Price per person in twin share room
2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price
Travel the Balkans and discover the unmatched beauty of this region through 10 unique countries! Balkan tours are an intoxicating blend of the Mediterranean, Central and Eastern Europe. Discover the Greek history of Athens, Delphi and Meteora. Travel Croatia and explore Dubrovnik, made famous by Game of Thrones, and the coastal city of Split. Marvel at the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, explore Rila Monastery and soak in the thermal baths of Budapest. Visit Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina on this exciting Balkan tour!
Select departure dates on this tour line up with the Athens, Mykonos & Santorini tour, which you can join from Athens on the last day of this tour if you wish to continue your travels on the Greek Islands.
Welcome to Athens! Meet up with your tour leader and tour group at the hotel in the morning. An overview of the upcoming itinerary will be given. Then, enjoy an orientation tour of Greece’s capital city and explore some of the incredible sights that this ancient city is known for. See top attractions like the Academy, National Library, Greek parliament, Panathinaikos marble stadium, Hadrian’s Arch, and the temple of Olympian Zeus. For a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, join the optional Athens Food Tour and indulge in delicious local produce. Tonight, enjoy an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: Dinner
Travel north through the Greek mainland, stopping off in Delphi along the way. In antiquity, Delphi was considered the “omphalos” (navel) of the earth. Admire the Sanctuary of Apollo, see the Treasury of the Athenians, and visit the museum of Delphi. Arrive in Meteora this afternoon. This dramatic series of rock formations is home to a large complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Explore St. Stephen's Monastery, founded in 1400 by St. Antoninus Cantacuzene, which is now a nunnery. Peruse the 18th-century main cathedral and take in the views of Kalambaka. Catch a glimpse of the Holy Trinity Monastery perched atop a single rock formation before departing. Stay over in the nearby town of Kalabaka this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, travel onwards to North Macedonia and the undiscovered jewel of Ohrid. A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the shores of Lake Ohrid, this city is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe and is notable for once having had 365 churches, one for each day of the year. Explore the Old Town on a guided tour and see famous sights, including the Church of St. John at Kaneo, which is situated on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid. To finish off the day, enjoy an included dinner this evening.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
This morning, depart North Macedonia and journey to its Balkan neighbour Albania, driving into the capital city, Tirana. In a story typical of many cities in this part of Europe, Tirana has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaking off an oppressive Communist regime to become a vibrant, fun city. Enjoy an included lunch before setting off on an introductory walking tour. Discover buildings painted in bright colours and fascinating Ottoman, Italian and Communist architecture. This evening, choose to join the Evening in Tirana optional excursion for an eye-opening museum visit and delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant. This is your chance to truly immerse yourself in Albanian history and culture!
Meals: BreakfastLunch
Heading north, bid farewell to Albania and travel through Montenegro. Today’s first stop is the picturesque coastal town of Budva, known for its well-preserved medieval walled city, with free time to explore. Next, it’s time to make a comfort stop at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Kotor. The old port of Kotor is surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian period as well as magnificent fjord-like cliffs - it is a picturesque Mediterranean landscape! Later, the tour continues onwards to Croatia. On arrival in Dubrovnik, your tour leader will take you to the entrance gate to the Old Town. Enjoy a free evening to explore Dubrovnik.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Franciscan Monastery, the City Walls and more. Then, embark on a walking tour from the stunning Amerling Fountain. The rest of the day is free to explore Dubrovnik's incredible history! For the ultimate experience in Dubrovnik, choose to join today’s optional excursion for a must-see discovery of the city’s rich historic and cultural heritage. Opt for the Dubrovnik+ excursion and marvel at the iconic city walls on a locally guided tour, enjoy a delicious local lunch and choose which of the city's renowned museums to immerse yourself in!
