Exit Tax Stamp
• Travel Insurance (up to 65 years old): 20.-Eur
• Travel Insurance (ages 66-75): 40.-Eur
• Lunches
• All hotel extras and personal expenses
• City and hotel taxes