Small Group Tour: The Balkans & Central Europe from Athens to Vienna

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant city of Athens, where you'll be whisked away to the ancient wonders of Delphi. Marvel at the Temple of Apollo and the breathtaking views of the Castallian Spring. As the day unfolds, venture to the mystical rock formations of Meteora, where monasteries perch atop towering cliffs. Witness a sunset that paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson, a sight that will linger in your memory. Rest for the night in the charming town of Kalabaka, where the spirit of Greece's rich history envelops you.

Begin your day in the historic city of Ioannina, where cobbled streets and ancient architecture tell tales of Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Explore the labyrinthine Ioannina Castle, a fortress steeped in history. As the afternoon sun casts its glow, journey to the 'Stone City' of Gjirokaster in Albania. Here, the past comes alive in the form of fortified houses and the majestic Gjirokaster Castle. Spend the night in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where every corner whispers stories of yesteryears.

Delve deeper into the enchanting city of Gjirokaster, where each house resembles a fortress. Wander through the medieval bazaar, a vibrant hub of local crafts and traditions. Visit the Gjirokaster Castle, a sentinel of history that offers panoramic views of the city. As you explore, the echoes of folklore and traditional music fill the air, painting a vivid picture of Albania's cultural tapestry. Spend another night in this captivating city, where the past and present coexist in harmony.

Travel to Berat, the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' where medieval houses cascade down hillsides. Explore the ancient Berat Castle, a living fortress where residents still dwell within its walls. Discover the rich tapestry of history woven into the city's churches, mosques, and museums. As the sun sets, stroll through the Gorica Neighbourhood, where the charm of Berat envelops you. Spend the night in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history and culture intertwine seamlessly.

Cross the border into North Macedonia, pausing at the serene Drilon National Park, where tranquil waters and lush greenery create a haven of peace. Continue to the enchanting village of Tushemisht before reaching the historic St. Naum Monastery, nestled by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid. As the day draws to a close, arrive in Ohrid, a city steeped in history and beauty. Spend the night by the shores of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the past whispers through the gentle lapping of the lake.

Immerse yourself in the allure of Ohrid, a city that boasts a rich tapestry of history and spirituality. Visit the iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid. Explore the city's ancient streets, where every corner reveals a story of its past. As the day unfolds, journey to Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, where modernity and tradition coexist. Spend the night in this bustling city, where the energy of the Balkans is palpable.

Dive into the vibrant culture of Tirana, where culinary delights and historical treasures await. Start your day with a traditional Albanian breakfast before exploring the bustling Çam Bazaar. Discover the city's hidden gems with a local guide, savoring traditional desserts and coffee along the way. Visit BUNKART, a unique museum housed in a former nuclear bunker, offering a glimpse into Albania's communist past. As the day winds down, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Tirana's neighborhoods, where the spirit of Albania comes alive.

Journey to the historic city of Kruja, where the echoes of Albania's resistance against the Ottoman Empire resonate. Explore the medieval bazaar and the formidable Kruja Castle, perched atop a rocky hill. Cross the border into Kosovo, arriving in Prizren, a city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Wander through its charming streets, where the past and present intertwine. Spend the night in Prizren, where the spirit of the Balkans is alive in every corner.

Embark on a journey to Shkodra, a city steeped in history and culture. Visit Rozafa Castle, where legends and panoramic views await. Explore the city's Venetian-influenced architecture and vibrant atmosphere. As the day unfolds, discover the unique blend of cultures that have shaped Shkodra over the centuries. Spend the night in this captivating city, where the past and present coexist in harmony.

Cross the border into Montenegro, pausing at the picturesque viewpoint of Sveti Stefan. Continue to Budva, a city where modernity and history intertwine. Explore the charming old town and its medieval splendors before heading to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow streets, where history and culture converge. Spend the night near the Montenegrin Riviera, where the beauty of the Adriatic Sea unfolds before you.

Journey to Mostar, a city where the iconic Old Bridge stands as a testament to its rich history. Explore the vibrant Old Bazaar and the Blagaj Monastery, nestled at the foot of a cliff. As you wander through Mostar's streets, the echoes of the past resonate in every corner. Spend the night in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina unfolds before you.

Travel to Sarajevo, a city where the past and present converge in a tapestry of cultures. Explore the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences that shape its architecture and history. Visit the Latin Bridge, where the echoes of history resonate. As you wander through Sarajevo's streets, the stories of its past unfold, offering a glimpse into the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Spend the night in this captivating city, where the spirit of the Balkans is alive in every corner.

Embark on a journey to Belgrade, where the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers creates a breathtaking backdrop. Explore the Belgrade Fortress, a sentinel of history that offers panoramic views of the city. As you wander through Belgrade's streets, the vibrant energy of Serbia's capital envelops you. Spend the night in this dynamic city, where the past and present coexist in harmony.

Journey to Novi Sad, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and fine wines. Explore Sremski Karlovci, a town steeped in history and tradition. As you wander through its streets, the stories of Serbia's past unfold. Spend the night in Novi Sad, where the spirit of the Balkans is alive in every corner.

Discover the cultural capital of northern Serbia, where the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman influences converge. Explore the Petrovaradin Fortress, a sentinel of history that offers panoramic views of the city. As you wander through Novi Sad's streets, the stories of its past unfold, offering a glimpse into the heart of Serbia. Spend the night in this captivating city, where the spirit of the Balkans is alive in every corner.

Travel to Subotica, a city where vibrant colors and outstanding architecture create a captivating atmosphere. Explore the Cathedral of St. Teresa of Avila and the Synagogue, where the stories of the past come alive. As the day unfolds, journey to Budapest, the 'Queen of the Danube,' where the beauty of Hungary's capital awaits. Spend the night in this enchanting city, where the past and present coexist in harmony.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Budapest, where Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau architecture converge. Explore the Buda Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history. As you wander through Budapest's streets, the stories of its past unfold, offering a glimpse into the heart of Hungary. Spend the night in this captivating city, where the spirit of the Danube is alive in every corner.

Journey to Győr, a city where history and architecture converge in a tapestry of colors. Explore the Győr Town Hall and the Cathedral of The Virgin Mary, where the stories of Hungary's past come alive. As the day unfolds, travel to Bratislava, where the charm of Slovakia's capital awaits. Spend the night in this enchanting city, where the past and present coexist in harmony.

Discover the charm of Bratislava, where medieval history and modern culture converge. Explore the Old Town and the iconic Bratislava Castle, where panoramic views of the city await. As you wander through Bratislava's streets, the stories of its past unfold, offering a glimpse into the heart of Slovakia. Spend the night in this captivating city, where the spirit of the Danube is alive in every corner.

Conclude your journey in Vienna, where the rich history and culture of the Balkans and Central Europe come to a close. As you reflect on the memories and experiences of this remarkable journey, the spirit of the Balkans and Central Europe will remain with you, a testament to the beauty and diversity of this enchanting region.