Highlights

• Embarking on a journey from Istanbul to Zagreb offers a rich exploration of diverse cultures, historical sites, and natural landscapes across Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, and Croatia. Here are the highlights you can expect from each destination:
• Istanbul, Turkey: Explore iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of neighborhoods like Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu, sampling delicious Turkish cuisine and experiencing the local culture.
• Bursa (Uludağ), Turkey: Visit the historic city of Bursa, known for its Ottoman architecture, silk production, and thermal baths. Take a cable car ride to Uludağ Mountain for panoramic views and outdoor activities. Kuşadası, Turkey: Relax on the beaches of Kuşadası and explore its vibrant markets and nightlife. Visit nearby ancient sites such as Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.
• Troy, Turkey: Explore the ancient ruins of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its legendary history. Çanakkale and Gallipoli, Turkey: Visit the historic city of Çanakkale and explore its museums and monuments commemorating the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Explore the battlefields, cemeteries, and memorials of Gallipoli, paying homage to the soldiers who fought there. Edirne, Turkey: Discover the Ottoman architecture and cultural heritage of Edirne, including landmarks such as the Selimiye Mosque and the Old Mosque.
• Plovdiv, Bulgaria: Explore the charming old town of Plovdiv, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, colorful 19th-century architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Sofia, Bulgaria: Explore Bulgaria's capital city, Sofia, and discover its mix of ancient ruins, Ottoman mosques, and Soviet-era monuments. Visit landmarks such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sofia Church, and the National Palace of Culture. Sandanski and Melnik, Bulgaria: Relax in the spa town of Sandanski, known for its mineral springs and therapeutic baths. Visit the picturesque town of Melnik, famous for its wine production and unique sandstone formations.
• Thessaloniki, Greece: Explore Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki, and its rich history dating back to ancient times. Visit landmarks such as the White Tower, Rotunda of Galerius, and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. Vergina and Kalambaka, Greece: Visit Vergina, the site of ancient Aigai, the first capital of Macedon, and explore its Royal Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the stunning rock formations and monasteries of Meteora in Kalambaka.
• Skopje and Ohrid, North Macedonia: Discover the capital city of Skopje and its eclectic mix of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern architecture. Explore the charming town of Ohrid, situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, and its medieval old town, Byzantine churches, and ancient theater. Tirana, Albania: Explore the vibrant capital city of Tirana and discover its eclectic mix of Ottoman, Italian, and communist-era architecture. Visit landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the National History Museum. Budva and Kotor, Montenegro: Relax on the beaches of Budva, a popular resort town on the Adriatic coast, known for its sandy beaches, medieval old town, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor, nestled between mountains and the Bay of Kotor, and discover its medieval architecture and ancient fortress.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," and explore its well-preserved medieval walls, cobblestone streets, and baroque architecture. Mostar and Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Explore the picturesque town of Mostar, famous for its Ottoman-era bridge, Stari Most, spanning the Neretva River. Discover the diverse culture and turbulent history of Sarajevo, Bosnia's capital city, known for its mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences. Visočica Hill and Travnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Explore the mysterious Visočica Hill, believed by some to be the site of ancient pyramids, and visit the Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun archaeological park. Discover the charming town of Travnik, known for its Ottoman-era architecture, including the colorful houses along the riverfront.
• Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Discover the natural beauty of Bihać, situated on the banks of the Una River, and visit landmarks such as the Una National Park and the 13th-century Bihać Fort. Ljubljana and Bled, Slovenia: Explore the charming capital city of Slovenia, Ljubljana, known for its picturesque old town, leafy riverbanks, and lively cultural scene. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Bled, with its iconic island church, medieval castle, and stunning Alpine scenery.
• Zagreb, Croatia: Conclude your journey in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, and explore its historic Upper Town and modern Lower Town. Visit landmarks such as St. Mark's Church, Zagreb Cathedral, Ban Jelačić Square, and the Museum of Broken Relationships.