Vienna to Athens or Corfu; Grand Tour of Central Europe & the Balkans
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a 21-day journey through the cultural and historical splendor of Central Europe and the West Balkans. This multi-day tour offers an immersive experience into the rich history, diverse architecture, and stunning landscapes of 10 countries. From the vineyards of Austria to the medieval towns of Albania, each day presents a new adventure. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sample regional delicacies, and learn about the unique traditions of each destination. Whether you're strolling through the charming streets of Bratislava, marveling at the Baroque architecture of Budapest, or experiencing the vibrant café culture of Tirana, this tour promises a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Accommodation, meals, and activities are all carefully planned to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
Included
Private transport provided by the company
Professional tour leader
Hotel pick up in Vienna
Hotel drop off in Athens or Port Drop off in Igoumtinsa (including ferry tickets to Corfu port)
Entry tickets for the ‘’will be visited’’ sites
Tourist taxes
International car insurance
Road taxes
Petrol
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Vienna - Rust - Bratislava
- Vienna
- Bratislava - Arrival day
- More
- Landesmuseum Burgenland
- More
We start our journey in Vienna, driving through the scenic vineyards of Austria towards Rust, a charming town known for its wine production. Enjoy the magnificent view over Lake Neusiedl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Rust, explore the picturesque old town, visit quaint shops, and sample the region's best wines. We then head towards Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, where we'll spend the night.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Bratislava
- Budapest
- Bratislava
- More
After breakfast, we delve into the charm and history of Bratislava. Visit the medieval Old Town Hall, the ancient Michael's Gate, and the iconic Bratislava Castle. Enjoy the city's vibrant café culture and try the famous local coffee. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. Overnight in Bratislava.
Day 3 – Day 3: Bratislava - Győr - Budapest
- Bratislava
- Gyor
- Budapest
- More
- Győri Óriáskerék
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Our journey continues to Hungary, with our first stop in the picturesque city of Győr. Explore the historic streets, visit the Town Hall, the Cathedral of The Virgin Mary, and the Győr Synagogue. Enjoy some free time to taste the delicious Hungarian food and the famous blueberry beer. Later, we drive towards Budapest, where we'll spend the night.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Budapest
- Budapest
- More
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Buda Castle
- Fisherman's Bastion
- More
Today, we explore the 'Queen of the Danube', Budapest. This scenic city is known for its mix of Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture. Visit the Saint Stephen's Basilica, the Opera, the Parliament building, Heroes' Square, and the Fisherman's Bastion. Learn about the city's history at the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, exploring the city's vibrant nightlife. Overnight in Budapest.
Day 5 – Day 5: Budapest - Subotica
- Budapest
- More
- Sóstói Forest Park
- Csipkeház
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Our destination for today is Subotica in Serbia, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and European charm. Visit the City Hall, the Cathedral of St. Teresa of Avila, and the Synagogue. Enjoy some free time to explore the city's streets, taste the local cuisine, and experience the city's Austro-Hungarian influence. Overnight in Subotica.
Day 6 – Day 6: Subotica - Novi Sad
- Novi Sad
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- Novi Sad Synagogue
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After breakfast, we journey towards Novi Sad, the cultural capital of northern Serbia. Explore the city's unique Baroque architecture and visit the Petrovaradin Fortress, also known as the Gibraltar on the Danube. Enjoy some free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Novi Sad.
Day 7 – Day 7: Novi Sad - Sremski Karlovci - Belgrade
- Belgrade
- Sremski Karlovtsi
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- Petroland aquapark
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Today, we learn about the region's tradition of wine production in Sremski Karlovci, a town known for its well-respected wine cellars. Explore this 'museum town' with its Baroque center and visit the Four Lions fountain. Enjoy some free time to taste different wine specialties of the region. We then head towards Belgrade for our overnight stay.
Day 8 – Day 8: Belgrade - Zvornik - Sarajevo
- Zvornik
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- Zvornik Fortress
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After breakfast, we visit the Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, offering breathtaking views of the city. We then drive towards Bosnia and Herzegovina, stopping in Zvornik, a charming town along the banks of the Drina River. Enjoy some free time to explore the town before we head to Sarajevo for our overnight stay.
Day 9 – Day 9: Sarajevo - Mostar
- Mostar
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- Latin Bridge
- Old Bridge Mostar
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Today, we tour Sarajevo, a city marked by the Yugoslav War. Visit the Latin Bridge and learn about the city's history. We then continue to Mostar, where we visit the iconic Old Bridge and wander through the Old Bazaar. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight in Mostar.
