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

Planning a journey through the Balkans often feels like peeling back layers of a fascinating story written over centuries. The 14-day Balkans tour from Split promises to weave together history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that’s more than just sightseeing — it’s a genuine experience. Whether you’re heading towards Athens or Corfu, this guided tour offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances well-known highlights with lesser-trodden gems.

What we particularly like about this experience is its comprehensive approach: it covers iconic sites like Mostar’s Old Bridge and Kotor’s medieval walls, while also giving you a taste of local life in Prizren, Berat, and Gjirokaster. Plus, the inclusion of private transport and 3-star hotels ensures you’re comfortable without feeling like you’re overpaying. A potential consideration is the pace — with so many stops packed into 14 days, it’s a busy schedule, so this trip suits travelers who enjoy active days and a lot of new impressions.

This tour is best suited for those who love history but also crave scenic coastlines, vibrant cities, and authentic local experiences. If you’re looking for a well-rounded Balkan adventure that combines culture with stunning landscapes, this could be your perfect match. Let’s take a detailed look at what makes it stand out — and what you should keep in mind.

Key Points

• Covers Major Sites and Hidden Gems: From UNESCO-listed Old Bridge in Mostar to the monasteries of Meteora, the itinerary balances famous and lesser-known places.
• Comfort and Convenience: Accommodation in 3-star hotels, private transport, and included entry tickets make logistics smooth.
• Cultural & Historical Insights: Guided tours provide context, making each stop more meaningful.
• Flexible Endpoints: Travelers can choose to continue to Athens or arrive in Corfu, with ferry tickets included.
• Active Itinerary: Expect some walking and border crossings, so comfortable shoes and passports are essentials.
• Value for Money: At $4,418, the inclusions and depth of experience offer good value, especially considering the logistical arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Balkan Highlights

The Charm of Split and Mostar

Starting in Split, you’ll have the chance to explore the medieval core of this coastal city. Although the tour doesn’t specify exact sights here, it’s likely you’ll appreciate the blend of Roman ruins and lively seaside ambiance. We love the way this sets the tone for a trip that marries history with vibrant local life.

From there, the journey takes you across the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina to visit Mostar, famous for its Old Bridge (Stari Most). Built in the 16th century, this UNESCO site epitomizes Ottoman-era architecture and offers spectacular views, especially from the pedestrian walkway. One traveler notes that “the Old Bridge is stunning — it really transports you back in time,” which captures the essence of what makes Mostar special.

Sarajevo: A City of Resilience and Stories

The guided tour of Sarajevo involves visiting the Old Bazaar, Latin Bridge, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum. These sites tell stories of resilience, conflict, and renewal. The Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, is a reminder of how history shapes the present. Many guests appreciate the context brought by guides, stating that “learning about Sarajevo’s complex past made the city’s open, lively atmosphere even more meaningful.”

Kotor and the Montenegrin Coast

Next, your journey takes you to Kotor, a town encapsulated by medieval walls and dramatic fjord-like scenery. The guided tour here emphasizes the city’s maritime history and stunning setting. You’ll also get time to explore at your own pace — perhaps wandering through narrow stone streets or enjoying a coffee with views of the bay.

The Montenegrin Riviera continues to impress, especially around Sveti Stefan, a tiny islet now hosting an exclusive resort but still fascinating to see from afar. Many travelers find this part of the trip a highlight, citing the scenery as “breathtaking” and the relaxed vibe of the coast as a perfect way to unwind.

More Great Tours Nearby

From Shkoder to Prizren and Beyond

Crossing into Albania, you’ll visit Shkoder, a city with a lakeside charm. The tour includes a visit to Mirizi i Zanave Agro tourism, giving you a taste of local rural life. Continuing into Prizren, a town often described as a vibrant mosaic of cultures, you’ll have time to explore its medieval fortress and lively bazaar.

The tour includes guided visits to Gjakove and Decan, areas rich in history and religious sites, and a stop at vineyards near Rahovec. The focus on local viticulture is a nice touch, adding a sensory element to your Balkan experience.

Discovering Albanian and Kosovan Capitals

In Kruje, you’ll get a guided tour of the historic town, known for its fortress and the Skanderbeg Museum. Then, in Tirana, the guided city tour covers landmarks like the National History Museum, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower. Many travelers value Tirana’s lively streets and colorful buildings, often commenting that the city’s modernity mixes well with its past.

Lakes, Churches, and Monasteries

Moving on to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll explore its historic lake-side town, with options to visit St. Naum Monastery and enjoy some leisure time in Tushemisht or Drilon. The tour highlights the breathtaking views and the peaceful atmosphere, which many find a welcome contrast to the busier cities.

From Berat to Gjirokaster

You’ll experience the hilltop Berat, known as the “town of a thousand windows,” with a guided tour of its Ottoman-era architecture and castle. The next stop, Gjirokaster, offers similar charm, with its well-preserved old town and stone houses. Many reviews highlight the authenticity of these towns: “Gjirokaster feels like stepping back into a medieval movie set.”

Exploring Meteora and Ioannina

The penultimate days include a scenic drive into Greece, with stops in Ioannina — a lakeside city with a lively atmosphere — and Meteora, renowned for its towering monasteries perched atop rock formations. Travelers often comment on the surreal landscape of Meteora, describing it as “a highlight that exceeds expectations.”

Ending the Journey

Finally, the tour concludes with a transfer to Athens or Corfu. The inclusion of ferry tickets to Corfu makes the transition smooth if you choose the island option. It’s a practical way to extend your Balkan adventure with minimal fuss.

Practical Details and Value

At $4,418 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package that includes accommodation in 3-star hotels, private transport, guided tours, entry tickets, and certain taxes and insurances. This means you won’t have to worry about logistics, allowing you to focus on soaking in each place’s atmosphere.

The tour’s structure means you’ll get an in-depth look at each destination, with the added benefit of local guides who add context and stories that bring these sites to life. The included hotel pick-up and drop-off enhance convenience, and the flexible booking with a pay later option makes planning easier.

However, the pace is brisk, with multiple stops and border crossings. If you prefer a slower, more relaxed travel style, this might feel a bit intensive. Also, lunches, dinners, drinks, and souvenirs are not included, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy a comprehensive, active itinerary that packs in history, culture, and scenery. If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights but also likes free time to explore independently, this tour balances both. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience diverse Balkan countries in one trip without the hassle of organizing transport and accommodations.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a slow-paced, leisure-focused holiday or those on a tight budget, given the price and the included amenities. But for those eager to see key UNESCO sites, ancient towns, and stunning coastlines across multiple countries, this tour offers solid value and a memorable journey.

FAQ

Is passport required for border crossings?
Yes, you will need a valid passport for crossing borders between countries on this tour.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, you’ll stay in comfortable 3-star hotels with breakfast included.

What’s the transportation like?
Private transport is provided throughout, making the journey comfortable and efficient.

Can I choose between Athens and Corfu at the end?
The tour ends with a transfer to either Athens or Corfu, depending on your choice. Ferry tickets to Corfu are included if that’s your destination.

Is this tour suitable for people who dislike walking?
While it’s not overly strenuous, some walking is involved at sites and in towns. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s not included in the price?
Lunches, dinners, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and personal expenses are not included.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with a cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide throughout the trip?
Yes, a professional tour leader is with you, offering guided tours at key sites and helping with logistics.

In essence, this 14-day Balkans tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and authentic local experiences, all wrapped up in a hassle-free package. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want a thorough introduction to the Balkans’ diverse charms without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you’re ready for a lively, meaningful, and scenic adventure, this trip is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: