Culture & Coasts of Southern Balkans
This 10-day itinerary offers you the rare opportunity to understand the essence of the Southern Balkans, and more specifically, Albania and Greece. Start your journey in Albania, one of Europe's last hidden gems, where the vibrant capital of Tirana, with its bustling bars and restaurants, comes in fascinating contrast with the historic narrow alleys of Gjirokastra and the country's spectacular beaches, such as Ksamil. From there, continue your trip to Greece, with a ferry ride to Corfu, an elegant island known for its gorgeous Old Town, dominated by a splendid Venetian fortress. While in Corfu, don't miss out on exploring the island's unique cuisine that has been influenced by both Greek and Venetian cooking. You can also enjoy a boat tour on the emerald waters of Paleokastritsa or discover the prettiest villages that dot the island's mountains. End your trip in Athens, a city steeped in history, adorned by sun-drenched ruins, and blessed with mouthwatering cuisine and an unparalleled nightlife.
One of our team members will be available to answer any questions and arrange local services leading up to and during your trip. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these two countries offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data you can use throughout your trip to reach your local JayWay contact, whom you will meet in person. In all our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with a local ambiance.
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What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Tirana
Gjirokastra
Corfu
Athens
package excludes:
- Flights from and to your home country.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your destination-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.2 Nights in Tirana
2 Nights in Tirana
2 Nights in Tirana
Tirana is a unique destination that combines opposites. It feels both ancient and modern, quaint and cosmopolitan, fast-paced, yet laidback. There are wonderful restaurants here, beautiful nature in the surrounding countryside, and a rich cultural life that will keep you entertained all day and night. The Blloku neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant, with excellent bars, restaurants and cafes. The Old Town, meanwhile, has an eclectic mix of historic architecture. This is a lovely destination that still feels untouched, so you’ll really be able to make the city yours. Besides exploring the unique urban atmosphere, there are several fantastic day trips to enjoy. Driving to the city of Berat is always fun, as you can stop at a winery along the way to sample some of the tasty local vintages, then check out an impressive castle. The Albanian Riviera is also relatively close by, and here you can relax along the shore and get in touch with the life of local fishermen. The nearby Dajti Mountain is also an impressive destination, with incredible views over the city and beyond. From outdoor adventures to delectable gastronomy and historic architecture, Tirana really has something for everyone.
Tirana is a unique destination that combines opposites. It feels both ancient and modern, quaint and cosmopolitan, fast-paced, yet laidback. There are wonderful restaurants here, beautiful nature in the surrounding countryside, and a rich cultural life that will keep you entertained all day and night. The Blloku neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant, with excellent bars, restaurants and cafes. The Old Town, meanwhile, has an eclectic mix of historic architecture. This is a lovely destination that still feels untouched, so you’ll really be able to make the city yours. Besides exploring the unique urban atmosphere, there are several fantastic day trips to enjoy. Driving to the city of Berat is always fun, as you can stop at a winery along the way to sample some of the tasty local vintages, then check out an impressive castle. The Albanian Riviera is also relatively close by, and here you can relax along the shore and get in touch with the life of local fishermen. The nearby Dajti Mountain is also an impressive destination, with incredible views over the city and beyond. From outdoor adventures to delectable gastronomy and historic architecture, Tirana really has something for everyone.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Tirana
Welcome to Albania! You will be met at Tirana's Mother Teresa Airport by our driver and taken directly to your accommodations in the city center. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.
