The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece

• Day
  1

  Overnight Flight

  Set off for an adventure to the Balkans, a region where rocky coastlines and towering mountains meet a complex history and medieval cities. On your journey, generations of traditions come to life through local experiences amid stunning backdrops.
• Day
  2

  Zagreb, Croatia

  Arrive in Croatia’s fascinating capital city, Zagreb. As arrival times may vary, there are no scheduled activities today. Spend time as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

  • Meals Included:
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Le Premier Boutique Hotel
• Day
  3

  Zagreb

  This morning, join a local guide on a walking tour of Zagreb’s highlights, from the main square to Upper Town. Enjoy the rest of the day on your own in the city. Perhaps you’ll wander through the old town’s two medieval settlements, stroll the many open squares and parks, browse the stalls at the Dolac Market, or savor the flavors of Zagreb’s exciting culinary scene.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Le Premier Boutique Hotel
• Day
  4

  Zagreb - Plitvice Lakes

  This morning, travel to Plitvice Lakes, one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful national parks in Croatia. Inspiring scenery abounds at this designated UNESCO World Heritage site as you enjoy a short cruise into the heart of this natural wonder. Tonight, stay at a hotel in the small village near the national park.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  The Lyra Hotel Plitvice, Licko Petrovo Selo
• Day
  5

  Plitvice Lakes - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

  This morning, continue to Sarajevo - Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, where East meets West, and your home for the next two nights. With its centuries-old multiculturality, experience a city shaped by its rich history and the coexistence of various religious sects. Perhaps you’ll join a guided stroll this evening to get acquainted with the area.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  Accommodations:  Hotel Colors Inn
• Day
  6

  Sarajevo

  With a local expert, uncover the history of Sarajevo, the starting point of the First World War. Meander the storied roadways and take in its blend of religions and architectural styles before enjoying some free time to independently explore the city. During an Impact Moment, meet with a local siege survivor, who will uncover more of Sarajevo’s past. Spend time in the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, the site of the “Tunnel of Hope” that connected the besieged city to the outside world. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Sarajevo on your own. Tonight, locals welcome you to their home for dinner. Enjoy regional favorites such as klepe (meat dumplings) and burek (flaky filled pastries). Sip Bosnian coffee as a soundtrack of traditional folk music sets the tone for a truly memorable evening.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hotel Colors Inn
• Day
  7

  Sarajevo - Mostar - Dubrovnik, Croatia

  This morning, on your way to Croatia, spend time in Mostar, home to the iconic arched Stari Most Bridge (UNESCO). Explore Mostar on a guided walk before lunching on your own in the historic part of the city. This afternoon, be greeted by views of the Adriatic Sea when you arrive in Dubrovnik. As the day comes to an end, perhaps you’ll join in an evening stroll.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Adriatik
• Day
  8

  Dubrovnik

  Dubrovnik’s ancient streets share their history and timeless appeal during a tour of the city. Then, let the city continue to reveal itself to you because it’s your choice! Take a harbor cruise for magnificent views of Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and visit Lokrum Island -OR- get a bird’s-eye view of the city by cable car, riding up to Srd Hill, a breathtaking vantage point to look over the Old Town below and the Adriatic Sea. With the remainder of your day free, you do you – Croatia-style.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Adriatik
• Day
  9

  Dubrovnik - Kotor, Montenegro

  It’s “Dovidenja” to Croatia as you head to Montenegro. Set sail on a private boat* for the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Visit the church before coasting through the breathtaking Kotor Bay towards the Old Town of Kotor (UNESCO). Complete your visit to Kotor with a locally guided tour before you settle in your hotel located within the historic walls of Kotor town.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hotel Cattaro
• Day
  10

  Kotor

  Today, have fun exploring Kotor your way. Perhaps you’ll go on an optional excursion to Njeguši, a quiet and peaceful village located on the slope of Mount Lovcen about 900 meters above sea level. Soak in the views from a cable car and get a tasty local lesson on the traditions of prosciutto and homemade cheeses famously produced here – and, of course, sample these specialties. Learn more about Montenegrin history while visiting the royal town of Cetinje. Upon return, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the hidden corners of Kotor.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Cattaro
• Day
  11

  Kotor - Fishtë, Albania - Tirana

  Cross another border today and arrive in Albania! A unique blend of traditional Albanian hospitality and cultural experiences awaits in the picturesque rural setting of one of Albania’s best-regarded agritourism destinations, located in the village of Fishtë. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch of authentic dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients, and take a stroll through the farm and learn about traditional Albanian agriculture. Continue your travel day on your way to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. Explore its history and architecture on a locally guided tour while learning more about Albania’s intriguing past. Visit a former top-secret nuclear bunker, now a museum dedicated to the victims of one of most controlling communist regimes in Europe.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  Accommodations:  Hotel Rogner
• Day
  12

