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

Exploring the Balkans: A 14-Day Journey from Belgrade to Athens or Corfu

Imagine traveling through a landscape that spans vibrant cities, historic towns, stunning coastlines, and lush vineyards—all in two weeks. That’s exactly what this 14-day guided tour from Belgrade promises. For $4,407 per person, you’ll explore Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, and finally, either Athens or Corfu. Led by friendly guides like Kristina (if you’re lucky), this tour offers a well-curated mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and authentic experiences.

What we especially appreciate is how this journey balances guided visits—think Old Bazaar and Latin Bridge—with leisure time in scenic spots like Sveti Stefan. Plus, the inclusion of entrance fees and accommodations makes it straightforward and stress-free. The only potential consideration? The pace involves some moderate walking and long drives, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule.

If you enjoy a deep dive into Balkan history paired with the chance to relax on picturesque beaches or stroll through lively markets, this tour is likely to hit the spot. It’s suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive experience but are also comfortable with guided group travel.

Key Points

• Coverage: A thorough 14-day journey through multiple Balkan countries, ending in Greece.
• Highlights: Iconic sites like Sarajevo’s Latin Bridge, Kotor’s stunning bay, Sveti Stefan, and Meteora.
• Inclusivity: Price covers most entrance fees, accommodations, transportation, and breakfast.
• Pace: Moderate walking and bus travel, with some leisure time in scenic spots.
• Authentic experiences: Guided tours of cities, vineyards near Rahovec, and agro-tourism visits.
• Flexibility: Option to choose between ending in Athens or Corfu, with flexible booking terms.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 14-Day Balkans Tour

Starting in Belgrade and Crossing Borders

We begin in the lively capital of Serbia, Belgrade, where your guide—possibly the affable Milan—will meet you at your hotel and get the group organized. The initial day kicks off with a visit to the Old Town and some brief orientation. From there, the journey quickly turns into an exploration of history and culture, as we head toward Zvornik in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Zvornik offers a glimpse into the region’s complex past, with its blend of natural beauty and historical sites.

The drive continues toward Sarajevo, a city that narrates centuries of layered history—from Ottoman influences to the scars of recent conflicts. Here, we love the way the city’s Latin Bridge and Old Bazaar evoke a sense of the crossroads it has always been. Our guide, perhaps Jasmina, shares stories that breathe life into current sights, making history palpable.

Exploring Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro

From Sarajevo, we move on to Mostar, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), which connects East and West in more ways than one. The guided tour reveals stories behind the city’s resilience and its stunning Ottoman architecture. Travelers often comment on how meaningful it feels to walk the cobblestone streets and stand beneath the arch that has survived war and restoration.

Next, we cross into Montenegro, visiting Kotor, a fortified town perched on a fjord-like bay. The guides highlight Kotor’s medieval walls and breathtaking views from the fortress. Many appreciate the way the town’s picturesque setting makes it easy to forget you’re in the Balkans and not some Mediterranean idyll.

The Montenegrin Riviera beckons next, with leisure time in Budva, known for its lively beaches and historic old town, and Sveti Stefan, a tiny island with a storied past and luxury hotel status. We love how Sveti Stefan’s charming architecture and seaside charm give a glimpse of the glamorous side of the Balkans.

Venturing into Kosovo and Albania

After Montenegro, the tour ventures into Kosovo’s Prizren, which exudes a distinctive blend of Ottoman and Balkan influences. The guided walk reveals its cosmopolitan atmosphere and historic sites, including the Sinan Pasha Mosque. We appreciate the local flavor and stories from Gani, the local guide.

Then, crossing into Albania, we visit Kruje, a town famous for its bazaar and Skanderbeg Museum. The guided tour here offers insights into Albanian history. The journey continues to Tirana, a surprisingly lively city filled with colorful buildings, bustling markets, and a youthful energy. The guided city tour helps you understand Albania’s transition from isolation to openness.

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From Tirana to North Macedonia and Historic Ohrid

Next, we head to Struga and Ohrid in North Macedonia, both offering lakeside tranquility and historical treasures. The guided tour of Ohrid reveals its ancient churches and atmospheric streets. Many travelers highlight the stunning lake views and the charm of the old town, making these stops a highlight.

The journey then continues to Tushemisht and Berat in Albania, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. In Berat, the white-washed houses and hilltop castle are especially photogenic. We love how these towns give a real sense of local life amid centuries-old architecture.

Gjirokastër and Greece’s Meteora

In Gjirokastër, the stone fortress and Ottoman-era buildings tell stories of a time when this was a key trading town. Guided visits showcase the cobbled streets and traditional houses.

Finally, the tour crosses into Greece, with a stop in Ioannina, known for its lake and castle. Our last highlight is Meteora, where towering monasteries cling to massive rock formations. The views are unforgettable, and many describe Meteora as a spiritual and visual feast.

Ending in Athens or Corfu

The journey concludes with a transfer to Athens or Corfu. If you choose Athens, you can continue exploring Greece’s ancient capital; if Corfu, enjoy some well-earned relaxation on the island’s lush beaches. The transfer is smooth, and the ending allows plenty of opportunities for personal adventures.

What Makes This Tour Worth Considering?

We love the diversity packed into this itinerary—cultural, historical, scenic, and gastronomic. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized guides and genuine interactions. The inclusion of entrance fees, accommodations, and breakfast simplifies planning and helps manage costs, making this quite good value for a comprehensive Balkan adventure.

The guides seem to be a major highlight, sharing stories that personalize each site and making history accessible without overwhelming. The balance between guided visits and leisure time is well handled—giving you space to absorb and reflect.

That said, the long drives between some destinations could be tiring for some travelers, especially those less comfortable with bus journeys. The itinerary’s pace also involves quite a bit of moderate walking—be prepared for cobblestones and uneven surfaces in historic towns.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about the Balkans’ layered stories—from Ottoman legacies to modern rebirth—and want a rundown in just two weeks, this tour is a strong choice. It’s ideal for history buffs, culture seekers, and those who enjoy scenic drives and memorable landscapes. Travelers who appreciate guided explorations but want some free time in beautiful spots will find this balance appealing.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable during the tour?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned coach, which is comfortable for the long drives between destinations.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the price covers accommodation, with details provided after booking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and your passport or ID.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not, so you can explore local cuisine at your leisure.

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

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It is best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate walking and bus travel.

What language is used during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.

Can I extend my stay in Athens or Corfu?
Yes, after the tour ends, you are free to explore further—either in Greece or the surrounding regions.

How many people typically join the tour?
While not specified, small group sizes are preferred to enhance the experience.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the comprehensive itinerary, included entrance fees, accommodations, and guided tours, this tour offers good value for those wanting a deep Balkan experience.

To sum it up, this 14-day Balkans tour offers a richly textured journey through some of Europe’s most captivating regions. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see historic towns, stunning coastlines, and vibrant cities—all with the convenience of guided travel. If you’re ready for a well-organized adventure that balances culture and scenic beauty, this trip deserves your consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here: