Best Balkan Private Tours – 6 Countries

What is better than booking the best Balkan Private Tours so you can explore all the corners of the place you like, and learn the information and ask questions without being interrupted? The best Balkan Private Tours by Sondor Travel will overwhelm you with unforgettable natural wonders, cultural attractions, ancient temples, and recent past monuments.

Best Balkan Private Tours – Albania

Tirana and Kruja Day Trip

Kruja

We will pick you up at Scanderbeg Square in Tirana, 8:30 am, and drive you up to Kruja town, where you’ll experience a step back in medieval history by visiting the castle and Scanderbeg Museum.
Kruja was the most important town for the Albanians during the 15th century which withstood successfully at least 3 major sieges by the Ottoman Empire.
The medieval hero Gjergj Kastrioti called “Scanderbeg” is considered not only by Albanians as a symbol of resistance and savior but also by ottomans who believed that a supernatural force dwelled in him.
Therefore after his death, they destroyed his tomb and took parts of his bones to keep them as a charm for good luck. Walk in the Old Bazaar full of old shops that sell traditional handmade items.

Skanderbeg Square, Tirana

Next will drive you to Tirana, the capital of Albania.
As you walk around the Scanderbeg square, you’ll see an interesting complex of the building which reflects the periods that have influenced Tirana’s architecture.
Only the Clock Tower and Et’hem Bey Mosque remain as reminders of the city’s Ottoman past.
The communist government left its own footprint by destroying the Ottoman Bazaar and building the new Opera and Ballet House on the site.

Tirana

The next stop on the itinerary is Et’hem Bey Mosque, where you’ll learn about the difficulties faced by the clergy especially after 1967 when freedom of religious expression was prohibited.
The mosque was built in 1821 by Et’hem Bey in a typical Turkish style.
Continue to King’s Palace and National Martyrs Boulevard. Here you’ll get to know a piece of the daily life of former dictator Enver Hoxha, by visiting the pyramid, meant to be a museum for his life and the “Bllok” zone where he and other communist leaders lived in.
The area that was once prohibited for people is now the most favorite neighborhood for young people, businesses, and coffee shops.
In the end, around 3:30 pm, we will take you back to Scanderbeg square, in the center of Tirana city, where we started our day and here your wonderful tour is over.

Ardenica and Apollonia Day Trip from Tirana

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the ancient Greek architecture of Apollonia and explore the ancient marvels of the Ardenica Monastery on the Ardenica and Apollonia day trip from Tirana.

While discovering these two sites that are a hidden gem in Albania you will be speechless at what they have to offer. Apollonia is located on the banks of the last wild river in Europe, the Vjosa River. The pillars and theater of Apollonia will remind you of the days when Greeks used to believe in Gods and built houses for them.

Apollonia isn’t a modern, occupied city. Instead, it is the ruins of a city that used to be a major port and departure point for travelers along the Via Egnatia. Today it is an archeological park and museum open to the public with footpaths and sights spread over several hectares.

Apolonia is the oldest city in Albania

Once upon a time here began one of the most important streets connecting the West with the East, or Rome with Constantinople. Apolonia is the oldest city in Albania, one of the largest in the Adriatic basin, and the most famous among the 30 other cities of the same name, of ancient times.

Apollonia is one of the largest archeological centers in Albania. Written testimonies show that the ancient Illyrian city was built in the first years of the 6th century BC in 588 by colonists coming from Corinth and Korkyra after they found the Epidam – Dyrrah.

Earlier in this area was an Illyrian settlement, with the arrival of colonists the city was named Apolloni in honor of the god Apollo. The geographic position of the city has played an important role, so Apollonia was erected not far from the sea, communicating through the Vjosa River (Aoos) in a rich area of ​​southern Illyria inhabited by the Illyrian tribes of Taulants.

The ancient city is part of the UNESCO heritage list. The site is very well preserved and shows you about the past. Apollonia’s Beauty has attracted many visitors. Considering Apollonia a great and important city of the past. Things that you can see from the ruins that are almost perfect.

Ardenica and Apollonia Day Trip from Tirana

Situated on the top of the hill this lovely place gives the chance to get back in middle age history. Once you walk in the guy who looks after this place welcomes you and guides you in the Monastery. This place is so relaxing and peaceful, the original pictures from Kostandin Shpataraku are amazing.

Accordingly to the Albanian Encyclopedia, a stone with an inscription bears the date of its construction in 1417. The Ardenica Monastery consists of the Church of St. Mary and the chapel of St. Triada. The Church of St. Mary according to the inscription on the murals was built in 1743 and was painted two years later by Athenian painters and Constantine Zografi.

The iconostasis bears several icons belonging to Constantine the Swordsman, among which there is an icon of St. John Vladimir. The church features a triple basilica with a flat ceiling.

Moreover, on this day trip to Apollonia from Tirana, you will get to see Ardenica and the monastery. The monastery is located on the gorgeous hills of Ardenica. It is one of the most spiritual places you will visit in Albania. Why so remains to be discovered when you are there. It is a hidden jewel and a marvel of Albania’s landmarks.

Book the Balkan Private Tour of Ardenica and Apollonia day trip from Tirana, a tour of wonderful discoveries. Ardenica and Apollonia should be visited when in Albania. Visit Albania, a country that has a lot to offer.

Best Balkan Private Tours from Tirana

Berat Day Trip in From Tirana

Berat Day Trip from Tirana with a private guide will show you the best of Berat in a day.

Firstly, visiting Berat city is a unique experience of your lifetime. Berat is one of the most historic and oldest cities in Albania. That said, it can easily fill your entire day with beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and deep heritage. This UNESCO-protected site is divided into three large neighborhoods; Mangalem, Gorica, and the medieval castle. The Osum River forms the border between the first two.

In this tour of Berat from Tirana, you will see that the city is influenced by several civilizations. The city lies on the banks of river Osumi and it’s surrounded by mountains. In the background of the city, you can see the mountain of Tomorr. Behind the mountain is a legend that says that the mountain was a giant who fought with another giant called Shpirag (the other mountain) over a girl. For this reason, the giants killed each other and became mountains. And the girl drowned in her tears and became the Osumi River.

Berat Day Trip From Tirana with a hint of the castle

Berat’s beautiful old castle tops our list of the best attractions in Berat. It is located on the top of a hill, and it is the perfect place to admire the town from above. The small town inside the castle’s walls is one of the most enchanting places you’ll see in Albania. There are even a few people that still live there. The area looks magical with its ancient ruins, wildflowers, and small courtyards.

Onufri National Museum is located in the inner part of “Saint Mary Church” in Berat Castel. The Museum is called “Onufri” in honor of the Albanian painting Headmaster of XVI Century. The Cathedral was rebuilt in 1797, and it is the most representative monument of post-Byzantine architecture in Berat town. Within, find 173 objects chosen from a fund of 1500 objects belonging to the fund of Albanian Churches and Monasteries as well as to Berat. You can find 106 Icons and 67 Liturgical objects created by Albanian Iconographical painters during the XIV-XX centuries.

While still within the castle neighborhood, head to the Holy Trinity Church. Be sure not to miss this stop as, along with its beautiful architecture, you will get a nice chance to see more of the castle grounds. From here, you will get the best views of the Tomorr and Shpirag mountains as well as learn about their haunting legend.

It is worth mentioning that on this day trip from Tirana to Berat you will learn that the old city is divided into three parts, Mangalem, the castle, and Gorica.

Explore the city of one thousand windows or rows upon rows. One of the oldest inhabited cities in Albania.  A city you can visit all year round.

It is important to realize why Berat is on the UNESCO heritage list, this city is called the museum of Albania. It also has a historic architecture of the Ottoman period. And it is one of the few cities with an inhabited castle nowadays.

Berat Day Trip From Tirana is a tour to remember.

Food Tour in Tirana

Food Tour in Tirana will walk you through the New Bazaar in Tirana.

The New Bazaar of Tirana is the place where everyone can find things for themselves. This place is the oldest newly renovated. The Bazaar lately has changed its facade into a more modern look. However it’s a place where even those who do not speak English will find a way to communicate with you. This the capital’s newest tourist destination.

In this Food Tour in Tirana, you will find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products. All of them are local products by local farmers and presented in the New Bazaar. But you will also find fish and meat, wine and raki. Even souvenirs to take home with you. Not to mention the beautiful colorful buildings around it.

The vibe around the place is completely positive, with a mix of the old-style and new styles. Around the bazaar, there are many restaurants and places to try traditional food.

Food Tour in Tirana and what you will learn

During this tour, you will sample many local, traditionally cooked dishes (adding up to quite a big meal, so come hungry!). You will learn the history of Tirana, the influences of the social climate of the last few centuries, and how Tirana itself affected the lifestyle of the surrounding area. You’ll then see how all of this culminated in our modern lifestyle, cuisine, architecture, and Albanian traditions.

Starting from Skanderbeg Square, your path will take you past the Ethem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower on your way to the New Bazaar. Kornacka Korca meatballs paired with beer brewed both locally and in surrounding regions will start your tour through the dairy, meat, and fish market stands of the Bazaar. Next up on the menu are locally grown grapes, figs, blackberries, cherries, pears, plums, apricots, olives, seeds, nuts, baked desserts, and baklava.
By the end of the tour, you won’t be able to eat another bite, and the memories you’ve made and the knowledge you’ve acquired will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Meanwhile, in this food tour in Tirana, you will be learning more about Tirana’s social and culinary culture.

If you’re a foodie and love traveling you should book this tour.

Ohrid Day Trip from Tirana

Ohrid Day Trip from Tirana is a tour that will show you the side of Ohrid that you have never seen. A trip that takes you back in time, to a city that is protected by UNESCO.

Ohrid is named after the lake, and it has been many years considered as the Jerusalem of Balkans for the many churches it consists of. It must be remembered, that you can see the churches are spread all around the city so you can choose whichever you would like. One of the most beautiful and important churches is St.Sophia. A Byzantine church with historical importance. During the Ottoman period, they converted the church into a mosque.

Meanwhile, it is a beautiful city with picturesque views, monuments, and houses. However, Ohrid’s bazaar is a must to see in the city, the street where it’s located is named after St Clement. The old town of Ohrid dates back to the Ottoman period, and it consists of cobblestone narrow streets with beautiful old houses. Walking the streets of Ohrid in this Ohrid Day Trip from Tirana is a must, you will feel the old parts of the city become one with your soul, as you walk by the lake where the only thing you can do is dream about the people who walked Ohrid before you.

Ohrid Day Trip from Tirana Itinerary

We start at the old part of the town and stop at the Lower Gate and the Museum of Robevi (the Robevi family) What follows is a tour of the church of St Sophia which dates from the 11th century and then go up to the Roman amphitheater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Afterward continue walking to the Icon Gallery, which shows a range of some of the most famous and valuable icons in the world right after the ones on Athos and in Russia.

In the vicinity of the gallery is the church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivleptos (St Clement’s Church of the Holy Mother of God Most Glorious) which dates from the 13th century and possesses some of the most beautiful and valuable frescoes from the 13th century not only in our country but in the Balkans as well.

After that, carry on walking to Tsar Samoil’s Fortress which was named after the first tsar of the Macedonian Slavs, who having conquered Byzantium, brought most of Macedonia under his rule. Then walk to Plaoshnik, the place where we visit the newly built St Clement’s Monastery Church which is dedicated to St Clement (the patron of Ohrid) and St Pantelejmon, and which stands beside the original site of St Clement’s University, the first university of the Macedonian Slavs started in the 9th century AD.

Inside the church, you can also see the tomb with St Clement’s relics. Beside the church, you can see the foundations of the 5th-century basilica with beautifully preserved mosaic floors and some swastikas also discovered on the floors.

From here head towards the Church of St Jovan at Kaneo, which was built at the end of the 13th century, and is one of the most frequently visited churches in Ohrid because of its beautiful location on the cliffs directly above the lake. After this go back to the town on foot. Another option is to return to the town by boat and at the same time to make a tour of the lake providing you with a great view of the town.

Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle from your Tirana hotel to Ohrid. With a licensed tour guide, explore the harbor area and the many churches that dot the town, including St. Sophia, St. Clement’s Church of the Holy Mother of God Most Glorious, and St. Pantelejmon. After your Ohrid day trip from Tirana, we drive you back to your hotel in Tirana.

This Ohrid Day Trip from Tirana will be amazing. A trip is full of history, adventure, and beautiful views A trip of Ohrid to remember.

Best Balkan Private Tours – Kosovo

Best Kosovo Day Trip from Skopje

Join the Kosovo day trip from Skopje. A trip where we will drive towards the beautiful city of Prishtina. But, not only that you will get to soak up amazing views on the way. Kosovo is a beautiful country with great landscapes. A few years ago on February 17, 2008, Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia after many years of oppression.

The trip from Skopje to Kosovo is a gorgeous journey through beautiful sceneries, but the moment you cross the border you will see the newly constructed road that is one of the best highways in Kosovo. However, it can be tricky to travel from Macedonia to Kosovo so we offer our comfortable vehicles which will make the trip more enjoyable.

