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DAY 1 Tirana
Arrive at Tirana International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your local representative. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city, allowing time to settle in and refresh. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the surroundings.
Stay at: Opera Hotel (4 star) or similar
DAY 2 Tirana
Begin your final day with a guided sightseeing tour of Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital. Explore the iconic Skanderbeg Square, the city’s cultural and political heart, surrounded by impressive landmarks. Visit the historic Ethem Bey Mosque, known for its intricate frescoes and cultural significance, and stroll through Pazari i Ri, the revitalized New Bazaar area, where tradition meets modern urban life. Continue with a visit to the House of Leaves, a thought-provoking museum dedicated to the country’s surveillance and intelligence history during the communist era. Continue to the lively Tirana Market to experience the city’s bustling daily life—browse fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisan goods. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure: explore Tirana’s colorful neighborhoods, visit a museum or gallery, or simply relax in one of the city’s many parks or cafés.
Stay at: Opera Hotel (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 3 Tirana - Gjirokaster
Depart from Tirana and embark on a scenic drive to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its striking hillside setting and remarkably well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Along the way, enjoy the picturesque landscapes of southern Albania, passing through charming villages and rolling hills. Upon arrival in Gjirokastër, begin your exploration with a guided visit to the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest in the Balkans, offering panoramic views of the Drino Valley. Continue to the historic Old Bazaar, where cobblestone streets and traditional stone houses create an atmosphere steeped in history. Visit the Ethnological Museum, housed in the former home of Enver Hoxha, to gain insight into the region’s cultural heritage and daily life in centuries past. Enjoy free time in the evening to wander through the atmospheric alleys of the old town, sample local cuisine at a traditional Albanian restaurant, or simply relax and take in the unique ambiance of this historic city.
Stay at: Hotel Cajupi (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 4 Gjirokaster - Saranda
After breakfast, depart for Saranda, a picturesque coastal town nestled along the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The drive takes you through Albania’s stunning southern landscapes, with sweeping views of mountains, olive groves, and glimpses of the sparkling coastline. Arrive in Saranda by late morning, where the Mediterranean charm immediately welcomes you. Begin your exploration with a visit to Lëkurësi Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the town. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Saranda, the Ionian coastline, and even the nearby Greek island of Corfu on clear days. Continue to the Monastery of the Forty Saints, a site of historical and religious significance dating back to the 6th century, offering both spiritual insight and sweeping vistas. Unwind with a leisurely evening by the sea. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, soak in the relaxed atmosphere, and dine at one of Saranda’s inviting seaside restaurants, where you can savor freshly caught seafood and traditional Albanian dishes as the sun sets over the Ionian Sea.
Stay at: Toer Hotel Saranda (5 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 5 Saranda
Begin the day with a guided visit to the Ancient City of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Albania’s most important archaeological treasures. Explore its remarkably preserved amphitheater, walk along the remnants of Roman villas, and admire the ancient city walls, gates, and mosaic floors that reflect the site's Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian influences. The setting—surrounded by forest and bordered by a tranquil lake—adds a magical atmosphere to the experience. Spend the afternoon at your leisure or discover the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër), a natural wonder where crystal-clear water bubbles up from deep within the earth, creating a mesmerizing, sapphire-colored pool set amidst lush vegetation.
Stay at: Toer Hotel Saranda (5 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 6 Saranda - Albania Riviera [Himara & Dhermi] - Berat
Set off on a scenic drive along the Albanian Riviera, one of the country’s most breathtaking coastal routes. Explore the charming coastal towns of Himara and Dhërmi, each offering a mix of traditional stone houses, turquoise coves, and inviting beachfront cafés that capture the relaxed rhythm of Albanian seaside life. Continue your journey inland through winding mountain roads as you make your way to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “Town of a Thousand Windows.” This historic town is famed for its unique white Ottoman-era houses that climb the hillsides, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and landscape. Arrive in Berat in time to explore the majestic Berat Castle (Kala), perched high above the town. Wander through its ancient walls, still inhabited today, and take in panoramic views of the Osum River valley below.
Stay at: Hotel Grand White City (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 7 Berat - Kruja - Prizren
Begin the day with a visit to Kruja, a historic town nestled in the foothills of Mount Krujë, rich in Albanian cultural heritage. Explore the impressive Kruja Castle, which played a key role in the resistance against the Ottoman Empire. Within the castle complex, visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, and learn about his leadership in the 15th-century struggle for independence. Afterwards, wander through the Old Bazaar, a charming cobblestone market lined with traditional shops offering handmade crafts, antiques, and local souvenirs. Depart Kruja and enjoy a scenic drive northward to Prizren, one of the most picturesque and culturally vibrant towns in Kosovo. Upon arrival in Prizren, begin your exploration of the town’s enchanting Old Town, where cobbled streets, historic buildings, and lively cafés create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Visit the iconic Sinan Pasha Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture overlooking the town square, and take a relaxing stroll along the Lumbardhi River, whose stone bridges and riverside promenade offer the perfect backdrop for an evening walk.
