Balkans Bliss
The Albanian Riviera, boat trips, beach days, exploring castles, fresh seafood and swims in the warm Mediterranean sea.
This 11 night / 12 day itinerary takes you through Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Greece. Designed for travellers looking to explore stone-walled ancient cities, try out sea kayaking, snorkel on beautiful beaches and enjoy the best of the Mediterranean.
Starting in Dubrovnik, Croatia you’ll find yourself in the middle of the this beautiful city and discover rich history in the castles scattered around the town. Then cross the border to one of the hidden gems of the world - Albania. This country has everything from beautiful mountains to crystal clear beaches. Continue your journey south, passing through the famous town of Gjirokaster to the ‘‘Albanian Riviera’’ to switch off from the world and relax on a beautiful beach. Unwind with a sailing trip to explore the local beaches and swim in the bluest water you have ever seen. Finally making your way down to the famous island of Corfu in Greece.
Unforgettable Experiences
Cruise past the coastline of Vlora
Explore the home of “Game of Thrones”
Visit the UNESCO listed Gjirokaster
Sea kayak on Zaton Bay
Boat trip to explore the Blue Cave
Discover the old town of Corfu
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Dubrovnik
You've arrived in the magical city of Dubrovnik, Croatia! Located in the home of “Game of Thrones”, you’re in the middle of the action. Get settled in your hotel and then it’s time to kick things off! For your first taste of authentic Balkans food, make sure you don’t choose a restaurant with someone standing outside welcoming you in. Instead, if you feel almost a little like you’re intruding, it’s a good bet you’re at a local establishment.
Day 2 Sea kayaking & snorkeling
Its your first morning waking up in paradise! Make sure to fill up at breakfast, we have an awesome day for you. Start your day with sea kayaking in the protected Zaton Bay. You’ll explore the bay, with plenty of time to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear water of the Mediterranean. In the afternoon it’s time to have a drink at a rooftop bar, relax on a beach, or explore the beautiful seaside city of Dubrovnik - the choice is yours. Hungry? Seafood is a must in this town with plenty of fresh and flavorsome dishes to satisfy after a big morning on the water.
Day 3 Exploring caves by boat in the bay of Kotor
After breakfast it’s time to leave Dubrovnik, bound for the small city of Kotor in Montenegro. Kotor is an ancient town of merchants and sailors, located in one of the most beautiful bays in the world. In the afternoon, join a boat tour where you will explore so many hidden gems in the bay - be sure to pack your swimmers, the water is irresistible! Discover The Blue Cave - a truly unique destination where the water in the cave is crystal-clear and due to the surrounding rock composition, it creates a beautiful natural aquarium where you can see rocks and sea life on the bottom of the cave. Swim through the Submarine Tunnels, where the openings are covered in fake rocks, designed to be hidden from satellites and spy planes. And admire the Lady of the Rocks - an artificial island created by old ships and rocks with a church on top.
Day 4 Walk the colourful streets and admire historical monuments
Today set out for Tirana, the dynamic capital city of Albania. Tirana beckons with its kaleidoscope of colors, where the streets are adorned with vibrant facades and lively markets. The city seamlessly blends history and modernity, offering a treasure trove of attractions, from captivating museums that unravel the nation's rich heritage to the surrounding castles steeped in centuries-old tales. Dive deeper into this interesting city on a city tour with an expert guide to lead you through the city's hidden gems, providing insights into its cultural tapestry and architectural wonders. As the day unfolds, brace yourself for the pulsating energy that courses through the trendy clubs and bars, where the heartbeat of Tirana's nightlife echoes.
Day 5 Day of art, flavor, and nightlife
Wake up to the vibrant town of Tirana where you can begin your morning at one of the city's hipster cafes, sipping on rich Albanian coffee and indulging in delectable pastries. If you’re eager to soak up the local art scene, head to the trendy Blloku district, adorned with colorful street art and boutique galleries. Stroll through the bustling Pazari i Ri market, where a myriad of local flavors and artisanal products beckon. For a touch of history with a contemporary twist, visit the Bunk'Art museum, an underground relic turned into a fascinating art space. As the sun begins to set, you could join the lively atmosphere at Skanderbeg Square, surrounded by vibrant bars and pubs offering the perfect backdrop for socializing and enjoying local brews. Cap off your day by immersing yourself in Tirana's pulsating nightlife.
Day 6 Wander the ‘City of a Thousand Windows’
Depart to the beautiful coastal city of Vlora, a pearl along Albania's picturesque shoreline. However, before you reach this seaside haven, prepare to be enchanted by the renowned city of Berat. Known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," Berat is a mesmerizing tapestry of history and architecture, located in the heart of the country’s lush landscape. You’ll wander through its cobbled streets, each building a testament to centuries of rich history. With an expert local guide leading the way, you'll unravel the city's secrets and explore the majestic castle that watches over Berat. After immersing yourself in Berat's cultural treasures, the journey continues to Vlora. Renowned for its inviting Mediterranean climate, Vlora is a perfect blend of ancient charm and modern vibrancy, offering visitors a sun-soaked haven and a gateway to explore the captivating landscapes of southern Albania.