Day 10 – Day 10: Mostar - Kotor
- Kotor
- More
- Kotor
- St Thomas Church
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Our tour continues to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Montenegro. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the old town and visit Saint Luke's church. The afternoon is yours to explore this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight near the Montenegrin Riviera.
Day 11 – Day 11: Kotor - Budva - Shkoder
- Budva
- Sveti Stefan
- Shkoder
- Kotor
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- Sveti Stefan
- St Thomas Church
- Budva Riviera
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Our first destination for today is Budva, a popular tourist destination in Montenegro. Explore the city's old and new parts, visit the St. Ivan church, and stop by Sveti Stefan, a small island turned residential resort. We then cross the border to Shkoder, Albania, one of the oldest cities in the country. Visit the Rozafa castle and learn about the city's Venetian influence. Overnight in Shkoder.
Day 12 – Day 12: Shkoder - Prizren
- District of Prizren
- Shkoder
- More
Our first destination for today is a renowned Agro-tourism farm in the Balkans. Learn about the farm's story and its role in creating jobs for the local community. In the afternoon, we continue to Prizren, the cultural capital of Kosovo. Explore the city's rich history, visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, and shop for unique crafts in the local shops. Overnight in Prizren.
Day 13 – Day 13: Prizren - Gjakova - Prizren
Day 13: Prizren - Gjakova - Prizren
After breakfast, we continue our tour to Gjakova, a city known for its old bazaar. Visit the Monastery of Decan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its frescoes. We then drive to the Rahovec Valley, known as the capital of viticulture in Prizren. Enjoy some free time to explore the vineyards before returning to Prizren for our overnight stay.
Day 14 – Day 14: Prizren - Kruja - Tirana
- Kruje
- Tirana
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- Preza Castle
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Our main destination for today is Kruja, a historical city in Albania. Wander through the narrow stone streets of Kruja's Medieval Old Bazaar and visit the castle of Kruja. Enjoy some free time to have lunch, shop for souvenirs, or admire the city. We then head to Tirana for our overnight stay.
Day 15 – Day 15: Exploring Tirana
- Tirana
- More
- Bunk’Art 2
- Bunk’Art
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Today, we discover Tirana, the capital of Albania. Start the day with a traditional Byrek breakfast, explore the Çam bazaar, and visit BUNKART, one of the city's most interesting museums. Enjoy a unique experience in the city while learning more about its culinary treasures. Overnight in Tirana.
Day 16 – Day 16: Tirana - Struga - Ohrid
- Ohrid
- Tirana
- More
- Ohrid City Park
- Church of Saint John the Theologian
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Today, we depart towards North Macedonia. Our first stop is Struga, known as the 'City of Rivers'. We then drive towards Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. Visit the St. John's Church, the Mosque Halveti Hayati Tekke, and explore the city's vibrant streets. Overnight in Ohrid.
Day 17 – Day 17: Ohrid - St Naum - Tushemisht - Berat
- Pustec
- Tirana
- More
- Old City Park
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Our first stop for today is St Naum, a monastery complex part of the National Park Galicica. We then cross the border to Albania and stop in Tushemisht, a hidden gem that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visit the Drilon National Park before heading to Berat, known as the town of 1001 windows. Overnight in Berat.
Day 18 – Day 18: Berat - Gjirokaster
- Gjirokastra
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- Gorica Bridge
- Berat Castle
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Berat, known as the town of 1001 windows, is part of UNESCO world heritage. Explore the city's narrow stone streets and visit the Gorica Neighbourhood. We then continue our journey to Gjirokaster, also known as 'The Stone City'. Overnight in Gjirokaster.
Day 19 – Day 19: Exploring Gjirokaster
- Gjirokastra
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- Castle of Gjirokastra
- Livadi Beach
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Today, we explore Gjirokaster, also known as 'The Stone City'. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fortified city where every house is like a small fortress. Wander through the atmospheric old town, visit the city's Medieval Old Bazaar, and shop for unique crafts in the local shops. Overnight in Gjirokaster.
Day 20 – Day 20: Gjirokaster - Ioannina - Meteora - Kalabaka
- Ioannina
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- Agiou Mina Bridge
- Ioannina Castle
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Our first destination for today is Ioannina, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes. Visit the imposing Ioannina Castle and explore the city's vibrant streets. We then drive to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock formations and monasteries. Witness the stunning beauty of Meteora during sunset before heading to Kalabaka for our overnight stay.
Day 21 – Day 21: Kalabaka - Athens/Corfu
- Athens - Departure day
- More
This is the last day of your Balkan adventure. Your tour leader will drop you off at your hotel in Athens or at Igoumenitsa Port where you will take the ferry to Corfu. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories of these 10 Central European and West Balkan Countries to cherish for a lifetime.
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