  Tirana

  Today, explore Tirana as you wish. Perhaps you’ll decide to join an optional excursion to the coastal ancient city of Durrës, where the Roman Amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian stands as the city’s most prominent attraction. Join a local guide to see the historic city’s ruins, and later, get an introduction to the viticulture in the region while enjoying a wine tasting paired with local specialties at a prominent winery. No matter how you fill your day, experience the best of the local cuisine and a show of rich folk traditions during dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hotel Rogner
• Day
  13

  Tirana - Gjirokastra - Kalambaka, Greece

  Soak in the beauty of the countryside with its winding roads and stretches of green on your way to Gjirokastra in southern Albania. Perhaps one of the steepest cities in the world, explore its unique architecture and glorious history. After having some free time in this fascinating town join your local guide on a tour of Gjirokastra’s dominant castle on the hill. Cross into Greece, your last border on this travel journey. Arrive in Kalambaka** in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner at the hotel.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Divani Meteora Hotel
• Day
  14

  Kalambaka - Metéora - Athens

  This morning, explore Metéora. Visit one of the remote monasteries*** situated in a unique landscape, where limestone rock “towers” extend nearly 900 feet into the air. Over 600 years ago, Byzantine monks built their monastic community perched atop these rocks. Later, learn how Byzantine icons are created by visiting an icon-painting workshop in Kalambaka. Watch some of the process at this atelier, where icons are made using traditional methods. Spend some time on your own in this enchanting town before continuing your journey to Athens. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers to savor a delicious Greek dinner and celebrate all you’ve experienced.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  NYX Esperia Palace Hotel
• Day
  15

  Athens

  Later this morning, explore the sights of Athens on a locally guided walking tour. From Syntagma Square and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, wander through the streets, soaking in the essence of this iconic city and savoring its charm and energy. Visit the new Acropolis Museum, considered one of the most important museums in the world, to trace the story of the ancient city. Located within a short walking distance of the Acropolis, the museum houses archeological treasures from the Acropolis and offers wonderful views on the ancient site. The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Athens on your own before joining your fellow travelers to toast to the end of your journey.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  NYX Esperia Palace Hotel
• Day
  16

  Athens - Tour Ends

  Your tour ends today.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
• Day
  1

  Overnight Flight

  Set off for an adventure to the Balkans, a region where dramatic coastlines and towering mountains meet medieval cities and complex history. On your journey, centuries-old traditions come alive through immersive local experiences set against stunning backdrops.
• Day
  2

  Zagreb, Croatia

  Arrive in Croatia’s vibrant capital city, Zagreb. As arrival times may vary, there are no scheduled activities today. Spend time as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

  • Meals Included:
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Le Premier Boutique Hotel
• Day
  3

  Zagreb

  This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour highlighting Zagreb’s main square and historic Upper Town. The remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you’ll wander through the old town’s two medieval settlements, stroll the many open squares and parks, browse the stalls at the Dolac Market, or savor the flavors of Zagreb’s dynamic culinary scene.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Le Premier Boutique Hotel
• Day
  4

  Zagreb - Plitvice Lakes

  Travel to Plitvice Lakes, one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful national parks in Croatia. Inspiring scenery abounds at this designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, and pristine surroundings during a short cruise into the heart of this natural wonder. Tonight, stay at a hotel in the small village near the national park.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  The Lyra Hotel Plitvice, Licko Petrovo Selo
• Day
  5

  Plitvice Lakes - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

  Today, continue to Sarajevo - Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, where East meets West, and your home for the next two nights. With its centuries-old multiculturality, experience a city shaped by its rich history and the coexistence of diverse religions. This evening, you may choose to join your Tour Manager for a stroll to get acquainted with the area.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  Accommodations:  Hotel Colors Inn
• Day
  6

  Sarajevo

  Begin the day with an Impact Moment and visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, home to the famed “Tunnel of Hope,” and hear the stories that provide insight into the resilience and determination of the city and its citizens during the war. Continue exploring Sarajevo’s layered history, including its role in the start of World War I. Walk its historic streets and discover the city’s unique blend of architectural styles and religious traditions. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Sarajevo on your own. Tonight, experience Bosnian hospitality with a local family. Enjoy regional favorites and sip Bosnian coffee as traditional folk music sets the tone for a truly memorable evening.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hotel Colors Inn
• Day
  7