Day 7 Cruise through the ‘Albanian Riviera’ coastline
Wake up this morning in Vlora, often hailed as the "Albanian Riviera”. Today embark on an adventure to explore the coastline, through the Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park. The park boasts a diverse coastal landscape, with rocky cliffs, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Onboard a full day boat adventure, relax on a beach in Karaburun, visit the Cave of Haxhi and spend time on the Island of Sazan. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim or go snorkeling. Bask in the warmth of the sun on the deck, relishing the panoramic views. With lunch included, this promises to be a day to remember!
Day 8 Rich history and coffee ‘on the stone’ tasting
Today, hit the road again and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gjirokaster. The old town is famous for being a well-preserved city of authentic architecture and its fortress overlooking the entire city, the old houses lean against the slopes of the hills with their beautiful old wooden facades. Get an insight into the local culture with a visit to the traditional tower houses and savor the experience of tasting traditional coffee, prepared 'on the stone,' roasted right before your eyes over an open fire! Then return back at the Albanian Coast line with our next stop, Saranda.
Day 9 Seaside relaxation in the sunshine
There are so many options on how you can spend your day. You could choose to start your day with seaside brunch at one of the trendy beachfront cafes, relishing the stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Or head straight to the beach where you can relax, soaking in the sun with a book in hand and taking a dip in the crystal clear water. For a touch of history, you could explore the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site that narrates tales from centuries past. As the sun dips below the horizon, head to Lëkursi Castle for panoramic sunset views before indulging in the lively nightlife scene. The town comes alive after dark with vibrant bars and beach clubs along the promenade, offering a perfect setting to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
Day 10 Corfu the cosmopolitan metropolis.
Next up, make your way to Saranda port to catch the ferry across to Corfu. Renowned for its lush landscapes, Venetian architecture, and vibrant blend of history and Mediterranean charm, you will fall in love with Corfu. Upon arrival, take a moment to unwind at your stunning hotel before diving into the island's history. Explore the old town, where each cobblestone street unveils a tapestry of Venetian, French, and British influences and you’ll discover centuries. Then, taste the famous Kumquat liqueur, a citrus-flavored liqueur made from kumquats, a small, tangy fruit that resembles a miniature orange. It is one of the most popular drinks of the island that tastes like summer!
Day 11 Beach bliss and adventure
You could begin your morning with a beachside yoga session or a refreshing swim at one of Corfu's stunning beaches like Glyfada or Paleokastritsa. Take a long lunch trendy seaside café, savoring local flavors and taking in the Ionian Sea views. Or if you’re up for more of an adventure, rent a scooter to explore the island's scenic villages and hidden coves. In the afternoon, you could visit the Achilleion Palace, adorned with mythological grandeur, or opt for a leisurely hike on Mount Pantokrator for panoramic vistas. As the sun sets, head to a beach bar for cocktails, then dive into Corfu's vibrant nightlife scene. Bar-hop in Corfu Town or dance under the stars at a beach club in Ipsos for your final night!
Day 12 Farewell Greece
This is the final day on the itinerary but hopefully you’ll be leaving the Balkans with incredible memories and a desire to continue to see more of the world. Maybe it’s not a farewell at all, but a see you later!
“Albania's stunning mountain scenery, crumbling castles, boisterous capital and dreamy beaches rival any in the Mediterranean and continue to enchant.”
Lonely Planet
Recommended Hotels
Sunset Hotel - Corfu
Hotel Marija - Kotor
City Hotel - Dubrovnik
Albania is all about the...
Castles.
The coastline.
Culture.
Beautiful blue water.
Natural beauty.
Heritage.
Balkans FAQs
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This trip suits people that want to see a lot of the coastline, explore old cities and get to know a new culture. As we cover a lot of ground (4 countries) there is occasionally a longer day of driving although we try to break it up as much as possible. This trip also has a lot of water activities with kayaking, boat trips and ferries so if you get seasick you may need to pack some tablets to help.
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The trip starts in Dubrovnik, Croatia and finishes in Corfu, Greece.
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Fly into Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport (DBV) and out of Corfu Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport CFU). If you are flying home internationally, you will likely need to transfer through Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH).
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Before 3pm ideally. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 5:00pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 30 minutes away from the airport.
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We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness. Overall, the trip is relatively relaxed but has a few active activities like kayaking. There are also boat trips that require a basic level of mobility.
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We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.