Meals: Breakfast
Today, hop aboard the coach and cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina - a Balkan country filled with rich history and culture, which is also home to beautiful towns and scenic landscapes! Arrive in Mostar, a historic Balkan town. This enchanting town has been rejuvenated following the tumultuous years of the Bosnian War. Its most famous site is Stari Most Bridge which is an icon of the city. Enjoy free time to explore Mostar’s numerous religious buildings and see the Roman and Ottoman influences before travelling to Sarajevo, the Bosnian capital later this afternoon. Upon arrival in Sarajevo, set off on a locally guided tour. This evening, look forward to tasting delicious local cuisine with an included dinner.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Depart Bosnia and Herzegovina this morning and head back to Croatia. Arrive in the idyllic coastal city of Split and enjoy an orientation tour of the picturesque Old Town. Admire the Baroque architecture of Fruit Square, see the ancient Diocletian's Palace and wander along the bustling Split Riva waterfront before enjoying ample free time to explore on your own and to find a local spot for lunch. You could even enjoy a dip in the ocean if the weather allows! Later, travel to tonight’s accommodation in the Plitvice Lakes region. Dinner is included at the hotel tonight.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
The tour continues today with a mix of sublime scenery and the stunning Slovenian capital! Begin with a visit to one of the most picturesque natural landscapes in the whole of Europe. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is known internationally for its cascading waterfalls and dynamic landscape. Take a tour of the reserve, stroll along the boardwalks and marvel at the incredible natural scenery of Croatia’s largest national park. Next, travel onwards to Ljubljana, the charming capital city of Slovenia. Join a local guide on a walking tour of this fairytale city. Later, choose to join the Slovenian evening optional excursion for a fun night of live music, singing and dancing alongside a three-course meal!
Meals: Breakfast
Before crossing the border into Hungary today, stop in Marbor. Enjoy an orientation tour in Slovenia’s second-largest city. Then, visit Lake Balaton in Hungary. This dazzling freshwater lake is the largest in Central Europe and a popular holiday destination. Later this afternoon, arrive in Budapest, Hungary’s captivating capital. Straddling the historic Danube River, Budapest is well-preserved and boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites - its incredible architecture and natural geothermal springs are definite highlights! Embark on a driving tour of the city with a local guide to see top sights such as the Castle District and the Hungarian Parliament buildings. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight and toast to the first night in Budapest!
Meals: BreakfastDinner
With traces of the past evident in the interesting and unusual details found across the city, today is your chance to get up close and personal with Budapest! For an in-depth journey through Budapest’s top sights, join the Budapest+ optional excursion. Visit iconic symbols of this beautiful city including St. Stephen’s Basilica, Central Market Hall and more! Alternatively, choose to soak in the thermal waters of the Budapest Baths. Budapest has been known for its thermal spas since Roman times, with some 123 thermal and 400 mineral springs from 14 different sources located in the city. Tonight, why not enjoy a mesmerising view of Budapest during an optional dinner cruise on the Danube? It’s sure to be an unforgettable night!
Meals: Breakfast
Say goodbye to Budapest as the tour continues onwards to Belgrade in Serbia. Make a comfort stop in Novi Sad before arriving in Serbia’s capital city and embarking on a walking tour with a local guide. Look forward to seeing the city’s highlights including Republic Square, the Bohemian Quarter (Skadarlija), Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress. Serbia is nestled in the heart of the Balkans and Belgrade is the vibrant city at the centre of it all. The city is located where the Sava and Danube rivers meet, offering an exciting mix of history, culture, grit and character! Tonight, enjoy an included dinner with the group.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
See more of Serbia this morning with a visit to Niš. Enjoy a lunch stop in this historic city in south-eastern Serbia that was ruled by the Turks from the 14th to the 19th century. Visit the quaint cobbled streets of Tinkers Alley (Kazandžijsko Sokače). This nostalgic alley in Niš is the last preserved portion of the craftsman quarter from the age of the Ottomans. Afterwards, travel onwards to Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city. Get to know the main sights on a walking tour of Sofia - this is a perfect introduction to this bustling city! Look forward to visiting the awe-inspiring Sofia Cathedral, a true icon of the city. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
After two weeks spent encountering the magic of the Balkans, today the tour heads back to Greece. But first, experience one of Bulgaria’s top cultural sights with a visit to Rila Monastery! This ancient Eastern Orthodox monastery features striking architecture, important historical relics and beautiful frescoes and is surrounded by the stunning Rila Monastery Nature Park. In the afternoon, arrive in the northern port city of Thessaloniki and embark on an orientation tour of the historic centre. The orientation tour wraps up at the Thessaloniki waterfront, close to the famous White Tower. Here, there are plenty of restaurants and bars. Make the most of a free evening tonight - why not choose a spot and enjoy an evening of delicious Greek food and lively nightlife?
