14-Nights The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece - Explorations – Small Group from $6,999

Collette

OFFER ID 1702118

Uncover the Balkans, a region rich in history and culture amid the beauty of rocky coastlines, steep landscapes, and ancient cities. Journey through Croatian cities and countryside, from Dubrovnik’s timeless appeal to the scenic wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Share meals and encounter traditions among locals — in a Sarajevo home, in a rural Albanian village, and in Tirana. Continue south into Greece to experience the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora, perched high atop soaring stone pillars, before concluding your adventure in historic Athens, where ancient landmarks and modern life intertwine. Embark on an adventure threading the peninsula’s wonders in Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Greece.


14 nights from $6,999 per person

Itinerary

Day 1 Overnight Flight
Set off for an adventure to the Balkans, a region where dramatic coastlines and towering mountains meet medieval cities and complex history. On your journey, centuries-old traditions come alive through immersive local experiences set against stunning backdrops.

Day 2 Zagreb, Croatia
Arrive in Croatia’s vibrant capital city, Zagreb. As arrival times may vary, there are no scheduled activities today. Spend time as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.(D)

Day 3 Zagreb
This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour highlighting Zagreb’s main square and historic Upper Town. The remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you’ll wander through the old town’s two medieval settlements, stroll the many open squares and parks, browse the stalls at the Dolac Market, or savor the flavors of Zagreb’s dynamic culinary scene.(B)

Day 4 Zagreb - Plitvice Lakes
Travel to Plitvice Lakes, one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful national parks in Croatia. Inspiring scenery abounds at this designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, and pristine surroundings during a short cruise into the heart of this natural wonder. Tonight, stay at a hotel in the small village near the national park.(B, D)

Day 5 Plitvice Lakes - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Today, continue to Sarajevo - Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, where East meets West, and your home for the next two nights. With its centuries-old multiculturality, experience a city shaped by its rich history and the coexistence of diverse religions. This evening, you may choose to join your Tour Manager for a stroll to get acquainted with the area.(B, L)

Day 6 Sarajevo
Begin the day with an Impact Moment and visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, home to the famed “Tunnel of Hope,” and hear the stories that provide insight into the resilience and determination of the city and its citizens during the war. Continue exploring Sarajevo’s layered history, including its role in the start of World War I. Walk its historic streets and discover the city’s unique blend of architectural styles and religious traditions. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Sarajevo on your own. Tonight, experience Bosnian hospitality with a local family. Enjoy regional favorites and sip Bosnian coffee as traditional folk music sets the tone for a truly memorable evening.(B, D)

Day 7 Sarajevo - Mostar - Dubrovnik, Croatia
On your way back to Croatia, stop in Mostar to explore the iconic UNESCO-listed Stari Most Bridge. Enjoy a walk through the historic town, followed by free time for lunch. This afternoon, be greeted by views of the Adriatic Sea when you arrive in Dubrovnik. As the day comes to an end, perhaps you’ll join in an evening stroll.(B)

Day 8 Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik’s ancient streets share their history and timeless charm during a guided walking tour of the city. Then, let the city continue to reveal itself to you because it’s your choice! Take a harbor cruise for magnificent views of Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and visit Lokrum Island -OR- get a bird’s-eye view of the city by cable car, riding up to Srd Hill, a breathtaking vantage point to look over the Old Town below and the Adriatic Sea. With the rest of the afternoon and evening free to relax or explore the city on your own, perhaps you will walk along the iconic Dubrovnik city walls.*(B)

Day 9 Dubrovnik - Kotor, Montenegro
Bid farewell to Croatia and travel to Montenegro. Set sail on a private boat** for the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Visit the church before cruising through the stunning Bay of Kotor. Enjoy a guided tour of Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town before you settle in your hotel located within the town’s historic walls.(B)

Day 10 Kotor
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Kotor. Perhaps you’ll go on an optional excursion and discover the authentic flavors of the Adriatic at a traditional, family-run mussel and oyster farm. Savor a fresh, farm-to-table tasting of locally harvested mussels and oysters, and gain insight into the time-honored traditions and techniques that make Boka Bay a celebrated seafood destination. Upon return, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the hidden corners of Kotor.(B)