Visit Kosovo and discover their love for America

Before reaching Prishtina, there are some billboards that are thanking America. The level of love towards America in Kosovo almost seems unreal. There’s a Statue of Liberty on top of a building. Also, there is a Bill Clinton statue, a boulevard named after him, and a long banner with Bill Clinton on it.

Kosovo is pretty cheap and hospitable too. If you can tie a trip to Kosovo from Macedonia then all the better, as it will be a pleasant experience in both countries.

Kosovo has a lot to offer as its war was recent and it has been built in a short time. This day on its day of independence Kosovo unveiled a monument, the NEWBORN typographic sculpture. In Prishtina, you will visit the NEWBORN typographic sculpture which they build as a result of Kosovo’s freedom.

They have agreed that the letters would be repainted each year to annually celebrate another year of freedom. Newborn an English word, in a country that speaks Albanian, represents the birth of a new country, a democratic and modern country,

Then we will head towards the National Library of Kosovo, which is built in a prison-like theme to show that even though Kosovo was conquered so many years now it is looking towards the future, as the books are the future of every nation. This building looks like it’s ready for battle! It’s covered in a cage- not tubular, but straight-edged steel! It has that Brutalist architecture design it looks amazing. The library is enormous.

Kosovo Day Trip from Skopje and Visit at the Cathedral of Mother Teresa.

Even though Kosovo is mainly a Muslim country, they build a cathedral for the minority of the Orthodox Community, and it’s an important landmark. The church is beautiful and stands tall just outside the city center. The inside is really pretty, as it is very simple and nothing was overdone.

Visit the second Scanderbeg Square in the world, which is located in Kosovo. Both. Kosovo and Albania were united in heart, they have the same National Hero for whom both countries are proud. Skanderbeg is one of the greatest Balkan freedom fighters in history, and statues are erected to him in both Pristina and Tirana Albania, which itself is symbolic of the blood that runs between these two great nations.

The statue is monolithic, as is Skanderbeg’s legacy.
Behind the statue is a very quiet and well-shaded plaza, excellent to stop and take a break from the powerful summer sun.

Also, not to forget is the Ethnographic Museum which shows how life was in Kosovo. The housing complex was constructed by the Gjinolli family or Emin Gjiku who then migrated to Turkey in the years 1958–59. Later on, the Natural Museum was opened in this housing complex. In 2006, a permanent ethnological exhibition of the Kosovo museum was set in this housing complex.

The few rooms on display give the visitors a good idea of how people lived and their relationship with visitors that they were obliged to welcome. The artifacts are colorful and many. When you step into the house, you take a step back in time.

Book the Kosovo Day Trip from Skopje and discover the newest country in the Balkans.

Bear Sanctuary Prishtina

These two days will take us to experience wildlife and history. We will take you to one of the most beautiful towns in Kosovo and visit the Bear Sanctuary in Prishtina.

Moreover, together we are going to visit and experience the history of this place. A historical place set on the banks of River Bistrica and the slopes of Mountain Sharri We visit the Fortress over the town hill, (appropriate footwear recommended). Next, we visit the Museum of the League of Prizren. Also another important landmark for the locals and at the same time a touristic destination.

It is the Mehmet Pasha Hamam, an old Turkish bath.

Next, we will take a walk through Carshia e Vjeter, and admire old architectural buildings such as Sinan Pasha Mosque, St George Orthodox Cathedral, and many traditional small shops. Prizren’s best-known museum is dedicated to the political party that has traditionally advocated for the rights of ethnic Albanians in Kosovo.

Also, the traditional houses and grounds are beautiful; inside there’s a small display of costumes and an art gallery.

Bear Sanctuary Prishtina

Next, we will take you to meet the wildlife, located in Prishtina this amazing bear sanctuary will actually take you on a hiking trip to see these wonderful creatures.

BEAR SANCTUARY Prishtina is located 20 kilometers from the capital of Kosovo near the village of Mramor. The land allocated for the sanctuary by the Municipality of Prishtina covers an area of 16 hectares. Currently, approx. 10 hectares have been developed and provide a near-natural habitat and lifelong home to brown bears formerly kept as restaurant bears in Kosovo and Albania.

