Dubrovnik to Athens; Semi – Private tour with Tour Leader & Car

Day 1: Pick up in Dubrovnik (Croatia) – Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina)

1. Dubrovnik
   Pass by
   After having experienced the unique medieval town of Dubrovnik (by yourself) get ready for your Balkan adventure. Our local representative / driver will pick you up from the nearest point of your hotel within Dubrovnik Town (Please note that cars may not enter some parts of Dubrovnik Town) who will shuttle you to the border where you will meet your tour leader for this amazing trip.
2. Mostar Old Bridge
   1h · Admission ticket included
   We will cross the border to Bosnia & Herzegovina and head towards the city of Mostar. We will, of course, visit the iconic Old Bridge also known as Stari Most, part of UNESCO world heritage and built in a typical Islamic architectural style in the 16th century. We will also wander through the Old Bazaar with its colorful streets and lively atmosphere. The city has stones with “Don’t Forget” all around the town, commemorating the city’s history. Mostar combines the old with the new, which you will notice while wandering through the streets. There are several beautiful old mosques, bustling Turkish bazaars, and a maze of cobbled alleyways.
3. Biscevica Kuca (Biscevic House)
   30m · Admission ticket included
   We will also visit the Bišćevića Kuća, one of the finest examples of Ottoman residential architecture in the region. Built in the 17th century and beautifully preserved, this riverside house offers an intimate glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy Ottoman family.

Day 2: Mostar – Sarajevo – Mostar

1. Sarajevo
   1h
   After breakfast we will drive from Mostar to our next destination Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today’s itinerary includes walking on uneven terrain, while visiting some of the ruins during our Sarajevo tour. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. The tour will cover the stories of origins of Sarajevo and the medieval Bosnian Kingdom. We will visit the Ottoman and Austria-Hungarian parts of Sarajevo, which both with its stunning markets, bazaars, mosques, churches and synagogues will reveal the true nature of the real European Jerusalem.
2. Latin Bridge
   2h
   We’ll make sure to visit the Latin Bridge and learn the story about how WWI was triggered right here, in the heart of Sarajevo. The bridge received its name because it connected the right bank of the Miljacka with the Catholic quarter of the city, which was informally called "Latinluk" in Ottoman times. We will not leave Sarajevo without stopping at Caffe Divan to enjoy the famous Turkish coffee or tea, offered to you as a complimentary treat from us. It is an ideal moment to unwind and take in the local atmosphere before we continue our journey.

Day 3: Mostar – Blagaj – Kotor (Montenegro) – Montenegrin Riviera

1. Blagaj
   1h
   After breakfast we will visit Blagaj, a little bit outside of Mostar. On the foot of a cliff, with beautiful blue waters in front of it, Blagaj is a small Ottoman medieval town with its stunning nature and imposing spring of river Buna.
2. Kotor
   2h
   Later we will continues towards Kotor (Montenegro), a UNESCO world heritage site. We will wander through the maze of narrow, cobblestone streets crisscrossing the old town. This street plan seems quite chaotic, but it was created this way on purpose. The intention was to confuse intruders who came to plunder the town, while nowadays it characterizes the city. Many of the old buildings and churches have small plaques on it with their dates of construction and original use. We will visit the Saint Luke’s church which has a great significance for the locals because it represents unity to them. You will have the afternoon to your selves to explore this magnific UNESCO world heritage site.

Day 4: Montenegrin Riviera – Budva – Sveti Stefan – Shkoder (Albania)

