Samsun Departure Kosovo Big Balkans Tour with AJet Including Extra Tours and Dinner, 6 Nights SKP-TZL
Day 1: Samsun - Skopje – Bitola - Resen – Ohrid
Meeting at the Ajet Airlines counter in the departure terminal of Samsun Çarşamba airport 3 hours before the flight. Departure on a direct flight to Skopje with Ajet Airlines. After approximately two hours of comfortable travel, we arrive in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. After completing the entry procedures, we move to Resen and Bitola (Manastir) for our tour, famous for its stunning nature and historical richness. We are on our way to Bitola, which was once one of the most important cultural and trade centers of the Ottoman Empire. Upon our arrival in Bitola, we will visit the Military Academy where the great leader Atatürk studied and the Atatürk Museum from the outside. In this enchanting city, we will also explore historical Ottoman artifacts such as the Turkish Bazaar, the Bedestan, and the Ishak Pasha Mosque. While feeling the historical texture of Bitola, you will have the chance to enjoy a pleasant walk in the nostalgic streets of the city. After a short break here, we continue towards Resen, where we will see the palace of Resneli Niyazi Bey, a significant figure in Balkan history, panoramically. Resen offers a mesmerizing atmosphere with both its nature and Ottoman traces. After our tour, we head towards Ohrid. Stunning views will accompany us along the way. Upon our arrival in Ohrid, we will conduct a tour introducing the historic city of Ohrid, which has been one of the significant bases of the Ottomans in the Balkans. Important places 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, the Church of St. Sophia, and the Roman period Ancient Theater. We will also have the opportunity to stroll around Chinar Square, the heart of the city, and visit the historic Turkish Bazaar, where you can feel the cultural fabric of the city up close by visiting the Halveti Tekke. Afterward, we will explore the New Bazaar and Ohrid Market, witnessing the daily lives of the local people. Finally, the famous lake of Ohrid and its breathtaking view will accompany our tour. After the tour, free time and transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel. After dinner, you can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Ohrid in the stillness of the night, take a short walk by the lake, or retreat to your rooms to rest.
Resen Tour INCLUDED! | Bitola (Manastir) Tour INCLUDED!
Skopje – Bitola: 170 km | Bitola – Resen: 30 km | Resen – Ohrid: 35 km
Total distance covered: 235 km
Day 2: Ohrid – Sveti Naum - Tetova (Kalkandelen) – Matka Canyon - Skopje
After our breakfast, we leave our hotel and set off on an exciting journey towards Sveti Naum, where the source of Lake Ohrid and St. Naum Monastery is located, referred to as "A Corner of Heaven in the Balkans". In this enchanting place, you will have the opportunity to photograph the unique beauty of the landscapes found in the heart of nature. During our free time, we will enjoy the experience of exploring this historic and natural wonder. After an unforgettable trip filled with wonderful photos, we are off to discover the unique nature and cultural treasures of Macedonia. Our first stop is Tetova (Kalkandelen), one of the eye-catching towns of Macedonia. Here, we will visit one of the most colorful and impressive mosques in the Balkans, the Alaca Mosque. Built in the 15th century, this mosque will mesmerize you with its vibrant colors and intricate decorations. As we explore this exquisite example of Ottoman architecture, we will embark on a journey back in time. After our visit in Tetova, we will head towards Matka Canyon, bordered by lush mountains. Are you ready to discover Matka Canyon, nestled among the beautiful forests and wide pastures of Mount Vodno? This natural wonder, spanning approximately 5,000 hectares, will take you to mystical monasteries from the Middle Ages and serene lake views. While walking through the rugged cliffs, you can observe the endemic plant and animal species of the area. For nature lovers, hiking on the green paths is the best way to connect with nature. After our Matka Canyon tour, we head towards Skopje. Upon our 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. Then, we will visit the Murat Pasha Mosque, which was built in the 15th century and is known for its Ottoman-era decorations and architecture. In the continuation of our tour, we will see Kapan Han and Sulu Han, located in the heart of Skopje. These structures are beautiful examples of Ottoman-era inns, which were once important centers for traders. Next, we will visit the Stone Bridge, which has become a symbol of