The Highlights Of Bulgaria And Macedonia

After arrival in Sofia, we will introduce you to the highlights of the capital city of Sofia. Among the most impressive sites are the Alexander Nevski Cathedral with its gold domes dominating the city, the church of st. Sophia which gave the name of the city, the Monument of Tsar Liberator dedicated to the Russian Tsar Alexander II, the Rotunda of St. George, which is the best preserved Byzantine building, the Russian church st. Nikolas, the ruins of ancient Roman Serdica, the Parliament buildings and some more.

n the morning we drive to Rila mountains (the highest on the Balkan Peninsula) to see one of Bulgaria’s most famous tourist sites – Rila monastery. This monastery is a sanctuary of Bulgarian literature and spiritual life. Founded in the middle of the 10th century by St. Ivan of Rila it played a key role in preserving Bulgarian culture and language during the centuries. It is included in the UNESCO world heritage list. We shall see the monastery church with its amazing frescoes painted by the most famous Bulgarian finest artists from 19th c. and the monastery museum housing a rich collection of exhibits connected with the history of the monastery and the spread of Christianity on the Bulgarian lands. In the afternoon we head to Macedonia. Overnight in Skopije. /B/

Morning Skopje sightseeing tour visiting the most important Skopje sights. Tour starts near the Old bazaar, with visit to the church of St Spas (The Holly Salvation) with its wood carved iconostasis from 18th century. Walking in the old bazaar area passing several Turkish inns and hamams. Tour continue towards the Stone bridge, the landmark of Skopje which connects the old and new part of the city. Short stop at the main square with wide explanation of statues and surrounding buildings. Walking on the pedestrian zone and visit to Mother Teresa memorial house. Tour ends by the building of the former railway station, today the Museum of Skopje. Afternoon departure towards Ohrid via the picturesque road in Mavrovo National park. The road passes Mavrovo lake, canyon of Radika river, Debar lake and lakes made by river Black Drim. Overnight in Ohrid. /B/

Today explore the amazing town of Ohrid, which in the past used to have 365 churches, one for each day of the year, and was therefore often referred to as "Jerusalem of the Balkans". During the city tour you will see some of the major sites of interest, to name just a few: The cathedral church of St Sofia, Ohrid fortress, the Holly area of Plaoshnik, with visit to the new St Clement church and Mosaics at the Early Christian basilica and the small church of St John – Kaneo (outside). The tour continues with a short boat ride from Kaneo area to Ohrid city center (15 min ride by small boats). In the afternoon drive towards St Naum monastery, one of the most important landmarks of the region. Back to the hotel and overnight. /B/

Leaving behind Ohrid, we head inside the country to visit Bitola, the second biggest town in Macedonia and Heraclea Lynkestis, an ancient site near Bitola. Optional wine tasting at Tikvesh (Macedonia's most famous wine region). In the afternoon, departure towards Bulgaria and arrival in Melnik. With only 385 inhabitants, Melnik is the smallest Bulgarian town, retaining its city status for historical reasons. Melnik is famous for its strong red wine produced by the local sort “Shiroka Melnishka Loza” which was reportedly a favorite of Whinsten Chirchill’s. You will visit the wine cellar of the Kordopuolov house and you will be offered to taste the local red wine. Visit the nearby Rozhen monastery. Overnight. /B/

After breakfast we continue to Bansko. We travel along a scenic road opening spectacular views of Rila and Pirin Mountain. Nowadays Bansko is the Bulgarian most popular winter resort but is also an inheritor of rich history. Beautiful revival houses curve around the tiny cobbled streets, the clock tower of the local church raises up above the roofs. In the afternoon proceed to Plovdiv – Bulgaria’s second largest city and the first elected European capital of culture for 2019. Philipopolis, Trimonzium, Puldin, Plovdiv is a city with many names and millennium old history. It has preserved ruins from Roman, Ottoman and Bulgarian Revival period. During our city tour you will see the Roman Forum and Stadium as well as the Roman amphitheater dating back to the 2nd AD. Walk along the tiny cobbled streets of the old town surrounded by beautiful Revival houses and churches. Visit the church of St. Konstantine and Elena and The House of Hindliyan.

After breakfast, transfer back to Sofia. End of service /B/