Kosovo Great Balkans Tour with AJet including Extra Tours and Dinner SJJ-SKP
Day 1: Istanbul – Sarajevo
Meeting at the check-in counter of Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport's departure terminal. Departure for the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo, on AJet flight number VF97 at 13:15. After a comfortable flight, arrival at 14:30 local time and transfer to our vehicle waiting at the airport after the country entry procedures. Following our arrival, we will embark on a panoramic city tour of Sarajevo, which has been the cultural capital of the Balkans for centuries and has gone down in history as the site where World War I began after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary by Serbs in 1914. During the devastating wars among Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks in the 1992 war, Sarajevo suffered significant damage but managed to retain much of its beauty. During our city tour, we will see the famous Baščaršija, the historic Ottoman caravanserai Morica Han, the Catholic Cathedral that reflects the city’s religious cosmopolitanism, the Synagogue, the Gazi Husrev-beg and Ferhadija Mosques, the Latin Bridge where the assassination of Franz Ferdinand took place in 1914, the Old Library, and the Western-style buildings that emerged during the 40-year Austro-Hungarian rule. After the tour, transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Day 2: Sarajevo – Počitelj – Blagaj – Mostar – Sarajevo
After our breakfast, we set off from Sarajevo. Our first stop will be Mostar, known for its historical, cultural, and architectural richness. Here, we will see the Mostar Bridge, which was built in 1557 by Mimar Hayreddin, one of Mimar Sinan’s students, and is considered one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. This bridge was destroyed during the war in 1992 but was restored to its original form in 2004 with significant contributions from the Republic of Turkey, making it a symbol of Mostar once again. We will have the opportunity to explore the historic bazaar and stone streets surrounding this bridge, which elegantly connects both sides of the Neretva River. After exploring Mostar's enchanting atmosphere, we will visit the Koski Mehmet Paşa Mosque, one of the city’s most important religious structures, where we will examine its architectural details from the Ottoman period and enjoy a magnificent view of the Mostar Bridge from the mosque's courtyard. Next, we will proceed to Blagaj, known for its natural beauty and peaceful environment, where we will find the source of the Buna River, the strongest water spring in Europe, in an impressive settlement where history and nature intertwine. After a brief free time here, we will move on to Počitelj, a place that carries its historical texture into the present with its stone houses. We will have the opportunity to closely observe the structures built by the Ottomans in the 16th century in Počitelj, which has largely preserved its historical texture and is known as the Turkish Village, while experiencing the unique atmosphere of the region. After the tour, transfer back to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Počitelj Tour Included! | Blagaj Tour INCLUDED! | Mostar Tour INCLUDED!
Sarajevo - Mostar: 120 km | Mostar - Blagaj: 12 km | Blagaj – Počitelj: 22 km | Počitelj - Sarajevo: 150 km
Total distance to be covered: 304 km
Day 3: Sarajevo – Belgrade
After breakfast, we depart from our hotel and begin a pleasant journey towards Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Historically one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans, Belgrade today draws attention with its vibrancy, liveliness, and historical fabric. In this fascinating city, we will have the opportunity to explore the intersection of Ottoman and European cultures. Upon arriving in Belgrade, we will start a panoramic city tour to discover all its grandeur. Here, you can feel the historical atmosphere and explore the texture that brings together Belgrade's past and present. Next, we head to the remarkable point where the Sava River meets the Danube River. Discovering this region, which has been the focus of many conquests and victories throughout history, will be a great pleasure. While continuing to explore this ancient city, you will encounter the Belgrade Fortress, which served as the supply center for the Ottoman navy. While tracing the traces of history in this fortress, we will visit important points such as Kalemegdan and the Stone Square. During our tour, we will also see the Tomb of Şehit Ali Paşa, an important figure from the Ottoman period. These visits will give you a deeper understanding of Belgrade's rich history and its cultural heritage from the Ottoman period. After our tour, we will leave behind the city’s history and lively atmosphere, heading to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Sarajevo – Belgrade: 287 km
Day 4: Belgrade - Skopje
After breakfast, we set off towards Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Skopje is one of the important cultural centers of the Balkans with its Ottoman heritage and modern buildings. We start our tour with historical places in Skopje, which is the birthplace of the famous Turkish poet Yahya Kemal Beyatlı. Our first stop is the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, built in 1492, one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the city. Then, we will visit the Murat Pasha Mosque, built in the 15th century, which is particularly noted for its embellishments and architecture from the Ottoman period. Continuing our tour, we will see the Kapan Han and Sulu Han located in the heart of Skopje. Examples of beautiful Ottoman period hans, these buildings were once important centers where merchants stayed and traded. Afterwards, we will visit the Stone Bridge, which has become a symbol of Skopje. This bridge was built in the 15th century and connects both sides of the Vardar River. Walking from the Stone Bridge, we will continue our tour by seeing the Turkish and Jewish neighborhoods along the banks of the Vardar River. During our walk 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 15th-century Ottoman Bridge from the outside and visit the Davut Pasha Hammam, once again feeling the grandeur of the Ottoman period. We will continue our exploration of the city towards the Turkish Bazaar. Before reaching the bazaar, we will see the Clock Tower, built in the 16th century and one of Skopje's iconic structures. Here, we will visit the Sultan Murat Mosque and the Isa Bey Mosque, both of which are important parts of the city’s Islamic heritage and stand out with their architecture. Finally, we will give you free time in the Turkish Bazaar. Here you can find numerous products from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After your enjoyable time at the bazaar, we will return to our hotel for the evening.