Day 11 Kotor - Fishtë, Albania - Tirana
Cross another border today and arrive in Albania! A unique blend of traditional Albanian hospitality and cultural experiences awaits in the picturesque rural setting of one of Albania’s best-regarded agritourism destinations, located in the village of Fishtë. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch of authentic dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients, and take a stroll through the farm. Continue your travel day on your way to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. Explore its history and architecture on a locally guided tour while learning more about Albania’s complex past, including a visit to a former top-secret nuclear bunker turned museum.(B, L)

Day 12 Tirana
Today, enjoy Tirana at leisure or join an optional excursion to the coastal ancient city of Durrës to explore Roman ruins, including the Roman Amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian, followed by wine tasting paired with local specialties at a prominent winery. No matter how you fill your day, experience the best of the local cuisine and folk entertainment at a local restaurant.(B, D)

Day 13 Tirana - Gjirokastra - Kalambaka, Greece
Soak in the beauty of the countryside with its winding roads and stretches of green on your way to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO-listed city celebrated for its Ottoman-era heritage and often considered one of the steepest cities in the world. Leisurely explore its unique architecture and glorious history. After having some free time in this fascinating town, continue towards Greece, and cross your last border on this travel journey. Arrive in Kalambaka*** in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner at the hotel.(B, D)

Day 14 Kalambaka - Metéora - Athens
This morning, explore Metéora. Visit one of the remote monasteries**** situated in a unique landscape, where limestone rock “towers” extend nearly 900 feet into the air. Over 600 years ago, Byzantine monks built their monastic community perched atop these rocks. Later, observe traditional Byzantine icon-making during a workshop visit in Kalambaka. Continue to Athens and gather for a celebratory farewell dinner, savoring a delicious Greek cuisine.(B, D)

Day 15 Athens
Explore Athens on a guided walking tour, including Syntagma Square and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Wander through the streets, soaking in the essence of this iconic city and savoring its charm and energy. Visit the Acropolis Museum to trace the history of ancient Athens through its remarkable artifacts. Located within a short walking distance of the Acropolis, the museum houses archeological treasures from the Acropolis and offers wonderful views of the ancient site. The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Athens on your own before joining your fellow travelers to toast to the end of your journey.(B)

Day 16 Athens - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today.(B)

Day 1 Overnight Flight
Set off for an adventure to the Balkans, a region where dramatic coastlines and towering mountains meet medieval cities and complex history. On your journey, centuries-old traditions come alive through immersive local experiences set against stunning backdrops.

Day 2 Zagreb, Croatia
Arrive in Croatia’s vibrant capital city, Zagreb. As arrival times may vary, there are no scheduled activities today. Spend time as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.(D)

Day 3 Zagreb
This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour highlighting Zagreb’s main square and historic Upper Town. The remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you’ll wander through the old town’s two medieval settlements, stroll the many open squares and parks, browse the stalls at the Dolac Market, or savor the flavors of Zagreb’s dynamic culinary scene.(B)

Day 4 Zagreb - Plitvice Lakes
Travel to Plitvice Lakes, one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful national parks in Croatia. Inspiring scenery abounds at this designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, and pristine surroundings during a short cruise into the heart of this natural wonder. Tonight, stay at a hotel in the small village near the national park.(B, D)

Day 5 Plitvice Lakes - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Today, continue to Sarajevo - Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, where East meets West, and your home for the next two nights. With its centuries-old multiculturality, experience a city shaped by its rich history and the coexistence of diverse religions. This evening, you may choose to join your Tour Manager for a stroll to get acquainted with the area.(B, L)

Day 6 Sarajevo
Begin the day with an Impact Moment and visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, home to the famed “Tunnel of Hope,” and hear the stories that provide insight into the resilience and determination of the city and its citizens during the war. Continue exploring Sarajevo’s layered history, including its role in the start of World War I. Walk its historic streets and discover the city’s unique blend of architectural styles and religious traditions. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Sarajevo on your own. Tonight, experience Bosnian hospitality with a local family. Enjoy regional favorites and sip Bosnian coffee as traditional folk music sets the tone for a truly memorable evening.(B, D)

Day 7 Sarajevo - Mostar - Dubrovnik, Croatia
On your way back to Croatia, stop in Mostar to explore the iconic UNESCO-listed Stari Most Bridge. Enjoy a walk through the historic town, followed by free time for lunch. This afternoon, be greeted by views of the Adriatic Sea when you arrive in Dubrovnik. As the day comes to an end, perhaps you’ll join in an evening stroll.(B)

