Top Menu

Dubrovnik to Athens

This adventure combines the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of Macedonia and Albania to create the perfect balance between old and new. Hang out in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, cruise around Lake Ohrid, admire Ioannina’s archeological glories and sample some moussaka in Greece’s capital. This whirlwind adventure through the Balkans is the best way to check out regional hot spots while also experiencing a hefty dollop of cultural hospitality.

From $2,104 

Take the first step in your adventure now!

Enquire now
StartsDubrovnik, Croatia
EndsAthens, Greece
RegionGreece
Duration15 days
Tour OperatorIntrepid Travel
Tour Map
View Dates

Itinerary

Day 1 - Starting: Dubrovnik & Finishing: Dubrovnik

Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia, a place of sunshine, sand and scenery; home to chic cities, coastline, charming cobblestone towns, World Heritage sites, and a thriving food and wine scene. The undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik is a beautiful white stone town surrounded entirely by city walls, easily covered on foot. Although it experienced devastation during the war in the early 1990s, the restored old town remains as charming as ever. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm – check with reception to confirm the time and place. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive on time, you may wish to arrive a day early. If you have time why not head out to one of the Elafiti Islands. There's Lopud, a quiet island with lovely hikes, clean beaches and a ruined castle. Kolocep is a sleepy enclave that boasts walks for every fitness level, while Sipan is the most populated of the isles and reputedly has the most hospitable inhabitants. There are also many monuments to explore in the city proper, including the 15th century Rector's Palace, monasteries with cloistered gardens, and fine baroque churches with copper domes. The main pedestrian promenade, once a shallow sea channel, is now paved with glistening white limestone, in stark contrast to the warm red terracotta roofs. It is hard to imagine a more beautiful city. A walk along the city walls of ‘Game of Thrones’ fame is not to be missed. As there is not much time in Dubrovnik on this trip you may want to consider arriving a few days earlier.

Day 2 - Starting: Kotor & Finishing: Kotor

Leave Dubrovnik behind and take a private transfer to Kotor on the Montenegrin coast (approximately 3 hours). This 5th-century World Heritage-listed city is set on a secluded bay, with towering peaks surrounding a rocky coastline dotted with pretty waterside towns. In its crooked alleyways, get lost and mingle with the locals. When you arrive, head out on a short orientation walk, checking out the 12th-century Cathedral, the South Gates, and the Armoury Square. Later, perhaps take a cruise on the Kotor Fjord – the longest fjord south of Scandinavia – and visit an island with a church that's almost as big as the island itself! In the evening the city walls are prettily lit up to provide a unique night-time perspective.

Day 3 - Starting: Tirana & Finishing: Tirana

After breakfast, transfer to Tirana, a drive of about 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic into Tirana. If you think you know Albania, think again. This addictive country has myriad faces. In the rugged north the Alps are so fierce they're deemed 'accursed', while the south enjoys one of Europe’s least known and most beautiful coastlines. A unique mixture of cultures and customs, Tirana is filled with craziness, from its traffic to its nightlife, but on its doorstep are mosques, citadels, Ottoman architecture, and a stunning dose of the medieval Balkans. The real surprise of Albania is the people. Their warmth to strangers is infectious and you’re bound to find yourself swapping stories over a glass of raki or three. On arrival, take an orientation walk to get your bearings. Tirana is the capital of Albania and its biggest city, but it's still small and compact, with architectural influences from Italy and Turkey. Recently many buildings have been painted to alleviate the Soviet block feeling that pervaded. Many upgrades have been made all over town, such as new parks and wide pavements, a process that's still on-going. Perhaps take a cable car ride up Dajti Mountain for breath-taking views of the city below.

