The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece
The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece
16 day tour from Zagreb to Athens
Tour Operator
Collette
Departures
Jul 8, 2027
–
Jun 15, 2028
Prices From
$6,749
Dates & Prices
Jul 2027 - Jun 2028
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 Metéora, 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.
Tour 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.*
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Day 16
Athens - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today.
Itinerary Dates & Prices
Start Date
End Date
Our Price
Guaranteed
Start Date
Jul 08, 2027
End Date
Jul 24, 2027
Our Price
$6,749
Guaranteed
Start Date
Jul 22, 2027
End Date
Aug 07, 2027
Our Price
$6,749
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Start Date
Aug 26, 2027
End Date
Sep 11, 2027
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$6,749
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Start Date
Sep 09, 2027
End Date
Sep 25, 2027
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$6,749
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Start Date
Sep 16, 2027
End Date
Oct 02, 2027
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$6,749
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Start Date
Sep 19, 2027
End Date
Oct 05, 2027
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$6,749
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Start Date
Sep 23, 2027
End Date
Oct 09, 2027
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$6,749
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Start Date
Oct 07, 2027
End Date
Oct 23, 2027
Our Price
$6,749
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Start Date
Oct 14, 2027
End Date
Oct 30, 2027
Our Price
$6,749
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Start Date
Apr 06, 2028
End Date
Apr 22, 2028
Our Price
$6,799
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Start Date
Apr 20, 2028
End Date
May 06, 2028
Our Price
$6,799
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Start Date
May 04, 2028
End Date
May 20, 2028
Our Price
$6,999
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Start Date
May 07, 2028
End Date
May 23, 2028
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$6,999
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Start Date
May 11, 2028
End Date
May 27, 2028
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$6,999
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Start Date
May 18, 2028
End Date
Jun 03, 2028
Our Price
$6,999
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Start Date
Jun 01, 2028
End Date
Jun 17, 2028
Our Price
$6,999
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Start Date
Jun 08, 2028
End Date
Jun 24, 2028
Our Price
$6,999
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Start Date
Jun 15, 2028
End Date
Jul 01, 2028
Our Price
$6,999
Guaranteed
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