6-Night Great Balkan Tour Starting from Diyarbakır to Kosovo with AJet, Including Extra Tours and Dinner Meals

Day 1: Diyarbakır – Skopje - Bitola – Resen – Ohrid Meeting at Diyarbakır Airport departure terminal on Saturday evening at 21:30. Departure from Diyarbakır at 00:30 with Ajet Airlines flight VF5515, non-stop direct to Skopje. After an approximately two-and-a-half-hour comfortable journey, arrival at 02:15. Upon arrival, we depart for our tour of Resen and Bitola, famous for their magnificent nature and historical richness. We head toward Bitola, which was once one of the Ottoman Empire’s most important centers of culture and trade. Upon arrival in Bitola, we visit from the outside the Military High School where the great leader Atatürk studied, as well as the Atatürk Museum. In this enchanting city, we will also explore historical Ottoman-era landmarks such as the Turkish Bazaar, the Bedesten, Ishak Paşa Mosque, and the Yeni Mosque. While feeling the historical texture of Bitola, you will have the chance to enjoy a pleasant walk through its nostalgic streets. After a short break here, we continue to Resen, where we see panoramically the Palace of Resneli Niyazi Bey, an important figure who left his mark on Balkan history. Resen offers a fascinating atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman traces. After our tour, we continue on to Ohrid. Along the way, breathtaking landscapes accompany us. Upon arriving in Ohrid, we will take a tour introducing this historic city, which was one of the important Ottoman bases in the Balkans. Among the places we will see on our tour are the 9th-century Byzantine monks Saints Cyril and Methodius Monument, believed to have developed the Cyrillic alphabet, Hagia Sophia Church, and the Ancient Theatre from the Roman period. We will also stroll through Çınar Square, the heart of the city, and have the opportunity to visit the Turkish Bazaar, which dates back to the old Ottoman period. Here, you may visit the Halveti Tekke and closely feel the city’s cultural texture. Then, we will tour the New Bazaar and Ohrid Market, witnessing the daily life of the local people. Finally, the famous Lake Ohrid and its enchanting view will accompany our tour. After the tour, free time and transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. After dinner, you may enjoy Ohrid’s enchanting atmosphere in the silence of the night, take a short walk by the lakeshore, or return to your room to rest. Resen Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola Tour INCLUDED! Skopje – Bitola: 170 km | Bitola – Resen: 30 km | Resen – Ohrid: 35 km Total distance covered: 235 km Day 2: Ohrid – Sveti Naum – Elbasan - Tirana – Shkodër After breakfast at the hotel, we leave and set off on an exciting journey to St. Naum, located at the source of Lake Ohrid and St. Naum Monastery, known as “A Corner of Heaven in the Balkans.” In this enchanting place, you will have the opportunity to photograph the unique landscapes in the heart of nature. During our free time, we will enjoy exploring this historical and natural wonder. After a day full of unforgettable memories and wonderful photos, we head to Tirana, the capital of Albania. Passing through Elbasan, we arrive in Tirana, a city rich in history and culture. In this beautiful city, an impressive tour awaits us as we explore Tirana, considered the center of Bektashism in Europe. Upon arrival in Tirana, we visit the Ethem Bey Mosque, one of the city’s most important symbols. Begun in 1789 and completed in 1923, this structure is one of Albania’s cultural heritage sites. We take a short break at Skanderbeg Square and see the Skanderbeg Statue proudly standing in the center of the square. Another highlight of our tour is the Clock Tower of Tirana, built by Ethem Bey in 1821. Then we visit the Peace Bell, full of meaning, made from melted bullets by the children of Shkodër during the 1999 uprising. During this tour, Tirana’s modern face and historical past come together to create unforgettable memories. After free time, we head to the historic city of Shkodër in northern Albania. Shkodër will fascinate you with its natural beauty and rich historical texture. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. Tirana Tour INCLUDED! | Sveti Naum Tour INCLUDED! Ohrid – Tirana: 135 km | Tirana – Shkodër: 100 km Total distance covered: 235 km Day 3: Shkodër – St. Stefan – Budva – Kotor – Međugorje After breakfast, we embark on an unforgettable journey to Montenegro’s stunning coast. Our first stop is St. Stefan, famous for its rich history and breathtaking scenery. We will admire the magnificent view of this islet from above, an ideal spot to photograph this postcard-perfect place. Next, we arrive in Budva, one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Balkans. Our Budva city tour begins. On this walking tour, we will see Budva, one of the Balkans’ most famous holiday centers, with its beautiful beaches and colorful nightlife. Our next stop is Kotor, the fjord-famous and enchanting city of the Balkans! On our walking tour in this magnificent medieval town, you will feel its narrow streets and the historic atmosphere of the old city, and discover the heart of Kotor. This small town, with its unique architecture and sea views, will take you on a journey through time. After free time in Kotor, we head to our hotel in Međugorje or the surrounding area. After dinner at the hotel, we return to our rooms to rest. Overnight at the hotel. Budva Tour INCLUDED! | Kotor Tour INCLUDED! Shkodër - Budva: 85 km | Budva - Kotor: 22 km | Kotor - Međugorje: 191 km Total distance covered: 298 km Day 4: Međugorje – Počitelj – Blagaj – Mostar – Sarajevo After breakfast, we head to Sarajevo. Our first stop is Počitelj, a historically preserved town known as the Turkish Village, where we see 16th-century works built by the Ottomans. After the visit, we continue to Blagaj, built at the source of the Buna River, one of Europe’s strongest water springs. After a short free time in this magnificent natural setting, we proceed to Mostar. In Mostar, we will see the Mostar Bridge, built by Mimar Hayreddin in 1557. This masterpiece of Ottoman architecture was destroyed in 1992 by Croatian artillery during the war; however, thanks in large part to contributions from the Republic of Turkey, it was reopened in 2004. After the Mostar Bridge, we will visit Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Then we continue to Sarajevo. Upon arrival, we will visit a city that has been the cultural capital of the Balkans for centuries and entered history as the place where World War I broke out after the assassination of Austro-Hungarian Crown Prince Archduke Franz Ferdinand by Serbs in 1914. In the 1992 war, it suffered great destruction due to the conflicts among Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks, yet Sarajevo managed to preserve much of its beauty. During our panoramic city tour, we will see the famous Baščaršija, the historic Ottoman inn Morica Han, the Catholic Cathedral, Synagogue, Gazi Husrev-bey and Ferhadiye Mosques reflecting the city’s religious cosmopolitanism, Latin Bridge where the Franz Ferdinand assassination took place in 1914, the Old Library, and the western-style buildings formed during the city’s 40 years of Austro-Hungarian rule. After the tour, transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. Počitelj Tour Included! | Blagaj Tour INCLUDED! | Mostar Tour INCLUDED! Međugorje - Počitelj: 20 km | Počitelj - Blagaj: 30 km | Blagaj – Mostar: 12 km | Mostar - Sarajevo: 130 km Total distance covered: 192 km Day 5: Sarajevo – Srebrenica – Belgrade After breakfast, we leave the hotel and begin a pleasant journey to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. En route, we first stop in Srebrenica. On this tour, we will visit the Bosniak memorial cemetery, where one of the greatest atrocities of the last century during the Bosnian War took place, where thousands of Bosniaks were killed and buried in mass graves, and where Europe’s first documented genocide and largest massacre since World War II occurred. After the visit, we head to Belgrade. Belgrade, historically one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans, stands out today with its vibrancy, energy, and historical texture. In this fascinating city, we will have the opportunity to discover the intersection of Ottoman and European cultures. Upon arrival in Belgrade, a panoramic city tour begins, during which we will explore the city’s full splendor. Here, you can feel the historical atmosphere and discover the city’s texture that blends the past and present. Then we go to one of the city’s most impressive spots, where the Sava River meets the Danube River. In this unique landscape, it will be a great pleasure to explore this region, which has been the center of many conquests and victories throughout history. As we continue discovering this ancient city, where Fatih Sultan Mehmed was wounded for the conquest, but whose conquest was achieved by Suleiman the Magnificent, you will encounter Belgrade Fortress, used as a supply center for the Ottoman navy. While tracing the marks of history in this fortress, we will see Kalemegdan and Tašmajdan, two important points. During our tour, we will also see the Tomb of Şehit Ali Pasha, an important figure from the Ottoman period. These visits will allow you to explore Belgrade’s rich history in depth and learn about its Ottoman cultural heritage. At the end of our tour, we leave behind the city’s history and lively atmosphere and go