Stay at: Hotel Kacinari (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 8 Prizren - Skopje
Depart from Prizren and embark on a scenic drive to Skopje, the dynamic capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, begin a comprehensive sightseeing tour that showcases the city's unique blend of ancient heritage and modern redevelopment. Start at the iconic Stone Bridge, a 15th-century Ottoman structure that spans the Vardar River, connecting the city’s historic and contemporary quarters. Continue to Macedonia Square, the vibrant heart of the city, where grand statues and fountains celebrate the nation’s identity and historical figures. Wander through the bustling Old Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, filled with artisan shops, traditional architecture, and local charm. Visit the Mother Teresa Memorial House, dedicated to Skopje’s most famous native, and learn about her life, humanitarian work, and legacy. Enjoy some free time in the evening to explore Skopje at your own pace.
Stay at: Ibis Skopje Hotel (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 9 Skopje - Ohrid
Depart from Skopje and journey south through the scenic landscapes of North Macedonia toward Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history, spiritual significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. Begin your exploration with a visit to Lake Ohrid, whose crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings provide a stunning backdrop for relaxation and photography. Continue to the magnificent St. Naum Monastery, a spiritual and architectural gem perched on a cliff near the Albanian border. Afterwards, visit the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, a well-preserved Hellenistic amphitheater dating back to the 2nd century BC, still used today for performances and cultural events. Enjoy your evening at leisure.
Stay at: SU Hotel (4 star) or Belvedere Hotel (4 star) or Royal View Hotel (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 10 Ohrid - Kalambaka
Depart from Ohrid and begin your cross-border journey into northern Greece, heading toward the town of Kalambaka, the gateway to the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries. Upon arrival, set out to explore Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most extraordinary religious and geological wonders in the world. In the evening, stroll through the charming town center with its cozy tavernas and mountain views, or simply relax at your hotel and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences.
Stay at: Kosta Famissi Hotel (4 star) or Amalia Hotel (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 11 Kalambaka
Today take your time to explore Kalambaka at your own pace. For those interested in nature, take a short hike along well-marked trails that weave through this otherworldly terrain. Alternatively, stay local and explore its quaint streets, visit local artisan shops, or stop by the Natural History and Mushroom Museum for a unique local perspective. In the evening, dine at one of Kalambaka’s traditional tavernas, where you can sample authentic Greek dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're savoring moussaka or sipping on tsipouro, the warm hospitality and mountain backdrop provide the perfect ending to your day.
Stay at: Kosta Famissi Hotel (4 star) or Amalia Hotel (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 12 Kalambaka - Athens
Depart from Kalambaka and embark on a scenic drive south to Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece and one of the world’s oldest cities. Upon arrival, begin an immersive sightseeing tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Start at the legendary Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the crown jewel of classical Greece. Ascend the hill to admire the Parthenon, a masterpiece of ancient architecture and a symbol of Western civilization. Continue to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once one of the largest temples in the ancient world, and marvel at its towering Corinthian columns. Visit Syntagma Square, the political and cultural heart of modern Athens. Spend your evening at leisure and consider dining at a traditional Greek taverna, where you can enjoy classic dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava, accompanied by local wine or ouzo and often live bouzouki music. It’s the perfect way to end your first day in one of Europe’s most storied capitals.
Stay at: Ilissos Hotel (4 star) or Athens Gate Hotel (4star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 13 Athens
Begin your day with a visit to the acclaimed Acropolis Museum, one of the most important archaeological museums in the world. Located at the foot of the Acropolis, the museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts from the sacred hill and surrounding sites, spanning the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine times. After your visit, take the rest of the day at leisure and stroll through Plaka, the oldest and most picturesque neighborhood in Athens. Known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," Plaka is a charming maze of narrow cobblestone streets, neoclassical architecture, hidden courtyards, and vibrant bougainvillea. You might choose to delve deeper into Athens’ cultural scene with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, explore the lively Monastiraki Flea Market, or simply relax in the National Garden.
Stay at: Ilissos Hotel (4 star) or Athens Gate Hotel (4star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 14 Athens
Your tour concludes with a departure transfer for your onward journey.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusions: Gratuities and any optional excursions – to be paid locally
Entrances fees:
Balkans & Beyond | ||
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Twin/Double Single | ||
1 Apr 2026 - 30 Jun 2026 | $9,620 $16,350 | |
1 Sep 2026 - 31 Oct 2026 | $9,620 $16,350 | |
Price per adult in Australian Dollars (AUD) |
Daily departures