Is it possible to have this tour with just two people - myself and my husband?

Yes, it is possible to arrange this tour privately for just two people. The price for each person would be 2,800 euros.

I'm wondering if this tour has a possibility of starting from April 19/20 & ends April 28/29?

We have earliest guarantee departure from 27 April.

Are you able to accommodate two travellers ages 76 and 83 on this adventure?

Bulgaria and Turkey do not require visas for tourists staying under 90 days. What do you know about smoking regulations in these countries?

From

$3,335

US $2,768 per person

Sofia to Istanbul Grand Journey FLIGHT INCLUDED - Small Group Tour

10 days

•

From Sofia to Istanbul

4.7

3 reviews

View all
View all

From

$3,335

-17%

US $2,768 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Operator: Ajdinis
City & Culture: Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Fully Guided: An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Low Intensity: Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Guided in English
Group Size 3 - 14
Ages 10+

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Day 1
Sofia
Sofia
Start point
Sofia, Bulgaria (Tour Starts)
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Best Western Terminus Hotel (or similar))
Day 2
Sofia to Skopje
Sofia to Skopje
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* ( Hotel Alexandar II (or similar))
Included Activities
- Guided panoramic city tour of Sofia
- Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Guided panoramic city tour of Skopje
- Visit Kale Fortress
- Visit Stone Bridge
- Visit Macedonia Square
- Visit Mustafa Pasha Mosque
Landmarks
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
St. Sofia Basilica
National Art Gallery
Presidential Palace
Kale Fortress
Stone Bridge
Macedonia Square
Mustafa Pasha Mosque
Day 3
Skopje - Prizren - Tirana
Skopje - Prizren - Tirana
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Albanopolis Hotel (or similar))
Included Activities
- Visit Sadrvan Square
- Visit Sinan Pasha Mosque
Optional Activities
- Stop at Matka Canyon for scenic views and lake (25 EUR per person)
Landmarks
Matka Canyon
Prizren Castle
Sinan Pasha Mosque
White Drin River
Sadrvan Square
Day 4
Tirana to Ohrid
Tirana to Ohrid
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Hotel Sky Corner (or similar))
Included Activities
- Guided panoramic city tour of Tirana
- Visit Skanderbeg Square
- Visit Skanderbeg Statue
- Visit Et'hem Bey Mosque
- Visit Clock Tower
- Visit Ohrid Old Town
- Visit Ohrid Port
- Visit Quarantine Church
- Visit Ancient Via Egnatia
- Visit Hagia Sophia Church
- Visit Samoil's Fortress
Landmarks
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Statue
Et'hem Bey Mosque
Clock Tower
Ohrid Old Town
Ohrid Port
Quarantine Church
Ancient Via Egnatia
Hagia Sophia Church
Samoil's Fortress
Day 5
Ohrid
Ohrid
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Hotel Sky Corner (or similar))
Optional Activities
- Half-day tour to Sveti Naum Monastery with views of Lake Ohrid source (45 EUR)
Landmarks
Sveti Naum Monastery
Lake Ohrid
Day 6
Ohrid to Kastoria to Meteora
Ohrid to Kastoria to Meteora
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 3* (Alexiou Hotel (or similar))
Included Activities
- Visit Kastoria city
- Visit Lake Kastoria
- Visit Byzantine churches in Kastoria
- Explore Ottoman architecture in Kastoria
Landmarks
Kastoria
Lake Kastoria
Day 7
Meteora to Thessaloniki
Meteora to Thessaloniki
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Hotel Egnatia (or similar))
Included Activities
- Visit Meteora Monasteries with entrance ticket
Landmarks
Meteora Monasteries
White Tower
Arch of Galerius
Day 8
Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery
Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Best Western Terminus Hotel (or similar))
Included Activities
- Visit Rila Monastery with entrance ticket
- Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Visit St. Sofia Basilica
- Visit National Art Gallery
- Visit Presidential Palace
Landmarks
Rila Monastery
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
St. Sofia Basilica
National Art Gallery
Presidential Palace
Day 9
Sofia to Istanbul
Sofia to Istanbul
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel 4* (Armagrandi Spina Hotel (or similar))
Day 10
Istanbul
Istanbul
End point
Istanbul, Türkiye (The Tour Ends Here)
Meals
Breakfast
Included Activities
- Istanbul half-day city tour with licensed guide
- Visit Hagia Sophia
- Visit Sultanahmet Mosque
- Visit Grand Bazaar
- Bosphorus boat trip
Landmarks
Hagia Sophia
Sultanahmet Mosque
Grand Bazaar
Bosphorus

Landmarks
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
St. Sofia Basilica
National Art Gallery
Presidential Palace
Kale Fortress
Stone Bridge
Macedonia Square
Mustafa Pasha Mosque

