Compare Balkan Mountains Walk by World Expeditions vs Amazing Balkans and Transylvania (4 Star Hotels) by Travel Talk

Day 1 Arrive Sofia, transfer to hotel

On arrival at Sofia Airport you will be transferred to your guesthouse in the city centre. The remainder of the day is free to explore Bulgaria's capital.

meals : Array

Day 2 Transfer to Saeva Dupka cave, walk via Glozhene Monastery to Goliam Izvor (4-5hrs)

This morning you are transferred to Saeva Dupka (1.5 hours), considered one of the most beautiful caves in Bulgaria. Visit the caves before a further transfer takes you to the village of Glozhene. From here a short trek through beech woods leads you to Glozhene Monastery, with its 1000-year-old icon of St George. From the monastery you will come across a dirt road leading to the pass between Goliam Izvor village and Teteven, and then following the quiet road, you will reach Goliam Izvor. Stay overnight in Goliam Izvor village (450m/1476ft). Uphill: 400m/1312ft; downhill: 350m/1148ft

meals : B,D

Day 3 Pass by plum tree orchards en route to Brusen, visit Etropole Monastery (4hrs)

Today you will start walking directly from your guest house in the village center, pass through plum tree orchards and pine forests. After a gentle ascent to Mt Orlyak you will follow a dirt road to the small village of Brusen. In the afternoon you will be transferred to the Etropole Monastery and a nearby waterfall. Uphill: 600m/1969ft; downhill: 350m/1148ft

meals : B,D

Day 4 Walk through pine forests to the village of Cherni Vit (4hrs)

Today's trek is a wonderful introduction to the region's picturesque landscapes of vast meadows dotted with lots of old apple tree gardens and grazing sheep. The path will take you up hill and then along a ridge, before descending to Cherni Vit village, renowned for its great dancers and traditional singers. Uphill: 450m/1476ft; downhill: 300m/984ft

meals : B,D

Day 5 Transfer then walk through beech forests of Boatin Reserve to Ribaritsa (3-4hrs)

This morning, after a short transfer to Kordela hut, you embark on arguably the most adventurous part of the trip. The track passes through century-old beech forests in the Boatin Reserve (at 825m/2707ft), reaching a high point at 1080m/3543ft after an hour of gentle ascent. From there, the path descends the other side of the hill, reaching a forestry road that leads to the region of Kostina, where the Bulgarian revolutionary and national hero, Georgi Benkovski, was killed by the Ottomans. This is a good spot for lunch. From this point you walk 3km/1.9mi along a peaceful asphalt road amongst gardens, meadows, villas and houses, to the village of Ribaritsa, where you stay overnight (at 545m/1788ft). Uphill: 250m/820ft; downhill: 530m/1739ft

meals : B,D

Day 6 Ridge walk along 'Debeli Dial' above Ribaritsa and return to hotel (5hrs)

Today you walk a circuit route, along the Debeli Dial ridge surrounding Ribaritsa and climb to its peak (1150m/3773ft) for fine views of the Central Balkan Mountains. The path descends along the Osenovia Rat ridge towards the Vasiliov Hut. On the way back to your hotel, you can observe the local way of life and enjoy the atmosphere of a typical Balkan mountain village. Uphill: 400m/1312ft; downhill: 400m/1312ft

meals : B,D

Day 7 Transfer to Teteven, ascend Petrahilya Peak and return to Teteven (4hrs)

Today's walk is on the other side of Teteven, and the river. You'll follow a rocky but easy path through a beautiful forest with unusually shaped trees. Continue to Opasniya Zab ('The Dangerous Fang') Shelter for a panoramic view to Teteven and the surrounding area (1179m/3868ft). Next you'll ascend to Petrahilya Peak, which is the highest mountain in the surrounding area. After you've climbed the peak, you descend to Teteven via a different route, heading to southeast. Overnight in Teteven. Uphill: 810m/2657ft; downhill: 810m/2657ft

meals : B

Day 8 Transfer to Sofia airport, trip concludes

After breakfast, transfer to Sofia airport (1.5 hrs drive) where the trip concludes.

meals : B

Day 1: Bucharest

Welcome to Bucharest! At the airport, keep an eye out for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. At the hotel around 7pm, have an informal welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travellers. After you get all the critical information about the tour, head out for our optional group dinner around 8:15pm and walk the streets of Bucharest.