Day 4 - Starting: Kruja / Tirana & Finishing: Kruja / Tirana

Today, take a half-day trip to the mountain village and former Albanian capital of Kruja. Kruja was the last stronghold of Skanderbeg's (the national hero of Albania) army until the Ottomans took over the entire country. There is plenty of time to explore the citadel and the famous bazaar area. Perhaps pay a visit to the excellent ethnographical museum housed inside the fortress. You’ll then return to Tirana after lunch. Tirana is dotted with many museums. You can't miss the National History Museum – just look for the gargantuan mosaic on the facade that represents the development of Albania's history. The main sight in Tirana is the 1821 Et'hem Bey Mosque, right on the city's main square. Closed under communist rule, the mosque resumed as a place of worship in 1991. 10,000 people attended the reopening and the event was considered a milestone in the rebirth of religious freedom in Albania. Take a look at the frescoes outside and in the portico that depict trees, waterfalls and bridges – motifs rarely seen in Islamic art. Remember to take your shoes off before entering the inner room. If you’d prefer to keep exploring outside of the city, there are rafting and hiking trips available – speak to your leader for details.

Day 5 - Starting: Berat & Finishing: Berat

Travel by public bus to Berat, the town of a thousand windows, one of the few towns of Albania that escaped being razed to the ground to make way for apartment blocks. The old Mangalemi district has recently been inscribed on UNESCO's world heritage list. Enjoy an afternoon guided tour of the town and the looming fortress, the kala, built during the 13th century and still inhabited. The walk to the castle is steep and slippery so better bring some proper footwear with you. The views from the top across Berat and the Osum river valley are well worth the effort though.

Day 6 - Starting: Lake Ohrid & Finishing: Lake Ohrid

Travel by private bus to Ohrid in Macedonia, a drive of about 3 hours, situated on a lake with the same name. Europe’s oldest lake, and one of the oldest human settlements in the world, Ohrid has a wealth of historic sites and religious monuments to discover. Ohrid is an eternal town, a magical hill whose primordial pulsation links ancient and modern times forever. The town is said to have once been home to 365 churches, one for each day of the year, earning it the nickname “the Macedonian Jerusalem”, while historical excavations date back to Neolithic times. Despite being a World Heritage site for over 30 years, the town remains under the radar of visitors. Get your bearings on an orientation walk around Ohrid, maybe picking up a bargain or two in the vibrant Old Bazaar. Then embark on a scenic cruise on the turquoise waters of Lake Ohrid, ringed by mountains, attractive villages and beaches, and take in the views of the town and the surrounding scenery while afloat.

Day 7 - Starting: Lake Ohrid & Finishing: Lake Ohrid

At 34 kilometres long, 14 kilometres wide, and over 300 meters deep, all shared between Albania and Macedonia, there’s plenty of vast Lake Ohrid to explore. Today is free for you to discover the area. There are many churches and monasteries to visit, but one of the most popular is the Macedonian Orthodox Church of Sveti Jovana Kaneo, situated on a rocky outcrop above the town, overlooking the lake. Past the church you can wander around to the back of town, exploring the old walls and fortress, and admiring the views of the lake. The Sveti Naum Monastery is also a great option, lying on the shores of the lake south of town, with well-kept grounds that are home to peacocks. The ancient Tast Samoil’s Fortress stands on the top of Ohrid Hill and looks across the town, while a 2,000-year-old Roman theatre was uncovered near the Upper Gate – in summer it’s again being used for concerts and performances. During your time here you may also want to try one of the endless number of hikes found in the mountainous Galicica National Park, sampling some of the flora, fauna, and spectacular views.

Day 8 - Starting: Skopje & Finishing: Skopje

This morning hop onto public bus to Skopje, Macedonia's capital city (approximately 3 hours). In Macedonia’s political and cultural centre, walk past Byzantine domes, Turkish baths, and also newly built neo-classical buildings and grand monuments (aimed to bolster national pride), sampling gozleme and tasty baklava along the way. The 30 mosques, innumerable caravanserais and hamams that fill its winding streets are a testament to Skopje’s Ottoman past. Take a step back to those times with a visit to the Daut Pasha Hamam, or journey through the humbling Holocaust Museum to learn how Macedonia suffered during this tragic chapter of history. Get lost in the narrow lanes of Caršija, Skopje's most atmospheric neighbourhood, or take in the stone bridge over the river Vardar – an iconic sight that acts as a handy connection between Macedonia Square and the Old Bazaar. Perhaps visit the Museum of the City of Skopje, housed in the old Railway Station, which is itself a unique piece of history. Its unusual, part-ruined exterior is a result of the 1963 earthquake. The large clock on the outside of the building is frozen at 5:17, the moment the earthquake shook the city.

