With your suitcases packed and full of anticipation, you head to the airport and fly to Skopje. At the airport, your tour guide will warmly greet you and take you to your accommodation. Skopje surprises with a mix of sights reminiscent of popular European cities: double-decker buses like in London, a triumphal arch like in Paris, a replica of the Brandenburg Gate, and an old Turkish bazaar. Get ready – there's so much to discover! You'll get your first overview from the Kale Fortress, which rises on a hill overlooking the city. Afterwards, you'll check into your accommodation. At your first dinner together, you'll be treated to traditional Macedonian delicacies, setting the tone for your trip. Dinner is included. Hotel Turist Hotel Turist in Skopje is an ideal base for exploring the city. Popular nearby attractions include the main square, the Mother Teresa Memorial House, and the Stone Bridge. In addition to its excellent location, the hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant and bar with a terrace cater to guests' culinary needs.

Skopje is roughly divided into three parts: the inner city center west of the Vardar River, the Old Town with its old Turkish bazaar, and outer Skopje extending to Matka Canyon. You'll stroll through the New Town, passing the Alexander Fountain. Mother Teresa is the city's most famous daughter. Born here in 1910, a museum was built in her memory on the site of the church where she was baptized. Afterward, you'll explore the charming Old Town, built in the Ottoman style. You'll visit the Church of Sveti Spas, whose iconostasis is considered a true masterpiece. Take your time and soak up Skopje's unique atmosphere. The Matka Monastery – Holy Mother of God – is located just outside Skopje. One of the nuns living there will guide you through this peaceful place. After a roughly 30-minute walk, you'll reach the Matka Reservoir. During the subsequent boat trip, you'll see impressive rock formations that seem to rise directly from the water. Then it's on to the Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest cave systems in Europe. Once back on solid ground, you can enjoy the magnificent landscape on your walk back. Breakfast is included in the price. You will stay in the same accommodation as the previous day.

Today we travel to the Tikvesh region, where winemaking boasts a tradition spanning over 2,000 years. In Kavadarci, Marjan Milevi lives and works, cultivating the traditional Macedonian art of woodcarving for over 30 years. You'll gain insight into the history of his workshop and admire his unique pieces with their diverse motifs. Afterward, you can try your hand at this craft under expert guidance. Once your work is done, the Milevi family will serve you a hearty home-style meal. Refreshed, you'll continue your journey to the heart of Macedonia. Bitola, nestled at the foot of the Baba Mountains, is North Macedonia's second-largest city. Its location on important regional routes has made it rich in history. You'll explore the city in more detail during a short walking tour. Breakfast and lunch are included in the price. You will be invited to a local family's home for lunch. Ciflik Winery: Ciflik Winery is a family-run boutique wine hotel west of the city of Bitola, idyllically situated below the village of Brusnik. The hotel offers 12 modern rooms, providing comfortable accommodations for a restful night's sleep. Guests can enjoy exquisite cuisine paired with the winery's own wines in the restaurant, which features a beautiful terrace and garden.

Near Bitola are the excavations of Heraclea Lincetis. This archaeological site was likely founded by Philip II of Macedon between 359 and 356 BC. Excavations have unearthed, among other things, parts of the acropolis, the theater, and two basilicas with late antique mosaics. Then, the oldest and deepest lake in Europe, Lake Ohrid, beckons. The small town of Ohrid and the lake itself are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ohrid's old town resembles a charming Mediterranean fishing village. Small, white houses stretch from the harbor up a hill. The mountain range in the background is verdant and imposing. And then there's the color of the lake, a rich blue. In the afternoon, you can stroll along the shore to what is probably the most famous photo spot in North Macedonia. The stone church of Kaneo stands on a rocky promontory, towering above the lake. Ohrid and its surroundings boast approximately 365 churches and monasteries, earning it the nickname "Jerusalem of the Balkans." A walking tour will take you past highlights such as the Church of St. Sophia, which was converted into a mosque during Ottoman rule, and the Church of St. Periblebtos. Near the church, an ancient basilica has been excavated, and some mosaics remain. Breakfast and dinner are included in the price. The mosaics are covered from the end of October to the beginning of May, depending on the weather. Hotel Lago & Spa: Situated in a tranquil location on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Hotel Lago & Spa is a wonderful place to unwind after an eventful day. The rooms are modern, bright, and comfortable. The pool and inviting spa area are particularly appealing. Whether you enjoy a few relaxing laps in the water, a short break on a lounger, or soothing moments in the wellness area, you can easily let the day's experiences sink in. The hotel's restaurant serves regional and international dishes in a pleasant atmosphere. And in the mornings, breakfast simply tastes better with the shimmering waters of Lake Ohrid nearby.