Meals: Breakfast
Buckle up once again and head south through the Greek countryside. Today the tour returns to Athens. Along the way, enjoy a stop in Kamena Vourla which is located on the south coast of the Malian Gulf. Here, find a local spot to grab lunch in this scenic destination. Next, it’s time to get back on the road. Arrive in Athens later today. Check into the hotel in Athens before enjoying a farewell group dinner. It’s officially the last night of the tour which means it's the perfect opportunity to reminisce about an incredible time spent exploring the Balkans and make a few more memories before the tour ends tomorrow.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
After breakfast, this 16-day journey through the Balkans and beyond concludes. The time has come to say your goodbyes to your fellow travellers but don’t forget to swap contact details to stay in touch. We hope you have enjoyed your tour with Expat Explore!
Meals: Breakfast
Welcome to Athens! Meet up with your tour leader and tour group at the hotel in the morning. An overview of the upcoming itinerary will be given. Then, enjoy an orientation tour of Greece’s capital city and explore some of the incredible sights that this ancient city is known for. See top attractions like the Academy, National Library, Greek parliament, Panathinaikos marble stadium, Hadrian’s Arch, and the temple of Olympian Zeus. For a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, join the optional Athens Food Tour and indulge in delicious local produce. Tonight, enjoy an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Orientation tour of Athens: Get to know Greece’s bustling capital city on an orientation tour with your tour leader. See top attractions like the Academy, National Library, Greek parliament, Panathinaikos marble stadium, Hadrian’s Arch, and the temple of Olympian Zeus. Witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Welcome dinner in Athens: Greek cuisine is one of the world’s most delicious cuisines, renowned for fresh flavours and ingredients. Get your first taste of Greek food in Athens as you get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.
Dinner
Hotel
Journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste delicious meze, fresh produce, pastries and more from local markets and restaurants.
Travel north through the Greek mainland, stopping off in Delphi along the way. In antiquity, Delphi was considered the “omphalos” (navel) of the earth. Admire the Sanctuary of Apollo, see the Treasury of the Athenians, and visit the museum of Delphi. Arrive in Meteora this afternoon. This dramatic series of rock formations is home to a large complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Explore St. Stephen's Monastery, founded in 1400 by St. Antoninus Cantacuzene, which is now a nunnery. Peruse the 18th-century main cathedral and take in the views of Kalambaka. Catch a glimpse of the Holy Trinity Monastery perched atop a single rock formation before departing. Stay over in the nearby town of Kalabaka this evening.
Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi: Visit the ruins of Delphi and its Archaeological Museum. Delphi is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for having had a major influence in the Ancient world. You get to see why for yourself!
Visit Meteora: See the formation of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Explore Meteora and its formation of Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched dramatically on massive monolithic pillars. The most notable of which is St Stephen's Monastery, founded in 1400 by St. Antoninus Cantacuzene and now a nunnery.
Breakfast
Hotel
This morning, travel onwards to North Macedonia and the undiscovered jewel of Ohrid. A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the shores of Lake Ohrid, this city is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe and is notable for once having had 365 churches, one for each day of the year. Explore the Old Town on a guided tour and see famous sights, including the Church of St. John at Kaneo, which is situated on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid. To finish off the day, enjoy an included dinner this evening.
Guided tour of Ohrid: Enjoy a tour of Ohrid's Old Town, and see sights including Upper Gate, Holy Mary Perybleptos, Antique theatre, Tsar Samoil Fortress, Plaoshnik, Church of St John at Kaneo and Church of St. Sophia.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
This morning, depart North Macedonia and journey to its Balkan neighbour Albania, driving into the capital city, Tirana. In a story typical of many cities in this part of Europe, Tirana has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaking off an oppressive Communist regime to become a vibrant, fun city. Enjoy an included lunch before setting off on an introductory walking tour. Discover buildings painted in bright colours and fascinating Ottoman, Italian and Communist architecture. This evening, choose to join the Evening in Tirana optional excursion for an eye-opening museum visit and delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant. This is your chance to truly immerse yourself in Albanian history and culture!
Walking tour of Tirana: Embark on a walking tour of Tirana and see sights like Skanderbeg Square, Clock tower, Et’hem Beu Mosque, National Historical Museum, National Gallery of Arts and Tabak Bridge.
