4-Day Balkans Tour from Istanbul: Exploring Istanbul, Sofia, Skopje, and Tirana

Day 1: Istanbul to Sofia

Istanbul, Turkey to Sofia, Bulgaria on May 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Namlı Gurme in Karaköy, renowned for its rich variety of cheeses, olives, and fresh bread. It's the perfect energizer before your journey.
TRY120, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel from Istanbul to Sofia

Embark on a comfortable 6-hour drive or fly from Istanbul Airport to Sofia Airport, ensuring timely arrivals and maximizing your day's sightseeing.
EUR50-100, 6h0m

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Made in Home

Check into your Sofia accommodation, then enjoy lunch at Made in Home, a cozy spot famous for its farm-to-table Bulgarian dishes and relaxing ambiance.
BGN25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Visit this iconic Orthodox cathedral, one of Sofia’s landmarks known for its neo-Byzantine architecture and stunning mosaics inside.
BGN10, 1h0m

5:00pm

Walk through Vitosha Boulevard

Stroll along Sofia's vibrant main shopping street filled with boutiques, cafes, and lively street performances — a great place to soak in local culture.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Shtastlivetsa

Relish traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a charming restaurant known for its hearty national dishes and warm atmosphere.
BGN40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Sofia to Skopje

Sofia, Bulgaria to Skopje, North Macedonia on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rainbow Factory

Enjoy a coffee and fresh pastries at this trendy Sofia café before heading to North Macedonia.
BGN10, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel from Sofia to Skopje

Drive approximately 3.5 hours to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, crossing scenic Balkan countryside.
EUR20, 3h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Stobi Restaurant

Savor authentic Macedonian flavors with dishes like tavče gravče at this popular local dining spot.
MKD600, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Skopje Fortress

Explore the historic Kale Fortress offering panoramic views of Skopje and the Vardar River.
MKD100, 1h0m

4:00pm

Stroll in Old Bazaar

Wander through the lively Old Bazaar, Northern Macedonia’s largest marketplace, filled with traditional crafts, cafes, and mosques.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kamnik

Dine by the river with Macedonian and regional specialties in a pleasant setting.
MKD800, 1h30m
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Day 3: Skopje to Tirana

Skopje, North Macedonia to Tirana, Albania on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at National Coffee House

Grab a quick espresso and a pastry in Skopje’s bustling center before travel.
MKD150, 0h45m

8:30am

Travel from Skopje to Tirana

Drive roughly 4.5 hours south to Tirana, crossing into Albania’s capital with scenic mountain and rural views.
EUR25, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

Enjoy contemporary Balkan cuisine in a stylish setting with excellent local wine selections.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Skanderbeg Square

Visit Tirana’s main plaza featuring the statue of national hero Skanderbeg, surrounded by cultural landmarks.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit National History Museum

Discover Albania's rich history through engaging exhibits located on Skanderbeg Square.
ALL200, 1h30m

6:00pm

Walk through the Blloku district

Enjoy Tirana’s vibrant nightlife and cafes in this trendy neighborhood once restricted during communist era.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Era Restaurant

Feast on authentic Albanian dishes such as qofte in a cozy local ambiance.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 4: Tirana City Tour

Tirana, Albania on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mon Cheri

Enjoy a fresh morning bakery selection and coffee at a popular Tirana café.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Dajti Mountain National Park

Take a cable car ride up Mount Dajti for spectacular panoramic views of Tirana and the surrounding landscape.
EUR15, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Taverna Tafaj

Sample traditional Albanian cuisine in a historical setting close to Tirana center.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Et'hem Bey Mosque

Admire ornate frescoes and Ottoman architecture in this centrally located mosque built in the 18th century.
Free, 0h45m

3:00pm

Explore the National Art Gallery

Browse collections of Albanian and Balkan art highlighting historical and modern works.
ALL150, 1h0m

4:30pm

Departure or leisurely evening in Tirana

Depending on your plans, either prepare for departure or enjoy a last stroll and coffee in the city center.
Variable, Flexible
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