Day 1: Istanbul – Skopje - Ohrid
Meeting at the Turkish Airlines check-in desk in the departure terminal at Istanbul Airport. Departure on Turkish Airlines flight TK1003 at 08:55 to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. After a comfortable flight, we arrive at 08:25 local time and, after immigration formalities, we set off with our private vehicle to explore North Macedonia's unique nature and cultural treasures. Our first stop is Tetovo (Kalkandelen), one of Macedonia's stunning towns. Here, we will visit the Alaca Mosque, one of the most colorful and impressive mosques in the Balkans. Built in the 15th century, this mosque will enchant you with its vibrant colors and detailed decorations on the exterior. While exploring this exquisite example of Ottoman architecture, we will embark on a journey through history. After our visit to Tetovo, we head towards Ohrid, surrounded by lush mountains and azure lakes. Spectacular views of Macedonia will accompany us along the way. Upon arrival in Ohrid, we will embark on a tour of the historic city of Ohrid, which was one of the significant strongholds of the Ottomans in the Balkans. During our tour, we will see notable sites such as the Monument to Saints Cyril and Methodius, who are believed to have developed the Cyrillic alphabet in the 9th century, the Church of Saint Sophia, and the ancient Roman Theatre. We will also stroll through the heart of the city at Chinar Square and have the chance to visit the Ottoman-era Turkish Bazaar. Here, you can visit the Halveti Tekkesi and feel the city's cultural fabric closely. Afterward, we will explore the New Bazaar and Ohrid Market, witnessing the daily life of the local people. Lastly, we will enjoy the magnificent view of Ohrid Lake. After the tour, free time and transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. After dinner, enjoy the magical atmosphere of Ohrid in the stillness of the night, take a short walk along the lakeside, or retreat to your rooms to rest. After the tour, guests who wish can join the Ohrid Boat Tour. After the boat tour, we will transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Skopje – Tetovo (Kalkandelen): 43 km | Tetovo (Kalkandelen) – Ohrid: 130 km
Total distance traveled: 173 km
Ohrid Boat Tour €25 per person
Are you ready to enjoy an unforgettable panoramic boat tour around the old town of Ohrid? In this tour, while sailing close to the shore, we will closely observe the city's historical texture and breathtaking views. On the return trip, we will venture further away from the shore to admire the unique panoramic view of the entire Old Town. One of the most important places we will see is the fishing settlement of Kaneo. Here, we will discover the Church of Saint John, built in the mid-15th century, located on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid. This church is famous not only for its historical significance but also for its magnificent position and stunning view. As one of the most photographed and iconic structures in Ohrid, this church will offer us great photo opportunities. During this panoramic boat tour, as we glide through the tranquil waters of the lake, we will savor Ohrid's historical and natural beauty. This experience will become one of the most special memories of our holiday.
Day 2: Ohrid
After breakfast, we depart for the Resen-Manastir tour. We will first head to Resen by private buses, where on the way, we will visit the Palace of Resneli Niyazi, one of the most famous figures of the Committee of Union and Progress. Then, we will move on to Manastir and during our city tour of Manastir (Bitola), we will visit the Turkish Bazaar, the Bedesten, the Ishak Mosque, the New Mosque, and the emotional highlights of the trip which include the Military High School that Atatürk graduated from and the Atatürk Museum (from outside). Following our tour, we will return to Ohrid. Overnight at the hotel.
Ohrid – Resne: 36 km | Resne – Manastır: 33 km | Manastır – Ohrid: 69 km
Total distance traveled: 138 km
Resne – Manastır Tour €40 per person
This tour begins with a drive towards Resne. Along the way, we will have a panoramic view of the palace of Resneli Niyazi, known for his contributions during the Turkish-Greek war. Upon arrival, we will start our city tour in Manastir (Bitola). First, we will explore the Turkish Bazaar and the Bedesten. Then, we will visit the Ishak Mosque and the New Mosque. The emotional highlights of this trip will be the Military High School that Atatürk graduated from and the Atatürk Museum, which will be the pinnacle of this informative tour. After completing this impressive journey, we will return to Ohrid.
St. Naum Tour €25 per person
We will embark on an exciting journey to St. Naum, where the source of Lake Ohrid and the St. Naum Monastery are located, referred to as "A Corner of Heaven in the Balkans." In this enchanting location, you will have the opportunity to photograph the unique beauties of the breathtaking landscapes. During our free time, we will enjoy the pleasure of exploring this historical and natural wonder. After a day filled with unforgettable moments and fantastic photos, we return to Ohrid.