  Sarajevo - Mostar - Dubrovnik, Croatia

  On your way back to Croatia, stop in Mostar to explore the iconic UNESCO-listed Stari Most Bridge. Enjoy a walk through the historic town, followed by free time for lunch. This afternoon, be greeted by views of the Adriatic Sea when you arrive in Dubrovnik. As the day comes to an end, perhaps you’ll join in an evening stroll.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Adriatik
• Day
  8

  Dubrovnik

  Dubrovnik’s ancient streets share their history and timeless charm during a guided walking tour of the city. Then, let the city continue to reveal itself to you because it’s your choice! Take a harbor cruise for magnificent views of Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and visit Lokrum Island -OR- get a bird’s-eye view of the city by cable car, riding up to Srd Hill, a breathtaking vantage point to look over the Old Town below and the Adriatic Sea. With the rest of the afternoon and evening free to relax or explore the city on your own, perhaps you will walk along the iconic Dubrovnik city walls.*

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Adriatik
• Day
  9

  Dubrovnik - Kotor, Montenegro

  Bid farewell to Croatia and travel to Montenegro. Set sail on a private boat** for the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Visit the church before cruising through the stunning Bay of Kotor. Enjoy a guided tour of Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town before you settle in your hotel located within the town’s historic walls.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Cattaro
• Day
  10

  Kotor

  Enjoy a full day at leisure in Kotor. Perhaps you’ll go on an optional excursion and discover the authentic flavors of the Adriatic at a traditional, family-run mussel and oyster farm. Savor a fresh, farm-to-table tasting of locally harvested mussels and oysters, and gain insight into the time-honored traditions and techniques that make Boka Bay a celebrated seafood destination. Upon return, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the hidden corners of Kotor.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Cattaro
• Day
  11

  Kotor - Fishtë, Albania - Tirana

  Cross another border today and arrive in Albania! A unique blend of traditional Albanian hospitality and cultural experiences awaits in the picturesque rural setting of one of Albania’s best-regarded agritourism destinations, located in the village of Fishtë. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch of authentic dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients, and take a stroll through the farm. Continue your travel day on your way to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. Explore its history and architecture on a locally guided tour while learning more about Albania’s complex past, including a visit to a former top-secret nuclear bunker turned museum.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  Accommodations:  Hotel Rogner
• Day
  12

  Tirana

  Today, enjoy Tirana at leisure or join an optional excursion to the coastal ancient city of Durrës to explore Roman ruins, including the Roman Amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian, followed by wine tasting paired with local specialties at a prominent winery. No matter how you fill your day, experience the best of the local cuisine and folk entertainment at a local restaurant.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hotel Rogner
• Day
  13

  Tirana - Gjirokastra - Kalambaka, Greece

  Soak in the beauty of the countryside with its winding roads and stretches of green on your way to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO-listed city celebrated for its Ottoman-era heritage and often considered one of the steepest cities in the world. Leisurely explore its unique architecture and glorious history. After having some free time in this fascinating town, continue towards Greece, and cross your last border on this travel journey. Arrive in Kalambaka*** in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner at the hotel.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Divani Metéora Hotel
• Day
  14

  Kalambaka - Metéora - Athens

  This morning, explore Metéora. Visit one of the remote monasteries**** situated in a unique landscape, where limestone rock “towers” extend nearly 900 feet into the air. Over 600 years ago, Byzantine monks built their monastic community perched atop these rocks. Later, observe traditional Byzantine icon-making during a workshop visit in Kalambaka. Continue to Athens and gather for a celebratory farewell dinner, savoring a delicious Greek cuisine.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  NYX Esperia Palace Hotel
• Day
  15

  Athens

  Explore Athens on a guided walking tour, including Syntagma Square and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Wander through the streets, soaking in the essence of this iconic city and savoring its charm and energy. Visit the Acropolis Museum to trace the history of ancient Athens through its remarkable artifacts. Located within a short walking distance of the Acropolis, the museum houses archeological treasures from the Acropolis and offers wonderful views of the ancient site. The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Athens on your own before joining your fellow travelers to toast to the end of your journey.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  NYX Esperia Palace Hotel
• Day
  16

  Athens - Tour Ends

  Your tour ends today.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast

Optional Activities:

• Discover Highlands of Montenegro & Cable Car experience

  Location: Budva
  Price: $119.00 per person

  
  This excursion is an opportunity to explore more of the diversity and beauty of the small, stunning country of Montenegro. The day begins as you join your guide on a drive from Kotor to the cable car station. Take in breathtaking views over ancient Kotor and Boka Bay as the cable car whisks you to Lovcen Mountain (1749m) in just 11 minutes. Next, head to the mountain village of Njeguši to visit an old smokehouse, sampling the smoked ham and cheese made on site. Finally, arrive in the old royal capital of Cetinje and learn about the rich history of Montenegro on a visit to King Nikola’s Palace. After some free time in Cetinje, return to Kotor this afternoon. Duration approximately 6 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 8 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.

