Mountains, Lakes & Beaches of Southern Balkans

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival 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.

   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.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Tirana

   

   Agri-Bunkers and Cape of Rodon Beach Private Tour

   This one-of-a-kind tour is designed for those who want to learn the history of Albania's nearly unique isolation from the rest of the world, while also delving into its lifestyle and food traditions. Steeped in authentic Albanian culture, with bunkers as a starting point followed by natural landscapes, you can expect to learn about the local people, history, and geography on the way. You'll visit bunkers that now host goats and are used for producing wine and raki, surrounding by scenic views. After lunch, you'll head to to Kepi i Rodonit, the Cape of Rodon, where you'll have time to enjoy and swim at a warm, natural beach. Here, you'll also be able to visit the ancient church of St. Anthony and hike to a castle belonging to Albania's greatest hero, Skanderbeg.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Traveling to Gjirokastra by Private Transfer / Arrival in Gjirokastra

   

   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.

   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.

   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.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

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!

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 5 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   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.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 7 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

5. Day 5 Traveling to Ohrid by Private Car / Arrival in Ohrid

   

   Today you’ll spend a few hours on the road with your private driver, with the stops along the way in Permet, Korca, and Pogradec, as well as the relaxed lakeside city of Ohrid in neighboring Macedonia at the end of the journey. Since you’ll be crossing a border on your way, your journey can take a bit longer, depending on border crossing waiting times. 
   

   Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

   A serene city on a beautiful lake, Ohrid combines ample history, scenery, and outdoor activities, which helped it attain UNESCO World Heritage status. The Old Town is set on a hill with a wealth of sites to explore, from monasteries to an ancient Greek amphitheater, and an imposing fortress. Since the city is right on Lake Ohrid, everywhere you go you’ll have breathtaking views of the water and all the surrounding natural beauty. One of the most incredible things to see is the view of the Old Town jutting out into the lake, especially when lit up at night, an image summing up the lake region's unique charm. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll find a rich cultural atmosphere, with many concerts and outdoor events. The lake gives the region its unique charm and also offers many excellent outdoor activities. It’s the perfect place to take a dip, kick back, and relax at one of the beachfront bars, or even climb aboard a boat. The water is very clean and is consistently warm, since it’s fed by hot springs spread across the lake. One of the activities our guests love best here is a trip to the St. Naum monastery at the other end of the lake. But that’s just one of the boating options that will give you a chance to enjoy the lake from the center of it, and to get a new point of view on the city. Ohrid is reasonably priced, so you can really live it up while you’re here. The city remains relatively untouched, but it does seem poised at the edge of a tourist boom. See it before the crowds do.

   Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in Ohrid.

   

   Stroll and Enjoy

   Historic Ohrid town, with its cobbled alleyways and its long and famous lakeside promenade, is certainly made for walking. When the sun goes down, act like a local and stroll along the lakeshore to admire one of the most beautiful panoramas you will see in the country. The walk will allow you to work up an appetite. Just choose one of our recommended restaurants near the water and enjoy your dinner.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Ohrid

   

   Ohrid Private Walking Tour

   Take an excursion to the breathtaking Ohrid Lake. Here you'll explore some of the old and new architecture that makes this place special. Ohrid is one of the rare towns that has been continuously inhabited for more than 1,000 years. You'll visit all of the important buildings and enjoy the best panoramic view of the entire city and the lake. Returning to the city center, you'll walk through Ohrid Bazaar, and even have the opportunity to buy a famous Ohrid pearl. You'll come away with a complete appreciation of this amazing destination.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Trout and Wine

   North Macedonia is a land of warm people, rich cuisine, and red wine. The country's highest quality wines are mainly made from indigenous Vranac grapes, which produce a liquid that is rich, full, and aromatic, yet surprisingly light. Ohrid's most enthusiastic winemaker is the owner of the small boutique Villa and Winery Mal Sveti Kliment, which produces only a few thousand bottles a year. If you'd like to enjoy a glass of its wines, we recommend that you make a reservation in advance. When it comes to local cuisine, Ohrid's specialty is trout, which is cooked in various ways. The perfect place to try this delicacy in its various forms is Kaneo, a lakeside restaurant.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Ohrid

   

   St. Naum Monastery Combined with Hiking to Galicica National Park Private Tour

   A day trip to visit one of the most important cultural and religious sites of Ohrid, combined with a balanced dose of hiking to the peaks of Galicica National Park is one of the most fulfilling ways to enjoy Ohrid's surroundings. Another great thing about this tour is that you will be accompanied by a local expert, a university teacher who is not only knowledgeable about North Macedonian history but is also very passionate to share with you the best that the Ohrid area has to offer.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

8. Day 8 Traveling to Ioannina by Private Transfer / Arrival in Ioannina

   

   Time to leave North Macedonia behind and head into Greece! Your private driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Ohrid at the time that best suits your schedule, and you’ll set off on a scenic journey south to the historic lakeside city of Ioannina, nestled in the heart of Greece’s mountainous Epirus region. The drive takes around 4.5 hours, though this may vary slightly depending on the wait time at the border crossing. Please note this is a non-guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver, and there is a 1-hour time zone difference between North Macedonia and Greece.

