The Great Balkan Tour

Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Athens, exploring its cosmopolitan and bustling capital city. Amidst the city’s reminders of a glorious past, visit graceful temples, centuries-old monasteries, and ornate Byzantine churches. Marvel at the immortal Acropolis, including the Parthenon, known as the most perfectly proportioned building of all time. Admire the Erectheion with its iconic Porch of the Maidens, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Wingless Victory. Below the Acropolis lies the Ancient Agora, the afternoon and evening at your leisure. (B)

Embark on a journey to Delphi, where the famous Oracle once foretold the destinies of men. Explore the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, as well as the Sacred Way, Stadium, and Castalian Fountain. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the site, including the beautiful Bronze Charioteer. Continue your trip to  Kalambaka. (B, D)

monasteries built by monks seeking isolation. Of the original 33 monasteries, only four are active today, with the Megalo {Great) Meteoro being the most important. Its unique architecture, intricate dome, twelve sides, and exquisite frescoes make it a must-see. Cross the border to the Republic of North Macedonia and proceed to Ohrid. (B, D)

Explore Ohrid, an important cultural and spiritual center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a morning sightseeing tour through the cobblestone streets of the old town and visit the Cathedral of St. Sofia, featuring magnificent 10th-century frescoes. In the afternoon, travel to Tirana – the capital of Albania. (B, D)

Embark on a morning sightseeing tour of Tirana, where you’ll visit notable landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, the Mosque of Ethem Bey, the Clock Tower, and the statue of G. . Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero. Explore the Palace of Culture, built with Soviet assistance, and the National History Museum, adorned with a mosaic depicting Albanian history on its faade. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring, shopping, or relaxing. (B)

After breakfast, depart Tirana and head to Shkodra, a cultural hub with ancient origins. Explore the magnificent Rozafa Castle, perched high on a rocky limestone outcrop overlooking the city. Cross the border into Montenegro and continue to Tivat. Enjoy dinner upon arrival. (B, D)

Embark on a journey to Dubrovnik, Croatia stopping en route to admire the scenic Kotor Bay, a South European fjord. Enjoy an orientation tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town of Kotor. Continue to Dubrovnik and arrive before dinner. (B, D)

Embark on a walking tour of Old Dubrovnik after breakfast. Visit notable sites such as the Rector’s Palace, the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column, Sponza Palace, the Dominican Monastery, and the Franciscan Monastery with its ancient Pharmacy. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Consider joining the optional excursion for a home-hosted Dubelj experience with dinner. (B)

Travel north along the stunning Adriatic coast, passing old fishing villages and new resorts, until you reach the city of Split. (B, D)

Begin the morning with a sightseeing tour of Split. Explore the historic inner city, centered around the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site of Diocletian’s Palace. Discover remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle, and the Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to stroll through the beautiful streets of Split, relax on the beach, or join the optional excursion to the glamorous island of Hvar, a popular spot for the rich and famous. (B)

After breakfast, head to Trogir – known for its vibrant artistic scene. Scholars from around the world gather here to study and paint. Next, travel inland to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Take a walking tour around the lower lakes and capture the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder. Marvel at the sixteen terraced lakes surrounded by lush vegetation and thickly wooded mountains. (B, D)

Return to the coast and drive along the beautiful bay of Kvarner to the popular resort town of Opatija. Enjoy some free time before continuing north to Postojna, Slovenia – home to one of Europe’s largest caves. Explore this fantastic subterranean world on a miniature electric train. Continue to Bled, a picturesque town nestled in the Julian Alps. (B, D)

Discover the beauty of Bled, an Alpine Lake surrounded by towering peaks. Take a sightseeing tour of the charming town and stroll along the lakeshore. Visit the impressive Bled Castle, perched high on a cliff above the lake. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Consider joining the optional excursion to the small island in the middle of the lake, browse through shops and boutiques, or simply revel in the enchanting scenery. (B)

Leave the mountains behind and head to Ljubljana – the capital of Slovenia. Embark on a walking tour of the old city center, exploring significant landmarks such as the Central Market, the Three Bridges, Baroque Town Hall, and Robba’s Fountain. Continue to Zagreb – the capital city of Croatia. (B, D)

In the morning, enjoy a city tour of Zagreb including the historic Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, Parliament, and Government Palace. The rest of the day is free to explore the winding streets of the old town or take an optional excursion to the countryside. (B)

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Zagreb airport for your departure. (B)

Note: Because of the narrow and cobbled streets, walking is the primary way of getting around. Please make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.