Accommodation

Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star

Included Activities

Welcome Meeting

Optional Activities

Group Dinner

Day 2: Bucharest City Tour

After a hefty breakfast at the hotel, it's time to launch our discovery of the fascinating Romanian capital, Bucharest. Follow your guide as we visit unmissable landmarks of the city starting with the Revolution Square, Arc of Triumph and Romania Athenaem. Learn about the unique culture and vast history of the city as we continue to the famous Opera House, National Military Club, Dimitrie Gusti National Village and the Palace of Parliament, each building presents a different perspective to the Romanian culture and an artwork in itself. After some personal leisure time for you to explore this gorgeous city on your own terms, return to the hotel following a long day of discovery.

Accommodation

Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Bucharest City Tour

Entrance Fees

National Village Museum - EUR 6

Day 3: Bucharest, Sinaia, Bran, Brasov

Today's the day we set course for the fascinating region of Transylvania. Drive through misty forests of lush green towards our first stop at Peles Castle in Sinaia, a beautiful neo-renaissance castle in the Carpathian mountains (Please note that it is not possible to visit inside of the castle). Just as we start to warm up to this unique atmosphere, goosebumps creep in... Prepare for the legendary Bran Castle, also known as the Castle of Count Dracula! This iconic sight is where legend and reality blend together to create the timeless stories of the vampires. Continue deep into Transylvania to Brasov, a fascinating town surrounded by medieval Saxon walls and embellished with gothic & baroque architecture. Starting with the cobble-stone Piaţa Sfatului (Council Square), visit famous landmarks as the Black Church and Muresenilor House Museum before checking into our hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel Ambient – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit to Peles Castle

Visit to Count Dracula Castle

Brasov Sightseeing

Entrance Fees

Dracula Castle Bran - EUR 8.5

Day 4: Brasov, Sighisoara, Cluj-Napoca

Ready to follow the footsteps of Count Dracula? Our journey continues to Sighisoara after making a stop at the Clock Tower. Soak in marvellous views of Sighisoara Citadel, the Dominican Monastery, The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), and Dracula's House while listening to your guide about the colourful background of the town. Our next stop will be the unofficial capital of the Transylvania region, Cluj-Napoca! Tag along your tour leader for a sightseeing tour of the colourful town, visiting the Union Square, St. Mihail Church and Matthias Corvinus Monument. Then make way to our 4-star hotel following a long day of discovery with spare time to scroll through your photo reel.

Accommodation

Hotel River Park – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sighisoara Sightseeing

Cluj-Napoca Sightseeing

Day 5: Cluj-Napoca, Salina Turda, Hunedeoara, Sibiu

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the salt mines of Turda. This fascinating geologic wonder first produced salt for the region in antique times and has been active since the 11th century! Continuing to Hunedeoara Castle, also known as the Corvin Castle, learn all about the vibrant history of the Transylvanian citadel from your guide. Our next stop will be the fairytale-like town of Sibiu. Relax at our comfortable 4-star hotel following a day filled with cultural adventure or start exploring Sibiu as you wish.

Accommodation

Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit to Salina Turda (Salt Mine)

Hunedeoara Sightseeing

Entrance Fees

Salina Turda - EUR 10

Corvin Castle - EUR 8

Day 6: Sibiu, Bucharest

We start our day with a walking tour of charming Sibiu. Presenting marvellous samples of Germanic architecture, Sibiu's legacy dates back to Saxxon settlers from the 12th century. Tag along your tour leader to view landmarks such as Brukenthal Palace, Piata Mare (city square), Lutheran Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. In the afternoon, we will be heading back to Bucharest for our overnight stay.

Accommodation

Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sibiu Sightseeing

Optional Activities

Group Dinner

Day 7: Bucharest, Veliko Tarnavo, Plovdiv

It's time to bid farewell to Romania as we embark our ride for Veliko Tarnavo, the City of the Tsars. The historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire displays the unique Bulgarian architecture from the medieval age. Uncover the vast history and gems including Tsareverts Fortress and the Holy Forty Martyrs Church before moving on to Plovdiv.

Accommodation

Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Veliko Tarnavo Sightseeing

Entrance Fees

Tsarevets Fortress - EUR 5

Day 8: Plovdiv, Sofia

Fill up at breakfast at the hotel as we prepare for a city tour of beautiful Plovdiv. Launching our tour at Old Plovdiv in Nebet Hill, visit the Balabanov and Georgi Mavridi House, witness the impressive St. Konstantin Church and Elena Church, and proceed to Roman Amphitheatre of Philippopolis and Stadium - some of the best-preserved samples of Roman architecture in the world. Then we continue to visit the Citadel Door, Castle Streets and St. Nedelya Church. Having explored the marvels of Plovdiv, we embark for Sofia! Upon arrival, discover the Bulgarian capital on a panoramic city tour covering all the unmissable sights of the city and learn about its rooted history.