Three of the bears, now living here, were bought when they were only a few weeks old and kept illegally as pets by Kosovan families. They were discovered and confiscated by the Kosovan police and transferred to BEAR SANCTUARY Prishtina in spring 2014. Here, the bears have the chance to live under professional supervision and in an environment suited to their species.

Moreover, in this place, you will learn information about the bears. And a guide will follow you all around your trip.

Prizren Day Trip from Tirana

Prizren Tour from Tirana is the city break tour that you need while you are spending your time in Tirana. A tour that starts with a 2.30 minutes hour drive and a cross border check takes you to the beautiful town of Prizren.  Located on the slopes of Mount Sharri and the banks of River Bistrica, Prizren is a delight for everyone who visits it. Prizren was founded in the 11th century on the ruins of ancient Theranda, first mentioned in 1019 at the time of Basil II (976–1025 A.D.)

Prizren tour and history

A place that has a fortress is always an important place. Uphill overlooking the city since the Ottoman Era is situated the castle of Prizren. However archaeological remains that are found at this part date to 1100 BC. The first fortress was built during the Byzantine Era. Next, we will take you to the league of Prizren. Albanian League, in full League for the Defense of the Rights of the Albanian Nation, also called League of Prizren, first Albanian nationalist organization. Formed at Prizren (now in Kosovo) on July 1, 1878. A place really important for both countries.

After that, we will walk through the Carshia e Vjeter and admire the old architectural buildings that make everyone stare and then you will walk through small souvenir shops and see the Sinan Hoxha Mosque and the St. George’s orthodox cathedral. Also, you will pass through the stone bridge where everyone locks keys to lock their love.

The end of the Prizren tour from Tirana comes at Tek Syla restaurant which is widely known for its grilled specialties and you can have a Kosovan traditional lunch.

Best Balkan Private Tours – Montenegro

Kotor and Budva Tour

Kotor and Budva tour will take you to explore one of the most beautiful parts of Montenegro. A UNESCO protected place. The fjord-like setting of the Bay of Kotor (“Boko”) is the highlight of this tour. The Bay of Kotor and Boka Bay is undoubtedly fabulous places and have Magnificent 360-degree panoramic views. Surrounded by mountains on three sides & face out towards the Adriatic Sea.

The Kotor and Budva Tour will take you between the wedged mountains and the atmospheric areas of Kotor. A place surrounded by slopes, the town of which has medieval mazes of museums, churches, cafes, and Venetian palaces and pillories. A stunningly dramatical and delightful place where the past and the present are visible on each step you will take. The cobblestone streets, the iron balconies, and the cats that wander through the city will take you back to another period of time.

Montenegro’s Kotor Bay (Boka Kotorska) is often called Europe’s most southernmost fjord. Which truly looks like one because of the rocky coastline and towering peaks that is surrounded with. And at the same time one of the best-preserved medieval towns of southeast Europe.

You will get to see the Lady of the Rocks which has a legend. According to local legend, two brothers returned to Perast after a dangerous voyage on the 22nd July 1452, one of them had an injured leg. As they passed St George, the 12th-century monastery built on the natural island when they saw something on the rocky outcrop.

Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough rock to build a church on at the time, so they had started to drop rocks and scuttle old boats around the spot until there was an island to build a church on. Eventually, other sailors began to drop rocks on the spot as they headed out to sea in hope of being protected while away. By 1484, 32 years after the icon was found, there was an island with a chapel on it.”

Another step on the way is the Sveti Stefan. Sveti Stefan, once a fortified village dating back to the 15th century. Today, the island’s cluster of sturdy stone buildings together with Villa Miločer, a graceful stone manse on the mainland across the bay.

Kotor and Budva Tour – Exploring Budva

Next, in this tour of Kotor and Budva, is the coastal city of Budva.

Once a small and quiet coastal town, today, Budva is a metropolis of Montenegrin tourism and one of the loudest and most packed towns at the Montenegrin coast during the summer. It is one of the most attractive coastal cities of Montenegro and the old part of the city is the jewel on the crown.

It is said it dates back to the 5th century as a town. As an illustration of that, you will feel the Italian presence around the city as the walls surrounding the old town of Budva are of Venetian influence.  Along the banks of the port you are going to see many beautiful yachts a testimony of the city’s attractiveness.

Witness the beauty Kotor Old Town and enjoy panoramic views of Sveti Stefan Island, Our Lady of Rocks and Saint George Island.

This Kotor and Budva Tour will leave you breathless.

Day Tour of Cetinje and Njegos Mausoleum from Kotor

A wise man once said, “Every place you will visit will become a part of you one day”.