Skopje. Built in the 15th century, this bridge connects both sides of the Vardar River. Walking across the Stone Bridge, we will continue our tour by observing the Turkish and Jewish neighborhoods along the banks of the Vardar River. During our stroll by the river, we will pass through Macedonia Square. This square is the largest and most central point in Skopje, surrounded by modern buildings. Here we will come across statues of Alexander the Great and other monuments. Afterward, we will see the Ottoman Bridge from the 15th century from the outside and visit the Davut Pasha Hamam, experiencing the grandeur of the Ottoman era once again. Continuing towards Skopje's Turkish Bazaar, we proceed with our exploration of the city. Before reaching the bazaar, we will see the Clock Tower, built in the 16th century, which is one of the symbolic structures of Skopje. Here, we will visit Sultan Murat Mosque and Isa Bey Mosque, which are important parts of the Islamic heritage of the city, noted for their unique architectures. Finally, we give free time in the Turkish Bazaar. In this bazaar, you can find many products from traditional handicrafts to souvenirs. After spending enjoyable time in the bazaar, we will transfer to Restaurant Gardenia for the Balkan Night. After this, we will have our transfer to our hotel and then retreat 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. You will have the opportunity to experience this special Balkan night while discovering the entertaining and cultural aspects of Skopje in one of the finest venues in the region, Restaurant Gardenia. With performances by artists comprising conservatory students and teachers, presented without playback, we will turn this night into an authentic experience. We are delighted to host you at our own Restaurant Gardenia Skopje. Overnight stay at our hotel in Skopje.
Sveti Naum Tour INCLUDED! | Tetova (Kalkandelen) Tour INCLUDED! | Matka Canyon Tour INCLUDED! | Balkan Night INCLUDED!
Ohrid – Tetova (Kalkandelen): 130 km | Tetova (Kalkandelen) – Matka Canyon: 35 km | Matka Canyon – Skopje: 15 km
Total distance covered: 180 km
Day 3: Skopje – Pristina – Prizren – Shkodra
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and head towards Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. After our journey, upon arrival in Pristina, we begin our panoramic city tour, during which we will explore both the modern and historical aspects of Kosovo. We will visit many valuable structures from the Ottoman period, including the Fatih Sultan Mehmed Mosque and the 18th-century Yasar Pasha Mosque. During this excursion through the city's historical heritage, we will visit the Tomb of Sultan Murad I, who was killed in the Kosovo Plain as a result of the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, an important historical event and his place in Ottoman history. After our tour in Pristina, we move towards Prizren, known as the cultural capital of Kosovo. Upon our arrival, we will start exploring the narrow streets of Prizren, reminiscent of an Anatolian Ottoman city, filled with signs in Turkish. In the city, we will visit one of the most important structures of Ottoman architecture, the Sinan Pasha Mosque. Other important Ottoman artifacts include the Halveti Tekke, Bayraklı Mosque, and Mehmet Pasha Hamam. After spending some free time in Prizren, we head towards the historic city of Shkodra in northern Albania. Shkodra will mesmerize you with its natural beauty and rich historical texture. Overnight stay 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 covered: 365 km
Day 4: Shkodra – Sv. Stefan – Budva – Kotor – Medugorje
After breakfast, we embark on an unforgettable journey towards the stunning beaches of Montenegro. Our first stop is famous for its rich history and dazzling views, Sv. Stefan. From a viewpoint, we will admire the magnificent landscape of this islet, which is ideal for postcard-like photographs. Next, we arrive in Budva, one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Balkans. Our city tour in Budva begins. During this walking tour, we will see the stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, exploring Budva, one of the most famous resort centers in the Balkans. Our next stop is Kotor, a charming city known for its fjords! In this magnificent medieval town, our walking tour will allow us to experience its narrow streets and the historical atmosphere of the old town, discovering the heart of Kotor. After our free time in Kotor, we proceed to our hotel in Medugorje or nearby. After having dinner at our hotel, we retreat to our rooms to rest. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Budva Tour INCLUDED! | Kotor Tour INCLUDED!
