9 days Balkans Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest

Discover the Balkans in Style and Comfort
This 9-day guided tour from Bucharest to Budapest is designed for travelers eager to see some of Europe’s most captivating corners without the hassle of planning every detail. It covers nine countries, including Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Hungary, with key stops like Rila Monastery, Ohrid, and Mostar. For a bit over a week, you’ll be traveling in a climate-controlled vehicle, staying in comfortable 3-star hotels, and starting each day with a hearty breakfast.

We love how this tour simplifies the logistics of such a complex itinerary—no need to worry about transport, accommodations, or organizing guides at each stop. The group size, capped at 46, helps keep the experience intimate enough to enjoy meaningful conversations and insights. On the downside, some might find the long drives between destinations tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to extended road travel.

If you’re someone who enjoys culture, stunning scenery, and authentic local guides, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for travelers with moderate fitness—able to handle walking tours and some small steps into hotels—but who want a well-organized, value-packed journey through this vibrant region.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Climate-controlled vehicle ensures a smooth ride across diverse terrains.
• Authentic Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides at key stops enrich your understanding of local history and culture.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: A one-way tour that avoids backtracking, maximizing your experience.
• Balanced Mix of Sightseeing and Relaxation: Daily hotel stays and breakfasts keep you energized for adventures.
• Cultural Highlights: UNESCO sites, historic towns, and lively city centers give you a genuine taste of the Balkans.
• Price for Value: At around $1,157 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive journey with expert guides and quality accommodations.

Exploring the Full Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Bucharest to Lovech via Devetashka Cave and Krushunskiye Waterfalls

Your adventure begins bright and early at University Square in Bucharest. The first stop is the Devetashka Cave, a spectacularly lit karst formation with lush greenery on the floor—hard to believe it’s underground. You’ll get about an hour to explore, but note that admission tickets are not included, so consider bringing some cash if you want to venture inside.

Next, you’ll visit the Krushunskiye Waterfalls, Bulgaria’s largest travertine cascade. The scenery here is breathtaking: terraces, small natural pools, and lush vegetation surround the waterfalls. If you’re a fan of nature photography or simply love scenic spots, you’ll find plenty to love.

Finally, the day ends with an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel in Lovech. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a good base for your first night in Bulgaria. The review from Maritza_M highlights the trip’s scenic value but mentions discomfort in the transportation, which we’ll discuss later.

Day 2: Lovech and Sofia’s Historic Heart

In the morning, you’ll see Lovech’s Covered Bridge, a picturesque construction that unites the two parts of the town over the Osam River. It’s a classic photo stop and a symbol of Lovech’s charm.

Later, you’ll arrive in Sofia, Bulgaria’s lively capital. The city tour includes the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, with its striking gold domes, Saint Sofia Church, the Banya Bashi Mosque, and the Sofia Synagogue. You’ll also stroll down Vitosha Boulevard, the main shopping and dining street.

This mix of religious sites, historical architecture, and buzzing streets offers a well-rounded first impression of Sofia. The guides tend to make these walks engaging, sharing stories that bring the city’s centuries of history alive.

Day 3: The Imposing Rila Monastery and Skopje’s Old Town

Your day starts with a drive to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 10th century, the monastery is a symbol of Bulgarian national identity. You’ll explore the church, which is adorned with impressive frescoes, and walk through the peaceful grounds. The artistic value of the monastery’s interiors makes it a highlight, and it’s a place where you can really connect with Bulgaria’s spiritual roots.

In the evening, you’ll reach Skopje, North Macedonia’s capital. The city’s blend of Ottoman, Balkan, and modern influences makes for an intriguing first impression. An evening orientation walk introduces you to landmarks like the Old Bazaar and the fortress Kale, along with the statue of Alexander the Great in Macedonia Square.

Day 4: Skopje’s Heritage and Ohrid’s Old Town

The morning includes a walking tour of Skopje, with highlights like the Memorial House of Mother Teresa—an important figure born here—and the historic Old Bazaar. The city’s history as a melting pot of cultures shines through in its markets, mosques, and churches.

Later, you’ll transfer to Ohrid, a UNESCO site famous for its ancient churches and beautiful lake. You’ll enjoy a guided walk through the Old Town, visiting the Ancient Theater, the Church of Sveti Sofia, and the Tsar Samuel Fortress. The lake, over three million years old, adds a scenic backdrop to the historic city.

Day 5: Crossing Borders into Tirana

Your journey continues into Albania, with a scenic drive crossing the border into Tirana. The city’s highlights include Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the Ethem Bey Mosque. The city’s lively atmosphere and colorful buildings make it an interesting contrast to the previous stops.

