Balkan Express Self-Guided - Self-Guided Motorcycle Tour - Brdar Moto Tours
Balkan Express Self-Guided
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Self-Guided13 days / 11 riding daysSerbiaBulgariaRomania

Balkan Express Self-Guided

A high-speed journey through history and the open road
From€3580 per rider
View itinerary
Overview

Freedom, your way.

In the heart of the Balkans, where ancient history meets raw natural beauty, an unforgettable journey awaits. The Balkan Express begins and ends in Belgrade, Serbia, taking you through a thrilling mix of culture, adventure, and breathtaking roads.

This ride weaves through rolling hills, medieval fortresses, and legendary mountain passes. Explore the timeless Manasija Monastery, experience the charm of Sumadija, and savor the flavors of Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.

The real thrill lies ahead, conquering the legendary Shipka Pass, the high-altitude Transalpina, and the world-famous Transfăgărăşan. The Balkan Express is ready to roll. Are you?

Duration
13 days / 11 riding
Total distance
2350 km (1460 mi)
Daily distance
120 to 300 km
Roads
All asphalt
Rest days
1 day at Bucharest
Start and end
Belgrade, Serbia
Highlights

What you will see.

GolubacTransalpinaBran CastleLepenski VirShipka PassTransfăgărăşanSumadija RegionManasija Monastery
Balkan Express Self-Guided, road map
Day by day

The route.

DAY01Welcome to Belgrade
Welcome to Belgrade, a city where history meets modern energy. After settling in, meet your fellow riders for a tour briefing. Spend the day exploring the fortresses, vibrant streets, and riverside cafes of Serbia's capital. In the evening we gather for a welcome dinner of authentic Balkan cuisine.
DAY02Through the Serbian heartland
Leaving Belgrade, we ride south into rolling hills and winding roads. A highlight is the Ovcarsko-Kablarska Gorge, a breathtaking canyon lined with ancient monasteries and dramatic rock formations. The road leads us to Kragujevac, Serbia's historic heart, for the night.
DAY03Monasteries and borderlands
We ride deeper into Serbia's history. A stop at Manasija Monastery, a medieval fortress-monastery, offers a glimpse into the past. We continue east through Zajecar before crossing into Bulgaria, where the surreal rock formations of Belogradchik await.
DAY04From rocks to the capital
Leaving the Belogradchik Rocks, we ride through winding mountain roads and open valleys to Sofia, Bulgaria's dynamic capital, where Roman ruins, Ottoman history, and modern energy collide, from the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to its lively streets.
DAY05Over the Shipka Pass
We carve through the Balkan Mountains, tackling the legendary Shipka Pass. A stop at the Buzludzha Monument adds a surreal touch. By afternoon we arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital, where the Tsarevets Fortress and cobbled streets take us back in time.
DAY06Crossing into Romania
We ride toward the Danube River and cross into Romania at Ruse. The road then leads us to Bucharest, Romania's vibrant capital, where grand boulevards, historic landmarks, and old-world charm await.
DAY07Bucharest at leisure
Rest day. A day to unwind and explore Bucharest. Wander through its historic Old Town, visit the Palace of Parliament, or relax in the city's cafe culture. For those craving more, optional rides and sightseeing await.
DAY08Into the Carpathians
Leaving Bucharest, we ride into the Carpathian Mountains. A stop at Bran Castle, tied to the Dracula myth, sets the stage before we continue to Curtea de Arges, the gateway to some of Europe's most legendary roads.
DAY09Riding the Transfăgărăşan
Today we take on one of Europe's most legendary roads, the Transfăgărăşan, with endless twists, breathtaking altitude, and jaw-dropping scenery. After conquering its curves, we continue through the heart of Transylvania, ending the day in Sebes.
DAY10Conquering the Transalpina
Another legendary road. We take on the Transalpina, Romania's highest and wildest pass, twisting through the Parang Mountains. Descending into Novaci, we continue to Targu Jiu, home to Romania's famous open-air sculptures.
DAY11Iron Gates of the Danube
We follow the Danube back into Serbia. A stop at the Derdap Dam offers stunning views of the Iron Gates Gorge. We visit Lepenski Vir, an ancient archaeological site, and end the day in Golubac, where the mighty fortress stands over the Danube.
DAY12Return to Belgrade
The final stretch follows the Danube through Derdap National Park before the road opens toward Belgrade. There is time to reflect on the legendary roads, breathtaking landscapes, and the true spirit of adventure.
DAY13Departure
After days of thrilling rides and rich history, our adventure comes to an end. The memories of winding roads, breathtaking views, and the freedom of the open road will stay with you. Until we meet again.
The details

What is included.

Included in the price

  • Late-model motorcycle with hard, lockable cases including third-party liability insurance
  • Detailed GPS routes and turn-by-turn navigation for the whole tour
  • Curated points of interest and route notes along the way
  • Handpicked, biker-friendly hotels (mostly 4 star)
  • Daily breakfast at the hotels
  • On-call support throughout your ride
  • Airport transfers up to 5 days before and one day after the tour
  • Tour description booklet with maps and highlighted routes

Not included

  • Fuel
  • Tolls
  • Airline tickets
  • Additional drinks
  • Personal spending
  • Speeding and traffic violation penalty tickets
  • Anything not listed under Included in the price
Departures

Dates and stays.

2026
Jul 27 to Aug 08Available
2027
Jul 27 to Aug 07Early Bird
Accommodation: Handpicked, biker-friendly hotels, mostly 4 star
Booking

Reserve your place.

Starting price
€3580 per rider
Per passenger€2410
Single room supplement€650

Final quote is shown at the end of the booking steps.

Tour cancellation insurance, more information here.

Ride it your way.

Secure your self-guided tour in a few steps. Pick your start date, choose your package, and pay your deposit. The full quote, including any single room supplement or motorcycle upgrade, is shown before you confirm.

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