to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. Sarajevo – Belgrade: 287 km Srebrenica Tour INCLUDED! Day 6: Belgrade - Skopje After breakfast, we head to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Skopje is one of the Balkans’ important cultural centers with its Ottoman heritage and modern structures. We begin our tour in Skopje, the city where the famous Turkish poet Yahya Kemal Beyatlı was born, with historical sites. Our first stop is Mustafa Pasha Mosque, one of the city’s largest and most magnificent mosques, built in 1492. Then we visit Murat Pasha Mosque, built in the 15th century. This mosque is especially notable for its Ottoman-era ornamentation and architecture. Continuing our tour, we will see Kapan Han and Suli Han in the heart of Skopje. These structures are fine examples of Ottoman caravanserais and were once important centers where merchants stayed and traded. Next, we visit Stone Bridge, which has become a symbol of Skopje. Built in the 15th century, this bridge connects the two banks of the Vardar River. Walking from Stone Bridge, we continue our tour by seeing the Turkish and Jewish quarters along the Vardar River. During our walk by the river, we pass through Macedonia Square. This square is Skopje’s largest and most central point, surrounded by modern buildings. Here, we will encounter the statue of Alexander the Great and other monuments. Then we see the Ottoman Bridge from the outside, dating back to the 15th century, and visit Davut Pasha Bathhouse, once again feeling the grandeur of the Ottoman period. We continue exploring the city by walking toward Skopje’s Turkish Bazaar. Before reaching the bazaar, we see the Clock Tower, one of the city’s symbolic structures, built in the 16th century. Here, we will visit Sultan Murat Mosque and Isa Bey Mosque, which are among the early mosques of the Ottoman Empire. The mosques are an important part of the city’s Islamic heritage and stand out with their architecture. Finally, we give free time in the Turkish Bazaar. In this bazaar, you can find many products ranging from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After enjoying your time in the bazaar, we return to our hotel in the evening. Dinner: An unforgettable evening dinner awaits you with traditional Balkan music and local dance performances. Experience Skopje’s fun and cultural side with this special Balkan night, where you will be hosted at one of the region’s finest venues, Restaurant Gardenia. We will turn this night into an authentic experience with live performances by the best musicians and folklore artists of the Balkans, all of whom are conservatory students and teachers, performing without playback. We would be delighted to host you at our own Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Thank you for your understanding. Overnight at our hotel in Skopje. Balkan Night INCLUDED! Belgrade – Skopje: 430 km Day 7: Skopje - Matka Canyon - Pristina - Prizren - Skopje After breakfast at the hotel, we depart and head to Matka Canyon. Ready to discover Matka Canyon, located among the enchanting forests and vast pastures of Vodno Mountain? This natural wonder of approximately 5,000 hectares will take you to mysterious medieval monasteries and serene lake views. While walking along the rugged cliffs, you may observe the region’s endemic plant and animal species. For nature lovers, walking along the green trails is one of the best ways to be in touch with nature. After our Matka Canyon tour, our first stop is Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. After the journey, upon arrival in Pristina, we begin our panoramic city tour, where we will discover the modern and historical aspects of Kosovo. During this tour, we will visit Germia Park, one of Pristina’s most important natural beauties. Then we will see the Kosovo Museum, which showcases Kosovo’s cultural heritage. During our tour, we will also visit many valuable Ottoman-era structures. We will see Fatih Sultan Mehmed Mosque and the 18th-century Yaşar Pasha Mosque. During this journey through the city’s historical heritage, we will have the opportunity to visit the Tomb of Murad I, the Ottoman Sultan killed on the Kosovo Plain in 1389 as a result of the Battle of Kosovo, and commemorate this important historical event and its place in Ottoman history. After our tour in Pristina, we head to Prizren, known as the cultural capital of Kosovo. Upon arrival, we begin exploring the narrow streets of Prizren, which resemble an Anatolian Ottoman town with its architecture and shop signs full of Turkish inscriptions. In the city, we will visit Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of the most important examples of Ottoman architecture. Also among the other important Ottoman works to be seen are the