Along the Via Egnatia. From Durres to Istanbul

Upon touching down at Rina's airport, you'll be warmly greeted by your Penguin travel tour leader. Nestled between Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, and Durres, the country's bustling second city, your journey begins. Depending on your arrival time, embark on a captivating tour of Durres' old town, where history whispers through ancient streets. Conclude your day with a restful night at a comfortable hotel (or similar) in Durres.

After a hearty breakfast, journey to the quaint town of Pekin, the modern heir to the ancient settlement of Claudiana. En route to Fier, visit the serene Monastery of Ardenitsa, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Mizikea valley. This sacred site witnessed the wedding of Albania's national hero, Georg Kastrioti Skenderbeg. Continue to Appolonia, once a thriving port in ancient Greek and Roman times. As the sun sets, travel to Tirana for an overnight stay at a welcoming hotel (or similar).

After breakfast, ascend to Samuil's Fortress, where breathtaking views of Ohrid and its shimmering lake await. Both the town and lake are UNESCO World Heritage sites, celebrated for their cultural and natural significance. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a boat ride on the lake or visiting the nearby St. Naum Monastery. Rest comfortably overnight at a hotel (or similar) in Ohrid.

Embark on a journey to the Roman settlement of Heraclea near Bitola, with a stop in Resen to admire its National Revival architecture. Cross the Macedonian-Greek border, pausing in Florina, a town nestled along the Sakuleva River. Conclude your day in Edessa, renowned for its enchanting fountains and waterfalls. Relax overnight at a hotel (or similar) in Edessa.

Venture to Pella, the ancient Macedonian capital and birthplace of Alexander the Great. Explore the local archaeological museum before heading to Vergina, the final resting place of Philip II. Witness the grandeur of the tomb and the emblematic Star of Vergina. Conclude your day in Thessaloniki, where you'll stay overnight at a hotel (or similar).

Delve into Thessaloniki's vibrant history with a leisurely city tour. Discover its Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of this major seaport. Spend the afternoon shopping or relaxing before retiring to your hotel (or similar) for the night.

Travel to Amphipolis, an ancient Athenian colony, and explore its archaeological museum. Continue to Philippi, a city steeped in history, before heading to the coastal towns of Kavala and Alexandroupolis. Enjoy a restful night at a hotel (or similar) in Alexandroupolis.

Begin your day with a visit to Traianoupoli, a town with Roman and Ottoman roots. Cross the Greek-Turkish border and stop in Edirne, the largest city in European Turkey, for a brief exploration. Continue to Istanbul, where you'll enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel (or similar).