The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece (Zagreb to Athens) (2025)

Arrive in Croatia's vibrant capital, Zagreb, a city where modernity meets history. Stroll through its cobbled streets and explore the Old Town, with its medieval charm and open squares. Enjoy a leisurely day before gathering with fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner.

Begin your day with a guided tour of Zagreb's highlights, including the bustling Main Square and the historic Upper Town. After some free time for lunch, journey to the quaint village of Karanac, nestled at the confluence of the Drava and Danube Rivers. Experience a warm welcome from local hosts with a traditional dinner and folk entertainment.

Immerse yourself in the rural charm of Karanac before heading to the nearby city of Osijek. Discover its rich Roman and Ottoman history, and enjoy free time to explore the city center. In the afternoon, learn about local winemaking and participate in preparing traditional dishes for dinner.

Delve into Sarajevo's storied past with a local expert, exploring its blend of religions and architectural styles. Visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, a poignant reminder of the city's resilience. Spend the afternoon exploring independently before enjoying a traditional Bosnian dinner with local hosts.

En route to Croatia, stop in Mostar to admire the iconic Stari Most Bridge. Enjoy a guided walk and lunch in the historic city before continuing to Dubrovnik, where the Adriatic Sea greets you with its stunning views.

Explore Dubrovnik's ancient streets and uncover its history. Choose between a harbor cruise for views of the medieval city walls or a cable car ride to Srd Hill for a breathtaking panorama. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking in the city's charm.

Discover Kotor at your own pace or opt for an excursion to Njeguši Village. Enjoy panoramic views from a cable car and savor local delicacies like prosciutto and cheese. Learn about Montenegrin history in the royal town of Cetinje before returning to Kotor for more exploration.

Cross into Albania and explore Shkodër, a city rich in history. Stroll along the main pedestrian street and sample local cuisine. Continue to Tirana, the capital, where you'll delve into its intriguing past with a guided tour and visit a former nuclear bunker turned museum.

Explore Tirana at your leisure or join an excursion to Durrës, home to the Roman Amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian. Enjoy a guided tour of the city's ruins and indulge in a wine tasting paired with local specialties. Conclude your day with a traditional dinner and folk show.

Travel through Albania's picturesque countryside to Gjirokastra, a city known for its steep streets and unique architecture. Explore the town and its dominant castle before crossing into Greece. Arrive in Kalambaka for an evening of relaxation and dinner at your hotel.

Explore the awe-inspiring Meteora, where ancient monasteries perch atop towering limestone rocks. Visit one of these remote sanctuaries and learn about Byzantine iconography at a local workshop. Spend the afternoon in Kalambaka before continuing your journey to Athens.

Discover the iconic sights of Athens on a guided walking tour. Visit Syntagma Square, the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, and the renowned Acropolis Museum. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace before gathering for a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of your journey.