Halveti Tekke, Bayrakli Mosque, and Mehmet Pasha Hammam. After free time in Prizren, we begin our return journey to Skopje in the evening. Pristina Tour INCLUDED! | Prizren Tour INCLUDED! Skopje – Pristina: 90 km | Pristina – Prizren: 85 km | Prizren – Skopje: 165 km Total distance covered: 340 km Day 8: Skopje - Diyarbakır Upon arrival, transfer to the airport at a time determined by our guide on the night of Saturday to Sunday. After ticketing, baggage, and passport procedures, departure on Ajet Airlines flight VF5516 at 03:15 with a non-stop direct flight to Diyarbakır. Arrival at Diyarbakır Airport at 06:45 and the end of our tour. We bid farewell to our valued guests with the hope of seeing you again on your next journey. *Balkan Special Cancellation Guarantee Package: 50 Euro* (With the cancellation guarantee package, our guests are offered the right to cancel their reservation without penalty under any circumstances. With this application, you may cancel your reservation up to 9 days before the tour departure date. In the event of 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 stated cancellation guarantee package is not valid for group reservations.** **There is a limited number of places available for each tour.** Positive Aspects of the Tour • Comprehensive Visits: A wide tour program covering the major cities and tourist spots of the Balkans is offered. Important cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Kotor, Ohrid, and Skopje are visited. • Ottoman History: Important structures and cultural heritage from the Ottoman period are visited, offering an enjoyable experience for those interested in history. • Religious and Cultural Richness: Structures belonging to different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues) are visited, allowing participants to discover the region’s cultural diversity. • Natural Beauty: Magnificent natural attractions such as the Kotor fjords and Lake Ohrid are experienced throughout the tour. • Visa-Free Travel: The destinations included do not require a visa, which reduces additional paperwork and costs. • Professional Guidance: The opportunity to gain detailed information about the cities and historical places with a guide is offered. • Local Cuisine Experience: Participants enjoy a gastronomic experience with traditional Bosnian dishes, Balkan cuisine, and local flavors served at dinner. • Restaurant Gardenia Skopje Experience: The chance to enjoy local tastes and a special Balkan night at one of Skopje’s finest restaurants, Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. • All Tours Included: All excursions and extra tours in the program are included in the tour price, so participants can visit all important points without extra cost. • Dinner Included: Dinner is included every day in the program, preventing extra expenses while tasting local flavors. • No Need to Spend: This tour is ideal for guests who do not want to spend much. Aside from lunch, optional tips, and souvenirs for loved ones, there will be no extra out-of-pocket expenses. Points to Consider • Busy Schedule: 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 (for example, between Skopje and Belgrade) are covered while enjoying beautiful landscapes, but there may be long hours spent on the bus on some days. Nevertheless, comfortable travel is ensured with breaks along the way. • Limited Free Time: Since the program is comprehensive, free time may be limited. However, the opportunity to visit all important points with a guide is provided. • Weather Depending on Season: Weather conditions in the Balkans can vary in some periods. Therefore, choosing appropriate clothing can make this more comfortable. • Accommodation and Service Quality: Although the hotels in the tour are carefully selected from options reflecting the region’s character and local culture, hotels in smaller towns may not offer the same extensive facilities as luxury hotels in Turkey. However, comfort and cleanliness are prioritized in these hotels. • Food and Culinary Experience: Throughout the tour, there is an opportunity to try the region’s unique local flavors. Balkan cuisine is rich and delicious, but some participants may encounter tastes they are not used to. This is a great opportunity to get to know the local culture and cuisine closely, but it may be useful to keep in mind that you may encounter different flavors. City Hotel Breakfast Dinner Ohrid 4* Beograd etc. Hotel Hotel Shkodër 4* Holiday Koplik etc. Hotel Hotel Međugorje 4* Kaktus etc. Hotel Hotel Skopje 4* Vlaho etc. Hotel Restaurant Gardenia Belgrade 4* Nobel etc. Hotel Hotel Sarajevo 4* Holiday etc. Hotel Hotel With Ajet Airlines Departure Point Destination Departure Time Arrival Time Diyarbakır Skopje 00:30 02:15 Skopje Diyarbakır 03:15 06:45