Tirana by Night
Tirana is a lovely city, night and day, as it's filled with countless coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. You can spend time in Grand Park or experience the busy bars and restaurants of the Blloku area, inside Tirana Castle, or behind the Pyramid situated on the main Boulevard. The Sky Tower offers a panoramic view of Tirana, especially at night when the city is illuminated. The revolving bar and restaurant on the top floor provide a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy drinks while taking in the city lights. The city's center also offers many smaller local restaurants, offering popular dishes at reasonable rates.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Tirana
Agri-Bunkers and Cape of Rodon Beach Private Tour
Day 3
Day 3 - Traveling to Gjirokastra by Private Transfer
Today you're off to the mountains town of Gjirokastra. Your driver will meet you at the accommodations and take you for a scenic ride. On the way, you'll make a stop in the historic town of Berat, where you'll enjoy a walking tour. Afterwards, you'll enjoy some free time before continuing your journal. The total duration of this drive, with the stop, will be eight hours.
2 Nights in Gjirokastra
2 Nights in Gjirokastra
2 Nights in Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra is one of Albania’s most scenic cities, with an authentic atmosphere that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Here you can revel amid the area's lovely landscape of mountains and plains while taking in the impressive historic architecture. Strolling through the city feels like entering a distant time, with narrow winding streets that will charm you immediately. But the gastronomy here is anything but old fashioned, as you’ll find classic Albanian recipes jazzed up with a few modern twists in Gjirokastra’s many excellent restaurants and cafes. You’ll definitely want to explore the incredible Old Town with the help of a local guide who can show you all the city’s secrets. The distinctive white buildings here are charming, with their terraces, but feature imposing stone walls due to the city's steep hills. A short drive outside the city will impress you a scenic landscape with rewarding vistas. Two other destinations, Butrint and Ksamil, are perfect for day trips. At these UNESCO World Heritage sites you can explore ancient architecture dating all the way back to the 5th century. Gjirokastra is the perfect place to get away from the faster pace of Albania’s larger cities while exploring the unique past this incredible country has to offer.
Gjirokastra is one of Albania’s most scenic cities, with an authentic atmosphere that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Here you can revel amid the area's lovely landscape of mountains and plains while taking in the impressive historic architecture. Strolling through the city feels like entering a distant time, with narrow winding streets that will charm you immediately. But the gastronomy here is anything but old fashioned, as you’ll find classic Albanian recipes jazzed up with a few modern twists in Gjirokastra’s many excellent restaurants and cafes. You’ll definitely want to explore the incredible Old Town with the help of a local guide who can show you all the city’s secrets. The distinctive white buildings here are charming, with their terraces, but feature imposing stone walls due to the city's steep hills. A short drive outside the city will impress you a scenic landscape with rewarding vistas. Two other destinations, Butrint and Ksamil, are perfect for day trips. At these UNESCO World Heritage sites you can explore ancient architecture dating all the way back to the 5th century. Gjirokastra is the perfect place to get away from the faster pace of Albania’s larger cities while exploring the unique past this incredible country has to offer.
Day 3
Day 3 - Arrival in Gjirokastra
After the journey, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in the historic heart of Gjirokastra.
Sunset, Views, and Bazaar
If you are looking for a great viewpoint for sunset and one of the best photo spots in the city, Gjirokaster Obelisk is a great place to be. Do not miss an opportunity to pay a visit to the almost centrally located Gjirokaster Obelisk around sunset so you can enjoy amazing panoramic (almost 360 degrees) views of the city. After sunset, walk around the alleys of the Old Bazaar, which gets especially lively at night. Once you are ready for your well-deserved dinner, you'll easily find quite a few great places to dine in that area.
Day 4
Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra Private Walking Tour with a Woodshop Visit
At first glance, Gjirokastra is a small, harmonious town known unique vernacular architecture that helped bring about the place's UNESCO listing. Once you've spent a night there, though, you'll realize there's much more behind the scenes, thanks to the city's turbulent and rich history. With this extended, five hour walking tour, you will enjoy some of the best views of Gjirokastra, learn about local lifestyles, and will visit one of the area's best woodcarvers. We are sure the whole experience will not only be informative, but enjoyable as well!