Landmarks
Matka Canyon
Prizren Castle
Sinan Pasha Mosque
White Drin River
Sadrvan Square

Landmarks
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Statue
Et'hem Bey Mosque
Clock Tower
Ohrid Old Town
Ohrid Port
Quarantine Church
Ancient Via Egnatia
Hagia Sophia Church
Samoil's Fortress

Landmarks
Sveti Naum Monastery
Lake Ohrid

Landmarks
Kastoria
Lake Kastoria

Landmarks
Meteora Monasteries
White Tower
Arch of Galerius

Landmarks
Rila Monastery
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
St. Sofia Basilica
National Art Gallery
Presidential Palace

Landmarks
Hagia Sophia
Sultanahmet Mosque
Grand Bazaar
Bosphorus

What's Included

Expand All

Accommodation
Flights
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change

Best Western Terminus Hotel (or similar)
Hotel 4*
Days 1, 8
Hotel Alexandar II (or similar)
Hotel 4*
day 2
Albanopolis Hotel (or similar)
Hotel 4*
day 3
Hotel Sky Corner (or similar)
Hotel 4*
Days 4, 5
Alexiou Hotel (or similar)
Hotel 3*
day 6
Hotel Egnatia (or similar)
Hotel 4*
day 7
Armagrandi Spina Hotel (or similar)
Hotel 4*
day 9

Operated by

Ajdinis

Rating: 4.3(81 reviews)
Response time: 6 hours
Response rate: 96%
Cancellation policy

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

4.7

Overall rating based on 3 Reviews

Itinerary
4.3
Transport
5.0
Guide
5.0
Accommodation
4.3
Food
4.3
Tour Operator
4.3

Kristi
November 20th, 2024
This was a wonderful tour through a part of the world I didn't know much about. This was also my first multi-day...
This was a wonderful tour through a part of the world I didn't know much about. This was also my first multi-day guided tour. My parents signed up for Sofia to Istanbul Discovery and I decided to join them. Enes was a fantastic guide. He provided valuable insight into the places we visited and the cultural similarities and differences between them. He was energetic yet grounded, flexible where he could be, and had a great sense of humor. This tour covers a lot of ground, and each person in our group had a different "favorite" location. I admit I was sad to part ways with Enes and our driver when we flew to Istanbul. Our group was small and quickly became a family. However, the tour guide we were connected with in Turkey was also fantastic, and Enes checked in with us the whole time we were there. My parents and I extended our stay in Istanbul by a few days, and our guide gave us great recommendations for additional places to visit. I'd highly recommend a tour with Ajdinis. It's clear that they care a lot about their customers' experiences. Enes and the Ajdinis team made us feel safe the entire time. Their tours are thoughtful put together, and they're eager and open to feedback. I'm grateful for the experience exploring with my parents. This was a special trip I'll remember for the rest of my life. Thank you!Show more
Traveled in April 2024
Reply from: Ajdinis
Thank you for your positive review! We're thrilled you enjoyed the tour and the guides and found the sights and information informative. We look forward to welcoming you again soon!
Show more
P
Paul
May 17th, 2024
Excellent, educational tour. My only criticism was that moving each night to a new hotel got tiring after awhile....
Show more
Traveled in April 2024
Reply from: Ajdinis
Thank you for your feedback dear Paul. We're glad you enjoyed the tour and guidance. We understand moving hotels nightly can be tiring and will consider this for our future tours.
Show more
Kaitlyn
March 9th, 2024
The itinerary was well-planned, the guides were knowledgeable, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations.
Traveled in August 2023
Reply from: Ajdinis
We're delighted to hear that the itinerary and guides exceeded your expectations. We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another great experience in the future.
Show more

Dates & Availability

Select departure month and travellers

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Upcoming departures

Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!

Ends in1d1h58m27s

-17%
From Friday
10 Jul, 2026
To Sunday
19 Jul, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
-17%
From Friday
17 Jul, 2026
To Sunday
26 Jul, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
-17%
From Friday
24 Jul, 2026
To Sunday
2 Aug, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
31 Jul, 2026
To Sunday
9 Aug, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
7 Aug, 2026
To Sunday
16 Aug, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
14 Aug, 2026
To Sunday
23 Aug, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
21 Aug, 2026
To Sunday
30 Aug, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
28 Aug, 2026
To Sunday
6 Sep, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
4 Sep, 2026
To Sunday
13 Sep, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save
Instant Confirmation
-17%
From Friday
11 Sep, 2026
To Sunday
20 Sep, 2026
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$3,335
US $2,768 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save

Why book with TourRadar?

Trusted and vetted operators
Rated excellent on
Best price guarantee

24/7 customer support
Earn $50 in travel credits

To protect your payment and ensure your booking will be processed in United States, never transfer or communicate outside of the TourRadar website or app.

