Rome to Athens; Semi-Private Tour with dedicated Tour Leader &Car

Day 1: Arrival in Rome (Italy)

1. Rome
   1h
   Benvenuti a Roma! After your arrival in Rome, you will make your own way to the hotel already booked for you by Choose Balkans, where you will be welcomed by hotel staff assisting you with the check in procedures. After freshening up and settling in, spend your first day exploring the city at your own pace. As the saying goes; "All roads lead to Rome". So here you are, at the heart of ancient Rome; take this opportunity to wander through the enchanting streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the city. Find a bustling café to savor an espresso and cannoli (filled pastry) while soaking in the Italian charm. Overnight in Rome

Day 2: Rome Local Food Tour

1. Trastevere
   1h
   Today, you will meet your tour leader who will accompany you at the meeting point to join the local food tour, led by a local knowledgeable guide. Explore the neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its lively nightlife, charming streets, and hidden culinary gems. The tour begins at a bustling local market, where the air is filled with the irresistible aromas of fresh ingredients. At this stop, we will try all kinds of spreadable creams made of rich and unique flavors such as truffle, mushrooms and cheese. After sampling these treats, we raise a glass and toast to the day with a refreshing limoncello.
   Next, we step into a charming store renowned for its selection of local products from the Norcia region. Here, we will try fresh prosciutto, ham, and salamis. The store’s warm atmosphere and the quality of the products make this stop a highlight for any food enthusiast.
2. Rome
   1h
   Our local food tour adventure continues at a local pizzeria, where we’ll enjoy mouthwatering arancini—crispy rice balls that are a Roman specialty. We’ll then head to the next pizzeria to sample authentic Roman pizza, known for its super-crispy, thin crust. This classic pizza is simply topped with cheese, tomato, and a drizzle of fine olive oil, allowing the pure flavors to shine.
   For our final stop, we’ll visit a gelateria to try authentic Italian gelato! Here, you will experience the smooth, rich textures and vibrant flavors that define this delicious and iconic Italian treat. This marks the end of our unique food adventure.
   Afterwards, have the rest of the day to explore Rome on your own.

Day 3: Pick-up in Rome – Naples

1. Naples
   1h
   After having experienced the capital of Italy and the ancient city of Rome, our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel at around 10am. We will begin this amazing journey by driving towards Naples, the third-largest city in Italy. Situated along a lovely bay, Naples is known for its chaotic charm, narrow streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The town is full or Art, History, Music and Culture and our first stop will be the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, one of the largest squares in Naples where you can admire the Royal Palace and the San Francesco di Paola church.
2. Galleria Umberto I
   30m
   Just off the Piazza del Plebiscito, we will visit the Galleria Umberto I, an impressive shopping arcade with stunning architecture.
3. Quartieri Spagnoli
   1h
   Later, we wander towards Quartieri Spagnoli, or the Spanish Quarters, a historic and vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Naples. The Quartieri Spagnoli is home to many traditional Neapolitan restaurants and pizzerias and you may enjoy some free time here amongst the best local cuisines including classic pizza, pasta, and street food.

Day 4: Naples – Amalfi Coast – Salerno

1. Amalfi Coast
   3h
   After breakfast, get ready to experience one of the most scenic drives in the world reaching the stunning Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO listed site comprised of towns and village beaches. One look at the Amalfi Coast and you may believe that you've found heaven on earth! Its high cliffs, enchanting coves, small bays and terraces with citrus fruits, vines and olive trees, make it one of the most popular destinations in the world. You will be amazed by the spectacular strip of coastline with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea to one side and the peaks of the Lattari Mountains to the other.

Day 5: Salerno – Materra – Alberobello – Bari

1. Matera
   1h
   Today we cross into the Basilicata region to reach Matera. You may well recognize the town from the latest James Bond movie, No Time to Die. The Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a network of ancient cave houses. We will walk to Piazza Vittorio Veneto and stroll through this picturesque square, enjoying the beautiful views of the city.
2. Alberobello
   2h
   After this we will drive towards the city of trulli (stone huts), Alberobello. A visit to the fairytale town is a must when travelling to the Puglia region. Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, the town attracts a wealth of history buffs, photography enthusiasts and culture lovers. Alberobello has a dreamy historic center that consists of two districts with picturesque streets lined with trulli; Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola and we will visit the Rione Monti quarter within the 'trulli zone'. Up a small hill, it contains over 1,000 trulli and almost no other type of building style. After walking around and exploring, you will have some time on your own to find a traditional trulli restaurant to enjoy local cuisine and take home a souvenier to remember this experience.

Day 6: Bari – Overnight Ferry/flight to Durres/Tirana (Albania)

1. Bari
   2h
   After breakfast we will explore the city of Bari, known for its historic Bari Vecchia (Old Town), beautiful seafront, and delicious cuisine. You will have some free time to explore Bari and wander through its narrow, winding streets, where you'll encounter charming medieval architecture and lively local life. Do not miss a walk to Lungomare (seaside promenade) for a leisurely walk along the coast to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and beautiful views of the Adriatic. In the evening, we will take the ferry to Durres, Albania. Overnight in the ferry. (However, depending on availability and pricing, the transfer from Bari to Albania might also be organized by plane). In this case, the overnight will be spent in Tirana, Albania.

Day 7: Durres – Tirana

1. Durres
   2h
   Our day starts with a city tour of the ancient town of Durres, which offers a blend of ancient ruins, cultural experiences, and seaside relaxation. During 7th-6th centuries BC the Illyrians named the city Epidamnus. Because of its geographic position, in the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Durres has always been a very important city throughout the history. Known also as the center of Archaeology in Albania, it has the largest Ancient Roman – style Amphitheatre in the region.
   We will continue our tour towards the promenade by the seaside “Vollga” where you may have a coffee while enjoining the views of the endless sea. Not to be missed when visiting Durres is the traditional ice cream which can be found at street vendors. In the afternoon, we will drive towards Tirana, the capital of Albania.

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.
   Our first stop will be at a small local place that only locals know how to find. Here we will have the opportunity to try Byrek and have breakfast like a local. The famous traditional Albanian food is a delicious pastry with various fillings such as cheese, meat or spinach.
2. Tregu Cameria
   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.
3. Pazari i Ri
   2h
   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.
   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 (N. Macedonia) 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.
2. Ohrid
   2h
   After a short visit in Struga we will drive towards Ohrid, indicated as one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. 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
   1h
   . 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
   30m
   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.
2. Berat Castle
   1h
   Uniquely today, residents still live inside of the castle walls. 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. 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. 1h
   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. 2m
   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, making this a truly once in a lifetime experience.

Day 14: Kalbaka – Transfer Day to Athens or Corfu

1. Athens
   Pass by
   This is the last day of your Balkan adventure marking the end of this amazing experience through the rich history and culture of this part of the World. Your tour leader will drop you off at your hotel in Athens or at Igoumentisa Port where you will take the ferry (tickets included) to Corfu. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories of these Balkan Countries to cherish for a lifetime!

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• *If you have enjoyed your experience, tipping is a wonderful way to show gratitude for your tour leader / driver efforts and dedication.