Day 8 Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik’s ancient streets share their history and timeless charm during a guided walking tour of the city. Then, let the city continue to reveal itself to you because it’s your choice! Take a harbor cruise for magnificent views of Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and visit Lokrum Island -OR- get a bird’s-eye view of the city by cable car, riding up to Srd Hill, a breathtaking vantage point to look over the Old Town below and the Adriatic Sea. With the rest of the afternoon and evening free to relax or explore the city on your own, perhaps you will walk along the iconic Dubrovnik city walls.*(B)

Day 9 Dubrovnik - Kotor, Montenegro
Bid farewell to Croatia and travel to Montenegro. Set sail on a private boat** for the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Visit the church before cruising through the stunning Bay of Kotor. Enjoy a guided tour of Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town before you settle in your hotel located within the town’s historic walls.(B)

Day 10 Kotor
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Kotor. Perhaps you’ll go on an optional excursion and discover the authentic flavors of the Adriatic at a traditional, family-run mussel and oyster farm. Savor a fresh, farm-to-table tasting of locally harvested mussels and oysters, and gain insight into the time-honored traditions and techniques that make Boka Bay a celebrated seafood destination. Upon return, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the hidden corners of Kotor.(B)

Day 11 Kotor - Fishtë, Albania - Tirana
Cross another border today and arrive in Albania! A unique blend of traditional Albanian hospitality and cultural experiences awaits in the picturesque rural setting of one of Albania’s best-regarded agritourism destinations, located in the village of Fishtë. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch of authentic dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients, and take a stroll through the farm. Continue your travel day on your way to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. Explore its history and architecture on a locally guided tour while learning more about Albania’s complex past, including a visit to a former top-secret nuclear bunker turned museum.(B, L)

Day 12 Tirana
Today, enjoy Tirana at leisure or join an optional excursion to the coastal ancient city of Durrës to explore Roman ruins, including the Roman Amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian, followed by wine tasting paired with local specialties at a prominent winery. No matter how you fill your day, experience the best of the local cuisine and folk entertainment at a local restaurant.(B, D)

Day 13 Tirana - Gjirokastra - Kalambaka, Greece
Soak in the beauty of the countryside with its winding roads and stretches of green on your way to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO-listed city celebrated for its Ottoman-era heritage and often considered one of the steepest cities in the world. Leisurely explore its unique architecture and glorious history. After having some free time in this fascinating town, continue towards Greece, and cross your last border on this travel journey. Arrive in Kalambaka*** in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner at the hotel.(B, D)

Day 14 Kalambaka - Metéora - Athens
This morning, explore Metéora. Visit one of the remote monasteries**** situated in a unique landscape, where limestone rock “towers” extend nearly 900 feet into the air. Over 600 years ago, Byzantine monks built their monastic community perched atop these rocks. Later, observe traditional Byzantine icon-making during a workshop visit in Kalambaka. Continue to Athens and gather for a celebratory farewell dinner, savoring a delicious Greek cuisine.(B, D)

Day 15 Athens
Explore Athens on a guided walking tour, including Syntagma Square and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Wander through the streets, soaking in the essence of this iconic city and savoring its charm and energy. Visit the Acropolis Museum to trace the history of ancient Athens through its remarkable artifacts. Located within a short walking distance of the Acropolis, the museum houses archeological treasures from the Acropolis and offers wonderful views of the ancient site. The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Athens on your own before joining your fellow travelers to toast to the end of your journey.(B)

Day 16 Athens - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today.(B)

Featured Destinations
Athens
Kalambaka
Tirana
Kotor
Dubrovnik
Sarajevo
Plitvice National Park (Plitvicka Jezera)
Zagreb

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges
07/09/2027 - 07/24/2027
from $6,999 per person


* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
Prices Start At
from $6,999 per person
Length
14 Nights
Air City
Call for airfares from your city.
Vacation Rating
Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.
Remarks
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability and change without notice. Prices reflect land only accommodations, airfare is additional. Blackout dates/seasonal supplements may apply. Itinerary and map subject to change. Prices subject to availability and changes without notice. Some restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID
1702118

Reference this number when contacting our agency so we may better serve you. Also keeping this number handy will allow you to locate this document again quickly.

The Carefree Traveler

Main Office - 7171 East Cave Creek Road, Suite A
Carefree, AZ 85377
USA

(480) 488-3111