Grand Balkan Journey: 12 Days of Culture, History & UNESCO Heritage
Private Group Program on Request
Discover the cultural richness, historical depth and scenic beauty of the Balkans on this 12-day journey through Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Montenegro.
This itinerary connects some of the region’s most iconic cities, UNESCO heritage sites, medieval old towns, religious monuments, scenic landscapes and vibrant cultural crossroads. From Tirana and Berat to Ohrid, Skopje, Prizren, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva and Shkodra, the program offers a complete introduction to the diverse spirit of the Balkans.
Designed for private groups, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-balanced experience of culture, history, architecture, local traditions and unforgettable landscapes.
Day 1 | Arrival in Tirana
Upon arrival in Tirana, meet your local representative and transfer to the hotel.
Depending on arrival time, enjoy free time to relax or explore the city at your own pace.
Accommodation in Tirana.
Day 2 | Tirana – Berat – Tirana
After breakfast, departure towards Berat, one of Albania’s most beautiful historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.
Known as the “City of Windows One Above the Other”, Berat is admired for its distinctive Ottoman architecture and remarkable hillside setting. The city is composed of three main quarters: Gorica, located across the river; Mangalem, situated on the fortress side; and Kalaja, the residential quarter within the ancient castle walls.
During the walking tour, explore the ancient castle, main gates, towers, Orthodox churches and traditional residential architecture. The old town also features several religious monuments, including mosques and Byzantine churches, reflecting Berat’s long and diverse history.
Lunch in Berat.
In the afternoon, transfer back to Tirana.
Accommodation in Tirana.
Day 3 | Tirana – Ohrid
After breakfast, departure towards North Macedonia to visit Ohrid, one of the most treasured destinations in the Balkans and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch in Ohrid.
In the afternoon, begin a walking tour of Ohrid, beautifully located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”, Ohrid is one of the oldest settlements in Europe and was once an important center of religion and Slavic culture.
Lake Ohrid, estimated to be around three million years old, is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. Its exceptional natural and cultural value gives Ohrid the distinction of being recognized by UNESCO as both a cultural and natural World Heritage Site.
During the tour, visit the Old Town, St. Bogorodica Perivlepta Church and St. Sophia Church.
Free evening to enjoy the city.
Accommodation in Ohrid.
Day 4 | Ohrid – Tetovo – Skopje
After breakfast, departure towards Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, with a stop in Tetovo to visit the famous Šarena Džamija, also known as the Painted Mosque.
Continue to Skopje and enjoy lunch upon arrival.
In the afternoon, discover Skopje, birthplace of Mother Teresa, home to the fortress and the largest city in North Macedonia. Skopje is a city where ancient and contemporary influences meet, shaped by different cultures and traditions throughout history.
The Vardar River flows through the heart of the city, with historic buildings on one side and modern architecture on the other. The Stone Bridge, originally built in the 15th century, connects these two sides of the city center.
The panoramic tour includes the Mother Teresa Memorial House, the Stone Bridge, Daut Pasha Amam from the outside, and a short walking tour through the old town and its bazaar.
Free time in Skopje.
Accommodation in Skopje.
Day 5 | Skopje – Prizren – Gračanica – Skopje
After breakfast, departure to Kosovo to visit Prizren and Gračanica Monastery.
In Prizren, enjoy a city tour focused on the cultural and historical monuments of this important Balkan town. The visit introduces the city’s rich history, shaped by different occupations, cultures and periods of resistance over time.
Discover mosques dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, century-old Orthodox churches, a 19th-century Catholic cathedral, the old city center, the stone bridge, fountains and the beautiful fortress, offering a spectacular view over the skyline of Prizren.
The town is also known for its rich culinary tradition. Enjoy lunch with homemade products and traditional dishes.
Later, visit Gračanica Monastery near Pristina. This Serbian Orthodox monastery was built by King Stefan Milutin in 1321. It was declared a Monument of Culture of Exceptional Importance in 1990 and, in 2006, was placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as part of the Medieval Monuments in Kosovo.
Return to Skopje.
Accommodation in Skopje.
Day 6 | Skopje – Niš – Belgrade
After breakfast, departure towards Serbia.
Visit Niš, birthplace of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. The city still reflects a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences and has historically served as an important gateway between Europe and the East.
Today, Niš is a modern tourist center with museums and historical sites, and it remains one of Serbia’s important cultural and historical cities. Its strategic location has connected routes between Vienna, Budapest, Prague, Sofia and Istanbul for centuries.
Suggested entrance visit: Skull Tower in Niš.
Lunch break in Niš.
In the afternoon, continue towards Belgrade.
Accommodation in Belgrade.