Day 9 - Starting: Matka Canyon / Skopje & Finishing: Matka Canyon / Skopje

Venture out to Matka Canyon, a deep ravine cut into the Suva mountains by the Treska River, 15 kilometres southwest of the city. This area is home to several medieval monasteries, caves, and over 70 species of endemic butterflies. There is the option to explore the canyon's sights by boat. One of the monasteries worth exploring is St Andrew's Monastery, which contains many superb frescoes of great artistic importance. There is also Vrelo cavern, a water-filled cave with incredible stalagmites and unchartered depths – it's speculated to be the deepest underwater cave in the world. Alternatively, you can take one of the many nature walks in the canyon, or up to tracks that hug the ridge high above the valley. In the late afternoon, take a local bus back to Skopje, with the remaining part of the day free for you to continue exploring this exciting city. Perhaps take the Mount Vodno cable car to the giant 66-metre high Millennium Cross, mainly for the views back down across the city. For dinner this evening head to the Old Bazaar, or the restaurants in the Debar Maalo area.

Day 10 - Starting: Dihovo / Pelister National Park & Finishing: Dihovo / Pelister National Park

A 3-hour public bus ride will take you to Pelister National Park, the oldest national park in Macedonia. Located in the Baba Mountain massif, it’s a perfect location for a walk, taking in fresh, crisp and clean air in a beautiful landscape with views that go on for miles over to Lake Prespa in the west. The surroundings are known for their ancient Molika pine trees, and two crystal-clear lakes (‘Pelisterki Oci’) near the Mt Pelister summit known as Pelister’s Eyes. It’s also home to rare species like bearded eagles and lynx, along with wolves and bears. You’ll enjoy a homestay tonight in a wonderful restored traditional house, built in the typical Macedonian stone-and-wood style. There are nearby natural rock pools for swimming in the River Sapungica, which runs through the village. Enjoy a great wine tasting experience tonight – the owner produces his own prize-winning wine, and you’ll get to taste it while trying many local delicacies, including homemade bread, jams, and salami.

Day 11 - Starting: Kastoria & Finishing: Kastoria

Travel with taxi to the border with Greece and then hop on our private transfer to Kastoria. This medieval town sits on the western shore of Lake Orestiada, in a valley surrounded by limestone mountains. Kastoria is full of interesting Byzantine churches and Ottoman-style architecture, including old distinctive villas from the skin and fur trade times. Once you arrive you’ll take an orientation walk along the labyrinthine lanes, with time to walk along the lakeside, where boats bob, Dalmatian pelicans and ducks make iridescent ripples on the water, and coniferous trees and mountains surround in the distance. Later, consider visiting the unspoilt Spilia tou Drakou, or Dragon Cave, one of the most impressive caves in Greece, and see stalactites and underground lakes in this mysterious natural wonder once believed to be a gold mine guarded by a sleepless dragon.

Day 12 - Starting: Litochoro & Finishing: Litochoro

Enjoy a free morning in Kastoria. Perhaps visit the Neolithic lakeside village and reconstruction at Dispilio, which gives you a real feel for life in a village in the middle of the 6th Millennium BC. After lunch transfer by private vehicle to the town of Litochoro at the base of Mt Olympus. Upon arrival head out on a short orientation walk to familiarise yourself with the surroundings. Head down to the beach at Pláka for some well-deserved relaxation and a dip in the Aegean Sea before tomorrow's hike. Perhaps have dinner in one of the fish tavernas lining the sea shore, and indulge in some traditional dishes.

