Athens
Gaze out from monasteries moulded into towering rocks and see the Athenian temple made for the Goddess of Wisdom herself.
Nowadays our buildings graze the clouds and choke our skylines. Sure, they’re undoubtedly impressive, but where’s the soul? Where’s the history? In ancient times, buildings were a labour a love. Pieces of art within their own right, painstakingly crafted from only the finest, hand-selected materials. On this 7-day adventure, you’ll delve deep into the crumbling titans of architectural art. Wander the imperious Game of Thrones fortress walls of Dubrovnik, gaze out from monasteries moulded into towering mountains, and see the Athenian temple erected for the Goddess of Wisdom herself.
We spend 7 days exploring Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Greece. We visit Split, Kotor, Tirana, Kalambaka, Athens.
What Is Included...
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Your legendary Busabout crew
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6 nights’ accommodation
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6 breakfasts
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All coach transport
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Orientation walks
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Entry into two Monasteries in Meteora (Kalambaka)
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Day trip to Budva, beach afternoon
Trip Highlights
- Scale the Old Town walls of Dubrovnik
- Bask in breathtaking views of Meteora monasteries
- Watch the sunset from St. John’s Fortress, Kotor
Trip Departures
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions in place globally, we will not be running any trips in 2021. Get more information on why this decision was made or see below for similar trips being run by our sister brands, Contiki and CostSaver.
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7 Day Itinerary
Balkan Highlights 7 day full itinerary breakdown and route map
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Day 1
Split to Dubrovnik to Kotor
Our adventure begins as we head out from Split en route to stoic Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, explore the city’s renaissance architecture (Sponza Palace is a must-see) or wander the city’s famous walls. Jon Snow may know nothing, but you’ll learn plenty on a Game of Thrones walking tour of the city. This evening we’ll make tracks to Mediterranean Kotor. This Gulf nestled marvel offers endless views of the limestone cliffs and a maze of medieval streets wayward travellers can lose themselves in. At sundown, we forsake our beach-bods and devour a traditional Montenegrin feast. After dinner, feel free to enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife or recharge for the adventures still to come.
Day 2
Kotor to Budva to Kotor
This morning, explore some phenomenal sites within the old Venetian walls while you bask in the insane mountain views. Kotor’s Old Town is rich in history, hosting some of the finest medieval architecture in the Balkans. Come late morning, we’ll depart for a 2,500-year-old settlement on the Adriatic called the Budva Riviera. Here, spend the afternoon lazing in the sun on the Adriatic’s pristine beaches. When we return to Kotor, you’ll have the fantastic opportunity to climb the nearby fortress and take in some stunning sunset views. - Breakfast included
Day 3
Kotor to Tirana
See ya, Kotor! We’re off to Tirana, Albania. Headstrong, we’ll chug our way down winding roads until we arrive to an inclusive orientation walk of the city. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy! Marvel at this incredible city’s complex history whilst you explore vast monuments built by the Romans, Ottomans, and Byzantines. See the famous Tirana Mosaic Archaeological Complex or sample genuine Albanian cuisine. Modern history fans should pay a visit to the controversial Pyramid of Tirana. Tonight, explore pulse-pumping nightlife in this rich Balkan city! - Breakfast included
Day 4
Tirana to Gjirokaster to Kalambaka (Meteora)
As we make our way to Greece this morning we’ll be stopping off at the wonderfully preserved Ottoman town of Gjirokaster. We arrive in Kalambaka (Meteora) this evening with a traditional Greek spread awaiting us. After we devour our feast (no manners required), you’re free to explore the town dubbed ‘Middle of the Sky’. Marvel at its amazing, mountainous scenery and quaint, winding streets. Make sure to hit the hay at a reasonable hour tonight because tomorrow we’re off to somewhere truly special indeed! - Breakfast included
Day 5
Kalambaka (Meteora) to Thermopylae to Athens
We know it’s early, but you won’t want to miss this. Today, we’re venturing to the logic-defying monasteries of Meteora, where we’ll enjoy free entry to the best ones. From James Bond to Game of Thrones, these insane rock-formations have spurred more than a few creative minds, and are home to a warren of cave systems. Use the rest of this special morning to bask in the humbling views and absorb the monasteries’ rich history. After lunch, we depart for Athens with a stop at the Spartan Monument in Thermopylae. Fans of Greek history and the film “300” both will know this as the stage for King Leonidas’ legendary stand against Xerxes and his advancing Persian armies. Tonight we dine in Athens, so enjoy your dinner under the gaze of the Acropolis. - Breakfast included
Day 6
Athens
What better way to kick off your day in Athens than exploring the cradle of western civilisation and its vast, impressive sights? Visit the Acropolis, which is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. See the Daphne Monastery and Parthenon, and the temple to the Goddess Athena––the symbol of Ancient Greece and the birthplace of democracy. With your feet sore and your head full of mythology, join us for a traditional farewell Greek dinner. - Breakfast included
Day 7
Athens
The past week has been special, enlightening, and unforgettable. We’re sad to see it end, but ecstatic that it happened. Thank you for joining us on this wonderful adventure. We hope to see you again soon!