And that’s what we intend to bring through this experience as we invite you to visit some of the most brilliant sites of Montenegro. We guarantee that you will be amazed and stunned by the beautiful nature and the kind people that live there. A variety of experiences awaits you.

Explore the Royal Capital of Cetinje, the historical and cultural capital of this beautiful city. Cetinje has the unusual privilege of being part of two national parks.

The old town is surrounded by the mountains of the Lovćen National Park and the waters of the Skadar Lake National Park are close to its commercial center. The Lovćen National Park in the Dinara Alps encompasses Mount Lovćen, the Black Mountain from which Montenegro gets its name.

See the Njegos Mausoleum in Cetinje, in a day tour from Kotor.

Peter II ( Petrovic Njegos ) is purportedly the greatest Montenegrin ruler, poet, philosopher. His Mausoleum is on top of the second-highest mountain on the coast – Jezierski – & it requires considerable effort to get up to view it.
There is a tunnel through the base of the approach with 461 steps requiring some level of fitness! When you emerge you are spectacularly rewarded with views that drop away at your feet.

The museum belongs to Petrovic Njegos, a ruler and poet of Montenegro.

To mention is that his Mausoleum is considered to be top of the world, as it’s on the second-highest mountain in Montenegro. To climb to the mausoleum is an adventure itself.

As the trio there consists of 461 steps. Meanwhile, from there you can see the most beautiful parts of Montenegro.

The view doesn’t disappoint.

Everywhere around this city there is something to see.

With its numerous historic buildings, museums, music, art, and the acting school remains still the center of culture, history, and education of Montenegro.

This Day Tour of Cetinje and Njegos Mausoleum from Kotor will leave you amazed.

Best Balkan Private Tours – Macedonia

Skopje Walking Tour

Skopje Walking Tour takes you to the capital city of Macedonia. Skopje is a city that is ever-changing, every year it is evolving and developing. It is located on the upper course of the Vardar River with a view that looks almost dreamy. One of the main spots is Skopje’s Stone Bridge on the Vardar River which is very picturesque. Skopje has a lot of sites that date back to the Roman-Era.

The city of Skopje includes the Kale fortress which will give you a view over the entire city. Also, the Carsija or old bazaar will give you an insight into how the city was in the past, in this part of the city you will find old mosques, tombs, and churches. However, if you are looking for a souvenir this is your place to go.

Skopje is divided into two parts, one includes the Old-Bazaar and the other one includes the new part. Skopje’s new part is surrounded by different art-work. In 1963 this city was destroyed by a huge earthquake and nowadays in the rebuild project the government wanted to instill some national pride in the people, so they built all the statues which glorify the city and nation. For this reason, Skopje is known as the city of many statues.

We will meet you in front of Mustafa Pasha Mosque after its visit, we visit the Church of the Holy Savior as well. This is a small church in the center of Skopje at the back of the old bazaar. There is very impressive hand-carved iconography which is about 8 x 3 meters and was done by only 3 craftsmen. It is the oldest preserved church in Skopje. It does not look like a church because during the Ottoman empire, while churches were tolerated they could not be visible from outside, therefore this church is partly underground and has no spire or tower.

Then we continue walking through the Old Bazaar where two other caravansaries can be seen. All of the bazaar itself is a leftover from the Ottoman Empire. It makes up much of Skopje’s old part, which survived a terrible earthquake in ’63 when the other parts didn’t. Filled with old shops for handmade clothing, shoes, but also some of the best shops for sweets.

There you can see the Turkish Baths – Couples Hammam and Daut Pasha Hammam, both of them date back to the 15th century. This Hamam was the center of happening during the Ottoman period in Macedonia. Today is an art gallery. In past times the Old Bazar was the center of economic and trading life in Skopje, built some time in the 18th century, now is a place of tranquility and art and cultural exhibitions and happenings.

Skopje walking tour around the new part

The tour continues to the modern part of the city on the right bank of the Vardar River. Before we cross the Stone Bridge, one of the oldest monuments in Skopje, we can see from a short distance the Holocaust Memorial Center and the Macedonian War of Independence, IMRO, and the Victims of Communism, Kalaja Kale.

On the Skopje walking tour, you will get to see many of those statues which in total are 300 hundred.