Southern Highlights
One of our favorite day trips from Gjirokastra is a visit to the vibrant seaside town of Ksamil, combined with a stop in the UNESCO-listed ancient Greek and Roman settlement of Butrint. Ksamil has some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania, so it’s an ideal place for a leisurely lunch and a quick dip. Parts of Butrint date back to the 7th century BC. There, you can visit the theater complex, Roman baths, a portico, and a temple devoted to Asclepius, the god of healing. If you opt for this day trip, you’ll enjoy a magnificent day of ancient history and modern leisure.
Day 5
Day 5 - Traveling to Corfu by Private Transfer
Your journey begins with a private transfer from your accommodation in Gjirokastra to the Albanian coastal town of Saranda (approximately 1.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive through southern Albania’s beautiful landscapes. Upon arrival in Saranda, you will board a ferry for a 1-hour ride to the stunning Greek island of Corfu. Ferry tickets are included, ensuring a smooth and seamless crossing over the Ionian Sea. Your local English-speaking driver will assist you throughout the transfer to your accommodation on Corfu Island. Please note this is a non-guided service.
3 Nights in Corfu
3 Nights in Corfu
3 Nights in Corfu
The jewel of the Ionian Sea, Corfu exudes a sense of elegance, nostalgia and aristocratic grandeur. Its charming old town, with its noble architecture, sophisticated ambience, and impeccable sea views, has a prime spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Corfu’s multicultural history is a juxtaposition of conquests by the Venetians, French, and British. Their stories are reflected in the island’s eclectic, neoclassical, and Art Nouveau architecture. Corfu's historical center is protected by two Venetian Fortresses: the Old Fortress which played a crucial role in Corfu’s history protecting the island from many sieges, and the hilltop New Fortress, with its vaulted passageways, underground galleries, and astonishing views of the Old Town. Discover the island’s unique history by visiting a few of its grand palaces, like the Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elizabeth ("Sisi") of Austria in 1892, with its luscious gardens and impressive collection of marble statues. Corfu's countryside is dotted with pretty villages, expansive olive groves, vineyards, and herbal gardens. The coastline is a dream world of its own, with crystalline azure waters and secret coves only accessible by boat.
The jewel of the Ionian Sea, Corfu exudes a sense of elegance, nostalgia and aristocratic grandeur. Its charming old town, with its noble architecture, sophisticated ambience, and impeccable sea views, has a prime spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Corfu’s multicultural history is a juxtaposition of conquests by the Venetians, French, and British. Their stories are reflected in the island’s eclectic, neoclassical, and Art Nouveau architecture. Corfu's historical center is protected by two Venetian Fortresses: the Old Fortress which played a crucial role in Corfu’s history protecting the island from many sieges, and the hilltop New Fortress, with its vaulted passageways, underground galleries, and astonishing views of the Old Town. Discover the island’s unique history by visiting a few of its grand palaces, like the Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elizabeth ("Sisi") of Austria in 1892, with its luscious gardens and impressive collection of marble statues. Corfu's countryside is dotted with pretty villages, expansive olive groves, vineyards, and herbal gardens. The coastline is a dream world of its own, with crystalline azure waters and secret coves only accessible by boat.
Day 5
Day 5 - Arrival in Corfu
Upon arrival at Corfu's Port, your driver will meet you and take you to your centrally located accommodation.
For Your Eyes Only
After you arrive in Corfu, we recommend heading to one of the main town's must-sees: Palaio Frourio, a 15th-century Venetian fortress. Separated from the town by a moat, the fortress boasts two small peaks, or korypha, that are the source of Corfu's name. While the fort tends to draw visitors for its history, some come for its breathtaking views or because it was one of the locations in the James Bond film "For Your Eyes Only."
Day 6
Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Corfu
Paleokastritsa Private Boat Trip
Escape the crowds and embark on a unique private boat trip in Paleokastritsa, the most exhilarating highlight of your holiday. A high-speed motor boat, navigated by an expert skipper intimately acquainted with Corfu's west coast, offers an exclusive exploration of secluded beaches, mesmerizing caves, and the breathtaking natural beauty of Palaiokastritsa. With crystal-clear blue waters and stunning landscapes, let this trip redefine your Corfu experience.
