9 days Balkans Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest

Discover the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures of the Balkans on this 9-day guided tour that runs from Bucharest to Budapest, passing through 9 countries. For $1,156.82 per person, travelers enjoy a well-organized itinerary featuring 3-star hotels, daily breakfasts, and climate-controlled transportation. While the journey covers many highlights, a notable review points out that the vehicle comfort may not meet everyone’s expectations, particularly for longer drives.

This tour suits those who want an easy-paced, rundown of the Balkans with organized logistics and local guides in many locations. It is ideal for travelers who appreciate moderate walking, cultural sightseeing, and a guided experience, but should be prepared for some hours on the road and small hotel rooms.

Key Points

• 9-day guided Balkan tour from Bucharest to Budapest, visiting 9 countries
• Includes 8 nights in 3-star hotels with breakfasts
• Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle with professional guides
• The itinerary features highlights such as Devetashka Cave, Rila Monastery, Ohrid, and Mostar
• Moderate walking is required, with some long drives noted as less comfortable in reviews
• The tour is suitable for those with good physical fitness aiming for cultural exploration in a guided group

Starting Point in Bucharest: Bucharest’s Central Meeting Point

The tour begins at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 7, in front of the University Square at 8:30 am. This accessible location is close to public transportation, making it easy for travelers to join the group. The meeting spot is well-known and straightforward to find, setting the tone for an organized adventure.

Visiting Devetashka Cave and Krushunskiye Waterfalls on Day 1

The first day includes stops at Devetashka Cave and Krushunskiye Waterfalls in Bulgaria. The Devetashka Cave impresses with its well-lit, lush-green floor, making it feel less like an underground cavern. While admission tickets are not included, the cave’s picturesque scenery offers a striking contrast to typical underground sites.

Next, the Krushunskiye Waterfalls showcase Bulgaria’s largest travertine cascade, with multiple terraces and mineral pools. The main waterfall reaches about 20 meters, splitting into smaller ones along the soft limestone rocks. The scenery here is lush and photo-worthy, though access is natural and requires some walking.

Overnight stays are in a 4-star hotel in Lovech, providing comfort after a full day of sightseeing. The 9-hour drive from Bucharest includes these outdoor stops and is considered manageable, though some reviews note vehicle comfort could be improved.

Exploring Sofia’s Key Landmarks on Day 2

In the evening of day 2, the tour arrives in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. The guided 3-hour walking tour covers some of the city’s most notable sights, including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its iconic gold domes, Saint Sofia Church, Banya Bashi Mosque, the Sofia Synagogue, and the bustling Vitosha boulevard shopping street.

This city walk offers a good overview of Sofia’s religious and cultural diversity, with free admission at these sites. The guides are knowledgeable, helping visitors understand the historical significance of each location.

Visiting Rila Monastery and Skopje’s Old Town on Day 3

Day 3 features a visit to Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Bulgaria’s most famous religious monument. Founded in the 10th century by Saint Ivan Rilsky, the monastery served as a cultural and spiritual hub for over a millennium. The tour includes a visit to the church, renowned for its artistic paintings and woodwork from the 19th century, which adds depth to the sightseeing experience.

In the early evening, the group arrives in Skopje, North Macedonia’s capital. An orientation tour introduces key sites, providing context on the city’s unique history and architecture, which blends Ottoman influences with modern monuments.

Skopje’s Historic and Cultural Highlights

The next day, the guided walking tour of Skopje highlights landmarks such as the quay of the Vardar River, the Old Bazaar—the largest preserved bazaar in the Balkans—and the Memorial House of Mother Teresa. The Kale Fortress, dating back 1500 years, offers panoramic views of the city, while the Macedonia Square features the impressive statue of Alexander the Great.

The tour emphasizes Skopje’s connection to Mother Teresa, adding a personal element to the city’s story. The free walking tour covers about 3 hours, making it accessible for most physically fit participants.

Ohrid’s Old Town and Ancient Sites on Day 4

Traveling south, the tour reaches Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest lakes. The guided 3-hour walk through the Old Town showcases narrow streets, historic churches such as Sveti Sofia, and the Ancient Theater. The Samuels Fortress and pedestrian shopping streets provide picturesque scenery and cultural insights.

Lake Ohrid’s unique status as a 3 million-year-old lake adds a special dimension to the visit, with many historic churches and monasteries reflecting a deep spiritual and architectural heritage. The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot.

Crossing Borders into Albania and Discovering Tirana

Day 5 involves crossing from North Macedonia into Albania, arriving in Tirana. The walking tour of Tirana’s city center covers Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, Ethem Bey Mosque, and the sculpture of Skanderbeg. The guided exploration highlights Tirana’s transition from Ottoman influences to modern Albanian culture.

This visit provides insights into the country’s history and development, with free admission to main sites. The group then prepares for the next leg of the journey, heading towards Montenegro.