Day 7 | Belgrade – Šargan Eight – Sarajevo
After breakfast, depart towards Sarajevo, with a special experience on the Šargan Eight train in Mokra Gora.
The Šargan Eight is a scenic heritage railway in western Serbia, famous for its unique figure-eight track that climbs through the mountains. Starting in Mokra Gora, the vintage train passes through tunnels and over bridges, offering beautiful views of forests and valleys near Tara National Park.
This nostalgic railway journey is one of Serbia’s most charming attractions, combining history, nature and memorable mountain scenery.
Continue towards Sarajevo.
Free evening in Sarajevo.
Accommodation in Sarajevo.
Day 8 | Sarajevo – Mostar
After breakfast, begin a walking tour of Sarajevo, one of the most fascinating cultural crossroads in the Balkans.
Sarajevo is a rare city where East and West meet in a very visible way. The visit starts at Baščaršija, the old bazaar and one of the city’s most symbolic areas. Here, you will see Brusa Bezistan, traditional shops, and the famous Sebilj fountain, a landmark of the Ottoman period.
Continue to the Latin Bridge, known as the place connected to the beginning of the First World War. The tour also explores the transition between the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian parts of the city, where the architecture changes from oriental influences to a more Central European style.
The visit ends at the Eternal Flame, a symbol of the liberation of Sarajevo from German occupation, along with the Clock Tower and the Bridge of Festina Lente, a modern architectural concept. Sarajevo is also known for its famous Film Festival, held every August.
Lunch in Sarajevo.
On the way to Mostar, visit the Tunnel of Hope, one of the most important sites related to the recent history of Sarajevo.
Continue to Mostar.
Accommodation in Mostar.
Day 9 | Mostar – Dubrovnik
After breakfast, transfer towards Dubrovnik.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch in Dubrovnik.
In the afternoon, start the city tour of Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. This magnificent walled city is one of the most iconic destinations on the Adriatic coast and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The walking tour includes the Old Harbor, Franciscan Monastery, St. Lawrence Fortress, Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock and Orlando’s Column.
Enjoy free time to explore the charming streets, squares and corners of this extraordinary historic city.
Free evening in Dubrovnik.
Accommodation in Dubrovnik.
Day 10 | Dubrovnik – Kotor – Budva
After breakfast, transfer to Kotor.
Enjoy a walking tour of Kotor Old Town, one of the best-preserved medieval urban centers in the region. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, Kotor is known for its medieval architecture, narrow streets, atmospheric squares and important cultural monuments.
The town is listed by UNESCO as a World Natural and Historical Heritage Site. One of its main landmarks is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, one of the most recognizable symbols of the city and an important monument of Roman culture.
Lunch in Kotor.
Free time to enjoy the old town before continuing to Budva.
Accommodation in Budva.
Day 11 | Budva – Shkodra – Tirana
After breakfast, departure towards Albania, with a panoramic stop to enjoy the view of Sveti Stefan Island.
Continue to Shkodra, known as an important center of Albanian Catholicism, culture and religious harmony. The city has a pleasant Mediterranean atmosphere and a rich cultural identity.
Take a walk along Kole Idromeno pedestrian street, located in the old center of Shkodra. This charming area passes through historic streets, churches, mosques and traditional architecture.
Visit the Venice Art Mask Factory Museum, where visitors can discover the craftsmanship behind the famous Venetian-style masks.
Lunch in Shkodra.
Continue to Tirana.
Accommodation in Tirana.
Day 12 | Tirana Departure
After breakfast, begin a walking tour of Tirana, the capital of Albania.
The tour explores the historical and architectural evolution of the city, from a small rural and trading center in the 17th century to Albania’s main capital and cultural hub. Tirana features traces of Ottoman, Italian, communist and modern influences, all visible in its urban landscape.
The walking tour starts at Skanderbeg Square and includes Tirana City Hall, the Statue of Skanderbeg, Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, the National Library, the Opera House and the mosaic “Albanians” above the entrance of the National Historical Museum.
Continue towards the main Italian boulevard, with views of the Art Gallery and distinguished Italian-style buildings.
At the scheduled time, transfer to Tirana Airport.
End of services.
Private Group Program on Request
Istunto on vanhentunut. Päivitämme jatkuvasti tarjouksiamme ja lentojamme, jatkamme kanssamme uusia tarjouksia
Takaisin etusivulle Lataa sivu uudelleenBased on Law 7850, date 29.07.1994 “The Civil Code of the Republic of Albania” amended, Law 9734, date 14.05.2007 “On Tourism” amended and other effective legislation.
1. Preamble
1.1. VAS DMC (hereinafter “the agency”) is the first Albanian tour operator which offers vacations all year long. The agency operates with highly qualified staff and a long experience in the service field.