Shkodra - Budva: 85 km | Budva - Kotor: 22 km | Kotor - Medugorje: 191 km
Total distance covered: 298 km
Day 5: Medugorje – Počitelj – Blagaj – Mostar – Sarajevo
After breakfast, we head towards Sarajevo. Our first stop is Počitelj, a protected historic village known as the Turkish Village, where we will see the works built by the Ottomans in the 16th century. After the visit, we head to Blagaj, where the Buna River, one of Europe's strongest water sources, springs forth. After a short free time enjoying the beautiful nature view, we set off towards Mostar. In Mostar, we will see the Mostar Bridge, built by Mimar Hayreddin in 1557. This bridge, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, was destroyed by Croatian artillery during the war in 1992 but was reopened in 2004 with significant contributions from the Republic of Turkey. After the Mostar Bridge, we will visit the Koski Mehmet Pasha Mosque. Then we head towards Sarajevo. Upon our arrival, we will take a panoramic city tour of a city known as the cultural capital of the Balkans for centuries and marked by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by Serbs in 1914, which triggered the outbreak of World War I. During the Bosnian War in 1992, it suffered significant devastation from the conflicts among Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks, but Sarajevo has largely managed to preserve its beauty. During our tour, we will see the famous Baščaršija, the historic Ottoman inn Morica Han, the Catholic Cathedral reflecting the city’s religious diversity, the Synagogue, the Hüsrev Bey and Ferhadiye Mosques, the Latin Bridge where the assassination occurred in 1914, the Old Library, and the western-style buildings from the 40 years of Austro-Hungarian administration. After the tour, we will transfer to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Počitelj Tour INCLUDED! | Blagaj Tour INCLUDED! | Mostar Tour INCLUDED!
Medugorje - Počitelj: 20 km | Počitelj - Blagaj: 30 km | Blagaj – Mostar: 12 km | Mostar - Sarajevo: 130 km
Total distance covered: 192 km
Day 6: Sarajevo – Belgrade
After breakfast, we leave our hotel and begin a pleasant journey to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Throughout history, Belgrade has been one of the most important cultural and strategic centers of the Balkans and today it stands out with its liveliness, dynamism, and historical texture. After our arrival in Belgrade, we start a panoramic city tour where we will explore the grand acts of the city. Here you can feel the historical atmosphere and discover the blend of Belgrade's past and present. Next, we head to one of the most striking spots in the city where the Sava River meets the Danube River. It will be a great pleasure to explore this region that has been the focal point of many conquests and victories throughout history. While continuing to explore this ancient city, we will come across the Belgrade Fortress, which was used by the Ottoman navy as a supply base. We will also see significant points like Kalemegdan and Tašmajdan. During the tours, we will see the Tomb of Shehit Ali Pasha, an important figure from the Ottoman era. With these visits, you will deeply discover the rich history of Belgrade and learn about the cultural heritage remaining from the Ottoman period. In our tour’s end, we 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 7: Belgrade - Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad – Tuzla
After breakfast, our first stop is Sremski Karlovci. In this beautiful town, the Karlovci peace treaty was signed in 1699 after 72 days of negotiations among the Ottoman Empire, Austria-Hungary, Venice, and Poland. During our visit, we will see the four-gated building where the treaty was signed, as well as the square, the four-lion fountain, the historical high school, and the Orthodox and Catholic churches. After a coffee break, we continue our journey. While on the road, we will see the Petrovaradin Fortress, the Belgrade Gate, the clock tower, the upper town, the long barracks, and the Leopold Gate. Following this, we arrive in Novi Sad, the capital of Vojvodina, the most developed region in northern Serbia known for its multi-ethnic composition. During our walking tour, we will see the Liberty Square, the People's Theater, Tuna Street and its waterfront, the Svetozar Miletić Statue, the Catholic Cathedral, the Orthodox St. George's Cathedral, Saint Nicholas Church, and the Synagogue as panoramic views. After the tour, we transfer to the airport.
Sremski Karlovci Tour INCLUDED! | Novi Sad Tour INCLUDED!
Belgrade - Sremski Karlovci: 78 km | Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad: 13 km | Novi Sad – Tuzla: 180 km
Total distance covered: 271 km
Day 8: Tuzla – Samsun
After check-in, baggage, and passport procedures, we depart on a direct flight with Ajet Airlines to Samsun. After a comfortable flight, we arrive at Samsun Çarşamba airport, concluding our tour. We bid farewell to our valued guests with the hope of seeing you again on your next journey.
*Balkan Special Cancellation Assurance Package: 50 Euro*
(This cancellation assurance package allows our guests to cancel their reservations without penalties under any circumstances. With this application, you can cancel your reservation until 9 days prior to the tour departure date. While the full tour fee is refundable in case of cancellation, the cancellation assurance package fee and any additional service fees (Visa, insurance, etc.) are not refundable.)