So walkthrough Skopje streets and let your guide walk you through the old part of the city. You will admire the artworks in the new part of Skopje. This walking tour of Skopje in 2 hours includes also the useful insight, fun-filled and informative walks about history, society, and architecture. During the Skopje walking tour, you’ll also take useful information about places that might be interesting for you.

Best Balkan Private Tours – Croatia

Dubrovnik Walking Tour

Dubrovnik Walking Tour and your local guide will show you about the Old Part of Dubrovnik Town. You will explore its monuments including the Franciscan Monastery, the monuments in Stradun, the Cathedral of the Assumption, and more.

In Dubrovnik Walking Tour you will see

Stradun is one of the main streets in Dubrovnik. It is the point that divides the old town into two or more parts northern and southern. Stradun is stretched from the Pile Gate to the Old Towns Port.  It is a pedestrian street and it is the city’s main promenade.  It is the venue of all public feasts and processions, but also the main business street of the City core. with beautiful late-Renaissance houses on each side, runs along a valley that, until 1272, was a marshy channel dividing the Latin island of Ragusa from the forest settlement of Dubrovnik.

The Franciscan Monastery complex contains a Monastery, church, museum, library, and the third oldest Old Pharmacy. A beautiful cloister garden is hidden away from the madness that is your average sightseeing day in Dubrovnik. Peaceful and silent despite being in the heart of the old city this is a tiny and unexpected oasis of green within historic architecture.

Founded in 1317 with the monastery, the pharmacy is the third oldest in Europe and still a working chemist for the city’s inhabitants. Centuries ago, the scent of mint and sage would float from the adjoining rooms down the beautiful cloisters.

Nowadays the old pharmacy contains a small exhibition, showcasing the equipment and manuscripts the monks used, buried in which are formulas referring to elixirs intended for all different purposes: to prolong youth, improve memory, and even preserve peace in the marriage. Though there’s little else to see, the monastery is an ideal place to visit, a haven in the heart of a bustling city. Enjoy the serenity as you walk through the cloisters surrounding the courtyard filled with orange trees.

Dubrovnik Walking Tour and more

The Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dubrovnik. The local legend says the cathedral was founded by Richard the Lion Heart in the 1190s. After being shipwrecked upon his return from the Crusades, Richard vowed to give money for the building of a church if his life was spared. The Cathedral was destroyed in an earthquake of 1667.

On either side of the front of the cathedral are four Corinthian columns and the statues of Saint Blaise (patron saint of Dubrovnik) and Joseph with Child.
The inside has a high nave, separated by massive columns from the two aisles, three apses, and a grand Baroque dome, which is under repair again, by local stonemasons.

The cathedral is built at the same site where several Cathedrals existed earlier. Sacred facades, Corinthian columns, a statue of St.Blaisias, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, a treasury consisting of reliquaries from old masters including from Byzantium, Venice, and the Orient can be seen here. Golden symbols St. Blaisias are preserved here.

What else to expect on Dubrovnik Walking Tour

Onofrio’s Fountain opposite the Church of Holy Salvation, next to the Pile Gates, is the magnificent fountain built by Onofrio Della Cava. It was damaged by the earthquake but its beauty remains. It was erected as a celebration of the completion of the waterworks in 1438. The beauty and the architecture of the fountain and the clean water are preserved well nowadays.

Sponza Palace located at the end of Stradun in Old Town is a superb example reflecting a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance styles from the 16th century. The Palace once served as customs office, bonded warehouse, mint, armory, treasury, bank, and school. Presently there is an exhibition named “Memorial of Dubrovnik Defenders” dedicated to those martyrs who sacrificed their lives in recent war ( 1992-1995) also important symbols, flags, and other related items.

This place is also a host City’s Archives. There is an admission ticket. At the time of my visit, some arrangements are in progress for some official ceremony. The windows on the first floor second floor and Portico reflect rich ornamental Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.

Enjoy the personal experience of the Dubrovnik walking tour while you learn about the heritage and ancient culture of the city.

Walking Lokrum Island Tour

oin Lokrum Island Tour and learn from your local guide about the history and architecture of Lokrum island. Also, about the legends of this monument to nature and landscape architecture. Lokrum Island is located only a 15-minute ferry ride from the historical center of Dubrovnik. So, it is a great, leisurely walking away from the maddening crowds.

Lokrum Island Tour is the perfect tour for nature lovers. Some of the most remarkable plant communities of the Mediterranean climate are visible here on a small surface, due to which the island has been proclaimed as a Special Reserve of Forest Vegetation.

