How to Plan Your Balkans Guided Tour from Sofia to Budapest

If you’re looking for a journey through some of the most fascinating countries in Eastern Europe, then the Balkans Guided Tour from Sofia to Budapest is the perfect solution. This 11-day tour takes you through Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia to discover the beauty, history, and culture of this region. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from each day of the tour.

Overview

The tour includes 11 nights’ accommodation in 3 or 4-star hotels along with transport by air-conditioned minivan for the entire trip. A professional tour leader who will also be the driver will accompany you throughout the journey. However, the tour does not cover food and drinks unless specified or entrance fees at museums and churches. When booking, there is an opportunity to leave a tip for the driver and tour guide.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at 09.00 a.m., and you will be picked up from your hotel or indicated address. There are several pickup points, and you can select the most convenient one for you.

Day 1: Sofia – Rila – Skopje (350 km) BULGARIA + MACEDONIA

The first day of the tour is a journey from Sofia to Skopje via the Rila Monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Bulgaria’s most famous landmarks and is situated within the Rila Mountains. Aside from the stunning views, the Monastery has an impressive collection of artifacts and frescoes to explore. The journey to Skopje is a scenic drive of around 350 km.

Day 2: Skopje – Ohrid (190 km) MACEDONIA

The second day of the tour is spent in Ohrid, with a stop at the Matka Canyon along the way. Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid. The town has a mix of architecture, including Byzantine churches and Ottoman-era buildings. Matka Canyon is a site for nature lovers, with its freshwater springs, caves, and hiking trails.

Day 3: Ohrid – Bay of Bones – St Naum – Tirana – Kruja (210 km) MACEDONIA + ALBANIA

On the third day, the tour continues to Albania, with stops at the Bay of Bones, St Naum Monastery, and the city of Tirana. Bay of Bones is an archaeological site with remains of a prehistoric settlement, while St Naum Monastery is located on the shore of Lake Ohrid and boasts stunning views. Tirana is the capital of Albania, and guests will have the chance to explore its vibrant streets and colorful buildings. The day ends in Kruja, which is famous for its historic buildings and bazaar.

Day 4: Kruja – Budva – Kotor (190 km) ALBANIA+MONTENEGRO

The fourth day of the tour starts in Kruja and continues to the Montenegrin coast. The first stop is in Budva, which is one of the oldest settlements in the Adriatic. The town’s old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts ancient architecture and medieval walls. The tour then continues to Kotor, another UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning coastal views, a beautiful old town, and a lively nightlife.

Day 5: Kotor Bay Tour – Dubrovnik (150 km) MONTENEGRO+CROATIA

On the fifth day, guests can take a Kotor Bay boat tour before heading to Dubrovnik. Kotor Bay is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Dubrovnik is an ancient city with stone walls, fortresses, and charming alleyways. A visit to the old city and its many historic sites is a must.

Day 6: Dubrovnik

The sixth day of the tour is a free day for guests to explore Dubrovnik at their leisure. Take a stroll along the coastline, have lunch in the old city, or visit the many museums and galleries to learn more about the history and culture of Croatia.

Day 7: Dubrovnik – Mostar – Split (300 km) Croatia + Bosnia & Herzegovina

On the seventh day, the tour heads to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, famous for its iconic bridge and old town. Guests can explore the town’s many shops and landmarks before heading to Split, where the tour ends.

Booking the Tour

To book the Balkans Guided Tour from Sofia to Budapest, simply visit this link.

FAQs About Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, has a rich history, cultural heritage, and is an emerging cosmopolitan hub. If you are planning to visit Sofia or move there for work, you might have many questions in mind. Here, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Sofia to help you prepare for your trip or relocation.

1. What is the best time to visit Sofia?

The best time to visit Sofia is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with outdoor activities, festivals, and events. Summers in Sofia are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. In winter, the city can get quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and snow covering the ground.

2. How do I get to Sofia?

Sofia has an international airport, Sofia Airport, which connects the city to major European cities like London, Vienna, Frankfurt, and Paris, as well as other destinations. You can also reach Sofia by train or bus from neighboring countries like Greece, Turkey, Romania, or Serbia. If you are traveling from within Bulgaria, you can take a bus, train, or drive to Sofia.

3. What are the major landmarks and attractions in Sofia?

Sofia has many landmarks and attractions to explore, such as:

3.1 Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world and the most iconic landmark in Sofia. The cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and religious significance.

3.2 Vitosha Mountain

Vitosha Mountain is a popular hiking and skiing destination and offers breathtaking views of the city from the top. The mountain has several hiking trails, picnic spots, and skiing slopes, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

3.3 National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture is the largest convention center in Southeast Europe and hosts cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, and conferences throughout the year. Even if you don’t attend an event here, the modernist architecture and landscaped gardens are worth a visit.