**The cancellation assurance package does not apply to group reservations.**
**There are a limited number of slots available for each tour.**
Positive Aspects of the Tour
• Comprehensive Visits: The tour offers a broad itinerary covering important cities and tourist sites in the Balkans, including Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid, and Skopje.
• Ottoman History: The visit includes significant structures and cultural heritage from the Ottoman period, providing an enjoyable experience for history enthusiasts.
• Religious and Cultural Richness: Structures of different religions (mosques, churches, synagogues) are visited, exploring the cultural diversity of the region.
• Natural Wonders: Marvelous natural beauties, such as Lake Ohrid, are experienced throughout the tour.
• Visa-Free Travel: The tour includes destinations that do not require visas, reducing additional paperwork and costs.
• Professional Guidance: Detailed information about cities and historical sites is provided with a guide, enhancing the travel experience.
• Local Cuisine Experience: Evening meals rich in traditional Bosnian dishes, Balkan cuisine, and local flavors allow participants to enjoy a gastronomic experience.
• Restaurant Gardenia Skopje Experience: Participants have the chance to savor local dishes and enjoy a special Balkan night in one of Skopje's finest restaurants, Restaurant Gardenia.
• All Tours Included: All excursions and extra tours in the program are included in the price of the tour, allowing visitors to explore all key locations without additional costs.
• Dinner Included: Dinner is provided every day, preventing participants from incurring extra expenses while tasting local flavors.
• No Need for Extra Expenses: Perfect for guests who do not wish to spend money. Except for lunch, taxes, optional tips, and souvenirs for loved ones, there’s no extra money that leaves your pocket.
Important Considerations
• Busy Program: Traveling to different cities every day makes the tour rich and packed, but this intense pace may be tiring for those who want to explore more.
• Long Journeys: Interstate distances (for example, between Skopje and Belgrade) are covered with beautiful views, but there may be days spent long hours on the bus. Nevertheless, rest stops during the journey allow for a comfortable travel experience.
• Limited Free Time: Due to the comprehensive nature of the program, free times might be limited. However, there is the opportunity to visit all significant spots with a guide.
• Weather Conditions Dependent on Season: Weather conditions in the Balkans can vary during certain periods. Therefore, ensuring suitable clothing can make this situation more 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 smaller towns may not offer amenities as luxurious as those in Turkey. However, these hotels are meticulously maintained for comfort and cleanliness.
• Food and Culinary Experience: Participants have the opportunity to sample the distinct local flavors throughout the tour. The Balkan cuisine is rich and delicious, but some newcomers might encounter unfamiliar tastes. This is a fantastic opportunity to closely experience the local culture and cuisine, though it’s good to keep in mind you might face different flavors.
City Hotel Breakfast Dinner
Ohrid 4* Beograd, etc. Hotel Hotel
Shkodra 4* Holiday Koplik, etc. Hotel Hotel
Medugorje 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 Location Destination Departure Time Arrival Time
Samsun Skopje 01:10 03:50
Sarajevo Samsun 02:30 04:30
Services Included:
• Round trip flight tickets on the route Samsun Çarşamba Airport / Skopje – Tuzla / Samsun Çarşamba Airport with AJet Airlines
• A total of 6 nights accommodation in 4* hotel category: 1 night in Ohrid, 1 night in Shkodra, 1 night in Medjugorje and surroundings, 1 night in Skopje, 1 night in Belgrade, and 1 night in Sarajevo
• Breakfasts
• Dinners
• All transfers specified in the program
• City tours mentioned in the program
• A Balkan Night embellished with meals, entertainment, and folklore shows
• Prizren Tour
• Pristina Tour
• Resen Tour
• Bitola Tour
• Sveti Naum Tour
• Matka Canyon Tour
• Mostar Tour
• Blagaj Tour
• Počitelj Tour
• Kotor Tour
• Budva Tour
• Sremski Karlovci Tour
• Novi Sad Tour
• Professional Turkish guiding services
• Mandatory Insurance (Professional Liability)
Services Not Included:
• International Departure Tax Stamp
• Travel Insurance
• Lunches
• All hotel extras and personal expenses
• City and Hotel taxes: (City tax, checkpoint fees, local service charges, handling fees, bus entry fees, and operating service costs amounting to a mandatory payment of 20 Euros per person, which will be collected in cash by the guide on the first day of the tour)