Unusual Flavor Combinations
Day 7
Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Corfu
Mingle with Locals in Picturesque Villages
Sightseeing Private Bike Tour
This 25-kilometer biking tour is carefully designed so that you get to see all the major sights of Corfu's old and new town, as well as its famous suburbs. Say "no" to the common, boring bus tour. An experienced local guide will show you the many known and unknown corners of the city and reveal to you many points from which to enjoy excellent views. The route is specially planned to link you with the history, art, culture, and some jaw-dropping landscapes that this island has to offer. In the middle of the route, you will stop to have coffee in one of the most beautiful places on the island.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Athens by Airplane
Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Corfu's airport, with plenty of time to catch your flight to Athens.
2 Nights in Athens
2 Nights in Athens
2 Nights in Athens
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Athens
Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Love at First Sight
Day 9
Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Athens
Athens Highlights Mythology Group Tour
Discover the myths behind the greatest landmarks in Athens. Learn about Greek gods and heroes, and discover what really hides behind ancient myths. At the same time visit the best landmarks and sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis (Parthenon, theater of Dionysus, temple of Athena Nike, temple of Erechtheion, and the sanctuary of Asclepius), Olympian Zeus’ temple, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Hephaestus.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Savor the essence of Greek cuisine with key ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, fish, and feta, crafting the distinctive flavors that define this culinary tradition. Infused with fresh vegetables, honey, fish, lamb, and cheese, the vibrant tapestry of Greek flavors comes to life. Indulge in iconic dishes such as tzatziki, souvlaki, gyros, dolmathakia, spanakopita, loukoumades, authentic Greek yogurt, and amygdalota at local cafes and restaurants. Elevate your culinary experience by exploring our carefully curated food tours, each offering a delectable journey into the heart of Greece's gastronomic delights.
Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Private Tour
Are you looking for an extraordinary Greek culinary experience to tease your senses? Follow our foodie-expert guide on a quest to discover Athens by night, and experience exquisite Athenian delicacies. Enjoy the best views of Athens after dusk, taste authentic Greek olive oil, and explore sophisticated eateries to devour the finest of authentic Greek cuisine, including the best souvlaki in town! And to top it all off? Wine tasting of indigenous Greek varieties!
Delicious Athens Food Group Tour
Eat your way through Athens! Discover Greek flavors and their history, with a walk through some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, rarely visited by tourists. Taste olive oils, Greek cheeses, tsipouro drink, honey, souvlaki, tapenades, baklava, Greek coffee, sweets, and a variety of Greek tapas.
The Great Eats and Streets Private Tour
Athens came together through a mixture of cultures across the centuries, and there’s still a lot of that history around, in the food as well as in the city's neighborhoods. This tour explores the city's complex heritage, and its effects on contemporary Greek culture and cuisine.
Day 10
Day 10 - Departure Day
Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Athens' airport, which is generally a 45-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
Average of our Guest's Ratings of tour packages including these destinations
From planning our itinerary, finalizing the details, and embarking on a wonderful adventure our experience was stress free. All details of our trip were handled seamlessly from arrival in Tirana to departure in Skopje. I recommend JayWay without reservation.
– Janet & Karin, Michigan
Visited : Albania, North Macedonia
Itinerary : Tirana, Vlore, Gjirokastra, Ohrid, Skopje
Rating :
If you want to have a stress free vacation, choose Jayway Travel!
– David & Karen, Washington
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion, Corfu, Athens
Rating :
I love this way of traveling, the traveling logistics, guides, activities, and hotels are all taken care of for you. The decisions have been very sound and the activities and cities chosen have all been great. Very well thought out travel experience!
– Holly & Lynn, California
Visited : Croatia, North Macedonia, Albania
Itinerary : Split, Skopje, Ohrid, Gjirokastra, Tirana
Rating :