Bilbao

Hello traveler! I'm excited to help you plan your 7-day adventure in Bilbao while keeping in mind your constraints of visiting Belgrade, Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, and Zagreb. Let's dive into your ideal itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao

• Arrive in Bilbao and check into your accommodation.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the charming Old Town (Casco Viejo) with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.
• Visit the Guggenheim Museum to admire its stunning architecture and contemporary art collection.
• Enjoy a delicious Basque dinner at a local pintxos bar.

Day 2: Belgrade

• Catch an early morning flight to Belgrade.
• Explore the historic Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park overlooking the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
• Visit the bohemian Skadarlija district for traditional Serbian cuisine and live music.
• Stroll along Knez Mihailova Street for shopping and people-watching.

Day 3: Sofia

• Fly to Sofia in the morning.
• Visit the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the historic St. George Rotunda.
• Explore the vibrant Vitosha Boulevard for shopping and dining.
• Relax in the peaceful Borisova Gradina park or visit the National Palace of Culture.

Day 4: Skopje

• Take a short flight to Skopje.
• Discover the eclectic mix of architectural styles in the city center, including the Stone Bridge and the Old Bazaar.
• Visit the impressive Skopje Fortress for panoramic views of the city.
• Enjoy traditional Macedonian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Tirana

• Fly to Tirana, the capital of Albania.
• Explore the colorful buildings and bustling streets of Blloku, once the exclusive district for Communist Party officials.
• Visit the National History Museum to learn about Albania's rich heritage.
• Enjoy a leisurely evening at one of Tirana's many cafes or restaurants.

Day 6: Zagreb

• Catch a morning flight to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia.
• Explore the historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad) with its charming cobblestone streets and St. Mark's Church.
• Visit the bustling Dolac Market for fresh produce and local crafts.
• Relax in one of Zagreb's many parks or gardens.

Day 7: Departure from Bilbao

• Fly back to Bilbao for your departure.
• If time allows, visit the picturesque coastal town of Getxo or take a funicular ride up Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of the city.
• Bid farewell to Bilbao with memories of a fantastic week of exploring diverse destinations.

I hope this itinerary gives you a good balance of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation during your week-long trip. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure!