The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece
The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece
16 Days Starting in Zagreb, Croatia and ending in Athens, Greece
Visiting: Zagreb, Karanac, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Tirana, Kalambaka, Athens
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16122
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Uncover the Balkans, a region rich in history and culture amid the beauty of rocky coastlines, steep landscapes, and ancient cities. Journey through Croatian cities and countryside, and take in Dubrovnik’s timeless appeal, choosing a closer look at its medieval walls or a sky-high view from a cable car. Share meals and encounter traditions among locals – in a Sarajevo home, in a rural Croatian village, and in Tirana. Embark on an adventure threading the peninsula’s wonders in Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Greece.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Le Premier Boutique Hotel
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
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Baranjska Kuca Hotel and Etno Restaurant
Arrive in Croatia’s fascinating capital city, Zagreb. Get ready to discover this modern metropolis with its Old Town, medieval settlements, open squares, museums, and cobbled streets meant for strolling. Your day is free until tonight, when you gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
Day 3 : Zagreb - Karanac
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Hotel
This morning, join a local guide on a walking tour of Zagreb’s highlights, from the main square to Upper Town. Enjoy some free time to explore and have lunch on your own before the journey continues to the northeast corner of Croatia. Travel off the beaten path toward the rural village of Karanac, nestled at the confluence of the Drava and Danube Rivers. Tonight, meet your local hosts for a delightful dinner accompanied by folk entertainment.
Day 4 : Karanac - Osijek - Karanac
Location: Karanac
Accommodation Name: Hotel Colors Inn
Immerse yourself in country life this morning, perhaps joining your hosts in preparing breakfast. Then join your local guide in the nearby city of Osijek, learning about its Roman and Ottoman history. Take free time to have lunch and explore the city center on your own, marveling at the architecture, museums, historic buildings, city parks, and monuments. This afternoon, find out how wine is made in this region – while enjoying a glass. Then, roll up your sleeves alongside locals to prepare traditional dishes and bread for dinner.
Day 5 : Karanac - Sarajevo, Bosnia And Herzegovina
Location: Karanac
Accommodation Name: Hotel
This morning, continue to Sarajevo – Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, where East meets West, and your home for the next two nights. Reminiscent of a European Jerusalem, 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.
Day 6 : Sarajevo
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Royal Ariston Hotel
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. Free time means independent exploration of this historic 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.
Day 7 : Sarajevo - Mostar - Dubrovnik, Croatia
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Hotel
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.
Day 8 : Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Hotel Cattaro
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.
Day 9 : Dubrovnik - Kotor, Montenegro
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Hotel
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.
Day 10 : Kotor
Location: Kotor
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rogner
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.
Day 11 : Kotor - Shkodër, Albania - Tirana
Location: Kotor
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Cross another border today and arrive in Albania! Get to know Shkodër, one of the most historic cities in the country. Admire mosques and churches on a guided stroll along the main pedestrian street and try some of the local cuisine. 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.
Day 12 : Tirana
Location: Tirana
Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora Hotel
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.
Day 13 : Tirana - Gjirokastra - Kalambaka, Greece
Location: Tirana
Accommodation Name: NYX Esperia Palace Hotel
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.
Day 14 : Kalambaka - Metéora - Athens
Location: Kalambaka
Accommodation Name: Hotel
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.
Day 15 : Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel
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 for dinner and to toast to the end of your journey.
Day 16 : Athens - Tour Ends
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Your tour ends today.
What's Included
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Private Boat Ride
Take a private boat to explore Our Lady of the Rocks Island and breathtaking Boka Bay.
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Guided Tours
Explore the historic and architectural evolution of Tirana and visit one of Metéora's Byzantine monasteries.
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Local Experiences
Uncover Sarajevo’s wartime history with a siege survivor and discover Gjirokastra’s Old Town, bazaar, and castle.
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Culinary Experiences
Experience Bosnian hospitality and regional dishes, joining a local family for a meal in a Sarajevo home.
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Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout your journey, including the Le Premier Boutique Hotel in Zagreb and Hotel Cattaro in Dubrovnik.
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Transportation
Travel through the Balkans with a mix of private and guided transportation, including scenic drives and walking tours.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Specified
Meals that are not specified in the itinerary are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as the Budva Highlands of Montenegro & Cable Car experience are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
Experiences
- Impact Moment: Uncover Sarajevo’s wartime history with a siege survivor.
- Discover Gjirokastra’s Old Town, bazaar and castle.
- Visit a traditional icon-painting workshop in Kalambaka.
Options
Budva: Discover Highlands of Montenegro & Cable Car experience
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 6 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Tirana: Historic Durrës and Albanian Winery Tour
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 6 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Culinaries
- Enjoy traditional Albanian food and folk entertainment in the capital city, Tirana.