1. Budva
   1h
   Our first destination for today is Budva in Montenegro, a popular tourist destination, famous for its beaches, gorgeous nature and old characteristic buildings. The city is separated between an old and new part. On the one hand, in the New Budva, there are many modern buildings, offices, shopping malls, restaurants and bars. On the other hand, in the Old Budva, there is the historical centre and many sights to visit, such as the St. Ivan church, the small church of St. Mary and the medieval splendours of the old town, which we will visit on this tour.
2. Sveti Stefan
   30m
   On our way to Albania we will make a stop near Sveti Stefan, historically a fishing town on a small island near the coast. However, nowadays it is not possible to visit the island anymore as it has turned into an exclusive residential resort. Even while standing on the coast, Sveti Stefan is a sight for sore eyes – worth a picture
3. Shkoder
   1h
   The city is situated in the north-western part of Albania, giving its name to the biggest lake in the Balkans. It is one of the oldest cities in Albania, with a history of a thousand years of habitation. We will visit Rozafa castle offering tremendous scenery of the lake and the three rivers melting all together in the Adriatic Sea. The city’s architecture is highly influenced by the Venetian style and if you are lucky enough to join the tour of Shkodra in February you might experience the carnival festival. Most of the guests are surprised to learn that the majority of the Venetian masks are handmade and produced in Shkodra.
4. Venice Art Mask Factory
   30m · Admission ticket included
   During our visit, we will stop at the city’s unique Venetian Mask Factory, one of the most fascinating artistic workshops in Albania. Inspired by Venetian traditions, this small factory handcrafts exquisite papier-mâché masks, each one painted and decorated entirely by hand. The vibrant studio is filled with color and creativity, where every mask tells a story, from classic Venetian carnival styles to imaginative modern creations.

Day 5: Shkoder – Prizren (Kosovo)

1. 1h
   Our first destination for today is one of the best slow food Agro-tourism farms in the Balkans. We will take a tour around the farm. In addition, we will learn about the story of this farm and how it created jobs for more than 400 people in the surrounding area. The farm collects, elaborates and preserves regional bio fresh local products. We will also learn how this family business adapted some old communist buildings to serve as storage for local-made bio products. You will have some free time to enjoy a traditional lunch or buy some fresh produce products from the farm.
2. Prizren
   2h
   In the afternoon we will continue our tour towards Prizren, considered as the cultural capital of Kosovo, mixing its rich history, incredible nature, religious tolerance and gastronomic delights. Prizren has played an important role in the region as an Illyrian settlement and a crossroad for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, contributing to the unique architecture of the city. The river flows through the heart of the old town and under the many bridges that crisscross the city. If you are looking to experience a lively international experience you should visit Prizren during August when the medieval city becomes home to one of the most famous short film festivals in the world named Dokufest. The best way to explore the town is by wandering through the streets passing by elegant medieval houses that fight for your attention. Filigree artisanal techniques for precious metals are Prizren’s joy and pride
3. Sinan Pasha Mosque
   30m · Admission ticket included
   If you have to choose just one mosque to visit then visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, rich in arabesque colour and pattern.
4. Kalaja Fortress
   30m · Admission ticket included
   The view from the fortress on the hill above the town offers a great panorama of this astonishing town. Free afternoon in Prizren.

Day 6: Prizren – Gjakove - Decan – Vineyards near Rahovec – Prizren

1. 1h
   After breakfast we will continue our tour towards Gjakova. The city has the oldest and largest bazaar of Kosovo. Even though, it got destroyed during the first Balkan wars, the second world war and the Kosovo war, the bazaar got rebuilt again to its old state and is a nice place to enjoy a meal or to take a look at the stores that sell traditional handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. Don’t hesitate to explore the artisan workshops, where you can watch traditional crafts being made using techniques passed down for centuries.
2. Decan
   1h
   Our next destination will be the Monastery of Decan. This one stands out for its white colour, but even more remarkable is the fact that Orthodox monks still inhabit the monastery and make fresh organic food there, such as cheeses. The monastery became part of UNESCO in 2004 because of its frescoes, which portray the lives of people during the 14th century as well as the Palaeologan renaissance that changed the way of Byzantine painting.
3. Rahovec
   1h
   Before returning back to Prizren we will drive towards Rahovec Valley, known as the capital city of viticulture in Prizren. There is evidence that in this region grapes have been cultivated since Illyrian times, 2000 years ago. Vineyards are positioned in the soft hillocks of Rahovec in altitude from 350 -520 meters of the sea level making Rahovec an ideal spot to produce high quality fine wines. A wine festival takes place in Rahovec annually every September. Overnight in Prizren.

Day 7: Prizren – Kruje (Albania) – Tirana

1. Kruja Bazaar
   1h
   Our main destination for today will be Kruja, a historical city symbol of the Albanian resistance against the expansion of the Ottoman Empire during the XV century. Kruja is situated in central Albania on a rocky mountainous terrain about 560 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Sarisalltik Mountain. Walking through the narrow streets and the wooden houses of Kruja’s Medieval Old Bazaar (one of the biggest and oldest in Balkans) gives you a sense of a passage through the history.
2. Kruja Castle
   1h · Admission ticket included
   This is the best place to shop for souvenir in Albania, from typical to more unique and handmade souvenirs such as carpets, jewelers etc. The castle of Kruja (built during the 5th century A.D.) is strategically placed on the top of a rocky hill, making it difficult for the enemies to attack. The tour leader will take you through some hidden paths, used by the locals to leave the castle without being noticed during periods when the enemies surrounded the castle.
3. Kruje
   1h
   You will have some free time to enjoy a tasty traditional lunch, do some souvenir shopping or admire the city

Day 8: Local Food and Walking of Tirana

1. Tirana
   30m
   Today we will discover Tirana, the capital of Albania. Meet with your local companion to offer you a unique experience across the city, while passionately sharing our culinary treasures. Male sure to come with an empty stomach and get ready for a delicious adventure.
2. 1h
   Our first stop will be at a small local place that only locals know how to find. Here we will have the chance to try Byrek, a classic Albanian specialty made of thin layers of dough filled with cheese, meat, spinach, or other ingredients. The journey then leads towards Çam bazaar, here you can buy all kinds of goods from clothes to kitchen equipment and bargain with the sellers for a cheaper price.
   With your local companion by your side, you will have an insight into the hidden alleyways and bustling street markets of Tirana. Here you will have the possibility to try fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other local flavours, while experiencing daily life up close.
3. Pazari i Ri
   2h
   The tour will continue through the charming neighborhoods of Tirana; observe the daily lives of the city's residents, admire colorful buildings, and get a feel for the authentic atmosphere. We will visit a lively market, known for second-hand goods of all kinds. Don’t be shy, explore the market and hunt for any pre-loved item that catches your interest
   The next stop of our local adventure takes us to the New Bazaar, where an array of culinary delights awaits us. We will sit down for a traditional Albanian meal prepared with regional specialties.
   To wash it all down, we will also taste the famous Albanian Grape Raki. As we Albanians say, there is nothing that Raki can’t fix!

Day 9: Tirana – Struga (N. Macedonia) – Ohrid

1. Struga
   1h
   Today we will depart towards North Macedonia. Struga will be our first stop. We will have a quick drink by the beautiful source of Drini River, one of the longest in Western Balkans. After a short visit in Struga we will drive towards Ohrid
2. Ohrid
   2h
   Ohrid city and the Lake are part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1980. The Lake was named by the Romans as “Lyhnidas” (the Light Lake), it’s surroundings where inhabited by the Illyrian Tribe of Enkeleys. We will visit the famous view point of Church of St. John at Kaneo. Ohrid became an important centre for the Orthodox believers during the Byzantine Empire and is famous for its 365 Orthodox churches, said to have one church for each day of the year. During the Ottoman Empire the houses were built with a very specific architecture that created narrowed streets, tunnels and tiny yards on the hilly terrain, making it possible for every house to have a good view of the lake.
3. 30m · Admission ticket included
   We will also stop at the Paper Museum, one of Ohrid’s most fascinating small museums. Here, you’ll learn about the ancient art of handmade paper production, crafted using techniques that date back to the time of Gutenberg. You will even have the opportunity to purchase a piece of handmade paper as a unique souvenir, a lasting reminder of your visit.

Day 10: Ohrid – St.Naum – Tushemisht (Albania) – Drilon – Berat

1. Monastery of Saint Naum
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Our first stop for today will be St Naum. The monastery of St. Naum carries the name of a holy place. It is situated right at the source of River Crni Drim, which flows through Lake Ohrid. This monastery complex is part of the National Park Galicica and belongs to one of the strictly protected areas. Crystal clear, spring water reflects both the surrounding greenery and the mountain peaks in the background
2. Tushemisht
   30m
   As we cross border towards Albania we will stop in Tushemisht a hidden gem that offers visitors a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. You will have the chance to meet local street vendors who sell their homemade and handcrafted products, from local preserves, honey, and herbs to beautiful handmade souvenirs. It is a wonderful opportunity to interact with the locals, learn about their traditions, and perhaps pick up a few authentic treats or crafts to take home.
3. Driloni National Park
   1h
   Before heading to Berat we will also visit the national park of Drilon. Drilon waters springs form a small lake, surrounded by beautiful greenery that makes a unique oasis of beauty and tranquility. The weeping willow trees by the lake's shoreline creates a soothing ambiance, inviting travelers to relax and absorb the beauty of the park

