Bulgaria & Macedonia Tour
This Bulgaria Macedonia tour offers a fantastic opportunity for Irish travellers to explore the fascinating history and landscapes of the Balkans. This eight-day Escorted Tour is a well-planned journey that takes you through two enchanting countries, with an additional day trip to Pristina in Kosovo. This holiday is designed for those who enjoy a straightforward, organised travel experience that combines expert-led sightseeing with plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Your journey begins in Sofia, the Bulgarian capital, where you will spend three nights in a comfortable four-star hotel. Sofia is a city where ancient Roman ruins sit comfortably alongside grand landmarks like the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You will also visit Plovdiv, which is considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe. The city was a European Capital of Culture in 2019 and features a stunning Roman theatre and charming cobbled streets that are perfect for a gentle walking tour.
The tour then moves into North Macedonia, stopping at the historic town of Kyustendil along the way. In Skopje, you will discover a city of unique contrasts, from the Ottoman-era Old Bazaar to the modern monuments of Macedonia Square. A highlight for many is the visit to the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, honouring the humanitarian in her birthplace. With three nights based in Skopje, you will have a full day at leisure to enjoy the local atmosphere or walk along the banks of the Vardar River.
To round off the experience, this Bulgaria Macedonia tour includes a visit to Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Here, you can see the Newborn Monument and explore the city’s distinctive architecture. This tour is fully guided, meaning you will have the support of a local guide and a dedicated tour leader throughout. Flights from Dublin are included, as are all airport taxes and 10kg of carry-on luggage. Please note that this tour involves a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces in old towns, so we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes to make the most of your holiday.
Are flights from Ireland included in the price?
Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Is there a single room supplement?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Direct return flights from Dublin to Sofia
- All airport taxes
- 10kg carry-on bag per person and prebooked seat
- 4 nights Bed & Breakfast in a 4-star hotel in Sofia
- 3 nights Bed & Breakfast in a 4-star hotel in Skopje
- Organised city tour of Sofia
- Guided city tour of Plovdiv
- Day trip to Kyustendil
- Full city tour of Skopje
- Day trip to Pristina, Kosovo
- Services of a local tour guide and a tour leader
Itinerary
1Arrival in the Bulgarian Capital+
Depart Dublin on a direct flight to Sofia. Upon arrival, meet your tour leader and local guide for a coach transfer to your centrally located 4-star hotel. This will be your base for the first three nights, situated near the National Palace of Culture and local shops.
2Exploring Sofia on your Bulgaria Macedonia tour+
Enjoy a panoramic coach tour of Sofia after a late breakfast. Visit the ancient Roman forum of Serdica and St. Nedelya Square, where four different religious buildings stand together as a symbol of peace. See the Royal Palace, National Theatre, and the impressive Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the largest Orthodox church in the Balkans. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at your own pace.
3Ancient History in Plovdiv+
Travel to Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in the world. Your guide will lead a walking tour through the cobbled streets of the old town, featuring an ancient theatre and Roman stadium. There is also time to visit the pedestrianised shopping district, known for its reasonable prices, before returning to Sofia for the evening.
4Kyustendil and the Journey to Skopje+
Depart Sofia for a scenic drive to Kyustendil, often called the 'City of the Sun' for its thermal springs and Roman heritage. After visiting the local archaeological museum and Roman baths, continue across the border into North Macedonia. Arrive in Skopje and check into your 4-star hotel for a three-night stay.
5Guided Tour of Skopje+
Discover the landmarks of Skopje, including Macedonia Square and the Stone Bridge. Walk through the Old Bazaar, one of the largest Ottoman quarters in the region, and visit the Mustafa Pasha Mosque. The tour also includes the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, born here in 1010. The afternoon is free for you to walk along the Vardar River.
6Free Day in North Macedonia+
A full day to relax and explore the vibrant city of Skopje independently. You might choose to visit a local cafe, browse the traditional handicrafts in the markets, or enjoy the local Balkan cuisine at your own leisure.
7Day Trip to Pristina, Kosovo+
Cross another border for a day trip to Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. Visit Mother Teresa Square and the Ethnological Museum, housed in a traditional Ottoman building. See the Newborn Monument, which marks Kosovo's independence, and the striking architecture of the National Library before returning to Skopje for your final night.
8Return to Dublin+
After breakfast, travel back to Sofia with a scheduled lunch stop in Kyustendil. In the evening, you will be transferred to Sofia airport for your direct return flight to Dublin.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,119 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: SW