Kotor Old Town’s Fortified Walls and Scenic Views

On Day 6, travelers arrive in Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved medieval old town. The guided tour explores the Stari Grad, its narrow streets, and fortifications that date back centuries. Visitors can enjoy stunning views over the Yacht Marina and the Bay of Kotor.

The area’s historical architecture and natural scenery are highlights of this stop, making it an excellent spot for photographs and leisurely exploration.

Mostar and the Iconic Old Bridge on Day 7

The next morning, the tour takes participants to Mostar, famous for its Old Bridge, originally built in 1566. The walking tour explains the bridge’s destruction during the 1990s conflict and the subsequent reconstruction, a poignant story woven into the town’s fabric.

Visitors can observe bridge divers, who jump off the Old Bridge to entertain onlookers and earn tips. The old town’s cobbled streets and historic buildings create a charming atmosphere that balances history with lively local traditions.

Sarajevo’s Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Heritage

After Mostar, the group travels through scenic routes along Jablanica Lake and the Neretva River to reach Sarajevo. The 3-hour walking tour covers the Latin Bridge, where WWI started, along with the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian districts. The tour includes visits to bazaars, mosques, and cathedrals, illustrating Sarajevo’s diverse cultural makeup.

The city’s history during the Siege of Sarajevo and its hosting of the 1984 Winter Olympics are also part of the narrative, providing a comprehensive understanding of its resilience and vibrancy.

Belgrade’s Cultural and Historic Sites on Day 8

Traveling into Serbia, the tour arrives in Belgrade. The 3-hour guided tour visits Republic Square, the National Museum, Skadarlija—the bohemian quarter—Kalemegdan Park, and the Belgrade Fortress. The Victor monument dominates the skyline, symbolizing the city’s strength.

This stop offers a glimpse into Belgrade’s lively atmosphere, blending Ottoman influences, modern architecture, and riverside views. It’s a fitting final stop before heading toward Hungary.

Ending in Budapest with Novi Sad’s Charm

The final day includes a stop in Novi Sad, known for Zmaj Jovina Street, the Danube promenade, and the historic Petrovaradin Fortress across the river. The 1-hour visit offers a snapshot of this vibrant city before the group proceeds to Budapest.

Arriving in Budapest in the evening, the tour concludes with a guided overview of the city’s parliament, Buda Castle, and Danube River views. The familiarity of the city’s landmarks makes for a memorable finish.

Practicalities: Transport, Group Size, and Accommodation

The entire tour runs in a climate-controlled vehicle, ensuring comfort during long drives across borders. The tour is limited to a maximum of 46 travelers, making it a manageable group size for guided exploration. Accommodation in 4-star hotels includes breakfasts each morning, providing a convenient base for daily activities.

The tour has flexible logistics, with the order of visits subject to weather, traffic, and other factors, but all major sites are included as scheduled. Local guides in Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Serbia deliver enriching insights at each stop.

Recognizing Vehicle Comfort and Physical Demands

A review highlights some concerns about vehicle comfort, describing the van as small with no captain chairs and noting long hours of driving. The road conditions and vehicle size may impact those sensitive to cramped seating or lengthy drives.

The walking involved is described as moderate, with some days requiring 2 to 5 hours of walking at sites such as Old Towns or historical monuments. Travelers should be prepared for some steps and carrying own bags into hotels.

Final Assessment: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 9-day Balkans tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, outdoor stops, and historic landmarks, making it a good choice for motivated explorers interested in a guided, sightseeing-focused experience. The inclusion of breakfasts and organized transportation adds convenience, but those sensitive to vehicle comfort or looking for luxury accommodations might find some aspects less ideal.

The tour’s moderate walking and well-structured itinerary suit active travelers who enjoy learning from guides and exploring at a reasonable pace. It provides a rundown of the Balkans, from Roman ruins to medieval towns, all packed into a manageable schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does the tour include meals besides breakfast? No, food and drinks are not included unless specified.
• Are entrance fees included? No, at the sites, entrance fees are not covered.
• What is the group size? The maximum number of travelers is 46.
• What is the physical demand? The tour involves moderate walking, with some walking tours lasting between 2 and 5 hours.
• Is the vehicle comfortable? Some reviews mention that the van can be cramped and uncomfortable for long drives.
• Are local guides provided? Yes, guides are available in Romania, Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, and Sarajevo.
• What is the cancellation policy? Full refund available if canceled at least 6 days before the start date.
• Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 7 in Bucharest and ends in Budapest.
• How much should I tip guides and drivers? About 5 euro per day per person is suggested.
• Can I join if I have mobility issues? The tour requires a moderate level of fitness and involves walking and steps, so it may not be suitable for all mobility levels.

This 9-day Balkans tour from Bucharest to Budapest combines culture with scenic drives and historic landmarks, offering an engaging way to explore this diverse region in a guided, organized manner.