More benefits

What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

All questions

We couldn't find results

Try a different search term or ask a question to this adventure's experts

J
Joan
Asked on April 20th, 2024
Is it possible to have this tour with just two people - myself and my husband?
Group size
Tour Details
- AjdinisOperator•Written April 2024
  Yes, it is possible to arrange this tour privately for just two people. The price for each person would be 2,800 euros.
- J
  Joan
  Traveler•Written April 2024
  I just want to clarify your response - the trip with group travel is priced at $1527 US Dollars. Is it possible your reply was 2800 USD not Euro? It seems like quite a large difference.
- AjdinisOperator•Written April 2024
  The displayed price is for group bookings, while the offered price is specifically for private tour for 2 person. It includes the same program with a personal guide.
E
Esther
Asked on February 20th, 2024
I'm wondering if this tour has a possibility of starting from April 19/20 & ends April 28/29?
Tour Details
- AjdinisOperator•Written February 2024
  We have earliest guarantee departure from 27 April.
D
Darren
Asked on February 12th, 2024
Are you able to accommodate two travellers ages 76 and 83 on this adventure?
Age Range
Tour Details
- D
  Darren
  Traveler•Written February 2024
  Bulgaria and Turkey do not require visas for tourists staying under 90 days. What do you know about smoking regulations in these countries?
- AjdinisOperator•Written February 2024
  In Bulgaria, smoking is generally prohibited in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants and bars. However, some establishments may have designated smoking areas. In Turkey, smoking is also restricted in enclosed public spaces, but enforcement may vary. Many restaurants and cafes have designated smoking areas, while some may be entirely smoke-free.
- D
  Darren
  Traveler•Written February 2024
  On the night of Day 1 (April 27th), we will be staying in the Bulgarian countryside, with the idea of coming in to Sofia Sunday morning (Day 2) to join the tour before departure from the city. Where should we go to meet the tour? And by what time on Sunday should we be there?
- AjdinisOperator•Written February 2024
  On the first day, we will convene at a hotel in Sofia (details will be provided). Our guests will be warmly greeted at the hotel reception. In the evening, our guide will provide a comprehensive tour briefing, followed by free time for guests to explore Sofia at their leisure. Overnight accommodation will be at the Sofia hotel. On the second day, after checking out from the Sofia hotel, we will embark on a visit to Sofia and then proceed to our next destination, Skopje.
- D
  Darren
  Traveler•Written February 2024
  What time on Day 2 does the bus actually LEAVE Sofia?
- AjdinisOperator•Written February 2024
  We'll provide the precise schedule two weeks before the date, but for approximate planning, expect to be at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral around 10 am. Check-out from the hotel near Studentski Grad district is anticipated at 8 am. Rest assured, we will stay in regular contact in the two weeks leading up to the departure to keep you well-informed.

From

$3,335

-17%

US $2,768 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Good to Know

Tour ID: 264269

Currencies
L
Lek
Albania
лв.
Bulgarian Lev
Bulgaria
€
Euro
Greece and Kosovo
ден
Denar
Macedonia
$
US Dollar
Plugs & Adapters
As a traveler from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.
Type C
Albania, Macedonia and Kosovo
Type E
Albania, Macedonia and Kosovo
Type F
Albania, Macedonia and Kosovo
Vaccines
- These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
- Typhoid - Recommended for Albania.Turkey. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis A - Recommended for Albania.Bulgaria.Greece.Macedonia.Turkey. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
- Hepatitis B - Recommended for Albania.Bulgaria.Greece.Macedonia.Turkey. Ideally 2 months before travel.
- Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Albania. Ideally 10 days before travel.
- Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 6 months before travel.
- Tuberculosis - Recommended for Bulgaria. Ideally 3 months before travel.
Visa
- Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
- Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
Payment information
- For any tour departing before August 11th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after August 11th, 2026, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Ajdinis. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 35 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
- Some departure dates and prices may vary and Ajdinis will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
- The following cards are accepted for "Ajdinis" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Cancellation Policy
- Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
- TourRadar is an authorized Agent of Ajdinis. Please familiarize yourself with the Ajdinis payment, cancellation and refund conditions.
Accessibility
Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.
People also viewed
Grand Canyon Vacation Packages
Serengeti Safari
Europe Tours
USA – Best of Acadia National Park Maine
Luxury Argentina, Rio And Iguazu Falls
Scotland's Far North - 10 days
Cycle the Balkans

Sofia to Istanbul Grand Journey FLIGHT INCLUDED - Small Group Tour

Itinerary

Sofia

Sofia to Skopje

Included Activities

Skopje - Prizren - Tirana

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Tirana to Ohrid

Included Activities

Ohrid

Optional Activities

Ohrid to Kastoria to Meteora

Included Activities

Meteora to Thessaloniki

Included Activities

Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery

Included Activities