   Small but charming, Ioannina's history is closely linked to Ali Pasha, the ruthless and divisive provincial leader who made Ioannina into a center of Greek culture in the late 18th century, at great cost. Ioannina's castle, a lakeside Byzantine fortress with earlier elements, was made into a palace by Ali Pasha, with generous green spaces and historical monuments, mosques, and museums covering the town's cosmopolitan past. Ioannina's modern museums cover topics from its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish past, to Byzantine history and art, and the town's famed silversmiths. Lake Pamvotis is home to tiny Ioannina Island, which somehow manages to fit seven monasteries, forming Greece's third largest monastic community. Here, you'll also find the Museum of Ali Pasha, in the monastery where he was assassinated at the end of a failed rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.

   Upon arrival to Ioannina, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.

   

   Stroll Around the Historic Centre

   Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Ioannina's historic center, where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences intertwine seamlessly. A must-explore destination, the vibrant streets are adorned with charming bars, mezedopoleia offering delectable small portions, and inviting coffee shops. Each establishment in this diverse quarter provides a unique opportunity to savor the multifaceted flavors of Ioannina's history and heritage, making it an essential and delightful aspect of your visit.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Ioannina

   

   Bridges and Villages Hiking Small Group Tour

   Known for its natural wonders, the Zagori area with its numerous stone bridges had played an important role in the region's commute system in the 17th and 18th centuries. Your guide will tell you more about the region and together you will discover the unique bridges as well.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 5 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Wine and Dine the Local Way

   The capital of Epirus, Ioannina, has a distinct local cuisine that you don't want to miss. The city and the region, in general, are known for their savory pies, like cheese pie or spinach pie, that you can try at any bakery or restaurant. Moreover, Ioannina is famous for iconic sweets, such as baklava. When visiting the lake island, don't forget to taste a rather unexpected delicacy: fried frog legs. Wash it all down with a glass or two of locally produced semi-sweet wine.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Traveling to Corfu by Private Transfer / Arrival in Corfu

    

    Today you will be traveling from Ioannina to Corfu. First, the driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Ioannina and drive you to Igoumenitsa in plenty of time for your departing ferry to Corfu. For an additional fee, we can include a stop in Dodoni, at the Temple of Zeus - an important ancient Greek archaeological site. The private transfer from the Ioannina to the port takes one hour and the ferry takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

    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.

    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."

    Suggestion to explore on your own

11. Day 11 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.

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 4 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Unusual Flavor Combinations

    Corfu's cosmopolitan past is reflected in its cuisine, which blends Greek and Venetian flavors. One popular local dish is pastitsada, a traditional veal casserole. We would recommend that you seek out sofrito, another veal-based dish made with vinegar, parsley, and garlic, as well as bourdeto, a spicy fish stew. For something more unique, try some of the island's exclusive spoon sweets and kumquat liqueur! Another unique taste is traditional "loukoumades", which are little bite-sized fluffy sweet honey balls (the Greek version of donuts).
    

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

12. Day 12 Your Second Full Day in Corfu

    

    Azure Beaches, Olive Groves and Sunset Private Hiking Tour

    Escape into Corfu’s natural beauty on a scenic trail from the charming village of Liapades to the hidden beaches of Rovinia and Limni. Swim in crystal-clear waters, wander through lush olive groves, and explore abandoned villas along the way. End your journey by soaking in breathtaking sunset views, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

    

    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.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 4 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

    

    Wine Lovers Private Wine Tasting Experience

    Greece boasts distinguished whites, famous reds, and multi-award-winning sweet wines, all rich in history. The diverse landscapes and ideal climate conditions contribute to the world-class quality of Greek wines. Join this private wine-tasting experience in the heart of the Old City and sample six exceptional Greek wines guided by a professional sommelier. Learn about the wine production process and ideal serving conditions, and pair your favorite wines with exquisite Greek gastronomy for an unforgettable experience.

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 2 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

13. Day 13 Traveling to Athens by Airplane / Arrival in Athens

    

    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.

    
    

    Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

    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.

    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

    Athens has plenty of rooftop venues to take advantage of the opportunity to see the Acropolis shining at night. They have become popular hubs for nightlife among locals. One of our favorite rooftop bars is POINT A (Acropolis Point), which is the only bar that provides views of both the Acropolis and the modern elegant lines of the Acropolis Museum, lit beautifully at night. POINT A has a relaxed vibe and Greek cuisine with a twist. It’s perfect for couples and even families or groups of friends. If you happen to stay around the Monastiraki district, you should definitely visit A for Athens cocktail bar and restaurant, a popular venue among locals. Hytra and GB Roof Garden are full-on luxury restaurants and bars that can provide perfect romantic evenings. We guarantee that if you spend your first night dining at one of those places, you will quickly fall in love with the mind-blowing views and lively city.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

14. Day 14 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.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 4 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Visit the Athens Riviera

    Take a break from Athens' amazing sightseeing and enjoy a day at the beach. If you're wondering where to swim in Athens, don't worry, there are many enjoyable places not far from the city center. Some of these beaches have even been awarded a Blue Flag, a sign of guaranteed blue sea and crystal clear waters. South of the Athens city center lie the gems of the Athens Riviera, the beaches of Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza. There are a number of fantastic places to check out along this road.
    

    Suggestion to explore on your own

15. Day 15 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.