The journey begins with an excursion to the Sveti Naum Monastery, arguably the most important shrine of the Orthodox Church, renowned for its unique medieval frescoes. You'll then explore the underground springs of Lake Ohrid by rowboat. Afterwards, you'll leave North Macedonia and cross the border into Albania. Your Albanian tour guide will be waiting for you, undoubtedly just as excited as you are. Rural Albania is brimming with undiscovered natural treasures and is still considered a hidden gem of the Balkans. You'll pass through the village of Tushemisht and the town of Pogradec, leaving Lake Ohrid behind. Your destination for the day is Korçë. This mountain city exudes a relaxed, almost Mediterranean atmosphere. Wide boulevards, Ottoman stone houses, the old bazaar district, and a blend of tradition and modernity characterize the cityscape. A guided tour of a brewery will give you insights into the production of the country's most popular beer. You'll learn how the water from the springs of the Morava Mountains is used to make Birra Korça and have the opportunity to taste the fresh barley brew. Cheers! A short drive will then take you to your accommodation. Breakfast is included today. Park Plazza Hotel: The Park Plazza Hotel is ideally located in the center of Korçë and is just a short walk from the most famous sights, such as Boulevard Republica, the Cathedral, and the Old Bazaar. The 26 rooms are spacious and modernly furnished. A bar invites guests to relax. Additional restaurants and beer gardens are also within walking distance.

Today's drive takes you along winding roads and over mountain passes with spectacular views. Along the way, you'll stop at a weekly market. Here you'll find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to eggs, olives, homemade cheese, and much more – all locally sourced from farms in the surrounding area. The largely medieval architecture of Gjirokastër (also spelled Gjirokastra), the so-called "City of Stone and a Thousand Steps," impressively reflects its rich past. In the fascinating old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll stroll through the narrow streets. A visit to a former Ottoman mansion will give you a good idea of how people lived during that era. Breakfast is included in the price. Hotel Argjiro Hotel Argjiro is ideally located in the heart of Gjirokaster's historic city center. The castle is just a short walk away, and the Old Bazaar is right next door. In the lobby, be sure to admire the beautifully crafted ceiling frescoes. The rooms are elegant, featuring plenty of wood and warm tones. A stylish restaurant with a bar completes the experience.

Our first stop today is the so-called "Blue Eye," an impressive spring from which water gushes forth under high pressure. The ruined city of Butrint, nestled amidst ancient trees, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to various cultures, including those of the ancient Romans, Greeks, and Ottomans. Excavations here have unearthed a multitude of ancient buildings, parts of which are remarkably well-preserved. After your return to Gjirokastër, you'll ascend once more. The fortress sits majestically above the city, offering breathtaking views of the rooftops and the Drinos Valley. Dating back to the 12th century, its museums, antique cannons, and prison cells tell fascinating stories from Albania's past. Breakfast is included in the price. The approximately 20-minute walk up to the fortress requires a good level of fitness. We recommend sturdy shoes, a hat, and plenty of water. Alternatively, please contact your tour guide, who will be happy to help you arrange a taxi. You will stay in the same accommodation as the previous day.