The forested part of the island is covered with an interweaving network of trails that rise and descend through the cool shade of old pine trees, evergreen oaks, and groves of laurel trees. Botanical gardens house collections of eucalyptus, cactus, and succulents from all ends of the earth, and some of the trees in the Olive Grove are more than 300 years old. Very popular are spectacular peacocks, the symbol of Lokrum, and adorable rabbits wandering around to keep you company.

Join the Lokrum Island Tour

The magic continues at places like Dead Sea Lake, Charlotte’s well, the complex of Benedictine Monastery, the church of Annunciation, or when you walk up The Path of Paradise to Royal Fortress on top of the island and visit Lazaret or the Cross of Triton. Lokrum is also the island of many legends of which most popular are The Lokrum Curse and Richard the Lionheart shipwreck.

Tour of Dubrovnik with a visit to Franciscan Monastery

Accompanied by an experienced guide, who will entertain you with interesting details and stories. In Dubrovnik & Franciscan Monastery Tour, you will be given a tour that covers all the major sights of Dubrovnik’s Old City. Such as Stradun, Onofrio’s Fountain, St. Saviour’s church, the church of St Blaise, the Cathedral, Rector’s Palace; Sponza Palace, Orlando’s Column and many more.

In this Dubrovnik tour, you will learn that the city has a remarkable history everyone should hear.

You will witness the beauty of this city that is for those who seek paradise on earth.

Set on the most beautiful coast of Adriatic, Dubrovnik is of rare beauty.

The tour also includes a visit to the Museum at Franciscan Monastery. Which houses Old Pharmacy, one of the oldest in this part of the world a church and a library.

We start the Dubrovnik & Franciscan Monastery Tour through the city’s history from the Pile’s Gate. We first visit the Franciscan Monastery and then proceed to admire other marvelous monuments of this Pearl of Adriatic.

Seasonality – All year-round. Note that the Summer Working hours for Museum at the Franciscan Monastery (last Sunday in March – last Sunday in October) are 9 am – 6 pm. And Working hours in winter are 9 am – 2 pm

Best Balkan Private Tours – Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo Tunnel Tour

The Sarajevo Tunnel tour takes you back in time. The Sarajevo Tunnel is an underground tunnel that represents the Bosnian War. Now the Tunnel is turned into a museum. Moreover, this tunnel was dug by hands with shovels and picks. This tunnel used to connect two neighborhoods with the free parts of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War. It is a landmark of historical importance as people used it to transport food, clothes and medical aids to other parts of the city. The construction of this tunnel began in secret in 1993.

The workers of this tunnel used to work 8 hours per day and were paid 1 pack of cigarettes a day. Moreover, in this tour, you will get to see the Eternal flame that is located near the Central Sarajevo The flame is a real memorial for the military and civilian victims of Sarajevo during WWII. From there you can see other important landmarks of Sarajevo. Sarajevo suffered from major wars that destroyed it. The wars aimed for ethnic cleansing and were proceeded by a major genocide. Nowadays the city is rebuilt but still wounds from the past remain noticeable. Book this Sarajevo Tunnel tour and see in the museum, life during the war years.

Romeo and Juliet Tour Sarajevo

Romeo and Juliet Bridge tour takes you Sarajevo’s historical part. The bridge is located over the Miljacka River in Sarajevo. The bridge is a typical bridge with simple architecture that offers great views. However, the bridge has a history and that is the reason it is worthy of a visit. Nowadays it is a symbolic landmark because of a story that reminds that of Romeo and Juliet. However, the story is slightly different. There was a couple who was much in love and lived during the Bosnian War. The girl was Bosnian and the guy was a Bosnian Serb.

Moreover, one was Muslim and the other Orthodox. They had agreed to flee the country to enjoy their love in the Netherlands. They woke one morning ready to leave everything behind and as soon as they reached the bridge they were shot by a Serb Sniper. Moreover, it was in the same spot where two girls named Olga and Suada were killed a year ago.

The girl was alive for 15 minutes after the shooting and she crawled near her love’s chest and died with him. However, nobody approached the couple for about 8 days until the Serbian Army took them. Only the boy’s mother was allowed at the funeral. Later on, the bridge is named The Romeo and Juliet Bridge to honor the couple who portray the war. Book this tour of Romeo and Juliet in Sarajevo and learn a story that belongs to books but this time in reality.

These are some of our best Balkan private tours you can do in a day. However, we offer multi-day tours.