10 days in Athens, Kalambaka, Ohrid, Tirana, Tivat, and Dubrovnik.
B – Breakfast | D – Dinner
Entrance fees are included where indicated in bold
Day 1 – Saturday: Arrive in Athens
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free before meeting your fellow travelers and Tour Director for a Welcome Taverna Dinner. Dinner will be in the Plaka area, next to the Acropolis. (D)
Day 2 – Sunday: Explore Athens
Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Athens, exploring its cosmopolitan and bustling capital city. Amidst the city’s reminders of a glorious past, visit graceful temples, centuries-old monasteries, and ornate Byzantine churches. Marvel at the immortal Acropolis, including the Parthenon, known as the most perfectly proportioned building of all time. Admire the Erectheion with its iconic Porch of the Maidens, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Wingless Victory. Below the Acropolis lies the Ancient Agora, the afternoon and evening at your leisure. (B)
Day 3 – Monday: To Kalambaka
Your first stop this morning is Delphi, where the famous Oracle once foretold the destiny of men. The temple of Apollo in which the Oracle functioned was built in the 6th century B.C. Also see the Sacred Way, the Stadium and the Castilian Fountain, where pilgrims cleansed themselves in preparation for consulting the Oracle. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi, which contains an impressive collection of finds from the site, including the beautiful “Bronze Charioteer”, before continuing to Kalambaka. (B, D)
Day 4 – Tuesday: To Ohrid
monasteries built by monks seeking isolation. Of the original 33 monasteries, only four are active today, with the Megalo of Great Meteoro being the most important. Its unique architecture, intricate dome, twelve sides, and exquisite frescoes make it a must-see. Cross the border to the Republic of North Macedonia and proceed to Ohrid. (B, D)
Day 5 – Wednesday: To Tirana
Explore Ohrid, an important cultural and spiritual center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a morning sightseeing tour through the cobblestone streets of the old town and visit the Cathedral of St. Sofia, featuring magnificent 10th-century frescoes. In the afternoon, travel to Tirana – the capital of Albania. (B, D)
Day 6 – Thursday: Explore Tirana
Embark on a morning sightseeing tour of Tirana, where you’ll visit notable landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, the Mosque of Ethem Bey, the Clock Tower, and the statue of G. . Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero. Explore the Palace of Culture, built with Soviet assistance, and the National History Museum, adorned with a mosaic depicting Albanian history on its facade. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring, shopping, or relaxing. (B)
Day 7 – Friday: To Tivat
After breakfast, depart Tirana and head to Shkodra, a cultural hub with ancient origins. Explore the magnificent Rozafa Castle, perched high on a rocky limestone outcrop overlooking the city. Cross the border into Montenegro and continue to Tivat. Enjoy dinner upon arrival. (B, D)
Day 8 – Saturday: To Dubrovnik
Embark on a journey to Dubrovnik, Croatia stopping en route to admire the scenic Kotor Bay, a South European fjord. Enjoy an orientation tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town of Kotor. Continue to Dubrovnik and arrive before dinner. (B, D)
Day 9 – Sunday: Explore Dubrovnik
Embark on a walking tour of Old Dubrovnik after breakfast. Visit notable sites such as the Rector’s Palace, the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column, Sponza Palace, the Dominican Monastery, and the Franciscan Monastery with its ancient Pharmacy. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Consider joining the optional excursion for a home-hosted Dubelj experience with dinner. (B)
Day 10 – Monday: Depart Dubrovnik
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Dubrovnik airport for your departure. (B)
Note: Because of the narrow and cobbled streets, walking is the primary way of getting around. Please make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.
Start Dates | End Dates | Price per Person in Double Occupancy | Single Room Supplement |
---|---|---|---|
09/21/2024 | 09/30/2024 | $2,979 | $780 |