BreakfastLunch
Hotel
Experience Albanian history, culture and food! Visit the eye-opening BUNK’ART 2 Museum and enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant.
Heading north, bid farewell to Albania and travel through Montenegro. Today’s first stop is the picturesque coastal town of Budva, known for its well-preserved medieval walled city, with free time to explore. Next, it’s time to make a comfort stop at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Kotor. The old port of Kotor is surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian period as well as magnificent fjord-like cliffs - it is a picturesque Mediterranean landscape! Later, the tour continues onwards to Croatia. On arrival in Dubrovnik, your tour leader will take you to the entrance gate to the Old Town. Enjoy a free evening to explore Dubrovnik.
Explore Budva and Kotor in Montenegro: This small Balkan country is full of beautiful destinations! Travel to the coast where you will have free time to explore the historic towns of Budva and Kotor.
Breakfast
Hotel
This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Franciscan Monastery, the City Walls and more. Then, embark on a walking tour from the stunning Amerling Fountain. The rest of the day is free to explore Dubrovnik's incredible history! For the ultimate experience in Dubrovnik, choose to join today’s optional excursion for a must-see discovery of the city’s rich historic and cultural heritage. Opt for the Dubrovnik+ excursion and marvel at the iconic city walls on a locally guided tour, enjoy a delicious local lunch and choose which of the city's renowned museums to immerse yourself in!
Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik: This morning a local guide will take you on a walking tour of Dubrovnik, where you will be acquainted with this stunning medieval walled city. The city is a tapestry of spectacular architecture - including churches, monasteries, fountains and museums all of which you can explore further during your free time. See sites including the Franciscan Monastery, Dominican Monastery, Cathedral, Onofrio Fountain, Orlando’s Column, Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace, Stradun and the City Walls.
Breakfast
Hotel
Embark on a captivating journey through Dubrovnik! Discover the city walls with a local guide, enjoy an included lunch and visit impressive museums.
Today, hop aboard the coach and cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina - a Balkan country filled with rich history and culture, which is also home to beautiful towns and scenic landscapes! Arrive in Mostar, a historic Balkan town. This enchanting town has been rejuvenated following the tumultuous years of the Bosnian War. Its most famous site is Stari Most Bridge which is an icon of the city. Enjoy free time to explore Mostar’s numerous religious buildings and see the Roman and Ottoman influences before travelling to Sarajevo, the Bosnian capital later this afternoon. Upon arrival in Sarajevo, set off on a locally guided tour. This evening, look forward to tasting delicious local cuisine with an included dinner.
Visit Mostar: Journey to Bosnia and Herzegovina and visit the beautiful medieval town of Mostar. Arrive and enjoy free time to explore this charming medieval Balkan town. Mostar is famous for the historic Stari Most bridge as well as its rich mix of cultures and beautiful buildings.
Explore Sarajevo: On arrival in Sarajevo, join a local guide for a walking tour of the city. Learn more about Sarajevo’s top destinations, its local culture and rich history.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Depart Bosnia and Herzegovina this morning and head back to Croatia. Arrive in the idyllic coastal city of Split and enjoy an orientation tour of the picturesque Old Town. Admire the Baroque architecture of Fruit Square, see the ancient Diocletian's Palace and wander along the bustling Split Riva waterfront before enjoying ample free time to explore on your own and to find a local spot for lunch. You could even enjoy a dip in the ocean if the weather allows! Later, travel to tonight’s accommodation in the Plitvice Lakes region. Dinner is included at the hotel tonight.
Discover Split: Explore the stunning coastal Croatian city of Split on an orientation tour before enjoying free time to discover the city at your own pace. Your tour leader will take the group into the heart of Split’s Old Town and introduce the group to key sights such as Fruit Square, which offers fascinating history and impressive Baroque architecture, and Diocletian’s Palace which was built at the end of the 3rd century. Then, experience the bustling atmosphere of Split Riva, the city’s waterfront.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
The tour continues today with a mix of sublime scenery and the stunning Slovenian capital! Begin with a visit to one of the most picturesque natural landscapes in the whole of Europe. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is known internationally for its cascading waterfalls and dynamic landscape. Take a tour of the reserve, stroll along the boardwalks and marvel at the incredible natural scenery of Croatia’s largest national park. Next, travel onwards to Ljubljana, the charming capital city of Slovenia. Join a local guide on a walking tour of this fairytale city. Later, choose to join the Slovenian evening optional excursion for a fun night of live music, singing and dancing alongside a three-course meal!
Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park: Explore the world-famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. Filled with waterfalls, lush vegetation and countless lakes, this is one of the most beautiful stops on the tour. It’s home to gorgeous scenery and numerous rare animals, so make sure you have plenty of space in your cameras!
Walking tour of Ljubljana: Meet up with an expert local guide who will lead a walking tour of the city. On foot, encounter the inimitable scenery of the medieval old town, Preseren Square, the City Centre, the Riverfront, Dragon Bridge and Cobblers Bridge. When the formal tour is done, there will still be some time to explore on your own. A visit to the 13th-century St. Nicholas Church is highly recommended - the Baroque architecture is truly spectacular.
Breakfast
Hotel
Enjoy an evening of traditional live Slovenian music and dance along with a delicious three-course Slovenian dinner!
Before crossing the border into Hungary today, stop in Marbor. Enjoy an orientation tour in Slovenia’s second-largest city. Then, visit Lake Balaton in Hungary. This dazzling freshwater lake is the largest in Central Europe and a popular holiday destination. Later this afternoon, arrive in Budapest, Hungary’s captivating capital. Straddling the historic Danube River, Budapest is well-preserved and boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites - its incredible architecture and natural geothermal springs are definite highlights! Embark on a driving tour of the city with a local guide to see top sights such as the Castle District and the Hungarian Parliament buildings. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight and toast to the first night in Budapest!
Visit Maribor: Explore the beautiful city of Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city. Join your tour leader on an orientation tour and discover Maribor’s key sights such as the Old Town Square and Renaissance-style Town Hall.
Admire Lake Balaton: Meander around the beautiful Lake Balaton and tick the largest lake in central Europe off your bucket list!
Driving tour of Budapest: Meet up with a local guide who will accompany us on a driving tour of the city and point out all the best-loved sights. Learn more about Hungarian culture and language and the city's fascinating history. Drink in incredible views from atop Gellert Hill and the Citadel, make a stop at Heroes Square and get an eyeful of other must-see attractions like Budapest Parliament, St Stephen's Basilica, the State Opera, the Castle District and more.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
With traces of the past evident in the interesting and unusual details found across the city, today is your chance to get up close and personal with Budapest! For an in-depth journey through Budapest’s top sights, join the Budapest+ optional excursion. Visit iconic symbols of this beautiful city including St. Stephen’s Basilica, Central Market Hall and more! Alternatively, choose to soak in the thermal waters of the Budapest Baths. Budapest has been known for its thermal spas since Roman times, with some 123 thermal and 400 mineral springs from 14 different sources located in the city. Tonight, why not enjoy a mesmerising view of Budapest during an optional dinner cruise on the Danube? It’s sure to be an unforgettable night!
Breakfast
Hotel
Discover Budapest’s top sights, uncover its history and gain an insight into local culture on this locally guided tour!
Escape to the rejuvenating Szechenyi Baths in Budapest! Experience the healing, mineral-rich thermal pools and enjoy skip-the-line access.
Indulge in a traditional Hungarian feast as you admire Budapest’s top sights from the water with a nighttime cruise along the Danube River.
Say goodbye to Budapest as the tour continues onwards to Belgrade in Serbia. Make a comfort stop in Novi Sad before arriving in Serbia’s capital city and embarking on a walking tour with a local guide. Look forward to seeing the city’s highlights including Republic Square, the Bohemian Quarter (Skadarlija), Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress. Serbia is nestled in the heart of the Balkans and Belgrade is the vibrant city at the centre of it all. The city is located where the Sava and Danube rivers meet, offering an exciting mix of history, culture, grit and character! Tonight, enjoy an included dinner with the group.
Visit Novi Sad: Cross the border into Serbia and make a comfort stop in Novi Sad. This Serbian city is the second largest in the country and is well-loved for being a liberal destination full of art, music and culture!
Guided walking tour of Belgrade: A truly fascinating city, Belgrade radiates gritty exuberance in its many architectural contrasts with socialist blocks set amongst more grandiose buildings. Belgrade is where the Sava River meets the Danube. Knez Mihailova (Prince Mihailo Street) is a pedestrian street with historical buildings on either side, with many grand coffee houses, and is protected by law as one of the oldest and most valuable landmarks of the city.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
See more of Serbia this morning with a visit to Niš. Enjoy a lunch stop in this historic city in south-eastern Serbia that was ruled by the Turks from the 14th to the 19th century. Visit the quaint cobbled streets of Tinkers Alley (Kazandžijsko Sokače). This nostalgic alley in Niš is the last preserved portion of the craftsman quarter from the age of the Ottomans. Afterwards, travel onwards to Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city. Get to know the main sights on a walking tour of Sofia - this is a perfect introduction to this bustling city! Look forward to visiting the awe-inspiring Sofia Cathedral, a true icon of the city. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
Visit Tinkers Alley and enjoy a lunch stop in Niš: Visit Niš, a historic Serbian city with Turkish influence. Enjoy time for lunch and then wander through Tinkers Alley which used to be the craftsmen alley of this Niš Bazaar. Even though the old architecture has been preserved, it’s home to a number of fine restaurants, hotels and taverns that add to its authentic charm. It’s also home to one of the famous selfie spots in Niš: the sculpture of writer Stevan Srema, his fictional Kalca and his dog.
Enjoy a guided tour of Sofia: Embark on a guided walking tour of Bulgaria’s capital city. Follow in the slipstream of a local guide and tick Sofia’s main sights, including the spectacular St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, off your “must-see” list. This Bulgarian Orthodox church is a masterpiece of Neo-Byzantine architecture.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
After two weeks spent encountering the magic of the Balkans, today the tour heads back to Greece. But first, experience one of Bulgaria’s top cultural sights with a visit to Rila Monastery! This ancient Eastern Orthodox monastery features striking architecture, important historical relics and beautiful frescoes and is surrounded by the stunning Rila Monastery Nature Park. In the afternoon, arrive in the northern port city of Thessaloniki and embark on an orientation tour of the historic centre. The orientation tour wraps up at the Thessaloniki waterfront, close to the famous White Tower. Here, there are plenty of restaurants and bars. Make the most of a free evening tonight - why not choose a spot and enjoy an evening of delicious Greek food and lively nightlife?
Explore Rila Monastery: Discover Rila Monastery and discover Bulgaria’s fascinating history and stunning nature. Located at an altitude of 1,150m in the forests of the Rila Mountains, this monastery was founded in the 10th century by the Orthodox hermit St John of Rila. Visit the Tower of Hrelja, ethnographic museum, monastery and church. Enjoy free time for lunch here.
Discover Thessaloniki: Enjoy an orientation walking tour of Thessaloniki with your tour leader and see historic sights like the Arch of Galerius, the old Byzantine walls, the Rotunda and the White Tower.
Breakfast
Hotel
Buckle up once again and head south through the Greek countryside. Today the tour returns to Athens. Along the way, enjoy a stop in Kamena Vourla which is located on the south coast of the Malian Gulf. Here, find a local spot to grab lunch in this scenic destination. Next, it’s time to get back on the road. Arrive in Athens later today. Check into the hotel in Athens before enjoying a farewell group dinner. It’s officially the last night of the tour which means it's the perfect opportunity to reminisce about an incredible time spent exploring the Balkans and make a few more memories before the tour ends tomorrow.
Visit Kamena Vourla: Enjoy a comfort stop in Kamena Vourla with time to grab lunch in this scenic coastal Greek destination.
Farewell dinner in Athens: Enjoy your final night on tour with your tour leader and fellow travellers and take this opportunity to share contact details with your new friends!
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
After breakfast, this 16-day journey through the Balkans and beyond concludes. The time has come to say your goodbyes to your fellow travellers but don’t forget to swap contact details to stay in touch. We hope you have enjoyed your tour with Expat Explore!
Breakfast
We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard.
A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in Athens, click here to book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.
Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste delicious meze, fresh produce, pastries and more from local markets and restaurants.
Join a local guide for a journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste traditional spanakopita (Greek spinach pie), irresistible Greek sweets, high-quality local produce and much more as you wander through the Athens Central Market, known as the “Grand Central Station of food”! Then, visit a local restaurant for an authentic, hearty meal. Vegetarian options are available throughout the excursion.
Please note: The Central Market is closed on Sundays. However, you can still look forward to the same quality and quantity of local food at different vendors.
Experience Albanian history, culture and food! Visit the eye-opening BUNK’ART 2 Museum and enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant.
Dive into Albanian history, cuisine and culture with an exciting evening in Tirana, Albania’s colourful capital city! In the late afternoon, head to the BUNK’ART 2 Museum. This truly unique museum is housed in a Communist-era nuclear pit bunker and is the first major video museum exhibition dedicated to the victims of this oppressive regime. After this eye-opening experience, look forward to a delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant. Enjoy a family-style meal featuring authentic Albanian dishes!
Embark on a captivating journey through Dubrovnik! Discover the city walls with a local guide, enjoy an included lunch and visit impressive museums.
Embark on a captivating journey through Dubrovnik's rich history and cultural heritage. Join an expert local guide and explore the iconic city walls that were systematically built and completed from the 13th to 17th centuries. Sit down for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Then, this afternoon, immerse yourself in a variety of the city's renowned museums of your choice.
Enjoy an evening of traditional live Slovenian music and dance along with a delicious three-course Slovenian dinner!
Experience an unforgettable evening of live music, singing, dancing and traditional Slovenian Folklore. The evening includes a welcome by a world-class folk dance group, performing in a range of traditional costumes from all over Slovenia, accompanied by live Slovenian music and dances from the different regions of Slovenia. You'll also enjoy a sumptuous three-course menu of delicious Slovenian dishes.
Discover Budapest’s top sights, uncover its history and gain an insight into local culture on this locally guided tour!
Embark on an unforgettable guided tour through the heart of Budapest! Join a local guide and visit this magical city’s most captivating sights. Start at the breathtaking St. Stephen’s Basilica, enter the church, its treasury and admire incredible views of the city from the terrace. Then, visit the poignant Shoes on the Danube memorial, learn about its significance and view the striking Hungarian Parliament building from the river banks. Walk to Szabadsag Square as your local guide uncovers more Hungarian history. Finally, visit the Central Market Hall, Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market! Here, sample some local produce such as salami, cheese and the famous Trdlník (chimney cake) before enjoying free time for lunch.
Please note: Central Market Hall is closed on Sundays. Should this excursion take place on a Sunday, a local food tasting will take place on the bustling Váci Street.
Escape to the rejuvenating Szechenyi Baths in Budapest! Experience the healing, mineral-rich thermal pools and enjoy skip-the-line access.
Escape to the relaxing and rejuvenating Szechenyi Baths in Budapest's City Park (Varosliget). Visit one of Budapest's most iconic thermal bath complexes and experience the city's rich spa culture first-hand. Once inside, marvel at the Neo-Baroque architectural design, experience the healing properties of the mineral-rich water as you soak in the soothing thermal pools, and indulge in traditional Hungarian massages and a wide variety of spa treatments. This excursion includes transport from and back to the hotel, plus fast-track access that allows you to skip the lines!
Please Note: Swimsuits should be worn in the baths. Don’t forget to pack yours!
Indulge in a traditional Hungarian feast as you admire Budapest’s top sights from the water with a nighttime cruise along the Danube River.
Delight in panoramic nighttime views as you cruise along the Danube with a local guide! See the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle Hill, the Chain Bridge and many more of the city's splendid sights. Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and indulge in a Hungarian feast full of traditional dishes such as beef goulash and chicken paprikash. Vegetarian options are also available.
Please Note: Minimum numbers are required.
2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price
Start Date / End Date | Flexible Booking | Status | Price Per Person |
08 May 2025 - 23 May 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
29 May 2025 - 13 Jun 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
04 Jun 2025 - 19 Jun 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
19 Jun 2025 - 04 Jul 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
25 Jun 2025 - 10 Jul 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
10 Jul 2025 - 25 Jul 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
31 Jul 2025 - 15 Aug 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
21 Aug 2025 - 05 Sep 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
28 Aug 2025 - 12 Sep 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
11 Sep 2025 - 26 Sep 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
18 Sep 2025 - 03 Oct 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
02 Oct 2025 - 17 Oct 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
23 Oct 2025 - 07 Nov 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
23 Apr 2026 - 08 May 2026 | Book now with low deposit |
For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre .
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