Day 13 - Starting: Mt Olympus National Park & Finishing: Mt Olympus National Park

Mount Olympus, Greece's first national park, is the highest mountain in Greece and the second highest in the Balkans, with a height of 2918m. The mountain is famous in Greek mythology as it is the dwelling of the twelve Olympian gods, headed by Zeus. Mytikas peak was the gods' meeting place, and Stefani peak was the Throne of Zeus from where he was said to have displayed his mighty power by throwing thunderbolts. Head out for a hike along the lush forested ravines and ridges of the mountain - there are several options from 3 to 6 hours depending on weather conditions and the group's fitness level.

Day 14 - Starting: Athens & Finishing: Athens

Head to the heart of Greece, and the centre of the ancient world. After arriving and transferring to your central hotel, there's much to be seen in the ancient capital of Greece, vibrant and refreshed following the 2004 Olympics, yet still retaining so much visible history. Named after the goddess of wisdom, Athens has a weighty history that spills out over the modern city, represented most dramatically by the ancient Acropolis, where you can enter the Pantheon and enjoy fabulous views over the city. The birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens has an amazing array of historic sites to explore, including the National Gardens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the original Olympic Stadium. Another highlight is the renowned changing of the guard at Syntagma (Parliament) Square. Afterwards, say a fond farewell to the group and your adventure by perhaps tucking into a final dinner of Greek cuisine and a shot (or two) of ouzo.

Day 15 - Starting: Athens & Finishing: Athens

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to see and do in Greece's capital you may want to extend your stay here, perhaps taking part in one of our Urban Adventures day trips, such as ‘Taste of Athens’ or ‘Markets, Ruins and Ancient Athens’. We are happy to assist with additional accommodation, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.

View Dates

More Information

Highlights

  • Fulfil your cultural cravings in Dubrovnik
  • Laze on a beach in sunny Levkas
  • Explore the birthplace of Western civilisation in Athens
  • Cruise around stunning Lake Ohrid by boat

This adventure combines the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of Macedonia and Albania to create the perfect balance between old and new. Hang out in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, cruise around Lake Ohrid, admire Ioannina’s archeological glories and sample some moussaka in Greece’s capital. This whirlwind adventure through the Balkans is the best way to check out regional hot spots while also experiencing a hefty dollop of cultural hospitality.

Day 1 Accommodation

Pension (1 nights)

Day 1 Optional Activities

  • Franciscan Monastery - HRK 30
  • Lokrum Island Boat Trip - HRK 75
  • War Photography Museum - HRK 40
  • Game of Thrones Tour - HRK 200
  • Rector's Palace - HRK 70
  • Museum of Croatian War of Independence - Mt Srd - HRK 30
  • Church of St. Blaise - Free - 70
  • Hike up Mt Srd - Free - 30

Day 2 Included Activities

  • Kotor Orientation Walk

Day 2 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 2 Optional Activities

  • Cruise on Kotor Fjord - EUR 30

Day 3 Included Activities

  • Orientation Walk - Tirana

Day 3 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 4 Included Activities

  • Kruja Day Trip

Day 4 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 4 Optional Activities

  • Et'hem Bey Mosque - Free -
  • Rafting and Hiking Trips - ALL 6500
  • Sky Tower - Free -
  • National Art Gallery - ALL 200
  • National History Museum - ALL 700

Day 5 Included Activities

  • Guided Tour Berat

Day 5 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 6 Included Activities

  • Orientation Walk - Ohrid
  • Lake Ohrid Boat Ride

Day 6 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 7 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 7 Optional Activities

  • Robev Family House National Museum - MKD 150
  • St Jovan Church - MKD 100

Day 8 Included Activities

  • Orientation Walk - Skopje
  • Iconic Stone Bridge Visit

Day 8 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 9 Accommodation

Homestay (1 nights)

Day 9 Optional Activities

  • Boat Ride - Matka Canyon - MKD 139
  • Museum of the City of Skopje - Free -
  • Kale Fortress - Free -
  • Mount Vodno Cable Car to Millennium Cross - MKD 100

Day 10 Included Activities

  • Wine Tasting - Dihovo

Day 10 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 11 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 12 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 13 Included Activities