Day 11: Berat – Gjirokaster

1. Berat
   30m
   Berat is known as the town of 1001 windows, part of UNESCO world heritage. Walking through the narrowed stone streets offers a fantastic view of the medieval old houses, with windows that seem to stand on top of each other. The city’s life began in the 6th-5th century B.C. as an Illyrian settlement. Later, in the 3rd century B.C., it was turned into a castle city known as Antipatrea. Uniquely today, residents still live inside of the castle walls.
2. Berat Castle
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Berat has it all; a beautiful medieval castle, ancient churches and mosques, a lively lower town consisting of grand old houses draped on steep hillsides, an old stone bridge, great museums and remains from the communist era in Albania
3. National Iconographic Museum Onufri
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Berat is also known as the birthplace of Onufri, the famous painter of churches all-over the Balkans, distinguished for creating a specific reddish colour still difficult to imitate.
4. Gorica Bridge
   30m
   We will continue our tour and visit the Gorica Neighbourhood

Day 12: Tour of Gjirokastra

1. Gjirokaster
   1h
   Today we will visit Gjirokaster, also known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage is situated in Southern Albania on the eastern side of mountain “Mali i Gjere”. Gjirokastra resembles a fortified city where every single house is like a small fortress. The origin of the city starts with the castle of Gjirokastra, built in IV century A.D., and is considered as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans.
2. Gjirokaster
   2h
   Every five years Gjirokastra becomes the capital of the Albanian folklore and traditional music, where passionate folklore ensembles gather in the “stone city” and perform their traditional music, dances and show off their costumes. Right before entering the castle of Gjirokastra you would have to pass by the medieval bazar. The atmospheric old town cascading down in graceful hill crammed with beautiful narrowed stone decorated streets, where you will be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. We will visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where everything is totally original and authentic.
3. 30m
   After the tour we will to The Barrels Winery, a lovely family-run vineyard nestled among rolling hills and lush greenery. Have some free time to enjoy lunch surrounded by the peaceful natural setting, savoring local flavors amid the scenic beauty of the countryside.

Day 13: Gjirokaster – Ioannina (Greece) – Meteora (Kalbaka)

1. Ioannina
   1h
   Our first destination for today would be Ioannina, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes. As we wander through the cobbled streets of the old town, you'll be transported back in time. The remains of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras are evident in the architecture, with ancient walls and charming houses. Our next stop will be the imposing Ioannina Castle, which dates back to the Byzantine era. Within the castle walls, we'll find a labyrinthine network of narrow streets and historic buildings. As we wander through the vibrant streets, you'll encounter charming cafes, inviting you to savor traditional Greek cuisine and local delicacies
2. Meteora
   2h · Admission ticket included
   After we will drive towards Meteora, also part of UNESCO world heritage dating back in the 14th – 15th century. The monasteries are built on top of the spectacular rock formations, creating a beautiful and impressive sight. Get ready to witness one of the best and stunning sunsets you have ever experienced. As the sun continues to sink, the sky above Meteora is painted with a vivid array of colors. Truly, one in a lifetime experience.

Day 14: Kalbaka – Transfer day to Athens or Corfu

1. Athens
   Pass by
   our tour leader will drop you off at your hotel in Athens. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories of these 7 West Balkan Countries to cherish for a lifetime.
2. Corfu
   Pass by
   Your tour leader will drop you off at your hotel in Igoumentisa Port where you will take the ferry (tickets included) to Corfu port. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories of these 7 West Balkan Countries to cherish for a lifetime

Pickup details

After having experienced the unique medieval town of Dubrovnik (by yourself) get ready for your Balkan adventure. Our local representative / driver will pick you up from the nearest point of your hotel within Dubrovnik Town (Please note that cars may not enter some parts of Dubrovnik Town) who will shuttle you to the border where you will meet your tour leader for this amazing trip.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• All participants are responsible for having their own health/travel insurance.
• Tour’s schedule or itinerary may be affected/adopted due to; weather, Acts of God, labour strikes, bank holidays, site temporary closure/renovation or other external forces outside the Company’s contro
• Please note that prices are calculated on double/twin/triple/quadruple room occupancy in a 3 stars hotel accommodation.
• *If you have enjoyed your experience, tipping is a wonderful way to show gratitude for your tour leader / driver efforts and dedication