3.4 Sofia Central Market Hall

The Sofia Central Market Hall is a popular destination for foodies and is known for its fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and cafes. You can also find local souvenirs and homemade products here.

4. What is the local cuisine of Sofia?

Bulgarian cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and influenced by Turkish, Greek, and Balkan cuisines. Some popular dishes to try in Sofia are:

4.1 Shopska Salad

Shopska Salad is a simple yet delicious Bulgarian salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and Bulgarian feta cheese.

4.2 Kebapche

Kebapche is a popular Bulgarian grilled sausage made with ground beef, pork, spices, and served with onions and bread.

4.3 Banitsa

Banitsa is a traditional Bulgarian pastry made with filo dough, Bulgarian feta cheese, and eggs, and is a perfect breakfast or snack option.

5. What is the public transportation like in Sofia?

Sofia has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trams, trolleys, and metro. The metro network has two lines and connects the city center to the suburbs. You can buy a single ticket for 1.60 BGN (0.80 EUR) or a daily pass for 4 BGN (2 EUR) to use all modes of public transportation.

6. What is the currency used in Sofia?

The currency used in Sofia and Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), and one Euro is approximately equivalent to two Bulgarian Lev. You can exchange foreign currency at many banks, exchange offices, or ATMs in Sofia.

7. Is Sofia safe for tourists?

Sofia is a relatively safe city compared to other European cities, and incidents of violent crime are rare. However, like any other city, tourists should be careful of pickpocketing, scams, and theft in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist spots.

8. What are some cultural events and festivals in Sofia?

Sofia hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as:

8.1 Sofia Film Fest

Sofia Film Fest is an annual film festival held in March, featuring local and international films across different genres and categories.

8.2 A to JazZ Festival

A to JazZ Festival is a popular music festival held in July, featuring jazz, funk, and soul music by local and international artists.

8.3 Sofia Design Week

Sofia Design Week is an annual festival held in June, featuring contemporary designs, exhibitions, and workshops by local and international designers.

Conclusion

Sofia is an exciting destination with many things to see, do, and explore. We hope this FAQ guide has helped you prepare for your trip or relocation to Sofia and answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the city. Remember to plan your itinerary well in advance, pack appropriately for the weather, and explore the local culture and cuisine to make the most of your trip.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, remains one of the underrated travel destinations in Europe. It’s a city with rich history, culture, and stunning architecture. If you’re planning to visit Sofia, you’ll surely have a great time exploring the city. In this guide, we’ll share some of the things that you should do and see during your time in Sofia.

1. Explore the City Center

Sofia’s city center is compact, easy to navigate, and full of rich history, culture, and architecture. You can start by visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is one of the most famous attractions in Sofia. The cathedral is an iconic landmark and an excellent representation of Bulgarian Orthodox architecture.From there, you can take a stroll to the Nevski Prospekt boulevard, which is an elegant pedestrian walk lined with shops and restaurants on both sides. Heading northwest from the boulevard, you’ll come across the Parliament building, which is a massive piece of architecture that represents Sofia’s communist past.

2. Visit the Historical Sights

Sofia is a city brimming with ancient history. One of the best places to visit for historical insight is the National Archaeological Museum, which houses extensive collections of ancient artifacts and relics dating back to the Thracian, Roman, and Byzantine periods.Another place of interest is the St. George Rotunda, which is the oldest church in Sofia built in the 4th century during the Roman Empire. The church is small, but it’s impressive and worth a visit.

3. Explore the Food and Drink Scene

Bulgarian cuisine is delicious, hearty, and often exceeds people’s expectations. Sofia offers a range of traditional and modern dining options, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. You can try some local dishes such as “banitsa” (cheese and pastry), “kebapche” (grilled meat) and “tarator” (cold soup).For drinks, Sofia has a bustling coffee shop culture, and small cafes are located in almost every street corner. Some popular cafes to try out include Cup&Cino, Barista Coffee & More, and Chucky’s Coffee House.

4. Visit the Parks and Gardens

Sofia is known for its green spaces, and there are several parks and gardens to visit. The most famous one is the Borisova Gradina, which is a large park with walking paths, attractions, and sports facilities. Another park to explore is the Central Park of Sofia, which features a beautiful lake and stunning views of the Vitosha Mountain range.

5. Experience the Nightlife

Sofia has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to everyone’s preferences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening with friends or an all-night party, you’ll find plenty of bars, clubs, and lounges to explore.Some popular nightlife destinations include Raketa Rakia Bar, which is a fun place to try out some Bulgarian brandy, cocktails, and live music. Another great spot is the Hambara Bar, which offers a hip atmosphere, excellent drinks, and one of the best views of the city.

Conclusion

Exploring Sofia as a tourist is an unforgettable experience. From the city center’s stunning architecture and cultural landmarks to the food, parks, and nightlife scene, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see during your visit. Make sure to plan your itinerary well in advance, so you don’t miss out on any of the must-see attractions.