  • Mt Olympus Hike

Day 13 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 14 Accommodation

Hotel (1 nights)

Day 15 Optional Activities

  • Urban Adventures - Walking Athens - EUR 46
  • Urban Adventures - Taste of Athens - EUR 60
  • Urban Adventures - Markets, Ruins & Ancient Athens - EUR 54
  • Urban Adventures - Twilight Athens - EUR 77
  • Urban Adventures - Bohemian Tales of the City - EUR 61
  • Day Trip to Delphi - EUR 33
  • Lycabettus Hill - Free -
  • Numismatic Museum - EUR 3
  • National Archaeological Museum - EUR 7
  • Day Trip to the Saronic Islands - EUR 20
  • Dora Stratou - EUR 15
  • Acropolis Pass for 5 Sites - EUR 20

Included Meals

Breakfast: 14

Lunch: 1

Dinner: 1

Updating availability

Departs onEnds onPricePassengersReservation
Apr 01, 2017Apr 15, 2017from USD2380
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Apr 29, 2017May 13, 2017from USD2380
11 spaces left
Enquire now
May 13, 2017May 27, 2017from USD2380
10 spaces left
Enquire now
May 27, 2017Jun 10, 2017from USD2475
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jun 10, 2017Jun 24, 2017from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jun 24, 2017Jul 08, 2017from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jul 01, 2017Jul 15, 2017from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jul 08, 2017Jul 22, 2017from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jul 29, 2017Aug 12, 2017from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Aug 26, 2017Sep 09, 2017from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 02, 2017Sep 16, 2017from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 09, 2017Sep 23, 2017from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 16, 2017Sep 30, 2017from USD2645
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Mar 31, 2018Apr 14, 2018from USD2645
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Apr 28, 2018May 12, 2018from USD2645
12 spaces left
Enquire now
May 12, 2018May 26, 2018from USD2645
12 spaces left
Enquire now
May 26, 2018Jun 09, 2018from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jun 09, 2018Jun 23, 2018from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jun 23, 2018Jul 07, 2018from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jun 30, 2018Jul 14, 2018from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jul 07, 2018Jul 21, 2018from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Jul 28, 2018Aug 11, 2018from USD2855
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Aug 25, 2018Sep 08, 2018from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 01, 2018Sep 15, 2018from USD2750
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 08, 2018Sep 22, 2018from USD2645
12 spaces left
Enquire now
Sep 15, 2018Sep 29, 2018from USD2645
12 spaces left
Enquire now

Get Inspired

Chile’s Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is one of the world’s most spectacular deserts, with fields of steaming geysers, massive smoking conical volcanoes, craggy mountains and flamingo-dotted turquoise lagoons.

Read More

Learn something new on your next journey

There are thousands of learning holidays to choose from in all corners of the globe, but we’ve rounded up a list of some of our favourites to get you inspired.

Read More

Hot air ballooning around the world

There is nothing as perfect as seeing the world from a bird’s eye view in a hot air balloon. Here are a few places we recommend you go to where you can float above the clouds and feel on top of the world.

Read More

Summer Cruise around Svalbard in Norway

A journey through the fjords, glaciers and islands aboard a cruise ship in Norway.

Read More

Download PDF

We'll send you your PDF link straight to your email address!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

  Ask a Question

If you have any questions about this tour, please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you!

  Speak to a consultant

We are there for you! Our expert consultants have the knowledge and expertise to guide you – get in touch with us!

from $2,104

Take the first step in your adventure now!

Enquire now

from$2,104  


*Currency conversion is estimate only

COMPARE TOURS

  • No products to compare
Clear all Compare

Why choose Tour Ninjas?

Best Price Guaranteed
No Booking or Card Fees
Wide Range of Tours
We're here to Help

Tour Ninjas

Read more about us

Enquire now


Hold my seat for 48 hours

  • How long do you have? Do you have particular must see?
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Download PDF

We'll send you your PDF link straight to your email address

Tour PDF Request

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This