1.2. The agency operates with a network composed of 550 member agencies based in Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia and offers accommodation in more than 100,000 hotels worldwide.
1.3. The agency offers its services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The offices’ working hours are open from Monday to Saturday, from 08:00 am to 06:00 pm.
2. Definitions
2.1. In this agreement, the following terms will be explained as:
2.1.1. Agency: Registered legal entity which offers, finds and makes possible touristic travel, travel tickets of different types of transportation and tickets to sport, music and showbiz events, in exchange of a fee.
2.1.2. Reservation or booking: the act of ordering or guarding a product like travel, accommodation or package tour. This is done by the agency, with a request from the client.
2.1.3. Reservation or booking is done through the online page www.albtoursd.com, through the contact with one of the offices of the agency or through the contact with one of the members of the agency.
2.1.4. Confirmation:a) The verification of the availability of a reservation or booking, orb) the final agreement by the means of which the client liquidates the obligations toward the agency and the agency guards with a final act the reservation or booking of the client.
2.1.5. Hotel: An establishment or a connected group of establishments, independent from any other construction, with no fewer than 6 rooms, within a single piece of land, in which accommodation, complementary services and commodity are offered for the public by a qualified staff.
2.1.6. Reimbursement: The amount of money the agency is obliged to return to the client in case of nonfulfillment of the agreement on the part of the agency without any reasonable cause or if the reasons stated in this document are present.
2.1.7. Package tour: The prepared combination of services, which is sold or offered for sale and which covers a period of time longer than 24 hours or which includes one night of accommodation. The package tour includes two or more components such as:a) Transportationb) Accommodationc) Other touristic services, independent from the transportation and accommodation. These services constitute a considerable amount of the package and they are included in the prepared combination and are billed or invoiced separately.
3. Obligations of the agency
3.1. The staff of the agency is obliged to explain all offers for which the client has expressed an interest. The staff, within the opening hours and in the way set in this agreement, is obliged to answer all questions and requests of the client.
3.2. The staff of the agency is obliged to explain the procedure to be followed in order for the tour to take place, according to the client’s request. One of the procedures is also the preparing of the documents that the client must present to the agency.
3.3. The staff of the agency is obliged to answer in the best possible way to the needs of the client regarding the reservation of the hotel, the transportation etc. If the client has chosen one of the packages prepared by the agency, the staff will answer only for the hotel and transportation set in the package.
3.4. If the request is made within the limits set in this agreement, the staff of the agency is obliged to enable a change in the accommodation according to the requests of the client. If this change comprises a financial cost, this cost is to be borne by the client.
3.5. If the request is made within the limits set in this agreement, the staff of the agency is obliged to enable a change in the transportation according to the requests of the client. If this change comprises a financial cost, this cost is to be borne by the client.
3.6. The agency declares to be responsible for every offer made public in the online page www.albtoursd.com, in the brochures and catalogs produced by the agency and for every offer advertised by the staff of the agency.
3.7. The agency is not responsible for the condition of the hotel rooms if they are not in the condition in which they appear in the official hotel online page or for the actions and behavior of the hotel staff in the destination chosen by the client.
3.8. The agency is not responsible for the cancellation of the tour in case of major force, natural causes, people’s protest or declaration of war in the destination chosen by the client and for every accident that happens as a result of these causes. The solution will be achieved with an agreement between the agency and the client.
3.9. The agency is not responsible for the damage or loss of luggage or personal items in the plane, airport, port, ship or hotel.
3.10. The agency is responsible for the damage or loss of luggage or personal items in the means of transportation offered by the agency for the transportation of the client from and to the airport or port or for the city tour.
4. Rights of the agency
4.1. The agency reserves the right to ask every necessary document for the realization and the reservation of the tour.
4.2. The agency reserves the right to receive, in the way set in this agreement, every payment that the client owes.
4.3. The agency reserves the right to cancel a reservation if the client does not liquidate all payments as set in this agreement.
4.4. In case of cancellation, the agency reserves the right to withhold from the amount paid by the client, expenses and commissions which are made prior to the cancellation.
5. Obligations of the client
5.1. The client is obliged to liquidate all payments according to this agreement.
5.2. The client is obliged to be present at the departure in the time and day set by the agency.
5.3. The client is obliged to give the exact number of participants in the tour if the client is responsible for the group.
5.4. The client is obliged to declare if animals are to participate in the tour.
5.5. The client is obliged to declare if underage people are to participate in the tour. Underage people that travel in the presence of other people are to take a proxy by both the parents.
6. Rights of the client
6.1. The client has the right to profit by the offer made by the agency, according to the data given by the staff.
6.2. The client has the right to ask all information on the tour. This is to be done during the opening hours of the agency and according to the terms set in this agreement.
6.3. The client has the right to ask for a reimbursement in case of cancellation of the tour, change in the hotel or the transportation or in case of nonfulfillment of the agreement on the part of the agency without any reasonable cause or if the reasons stated in this document are present.
7. Deadlines
7.1. The deadline for a reservation or booking is at least 14 days prior to the date set for the tour. The agency is not responsible if, even within this deadline, there are no vacancies in the hotel or in the means of transportation.
7.2. Cancellation deadline
7.2.1. If the reservation or booking of the client is cancelled by the client himself 21 days or more prior to the tour, the client is reimbursed the full amount paid to the agency. The agency reserves the right to withhold from the amount paid by the client, expenses and commissions which are made prior to the cancellation. Expenses include the bank fee when payment is made via credit or debit card.
7.2.2. If the reservation or booking of the client is cancelled by the client himself 10 to 20 days prior to the tour, the client is to bear transfer fees and 50% of administration expenses. Expenses include the bank fee when payment is made via credit or debit card.
7.2.3. If the reservation or booking of the client is cancelled by the client himself 4 to 9 days prior to the tour, the client is to bear transfer fees and 70% of the administration expenses. Expenses include the bank fee when payment is made via credit or debit card.
7.2.4. If the reservation or booking of the client is cancelled by the client himself in less than 3 days prior to the tour, the client will not profit any reimbursement.
7.2.5. If the client is not present or leaves the tour before the date set by the agency, the client will not profit any reimbursement.
7.3. Cancellation procedures In order for the cancellation to be valid, the client must complete a required form found in the offices of the agency. The client must be present personally or be represented by a member of the group registered to travel with the client. In this case, the client must call the agency to confirm the cancellation, while the representative of the group is still in the office.
8. Price and payment
8.1. Setting the price: The price made public in the online page www.albtoursd.com, or the price given by the staff of the agency is the final price of the offer or package.
8.2. Responsibility of the agency in case of change in price
8.2.1. The agency is not responsible for the change in the final price if this change is made by the hotel, in case of an increase in taxes to be paid in the destination and other impositions made by the Albanian or local authorities.
8.2.2. The agency is not responsible for the change in the final price in different periods of time during the year which are considered to be peak in tourism in the destination chosen by the client.
8.2.3. Charges for children vary according to the policies of the hotel. The agency is not responsible for these charges and for the variations in the price.
8.3. The whole amount of the payment is to be liquidated by the time the reservation is made. In agreement with the agency, the payment will be liquidated 50% by the time the reservation is made and 50% will be liquidated 14 days prior to the departure day. In case of delay in the payment, the agency reserves the right to cancel the reservation. In different periods of time during a year, the agency reserves the right to change the deadline of 14 days.
8.4. The reimbursement in case of a change of the package
8.5. Bank fee
8.5.1. When payment is made via credit card, the fee is paid by the agency.
8.5.2. When payment is made with a card in the office of the agency, there is no fee to be paid by the parties.
8.5.3. When payment is made by cash, there is no fee to be paid by the parties.
8.6. Liquidation of the price is to be made via the following procedures:
8.6.1. Cash in the agency office or in the offices of member offices.
8.6.2. Via credit card Visa or MasterCard, accompanied with an authorization form, a copy of the passport and the necessary data of the card, including the three digit code sent by fax if the client is not present in the office.
8.6.3. Via credit or debit card Visa, MasterCard, Visa Electron and Maestro using our machine if the client is present in the office.
8.6.4. Via bank transfer. The details of the agency’s bank account can be found here. In this case the client must send via fax or e-mail a copy of the invoice.
9. Settling the disputes
9.1. In case of a dispute, the agency will make every effort to achieve a solution with a quick agreement with the client.
9.2. The agency will ensure that every correspondence will be answered within the following period of time:a) no later than 14 days from the receiving of the request of the client; and b) no later than 28 days from the receiving of the request of the client for a detailed answer.
10. Copyright
10.1. VAS DMC declares that the online page www.vasdmc.com is property of the agency. The agency is responsible for each material posted in the page.
10.2. VAS DMC declares that the information on the accommodation and means of transportation is property of the official online pages of said accommodation and means of transportation. The information on www.vasdmc.com is updated frequently. The agency is not responsible if the information on the official online page of the accommodation or means of transportation is not accurate.
10.3. VAS DMC declares that on the online pages of the agency the only information posted is the information allowed to the public by the owners of the online pages of the accommodation and means of transportation. The information is not documented personally by the staff of the agency.
10.4. VAS DMC declares that the agency does not own any content cited in 10.3.
11. Approval of the agreement
11.1. The approval of this agreement is made by the shareholders of VAS DMC..
11.2. Any change in this agreement is made by the shareholders of VAS DMC .