Accommodation

Novotel Sofia – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Plovdiv City Tour

Sofia Panoramic Tour

Day 9: Sofia, Belgrade

After a substantial breakfast, hop on the bus and make your way to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. With stunning views over the Danube and Sava rivers by the mighty medieval Belgrade Fortress, head to the heart of the capitol. Starting off at the vibrant pretty shopping street, Knez Mihailova, filled with cafes, shops and charming sites, kick off the walking tour to discover the incredible landmarks Belgrade has in store and their marvellous histories.

Accommodation

Abba Hotel - 4 Star or similar

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Belgrade City Tour

Day 10: Belgrade, Sarajevo

Next stop Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital, the city that has been through it all! It is where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split and where people of many nations and religions met, lived and warred. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. Though, still an oriental beauty with a unique twist, and a delight to discover on your walking tour in the old town. The city offers endless delicacies to taste, but the specialty is lamb.

Accommodation

Hotel Ibis Styles – 4 Star or similar

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sarajevo City Tour

Entrance Fees

Catholic Church - EUR 1

Day 11: Sarajevo, Mostar,Trebinje

Today, we drive for the amazing Adriatic shore, but first a stop at Mostar! As you arrive in this dreamland, walk through the Old Town of this Herzegovina pearl, see the iconic highlights Old Bridge – Stari Most, and the old čaršija (market). Enjoy your lunch with an amazing view at one of the local venues, discover the old town and make sure to try the delicious Turkish coffee. In the afternoon, we ride to Trebinje for our overnight stay.

Accommodation

Hotel Central Park – 4 Star or similar

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Mostar City Tour

Optional Activities

Kravice Waterfalls - EUR 30

Day 12: Trebinje, Dubrovnik, Trebinje

Get ready for a long day at Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic"! With its well-preserved majestic walls encircling the whole town and its sea of terra-cotta roof tiles, giving life to the "King’s Landing", the whole town is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even the drive down to town from the mountain-side is a breakth-taking highlight in itself! We start off with a guided walking tour of the Old Town and marvel at the millennial history of this fairy-like town. Walk atop the mighty walls, discover cute narrow streets, taste delicious seafood or jump off into the crystal-blue waters. In the evening, we return to Trebinje for a good night's rest.

Accommodation

Hotel Central Park – 4 Star or similar

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Dubrovnik City Tour

Optional Activities

Dubrovnik Boat Trip - EUR 40

Entrance Fees

Dubronvnik City Walls - EUR 15

Day 13: Trebinje, Kotor, Shkoder

Next stop Montenegro! Arrive in Kotor after a scenic drive an meet its calming natural beauty and characteristic architecture, a less-crowded version of Dubrovnik with its impressive medieval citadel. Following a walking tour of the old town with your expert local guide and some free time. Departure to Albania, which is our final destination for the day. Shkoder is one of the most authentic cities in Albania. Walking tour through the centre. Overnight in Shkoder.

Accommodation

Grand Hotel Europa – 5 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Kotor City Tour

Shkoder Walking Tour

Day 14: Shkoder, Tirana, Ohrid

Hit the road after breakfast! A panoramic city tour of Tirana will introduce the best preserved and most beautiful samples of Albanian architecture, and drop us off at the town centre for some free time to discover the bustling Skenderbeg square. In the afternoon, continue towards Ohrid, Macedonia and check-in to your comfy hotel. You can rest up after a long day, or join the optional Balkan night with dinner.

Accommodation

Hotel Nova Riviera or Hotel Aqualina – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Panoramic Tour of TiranaOhrid Walking Tour

Optional Activities

Balkan Night With Dinner - EUR 35

Day 15: Ohrid, Skopje

Start off the day with a guided city tour of Old Ohrid hosting hundreds of chapels and churches scattered all around. In the afternoon travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, for the night.

Accommodation

Hotel Panoramika – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Ohrid City Tour

Optional Activities

St. Naum Tour - EUR 20

Day 16: Skopje, Sofia

Prepare to discover the beautiful Skopje with a guided sightseeing tour filled with stunning architecture, grand monuments and unique history. Pose with the famous statue of Alexander the Great or walk through the Macedonian Arc de Triumph. The city has countless landmarks and a vibrant street life with many cafes and bars around. In the afternoon, leave for Sofia, where our trip ends and we say goodbye to our new friends. You can explore the shopping streets, highlights and the nightlife as you wish.

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Skopje City Tour