• Historic Durrës and Albanian Winery Tour

  Location: Tirana
  Price: $99.00 per person

  
  Travel from Tirana to Durrës, located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Explore this ancient city, with its 2,500 years of recorded history, on a walking tour. See the city hall, the ruins of a Byzantine forum, Byzantine walls, Roman baths, a Roman amphitheater, a Venetian tower, and an archaeological museum. There’s so much to discover in this scenic city. Afterward, travel to Abaia Winery and tour the vineyard and Communist-era bunkers, which are now used for wine production and aging. Learn about viticulture and wine production in this beautiful region of Albania, and enjoy a wine tasting paired with a lunch of traditional Albanian food. Duration approximately 5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. Once purchased this option is non refundable.

Optional Activities:

• Adriatic Oyster & Mussel Farm Experience

  Location: Kotor
  Price: $75.00 per person

  
  Discover the authentic flavors of the Adriatic with a scenic drive from Kotor along the breathtaking coastline of Boka Bay to a traditional, family-run mussel and oyster farm. Upon arrival, meet your local host and expert farmer, who will introduce you to the centuries-old tradition of mussel and oyster cultivation in these pristine waters. Learn how the region’s shellfish are grown and harvested and gain insight into the time-honored techniques that make Boka Bay a celebrated seafood destination. Savor a fresh, farm-to-table tasting of locally harvested mussels and oysters, prepared in the region’s signature white wine sauce using simple, traditional ingredients that highlight the natural flavors of the sea. After your tasting experience, relax on a scenic drive back to Kotor, taking in the peaceful beauty of the bay. Duration approximately 2 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 6 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. This tasting experience includes mussels and oysters only. No alternative food options will be available.

• Historic Durrës and Albanian Winery Tour

  Location: Tirana
  Price: $149.00 per person

  
  Travel from Tirana to Durrës, located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Explore this ancient city, with its 2,500 years of recorded history, on a walking tour. See the city hall, the ruins of a Byzantine forum, Byzantine walls, Roman baths, a Roman amphitheater, a Venetian tower, and an archaeological museum. There’s so much to discover in this scenic city. Afterward, travel to Abaia Winery and tour the vineyard and Communist-era bunkers, which are now used for wine production and aging. Learn about viticulture and wine production in this beautiful region of Albania, and enjoy a wine tasting paired with a lunch of traditional Albanian food. Duration approximately 5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. Once purchased this option is non refundable.

Tour Extensions:

Pre-tour Extension

• 2-Night Ljubljana Extension (Land Only)

  Price: $899.00 per person

  
  Start your adventure early with time in Ljubljana, the capital city and cultural center of Slovenia. In Ljubljana, join a local expert to get to know the city, gather for a welcome dinner, and enjoy free time to explore on your own during your stay. Spend a morning discovering Lake Bled, nestled between the Julian Alps, and journey by traditional wooden boat to visit Bled Island, one of Slovenia's most picturesque locations. An enchanting start to your adventures awaits in Ljubljana OR you can book a pre-night.

Pre-tour Hotel

• Boutique Hotel Le Premier

  Price: $150.00 per person

Post-tour Hotel

• NYX Esperia Palace Athens

  Price: $275.00 per person

Tour Extensions:

Pre-tour Extension

• 2 Night Ljubljana Pre Extension (Land Only)

  Price: $899.00 per person

  
  Start your adventure early with time in Ljubljana, the capital city and cultural center of Slovenia. In Ljubljana, join a local expert to get to know the city, gather for a welcome dinner, and enjoy free time to explore on your own during your stay. Spend a morning discovering Lake Bled, nestled between the Julian Alps, and journey by traditional wooden boat to visit Bled Island, one of Slovenia's most picturesque locations. An enchanting start to your adventures awaits in Ljubljana - OR - you may book a pre-night.

Pre-tour Hotel

• Boutique Hotel Le Premier

  Price: $150.00 per person

Post-tour Hotel

• NYX Esperia Palace Athens

  Price: $275.00 per person

Tour extensions are 1-night in length, unless noted otherwise.

Tour extensions are 1-night in length, unless noted otherwise.