Orthodox Cultures of The Balkans

Traipse the Bohemian Quarter

For your first night in Belgrade, we suggest taking an easy walk down Knez Mihajlova street and through the Bohemian quarter of Skadarlija, often compared to Paris' Montmartre. These old areas reflect the local lifestyle and culture at its best. Here you'll experience a blend of classical and modern architecture, together with lively cafeterias, street musicians, outdoor artists, interesting galleries, and shopping. In short, this is a great place to spend a few hours.

Fruska Gora Monasteries and Sremski Karlovci Private Tour

The slopes of Fruska Gora and Sremski Karlovci attract a wide variety of visitors. Some with a more spiritual bent come for the sixteen living monasteries, while some more hedonistic types visit some of the region's 60+ wineries, or just wish to enjoy the stunning nature offered by the pristine Fruska Gora National Park.

Serbian Orthodox Heritage Private Walking Tour

Ever wondered Serbs say their monasteries are doors to the world and windows to the heavens? By the time the Romans legalized Christianity in 313, Serbia had already converted. Religion has played an oversized role in this devout country, as shown by the Serbian monarchs who have been canonized as saints. Explore Serbian culture, customs, and traditions. Visit a church with a chandelier made from bullets and sabres. Drink the St. Petka Church's healing holy waters. Visit one of the world's largest churches, inspired by the Hagia Sophia. Delve into the differences between Orthodoxy and Catholicism, and learn why there is a Russian Church in Belgrade's center. Trace the evolution of architectural styles over the centuries, and learn the legends of the great men buried within Belgrade's churches.

Visit Belgrade's Museums

As a capital of Serbia, Belgrade has more than a few museums, but three stand out and are especially worth seeing. Having finished 15 years of renovations, the National Museum of Belgrade has now opened all of its doors to visitors. Here, guests can explore a massive collection encompassing everything from the Paleolithic period to 20th century art. Our second recommendation is the Nikola Tesla Museum. You'll explore his often fantastical inventions, and unusual approach to life. Finally, be sure to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art. Its "permanent" exhibition actually changes every three to five years. As a rule, though, it's based on reconstructions of historical periods, movements, tendencies, and individual phenomena in the Yugoslav art space.

Stroll the Streets

Get a feel for Sofia's spirit and vibes by walking from the NDK subway station down Vitosha Boulevard towards the Palace of Justice and Saint Kyriaki Cathedral. On your way, have a quick stop on this pedestrian boulevard to enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of its numerous bars and outdoor terraces. From St. Kyriaki, head down Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard towards Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the world's largest and most impressive orthodox cathedrals in the world. On your way, you'll pass several landmarks, including the National Art Gallery, Sofia Synagogue, and Opera House. After taking some nice photos of the cathedral, you can head to the nearby Sense Hotel Rooftop Restaurant for dinner and a panoramic view over Sofia.

See Sofia on a Private Walking Tour

Admire the National Library, Sofia University, Parliament, the St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the National Theater, St. Sofia Church, and Sofia's oldest building, the St. George Rotunda and other architectural gems. You will learn the history behind the sites but also some overall insights about Sofia’s rich culture. 

Explore the Past via Sofia's Museums

Rila and Boyana Private Day Tour (UNESCO Heritage)

In this private tour you will discover two of the most famous Bulgarian monasteries and understand their importance for local and world culture. Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century, is the most-visited UNESCO site in Bulgaria and an absolute must see. The arched balconies, unique frescoes, and the fabulous mountain views make this place truly special. Next stop is Boyana Church, which frescoes brought epochal changes to the mural painting style and are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance. 

Scoping out Skopje

This walking tour of Skopje includes all of the highlights of this fantastic city. You'll start with the old railway station, one of the most striking buildings in the Balkans. You'll also get to see the monument to Mother Teresa, the house of Mother Teresa and the Stone Bridge which is known as the most imposing monument in Macedonia. Another part of the tour takes you to Skopje's Old Town, with a walk through the Skopje Bazar, and finally a visit to a gorgeous church. You'll see the most interesting sights of this unique destination and get a real feel for its culture.

How Bazaar!

Skopje’s Old Bazaar is the oldest part of the city, and also one of its most atmospheric. You’ll find it on the eastern bank of the Vardar River, from Stone Bridge to the Bit-Pazar, and from Skopje Fortress to the Serava River. A merchant’s quarter since the 12th century, the Old Bazaar is packed with local shops and salesmen with a little of everything.This is a unique place where you can really see the local culture and also find everything from crafts to curios, local produce and baked goods. Don’t forget to haggle!

Bone up on Macedonian History

One of Skopje’s best museums is the National Archeological Museum, a brand new building on the river built in an eclectic mix of modern and classic styles. It’s impressive from the outside and even more so when you see the collection. Here you’ll find an incredible assortment of artifacts that attest to the history and culture of Macedonia. This is the best place to get an in-depth insight into what makes Skopje unique, a place where the past truly comes to life. It will give you a new point of view on everything else you see in Skopje.

Ohrid and St. Naum Private Day Trip

Explore Lake Ohrid, and the history and architecture that makes it special (in addition to its own natural beauty). Continuously inhabited since ancient times, you'll visit the town's landmarks and best views, then delve further into the past. At the "Bay of Bones," you'll visit a replica of the Neolithic settlement that once safely sat on piles above the lake. Continuing along the picturesque lakeshore by boat, you'll come to the St. Naum Monastery. Situated in the lush area where the Black Drin river flows from the lake (a kilometer from the Albanian border), this is one of the region's highlights.