Day 3: Ohrid – Skopje
After breakfast, we will check out and head to Skopje. Upon arrival in Skopje, our city tour begins. In Skopje, the birthplace of our famous poet Yahya Kemal Beyatlı, we will visit places including the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Murat Pasha Mosque, Kapan Han, Sulu Han, and the Stone Bridge, walking along the banks of the Vardar River while admiring the Turkish and Jewish neighborhoods across the river. During our walk, we’ll see Macedonia Square, the Ottoman Bridge, and the Davut Pasha Hammam from the outside, and then visit one of Skopje's iconic structures, the Clock Tower, which was built in the 16th century, along with the early 14th century Sultan Murat Mosque and the Isa Bey Mosque. We will then have free time in the Turkish Bazaar. After free time, we will transfer to our hotel. In the evening, we will experience a unique Balkan night tour, adorned with exquisite Balkan music, traditional foods, and dazzling performances by a folklore team. Overnight stay in Skopje.
Ohrid – Skopje: 172 km
Matka Canyon Tour €20 per person
Are you ready to explore the breathtaking Matka Canyon, adorned with the captivating forests and wide pastures of Vodno Mountain? Covering approximately 5,000 hectares, this canyon will take you to the mystical monasteries of the medieval era and the tranquil views of a magnificent artificial lake. In this tour, as you wander through the rugged cliffs, you will marvel at the different endemic plant and animal species in the region. For adventure enthusiasts, there's an opportunity for canoeing, providing thrilling moments on the water. Nature lovers can walk along green paths, enjoying the tranquility of nature with every step. The unforgettable moments spent in Matka Canyon will relax your soul and leave deep impressions in your heart. Let yourself be enveloped in nature and enjoy this unique experience!
Balkan Night with Dinner Tour €40 per person
In this tour, get ready to fill your evening with unforgettable memories in the magical atmosphere of the Balkans! Our night will be enriched with unique Balkan music and delicious traditional foods, highlighted by energetic local dance performances by a folklore team. As you get lost in the rhythm and melodies, you will embark on an entertaining journey into the depths of Balkan culture. This special Balkan night will not only be entertainment but also a vibrant cultural experience. As we immerse in the joy of music and dance, we will create cherished memories where the past and present intertwine, warming our hearts. Each note and step will draw you into the warm atmosphere of this captivating region. At the end of the night, we will transfer back to our hotel filled with happiness from this magnificent experience. This special night will stay etched in your memory.
Day 4: Skopje – Istanbul
After breakfast, we will have the whole day free. At the time designated by our guide, we will transfer to the airport. Upon arrival at the airport and completion of boarding procedures, we will depart on Turkish Airlines flight TK1006 at 20:35 to Istanbul. After a comfortable flight, we will arrive in Istanbul at 00:15 and conclude our tour. We bid you farewell, hoping to see you again on your next trip.
*Balkan Special Cancellation Assurance Package: €50*
(With the cancellation assurance package, we offer our guests the right to cancel their reservations without penalty under any circumstances. This allows you to cancel your reservation up to 9 days before the departure date. In cancellation, the entire tour fee is refunded, while the cancellation assurance package fee and any additional service fees (Visa, insurance, etc.) are non-refundable.)
**The specified cancellation assurance package is not valid for group reservations.**
**There is a limited number of places available for each tour.**
This Tour Includes eXtra Advantages;
Full Package: €150 instead of €100
Dinner Balkan Night Tour €40 per person
Matka Canyon Tour €20 per person
Resne – Manastır Tour €40 per person
Ohrid Boat Tour €25 per person
St. Naum Tour €25 per person
(Guests who purchase the Full Package will be offered 3 dinners at the hotel, including 2 dinners + Balkan Night for free.)
(In order to organize dinners at the hotels for guests who purchase the Full Package, it must be purchased before the tour.)
City Hotel Breakfast Dinner
Ohrid 4* Hotel Sileks etc. Hotel Optional
Ohrid 4* Hotel Sileks etc. Hotel Optional
Skopje 4* Vlaho Hotel etc. Hotel Optional
By Turkish Airlines
Departure City Arrival City Departure Time Arrival Time
Istanbul Skopje 08:55 08:25
Skopje Istanbul 20:35 00:15
Non-Inclusive Services:
• International Departure Tax Stamp
• Travel Insurance (up to 65 years old): 20.-Eur
• Travel Insurance (ages 66-75): 40.-Eur
• All hotel extras and personal expenses
• City and Hotel taxes: (A mandatory payment of 20 Euros per person covering city tax, check point fees, local service charges, handling fees, bus entry fees, and operational service costs will be collected in cash by the guide before the tour starts)
• Optional tours