Semi-Private Balkans Tour; Split to Athens or Corfu in 14 Days

Discover the Balkans in 14 Days with this thoughtfully curated semi-private tour from Split to Athens or Corfu, offered by Choose Balkans. Priced at around $5,154 per person, this journey takes you through stunning landscapes, UNESCO sites, historic towns, and vibrant markets, all while providing comfortable accommodation and expert guidance. The tour’s highlights include ferry rides across Lake Koman, walking tours of historic towns, and stays in local guesthouses with breakfast included.

What we truly appreciate about this experience is its focus on authentic, local encounters — from wandering through cobbled streets in Kotor and Berat to tasting traditional Albanian “Qofte” and exploring underground bunkers in Tirana. Plus, the group size is limited to just 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for those who prefer a balance of guided sightseeing and free time.

One thing to consider is the long itinerary—covering multiple countries in just two weeks means a fast pace. Travelers who prefer more leisurely exploration might find it a bit intense. However, if you’re eager to see a wide stretch of the Balkans with logistical ease, this tour makes it manageable and rewarding.

In summary, this tour suits adventurous travelers keen on history, culture, scenic views, and local food, who don’t mind a packed schedule. It’s especially ideal if you value expert guides, hassle-free logistics, and an authentic Balkan experience that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Feel: Comfortable accommodation, breakfast, local transport, and entry tickets included provide a smooth experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Visits to local markets, farms, and historical sites give you a real taste of Balkan life.
• Diverse Landscapes: From coastal towns and medieval castles to mountain villages and UNESCO sites, the scenery is varied and stunning.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personal attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Hassle-Free Travel: Morning pickups, organized transportation, and guided tours remove logistical stress.
• Cultural Depth: Extensive history, religious sites, and traditional food experiences highlight the region’s complexity.

A Detailed Look at the 14-Day Balkans Journey

Starting in Split: Gateway to the Balkans

Your adventure begins in Split, Croatia, a lively medieval city on the Dalmatian coast. Here, before the tour commences, you can soak in the stunning architecture, bustling markets, and seaside charm. The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am with a hotel pickup, setting a tone of convenience. The initial focus is on crossing into Bosnia & Herzegovina, with a visit to Mostar’s Old Bridge — the iconic 16th-century UNESCO site symbolizing Ottoman engineering. The stunning arc of Stari Most is a photo-worthy highlight, and you’ll get around 30 minutes for photographs and marveling at the view.

From there, wandering through Mostar’s Old Bazaar, with its lively atmosphere and colorful shops, allows you to see the harmonious blend of old and new. The visit to Blagaj tekija, a monastery on a cliffside with a sparkling spring, offers a peaceful break and a chance to enjoy Bosnia’s natural beauty.

Days 2-3: Sarajevo’s Contrasts

The journey continues into Sarajevo, the self-described “European Jerusalem” due to its religious diversity. Expect a walk through Ottoman quarters, medieval ruins, and reminders of the Yugoslav conflict. The Latin Bridge, where WWI was triggered, is a poignant stop, and the city’s marketplaces and mosques give a lively sense of local life.

Traveling from Bosnia into Montenegro, your next stop is Kotor — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a maze of narrow streets and centuries-old churches. The town’s well-preserved fortress and stunning bay views make it a favorite for many travelers. The evening in Kotor offers a chance to breathe in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Days 4-6: Montenegrin Coast and Albanian Borders

Your day begins with the charming old town of Budva, with its historic buildings and beaches, separated by the modern city. A quick stop at Sveti Stefan, famous for its luxurious resort, offers picture-perfect views. The highlight here might be Rozafa Castle, where panoramic views of lakes and rivers meet the sea.

Crossing into Albania, the trip takes you to Shkoder, with its Venetian-style architecture and the impressive Rozafa Castle overlooking Lake Shkodra. Visiting Mrizi i Zanave, a renowned organic farm, provides insight into regional Albanian cuisine and agriculture—an authentic, slow-food experience.

Days 7-8: Albanian Cultural Heritage and Tirana

The historic city of Kruje is next, with its medieval fortress and bustling old bazaar—perfect for souvenir shopping. The tour continues into Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital, where you’ll explore colorful neighborhoods, local markets, and enjoy a traditional Albanian breakfast of Byrek.

A visit to BUNK’Art 2 — the former Cold War bunker turned museum — offers a fascinating look at Albania’s recent past. You’ll also stroll through the Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar), tasting regional specialties like Qofte and Albanian Raki, and engaging with locals in authentic settings.