Dinner: An unforgettable dinner awaits you with traditional Balkan music and local dance performances. During this special Balkan night, you will have the opportunity to explore Skopje's entertaining and cultural side, while being hosted at one of the region's finest venues, Restaurant Gardenia. With live performances of the best music and folklore of the Balkans by artists composed entirely of conservatory students and teachers, we will turn this night into an authentic experience. We look forward to welcoming you at Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Thank you for your understanding. Overnight at 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 towards Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Upon our arrival, we begin our panoramic city tour, during which we will explore Kosovo's modern and historical sides. We will also visit many valuable structures from the Ottoman period, including the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque and the 18th-century Yasar Pasha Mosque. During this trip through the historical heritage of the city, we will visit the tomb of Ottoman Sultan Murad I, who was killed in the Kosovo Field as a result of the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, and we will have the opportunity to commemorate this significant historical event and its place in Ottoman history. After our tour in Pristina, we will move on to Prizren, known as the cultural capital of Kosovo. Upon our arrival, we will begin exploring the narrow streets of Prizren, which remind us of an Anatolian Ottoman city, filled with shop signs in Turkish. We will visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of the most important Ottoman structures in the city. Other significant Ottoman works to be seen include the Halveti Tekke, Bayrakli Mosque, and Mehmet Pasha Bath. After our free time in Prizren, we will head towards the historical city of Shkodra in northern Albania. Shkodra will enchant you with its natural beauties and rich historical texture. Overnight and dinner at our hotel.
Pristina Tour INCLUDED! | Prizren Tour INCLUDED!
Skopje – Pristina: 90 km | Pristina – Prizren: 85 km | Prizren – Shkodra: 190 km
Total distance to be covered: 365 km
Day 6: Shkodra – Tirana - Ohrid
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and head towards Tirana, the capital of Albania. In this beautiful city, rich in history and culture, an impressive tour awaits us as we explore Tirana, considered the center of Bektashism in Europe. Upon arrival in Tirana, we will visit the Ethem Bey Mosque, one of the cultural heritages of Albania, which began construction in 1789 and completed in 1923. We take a brief break at Skanderbeg Square, where we observe the magnificent statue of Skanderbeg rising proudly in the middle of the square. Another highlight of our tour will be the Clock Tower, symbol of Tirana, built by Ethem Bey in 1821. During this tour, Tirana’s modern face and historical past come together to create unforgettable memories. After free time, we proceed to Ohrid. On the way, breathtaking views will accompany us. Once we arrive in Ohrid, we will have a tour introducing the historical city of Ohrid, which has been an important base for the Ottomans in the Balkans. Important sites we will see during our tour include the monument to Saints Cyril and Methodius, who are believed to have developed the Cyrillic alphabet in the 9th century, and the Church of St. Sophia. We will stroll through Çinar Square, the heart of the city, and have the opportunity to explore the historic Turkish Bazaar from the Ottoman period. You can visit the Halveti Tekke and closely experience the cultural texture of the city. Next, by visiting the New Bazaar and Ohrid Market, you will witness the daily life of the local people. Finally, the famous lake and its breathtaking scenery will accompany our tour. After the tour, we will have free time and then transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel. After dinner, you can enjoy the captivating atmosphere of Ohrid in the quiet of the night, take a short walk along the lakeside, or retire to your rooms for rest.
Tirana Tour INCLUDED!
Shkodra – Tirana: 100 km | Tirana – Ohrid: 135 km
Total distance to be covered: 235 km
Day 7: Ohrid - Resne - Bitola – Ohrid
After breakfast, we head off for our tour of Resne and Bitola, famous for their magnificent nature and historical richness. Our first stop will be the Palace of Resneli Niyazi Bey, an important figure in Balkan history, which we will see panoramically in Resne. Resne offers a captivating atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman traces. After a short stop here, we will continue our journey to Bitola, which was once one of the most important culture and trade centers of the Ottoman Empire. Upon our arrival in Bitola, we will visit the Military Secondary School attended by our great leader Atatürk and the Atatürk Museum from the outside. In this enchanting city, we will also explore historical sites from the Ottoman era such as the Turkish Bazaar, Bedesten, İshak Pasha Mosque, and New Mosque. While sensing the historical texture of Bitola, you will have the chance to enjoy a pleasant walk through the nostalgic streets of the city. After all these rich cultural stops, we will return to Ohrid. Overnight and dinner at our hotel in Ohrid.
