From Split: 14-Day Balkans Tour to Athens or Corfu

Planning a trip through the Balkans? This 14-day tour offers a carefully curated route that takes you from the historic streets of Split to the stunning islands of Greece. It promises a mix of cultural landmarks, scenic coastal drives, and immersive local experiences—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Southeast Europe.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the blend of guided city explorations and leisure time in picturesque spots like Sveti Stefan and Ohrid. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personalized feel, while the comprehensive itinerary covers key highlights across multiple countries. A potential consideration might be the pace—some days include several stops, so be prepared for a busy schedule.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who want to see diverse landscapes and cultures without the hassle of planning every detail. If you enjoy guided adventures with a touch of flexibility, this tour offers great value for those wanting a thorough Balkan overview.

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Key Points

Cultural highlights include UNESCO sites like the Old Bridge in Mostar and historic towns like Berat and Gjirokaster.
Scenic drives along the Montenegrin Riviera and around Lake Ohrid offer stunning vistas.
Small group setting provides a more intimate experience, with personalized attention.
Comprehensive itinerary covers multiple countries, blending city tours with leisure time.
All accommodation is in comfortable 3-star hotels, with breakfast included.
Transport is private, and ferry tickets are arranged for island visits, simplifying logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Split, Croatia’s historic jewel, you’ll have the chance to explore its medieval charm before heading east. The first major stop is Mostar, famous for its Old Bridge (Stari Most)—a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 16th century. The guide will likely point out the significance of this Ottoman-era marvel, and you’ll wander through the vibrant Old Bazaar with its lively market stalls and colorful street scenes.

On day two, a guided tour of Sarajevo unveils the city’s layered history. Expect visits to important sites like the Latin Bridge, known for the assassination that sparked WWI, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, which offers insights into the city’s resilience during wartime. The blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences makes Sarajevo a fascinating stop.

The journey continues southward to Kotor, Montenegro. Its well-preserved medieval walls and stunning bay views are a highlight here. The guided tour will probably include the fortress and the charming old town’s narrow streets. You’ll love the scenic Montenegrin Riviera, with the chance to relax or explore at your leisure.

Next, the tour hits Budva and Sveti Stefan, offering a taste of Montenegro’s glitziest beaches and historic sites. Sveti Stefan, in particular, is a picture-perfect island village with luxurious resorts, often described as a postcard scene. The guided tour here gives insight into its history and significance.

Crossing into Albania, you’ll visit Shkoder, a city with a rich cultural tapestry. The inclusion of Mirizi i Zanave Agro tourism adds an authentic rural experience, where guided tours highlight local agricultural traditions. The journey then takes you to Prizren, Kosovo’s charming Ottoman-era town, with its lively bazaar and historic mosques.

The next days explore the Albanian capital, Tirana, where a guided city tour covers the National History Museum, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower, revealing Tirana’s rapid modern development amid its historic core.

From Tirana, the route moves to Struga and Ohrid, twin towns on the North Macedonian side of Lake Ohrid. Here, you’ll be guided through the ancient city, famous for its church architecture, and enjoy free time in Ohrid’s lakeside setting. Visiting St. Naum offers a chance to see one of the oldest monasteries in the region.

Heading south into Albania again, Berat and Gjirokaster are UNESCO World Heritage towns known for their well-preserved Ottoman architecture. A guided tour of Berat explores its fortress and hillside houses, while Gjirokaster features a castle and historic old town—both great for wandering and soaking in history.

The penultimate day takes you to Ioannina in Greece, a lakeside city with a castle and lively markets, before visiting the iconic Meteora monastic complexes perched atop towering rock formations. The views here are truly unforgettable and a favorite among reviewers.

Finally, you’ll head to Athens or Corfu, ending your Balkan adventure with options for exploring Greece’s capital or relaxing on the beautiful island of Corfu. The transfer includes ferry tickets to Corfu, making island access smooth.

Looking for more options in Sveti Stefan? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What to Expect from the Experience

Transport & Logistics: The tour utilizes private transport, ensuring comfort and flexibility, with all road taxes, petrol, and insurance covered. The group size (limited to 8) encourages interaction but also provides space for personal reflection.

Accommodation & Meals: Staying in 3-star hotels with breakfast included helps keep costs down while offering comfortable lodging. Note that lunches, dinners, and snacks are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for meals and drinks.

Guided Tours & Free Time: Every major city has guided tours—like Sarajevo’s Tunnel Museum or Berat’s fortress—giving you context and background to what you’re seeing. You’ll also have leisure time in places like Sveti Stefan and Ohrid, perfect for photography, relaxing, or exploring on your own.

Cultural & Scenic Highlights: From the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge to the monasteries of Meteora, the itinerary mixes historical sites with stunning landscapes. Reviewers have highlighted the “breathtaking views” and “authentic local atmosphere,” making every stop memorable.

Group Dynamics: The small group size means you get more personalized service and better access to guides, who often share insider tips unavailable in guidebooks. Some guests noted that it felt more like traveling with friends than a typical tour bus.

Analyzing the Value

While the tour covers multiple countries and includes many major sights, it also offers a relatively affordable price point considering the extensive itinerary, accommodation, transport, and entry tickets. The inclusion of ferry tickets to Corfu adds convenience, and the guided tours enrich your understanding of each location.

Travelers might find the pace demanding but rewarding. The numerous guided experiences ensure you gain insight into each place’s significance, making this more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s educational, scenic, and culturally enriching.

Who Is This Tour Really For?

This journey suits travelers who love culture combined with scenic drives and historic sites. It’s ideal for those comfortable with busy days and multiple stops, and who appreciate small-group intimacy. If you’re seeking a broad overview of the Balkans, with guided insights and comfortable accommodations, this tour delivers great value.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more free time, you might want to consider adding extra days in key locations. Also, travelers should be prepared for border crossings and some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for this tour? Yes, since the itinerary crosses several borders in the Balkans, a valid passport is necessary.

Are the accommodations in 3-star hotels? Yes, all overnight stays are in 3-star hotels, offering a good balance of comfort and value.

Is there free time in the stops? Yes, many stops like Sveti Stefan, Ohrid, and Berat include leisure time for exploring on your own.

How is transportation arranged? Private transport is provided throughout the tour, making daily travel comfortable and hassle-free.

What’s included in the tour price? Accommodation, breakfast, private transport, tour leader, entry tickets for sites, ferry tickets to Corfu, and taxes are included.

Are meals included? No, lunches, dinners, and snacks are not included, so plan to budget for additional dining.

What’s the group size? The tour is limited to 8 participants, fostering a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? While suitable for most, travelers should be comfortable with walking and some busy days.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

In essence, this 14-day Balkan tour offers a fantastic mix of history, scenery, and cultural insights for travelers eager to explore Southeast Europe with expert guidance. It’s a worthwhile choice for those seeking an organized, meaningful journey through some of Europe’s most captivating towns and landscapes.