Day 6: Kotor’s Walled Old Town in Montenegro

Arriving in Kotor, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its narrow alleys, historic churches, and fortress walls. The Stari Grad is a favorite for its medieval architecture and stunning views from the fortress above. If you’re a fan of picture-perfect towns, Kotor’s blend of history and coastal scenery won’t disappoint.

Day 7: Mostar and Sarajevo—Bosnia’s Historic Gems

In Mostar, the Old Bridge rebuilt after destruction in 1993 is the star attraction. You’ll learn about its tragic history and watch brave dive performers from the bridge, a tradition that’s been revived since its reconstruction. The Old Town with its cobbled streets and Ottoman-influenced architecture is equally captivating.

Later, your scenic drive to Sarajevo takes you through the Neretva River canyon, offering stunning views, and the city itself unfolds as a layered tapestry of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. The Latin Bridge is where WWI began, making Sarajevo a fascinating mix of history, resilience, and lively street life.

Day 8: Belgrade, Serbia’s Heart

From Sarajevo, you’ll head to Belgrade, where the city offers a mix of Ottoman heritage, modern culture, and riverfront views. Key spots include the Kalemegdan Fortress, the bohemian Skadarlija quarter, and the Victor Monument, overlooking the confluence of the Sava and Danube.

Day 9: From Novi Sad to Budapest

Your final morning includes a stop in Novi Sad, known for the Petrovaradin Fortress and the lively Dunavska Street. After some quick sightseeing, you’ll continue to Budapest, the “Queen of the Danube,” where your tour concludes.

What We Loved About This Tour

The expert guides truly make the difference. They’re passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories that bring each place to life. The sites visited—like Rila Monastery, Ohrid, and Mostar—are genuinely special, and the hotels provide a comfortable base after days of exploration.

Another highlight is the balance between sightseeing and downtime. You get to see a great deal without feeling overwhelmed, and breakfast every morning sets you up for busy days ahead. The scenic drives through mountains, along lakes, and across borders add to the adventure, making the journey as memorable as the destinations.

The value for money is notable. For around $1,157, you get eight nights in good hotels, all transportation, and guides at major sites. The inclusion of breakfast and the ease of booking everything in one package means less stress and more focus on enjoying the experience.

What Could Be Better

Some reviewers, like Maritza_M, mention discomfort with the transportation—specifically, a small van with no captain chairs and long hours on the road. The vehicle’s condition can impact the overall comfort, especially during a 9-day trip. If you’re sensitive to long drives, this might be a consideration.

Plus, admission tickets for sites are not included, so you may want to budget extra for those. The itinerary is quite packed, so travelers should be prepared for moderate walking (2 to 5 hours daily) with some steps into hotels and sites.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love cultural exploration paired with scenic vistas and are comfortable with moderate walking and long drives, this tour offers an excellent way to see the Balkans without the hassle of planning. It’s particularly suitable for history buffs, photographers, and curious travelers eager to get a broad taste of this diverse region.

Travelers who prioritize authentic experiences and guided insights will find this tour rewarding, especially with the chance to meet local guides at key sites. Just be prepared for some full days and bring your sense of adventure—and patience for the roads.

FAQs

How large are the groups?
The tour generally accommodates up to 46 travelers, which is a good size for a balance of socializing and individual space.

Are the hotels comfortable?
Yes, accommodations are in 3-star hotels with breakfast included, offering a comfortable base after long days of exploring.

What’s the transportation like?
Travel is in a climate-controlled vehicle, but some reviews mention that the vehicle might be small with uncomfortable seats. Be prepared for long hours on the road.

Are entrance fees included?
No, tickets for museums and sites are not included, so you should budget for these separately.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It is designed for travelers with moderate fitness, capable of walking for 2-5 hours daily with some steps into hotels and sites.

What are the start and end points?
The tour begins in Bucharest at University Square and concludes in Budapest, at Kerepesi út 2.

Can the itinerary change?
Yes, the order of visits can be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or holidays, but all sites will be visited as planned.

Is tipping included?
No, tipping for guides and drivers is extra—around 5 euros per day per person is typical.

What’s the best time to book?
Confirmation is provided at booking, and the tour is best suited for months when the weather is mild. Early booking can ensure availability, especially in peak seasons.

In summary, this 9-day Balkans tour offers a well-organized and immersive way to see some of the most captivating sights in southeastern Europe. While not perfect for those seeking ultra-luxury or the smoothest ride, it offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and cultural insights—perfect for travelers eager to experience the region’s authentic charm without the headaches of independent travel.