Resne Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola Tour INCLUDED!
Ohrid – Resne: 34 km | Resne – Bitola: 31 km | Bitola – Ohrid: 69 km
Total distance to be covered: 134 km
Day 8: Ohrid – Skopje - Istanbul
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head to Skopje Airport. Upon arrival at the airport and completing the boarding procedures, our flight to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport will take place at 14:00 on AJet Airlines flight number VF264. After a comfortable flight, we will arrive in Istanbul at 16:30 and conclude our tour. We bid you farewell with the hope of seeing you again on your next journey.
*Balkan Special Cancellation Insurance Package: 50 Euros*
(With the cancellation insurance package application, we offer our guests the right to cancel their reservations without penalty in any case. With this application, you can cancel your reservation up to 9 days before the travel date. When canceling the reservation, the total tour fee is refunded, while the cancellation assurance package fee and any additional service fees (Visa, insurance, etc.) are not refunded.)
**The specified cancellation assurance package is not valid for group bookings.**
**A limited number of spots are available for each tour.**
Positive Aspects of the Tour
• Comprehensive Visits: A wide range of tour programs covering important cities and tourist spots of the Balkans. A number of important cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid, Skopje are visited.
• Ottoman History: Important buildings and cultural heritages from the Ottoman period are visited, which makes this tour a delightful experience for those interested in history.
• Religious and Cultural Richness: By visiting structures from different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues), the cultural diversity of the region is explored.
• Natural Beauties: The breathtaking natural beauties such as Lake Ohrid are experienced throughout the tour.
• Visa-Free Travel: The tour includes destinations that do not require visa, thus reducing extra paperwork and costs.
• Professional Guidance: Accompanied by a guide, you have the opportunity to receive detailed information about the cities and historical sites.
• Local Cuisine Experience: Traditional Bosnian dishes, Balkan cuisine, and local flavors are included in the dinners, giving participants a gastronomic experience.
• All Tours Included: All surrounding tours and additional tours included in the program are part of the tour price, meaning participants can visit all important points without incurring extra costs.
• Dinners Included: Every day’s dinner is included in the program, which prevents participants from incurring additional expenses while tasting local delicacies.
• No Need for Expenses: The tour is ideal for guests who do not wish to spend money. Except for lunch, tips as desired, and souvenirs, no additional money will be required.
Things to Consider
• Intensive Program: Traveling to a different city every day makes the tour very rich and full. However, this intense pace may be tiring for those who want to explore more.
• Long Journeys: Intercity distances (such as Skopje-Belgrade) are traveled along with beautiful landscapes, yet there may be days when long hours are spent on the bus. However, the breaks along the way allow for a comfortable journey.
• Limited Free Time: Due to the comprehensive nature of the program, free time can be limited. However, there is an opportunity to visit all important points in the company of a guide.
• Weather Conditions Depending on the Season: Weather conditions in the Balkans may vary during certain periods. Therefore, suitable clothing selection can make this situation comfortable.
• Accommodation and Service Quality: The hotels included in the tour are carefully selected among options that reflect the character of the region and local culture, but some hotels in smaller cities may not have the same facilities as luxury hotels in Turkey. However, these hotels are focused on cleanliness and comfort.
• Food and Cuisine Experience: The tour provides the opportunity to try unique local flavors of the region. The Balkan cuisine is rich and delicious, but some flavors may be unfamiliar to some participants. This is a great opportunity to get to know the local culture and cuisine, but it might be useful to keep in mind that different tastes may be encountered.
City Hotel Breakfast Dinner
Skopje 4* Vlaho etc. Hotel Restaurant Gardenia
Belgrade 4* Queen Astoria etc. Hotel Hotel
Sarajevo 4* Holiday etc. Hotel Hotel
Sarajevo 4* Holiday etc. Hotel Hotel
Shkodra 4* Holiday Koplik etc. Hotel Hotel
Ohrid 4* Hotel Sileks etc. Hotel Hotel
Ohrid 4* Hotel Sileks etc. Hotel Hotel
With Ajet Airlines
Departure Location Arrival Location Departure Time Arrival Time
Istanbul Sarajevo 13:00 12:25
Skopje Istanbul 14:00 16:30
Included Services:
• Round-trip flight tickets with AJet Airlines from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Sarajevo - Skopje / Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport
• Accommodation for a total of 7 nights: 1 night in Skopje, 1 night in Shkodra, 2 nights in Sarajevo, 1 night in Belgrade, and 2 nights in Ohrid, all in 4-star hotel category
• Breakfasts
• Dinners to be taken at the hotel
• Balkan Night embellished with meals, entertainment, and folkloric performances
• All transfers specified in the program
• City tours specified in the program
• Pristina and Prizren (Kosovo) tour
• Tirana tour
• Blagaj Extra Tour
• Pocitelj Extra Tour
• Mostar tour
• Customs taxes
• All highway, parking, and checkpoint expenses
• Professional Turkish guiding services
• Mandatory insurance (Professional Liability)
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