Days 9-11: North Macedonia’s Heart and UNESCO Sites

Crossing into North Macedonia, Ohrid impresses with its historical churches and UNESCO-listed lake. The Monastery of Saint Naum offers a peaceful retreat at the spring’s source, while the old town’s streets are lively and full of history.

Traveling southward, you’ll visit Berat in Albania, known as the “town of 1001 windows”, with its medieval hillside dwellings and fortress. The Onufri Museum highlights the town’s artistic heritage, and the Gorica Bridge connects the upper and lower parts of the old town.

Days 12-13: The Stone City and Greek Heritage

Next, the UNESCO site of Gjirokaster in Albania captivates with its stone houses and fortress. The city hosts traditional music festivals, and the Gjirokaster Castle offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Crossing into Greece, you’ll explore Ioannina with its Byzantine castle and Ottoman-era architecture. The highlight is Meteora, renowned for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Witnessing the sunset over Meteora promises a memorable moment.

Day 14: Farewell in Athens or Corfu

The tour concludes with a transfer to Athens or the port of Igoumenitsa, where you’ll take a ferry to Corfu. This final step ensures travelers leave with a sense of accomplishment and a treasure trove of memories from seven Balkan countries.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

The strength of this tour lies in its combination of guided visits and free time. You’ll experience key landmarks like Mostar’s Old Bridge, Kotor’s Old Town, and Berat’s castles with expert guides, who often share stories and local insights that turn a sightseeing stop into a richer experience.

The local stays in guesthouses with breakfast are a real highlight — offering a more authentic taste of Balkan hospitality than typical hotel chains. Having logistics like ferry tickets, entry fees, and transportation included alleviates stress, allowing you to focus on soaking in the sights.

Travelers rave about the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm — with reviews praising the organization, helpfulness, and friendliness of the team. The tour’s small size also means you’re not just another face in a crowd, but part of a close-knit group sharing discoveries.

What you’ll love

• Scenic ferry rides across Lake Koman and along the coast, offering spectacular views.
• Historical sites like Kruja Castle, Decan Monastery, and Meteora, which provide a tangible connection to the past.
• Diverse cultural encounters — from Ottoman markets to Orthodox monasteries, and Venetian architecture.
• Authentic food experiences, including local specialties and traditional drinks like Raki, which add flavor and flavor to your trip.

Considerations

The itinerary is quite packed, with long days and a lot of moving around, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a brisk pace. If you prefer slow mornings or more leisurely explorations, this might feel rushed at times. Also, some of the sites involve walking on uneven terrain, which could be a concern for travelers with mobility issues.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to explore the heart of the Balkans without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers an excellent balance of guided discovery and free time. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture vultures, and food lovers who want to see iconic sites, sample regional dishes, and enjoy scenic landscapes.

Travelers who value small-group intimacy, authentic stays, and detailed guidance will find this trip particularly rewarding. It’s especially good for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to maximize their Balkan experience in a short amount of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, providing a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guides.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers accommodation with breakfast, private transportation, guided tours, ferry tickets, entry to sites, and taxes. Meals outside of breakfast, drinks, and souvenirs are not included.

How long are the travel days?
While the schedule is packed, each day typically involves several hours of sightseeing, with some longer drives between countries. Expect early mornings and full days of exploration.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
All overnights are in 3-star hotels or guesthouses, giving you a comfortable base while experiencing local hospitality.

Are there any physical demands?
Yes, some sites involve walking on uneven terrain, cobblestones, and climbing stairs—particularly in ancient towns and castles. Be prepared for some physical activity.

What language will guides speak?
Guides are fluent in English and are knowledgeable about the region’s history, culture, and local tips.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size ensures a friendly atmosphere, and solo travelers often find the group welcoming.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
While breakfast is included, other meals are not. It’s recommended to inform your guide of any dietary needs, and local cuisine is generally flexible.

When does the tour end?
The tour concludes in either Athens or Igoumenitsa, where you’ll catch a ferry to Corfu, wrapping up your Balkan adventure.

To sum it up, this 14-day semi-private Balkan tour offers a well-rounded mix of history, scenery, culture, and genuine local experiences. Perfect for travelers wanting a structured yet authentic journey, it provides excellent value through inclusive logistics, expert guides, and diverse sights. If you’re excited to see UNESCO sites, explore medieval towns, and taste authentic regional dishes, this is a fantastic choice for your Balkan adventure.