On the way to Berat, we stop at the Benca River. Here you'll find an aqueduct that once supplied water to the nearby Tepelena fortress. You'll have the opportunity to take a closer look at the structure and learn interesting facts about its origins and eventful history. Lunch awaits you at Kodra e Gjelber, a farm specializing in rural tourism. Emi Ra is a farmer with a great passion for food and cooking. After many years of experience in Italy, he returned to his homeland to bring his knowledge and passion to the farm. The estate includes vineyards, a poultry farm, and fruit and vegetable gardens. After a sumptuous lunch, you'll have the chance to stroll around the expansive grounds. A short drive later, you'll reach Berat – famous for its historic architecture and scenic beauty. The "City of a Thousand Windows" got its name – where else? – from the many large windows in its traditional houses. You'll explore the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your starting point is the Kala district with its fortress. Up here, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views. The Onufri Museum of Iconography is located in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. It bears the name of the famous icon painter Onufri, who left behind a rich legacy. Afterward, descend into the Mangalemi district. Across the Osumi River lies the Gorica district. The picturesque arched bridge, dating from 1780, is a beautiful architectural monument that connects the two districts. Breakfast and lunch are included in the price. Hotel Beratino The family-run Hotel Beratino awaits you in the heart of Berat. Your accommodation is just a short walk from the city's attractions and the Gorica Bridge. The stylishly furnished rooms tastefully combine traditional elements with modern amenities. The building's architecture reflects the Ottoman style, with whitewashed facades and red tile roofs typical of Berat. Enjoy traditional Albanian dishes in the hotel's restaurant.

In the morning, you sit back and enjoy the drive to the coast. On Durrës beach, you can dip your toes in the Adriatic Sea, take a stroll, or simply watch the lively scene unfold while enjoying a coffee. The day continues with a relaxing visit to the Herta Winery. You'll be given a tour of the vineyards and then sample some of the fine wines produced there. Then it's time to explore the city – a comprehensive tour of Albania's capital, Tirana, is on the agenda. At the central Skanderbeg Square, the Et' Hem Bey Mosque, with its magnificent frescoes, is a reminder of Tirana's Ottoman past. Nearby are other attractions such as the Palace of Culture and the National Museum with its mosaic of heroes. Later, on National Martyrs Boulevard, you'll learn a bit about the daily life of the former dictator Enver Hoxha. You stroll through the Blloku district, a trendy area for young people, characterized by boutiques, trendy restaurants, and hip bars and cafes. Breakfast and wine tasting are included in the price. Hotel Boka: Located in the heart of Tirana, Hotel Boka is just steps away from the vibrant Pazari i Ri, putting you right in the middle of the action. The 22 rooms are decorated with light wood, warm colors, and golden details. Elegant textiles create a cozy and stylish atmosphere. The hotel's ground-floor restaurant is a real eye-catcher: an aquarium adds a relaxed touch and gives the room a unique character. In the evenings, the restaurant transforms into a comfortable bar – perfect for a drink after an exciting day.

The medieval city of Kruja lies on the slopes of the Skanderbeg Mountains at an altitude of over 600 meters. The 5th-century AD castle rises imposingly above the city. A visit to the castle and the Skanderbeg Museum immerses you in the country's medieval history, when Kruja was the most important city in Albania. In the Old Bazaar, you'll find many shops selling traditional handmade items. Shkodra is known for its breathtaking natural landscape, surrounded by the lakes and valleys of the Albanian Alps. This northern Albanian city, situated on the lake of the same name, has a rich and varied history: Romans, Serbs, Venetians, Turks, and Austrians all shaped its destiny. The Mesi Bridge, an 18th-century Ottoman stone arch bridge, is one of the most impressive historical structures in northern Albania. It consists of 13 stone arches, with a central main arch that is particularly large and elegant. Enjoy the subsequent walk in this beautiful setting at the foot of the Albanian Alps. Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Buna and Drini rivers is Shkodra's most important monument: Rozafa Castle. From here, you have a fantastic view across the rivers and over to Lake Shkodra, the largest freshwater lake in the Balkans. Breakfast and dinner are included in the price. The approximately 15-minute walk up to Rozafa Castle requires a good level of fitness. We recommend sturdy shoes, a hat, and plenty of water. Cocja Boutique Hotel: The Cocja Boutique Hotel is a small, family-run hotel with a wonderful ambiance in the heart of Shkodra, one of Albania's oldest and most historically significant cities. All 17 rooms are individually furnished with stylish furniture and impress with their attention to detail. In the beautifully designed courtyard, you'll find peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Zdravo (hello) Montenegro! This country boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes within a small area: sea, lakes, and mountains. You will be met by your Montenegrin tour guide and travel towards Stari Bar, a picturesque ruined city at the foot of the Rumija Mountains. You will visit the historic quarter, whose buildings stand as silent witnesses to a turbulent history. After the Romans came the Byzantines, then Stari Bar fell under Turkish rule and was destroyed during the War of Independence in 1878. At the Metovic family's farm, you will gain a personal insight into olive oil production – both traditional and modern methods. During the subsequent olive oil tasting, you will learn how to recognize outstanding quality. Before continuing your journey, you will admire one of the oldest olive trees in the world. Despite its astonishing age of over 2,000 years, the tree still bears abundant fruit. The next stop is Lake Skadar, the largest freshwater lake in the Balkans. Here you'll take a boat trip and discover a natural paradise that covers approximately 400 km² and is home to around 270 different bird species. Along the way, you'll also see the "Alcatraz of Montenegro," an abandoned prison island. On board, you'll be treated to local specialties and drinks. You'll spend the next three nights in a hotel in Petrovac on the Adriatic coast. Breakfast, a light lunch, and snacks and drinks during the boat trip are included in the tour price. At the Metovic family's farm, you can look forward to some homemade culinary specialties for lunch: various cheeses, smoked ham, and of course, olives will be served. Hotel Harmony: Located in the beautiful coastal town of Petrovac, Hotel Harmony is just a short walk from the beach. This small, family-run hotel welcomes you with a relaxed atmosphere. All comfortable rooms have a balcony or terrace. The swimming pool offers refreshment on hot days. The hotel restaurant serves a varied breakfast buffet in the morning and local specialties and fresh seafood in the evening.

This morning, a walk takes you to the neighboring village. Here, you'll be a guest in a family's idyllic garden. Your host, Tanja, will show you how to bake "rustule"—a traditional cake that's an integral part of every Montenegrin feast. Afterward, you'll be invited to the table to sample this delicacy with coffee and homemade pomegranate juice. The journey then continues along the coast to Budva. You'll explore the historic old town, considered one of the most beautiful in the country, on a walking tour. Following this, you'll enjoy a boat trip with stunning views of the coastline and the islands of Sveti Nikolaos and Sveti Stefan. You'll stop at a beach and have time to relax, swim, and soak up the atmosphere. Meanwhile, freshly caught fish will be grilled for you to savor in complete tranquility. The boat will then take you back to Budva, and your bus driver will continue on to Petrovac. Included meals are breakfast, coffee and cake, and a late lunch on a private beach. You will stay in the same accommodation as the previous day.

Today begins in the port city of Tivat. Its marina, known as "Porto Montenegro," is a haven for impressive sailboats and yachts. Seeing and being seen is the name of the game here! The journey continues with a striking contrast: surrounded by steep mountain slopes and olive groves, Risan exudes a tranquil, authentic atmosphere. This small town lies in the innermost corner of the fjord-like bay, below the nearly 1,000-meter-high limestone cliffs of the Orjen Mountains. The route then leads along the impressive coastal road to Perast, one of the bay's charming towns. Stroll along the waterfront through this Baroque town. Next, you'll travel to Kotor, whose old town is currently the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Montenegro. Completely encircled by an imposing wall, the city has preserved its medieval ambiance. The day concludes with a culinary finale: enjoying a farewell dinner with a stunning view of the sea. Then it's time to say goodbye to your tour guide. Today, breakfast and a farewell dinner are included. You will stay in the same accommodation as the previous day.

Are you staying a few more days on Montenegro's beautiful coast or heading back home? Either way, make the most of your remaining time before you're taken to the airport for your flight home. You'll be taking with you unforgettable memories of a world that no longer seems so foreign. Breakfast is included. Your room is available until 10 a.m. today. You can store your luggage in the luggage storage room if needed.