- Get to know locals and participate in preparing local specialties and bread in Karanac.
- Experience Bosnian hospitality and regional dishes, joining a local family for a meal in a Sarajevo home.
Must See
- Take a private boat to explore Our Lady of the Rocks Island and breathtaking Boka Bay.
- Explore the historic and architectural evolution of Tirana.
- Come to know Metéora and visit one of its Byzantine monasteries, built over 600 years ago.
Choice Highlights
Zagreb
Located in the northwest of the country, Zagreb is the capital and the largest city of the Republic of Croatia. Zagreb is a city with a rich history dating from the Roman times to the present day. Zagreb is the most important transport hub in Croatia. The city is known for its diverse economy, high quality of living, museums, sporting and entertainment events.
Karanac Farm Stay
Osijek
Cooking Class
Sarajevo
Impact Moment
Experience an Impact Moment when you learn how the local women are keeping the community alive through their traditions and crafts.
Mostar
Dubrovnik
A group of refugees from Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat) founded Dubrovnik in the first half of the 7th century. The city was under the protection of the Byzantine Empire through the 12th century. From 1205-1358, Dubrovnik fell under the sovereignty of Venice. Dubrovnik ruled itself as a free state between the 14th century and 1808 as the Republic of Dubrovnik. It flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and became the chief shipping rival to Venice. A devastating earthquake in 1667 killed over 5,000 citizens and marked the beginning of the decline for the Republic. The Republic officially met its final demise in 1808 after Napoleon’s armies conquered it and Marshal Marmont abolished the Republic and integrated it into the Illyrian provinces. Since 1808, Dubrovnik has fallen under attack, been occupied and annexed several times, most recently as part of the second Yugoslavia (1945-1991); however, it continues to be one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities on the entire Adriatic. With its medieval walls that surround the old city, and the ancient buildings contained within, Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site unlike any other.
Choice on Tour: Lokrum Island or Dubrovnik Cable Car
Our Lady of the Rocks
Boka Bay Scenic Sailing
Kotor
Shkodër
Tirana
Gjirokastra
Kalambaka
Kalambaka is one of the most ancient cities of Thessaly. In Kalambaka is the cave of Theopetras where human imprints dating back to 45000 BC were found. It is a place that is said to have a wonderful view of natural beauty where walking and hiking are encouraged. It is also a place of serenity and spiritual sense.
Metéora
Meteora, located in Thessaly and Kalampaka, is a city under the rock of towers. The most famous attraction is the monasteries on the top of the rock towers. Today, the Orthodoxy has been continually practiced uninterrupted for over 600 years by the monasteries on top of the Meteora rocks: Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoro, the Varlaam Monastery, the Saint Stephen Monastery, the Holy Trinity Monastery, the Saint Nicolas Anapafsas Monastery, and the Roussano Monastery.
Icon-Painting Workshop
Athens
A place where democracy was born and the birthplace of the Olympics; happens to be the largest city located in one of the most historic countries and is also the capital of Greece. Located in Athens is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, Acropolis of Athens, the Holy Rock which dates back to 5 BC. Athens is recognized as a global city for its strategic location and its modernistic views in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, international trade, culture, education, and tourism.
Mode of Transport
Travel through the Balkans with a mix of private and guided transportation, including scenic drives, walking tours, and a private boat ride to explore Our Lady of the Rocks Island and Kotor Bay.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout your journey, including the Le Premier Boutique Hotel in Zagreb, Baranjska Kuca Hotel and Etno Restaurant, Hotel Colors Inn in Osijek, Royal Ariston Hotel in Sarajevo, and Hotel Cattaro in Dubrovnik, among others.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience can I expect in Sarajevo during the tour?
In Sarajevo, you will have an Impact Moment where you meet with a local siege survivor who will share insights into Sarajevo's wartime history. You will also visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, known as the 'Tunnel of Hope,' which connected the besieged city to the outside world.
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What activities are included in the visit to Karanac?
In Karanac, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in country life by joining your hosts in preparing breakfast. You will also participate in preparing traditional dishes and bread for dinner alongside locals.
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What can I expect during the visit to Metéora?
During the visit to Metéora, you will explore the unique landscape where limestone rock towers extend nearly 900 feet into the air. You will visit one of the remote Byzantine monasteries built over 600 years ago and learn about the creation of Byzantine icons at a traditional icon-painting workshop.
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What culinary experiences are offered in Tirana?
In Tirana, you will enjoy traditional Albanian food and folk entertainment. There is also an optional excursion to the coastal city of Durrës, where you can enjoy a wine tasting paired with local specialties at a prominent winery.
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What is the significance of the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks Island?
The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks Island includes a private boat tour to the islet, where you will visit the church and enjoy breathtaking views of Boka Bay before continuing to the Old Town of Kotor.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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