Experience the best of the Balkans and Greece! Explore bucket-list cities, including Dubrovnik and Budapest, marvel at Mykonos, and more.
Spend 22 days discovering the beauty of the Balkans and getting immersed in Greek island life! See all of the Balkan countries, enjoy free days in must-see cities Dubrovnik and Budapest, soak up Plitvice Lakes National Park, and experience Santorini’s magic as you explore 10 bucket-list countries in three weeks!
Hotel in Athens
Athens Airport
21 Nights, (3 & 4 star hotels)
21 Nights
(3 & 4 star hotels)
21 Breakfasts | 2 Lunches | 8 Dinners
21 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
8 Dinners
Air-conditioned coach
Air-conditioned coach
Fully-guided tour
Fully-guided tour
Hotel in Athens | 10:00 AM
Athens Airport | Time may vary due to Santorini flight times
Start at the hotel in Athens today and meet up with your tour leader and group. Then, Greece’s capital city awaits on an orientation tour. Craving Greek cuisine? Join the optional Athens Food Tour! Then, embark on the optional guided tour of the Acropolis site. This excursion must be pre-booked. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Greek cuisine is world-renowned for fresh flavours. Get your first taste of Greek food and get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.
Greek cuisine is world-renowned for fresh flavours. Get your first taste of Greek food and get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.
Embark on an orientation tour to see top attractions like Hadrian’s Arch, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Embark on an orientation tour to see top attractions like Hadrian’s Arch, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste delicious meze, fresh produce, pastries and more from local markets and restaurants.
Journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste delicious meze, fresh produce, pastries and more from local markets and restaurants.
Skip the queues and tour the sacred rock of the Acropolis! Visit the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, the temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon.
Skip the queues and tour the sacred rock of the Acropolis! Visit the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, the temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon.
Today, stop in Delphi. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the “omphalos” (navel) of Earth. Admire some top sights, including the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. This afternoon, arrive in Meteora - a spellbinding series of rock formations home to Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Tonight, opt for a Greek evening in a picturesque setting.
Visit the ruins of Delphi and its Archaeological Museum, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its major influence in the Ancient world.
Visit the ruins of Delphi and its Archaeological Museum, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its major influence in the Ancient world.
Explore Meteora and its formation of Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched dramatically on massive monolithic pillars. The most notable is St Stephen's Monastery, founded in 1400.
Explore Meteora and its formation of Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched dramatically on massive monolithic pillars. The most notable is St Stephen's Monastery, founded in 1400.
Embark on an evening trip to a hidden cave in the foothills of Meteora and visit a scenic village for a traditional Greek farmhouse dinner!
Embark on an evening trip to a hidden cave in the foothills of Meteora and visit a scenic village for a traditional Greek farmhouse dinner!
Travel to the hidden gem of Ohrid in North Macedonia. This UNESCO-listed city located on the shores of Lake Ohrid is one of Europe's longest-standing human settlements. Tour the Old Town and marvel at top attractions, including the Church of St. John at Kaneo, overlooking Lake Ohrid from atop a cliff. End the day with a group dinner.
Tour the spectacular sights of Ohrid Old Town including Tsar Samoil Fortress, Plaoshnik, and the churches of St. John and St. Sophia.
Tour the spectacular sights of Ohrid Old Town including Tsar Samoil Fortress, Plaoshnik, and the churches of St. John and St. Sophia.
Leave North Macedonia behind in exchange for Albania. Arriving in the capital city, Tirana, sit down for a local lunch and embark on a walking tour. Marvel at the impressive Ottoman, Italian and Communist architecture. Tonight, join the optional Albanian Evening to take part in an immersive traditional show and savour a seven-course culinary journey through Albania and Kosovo.
See Tirana’s top sights like Skanderbeg Square, Clock tower, Et’hem Beu Mosque, National Historical Museum, National Gallery of Arts and Tabak Bridge.
See Tirana’s top sights like Skanderbeg Square, Clock tower, Et’hem Beu Mosque, National Historical Museum, National Gallery of Arts and Tabak Bridge.
Experience an interactive evening exploring Albanian culture and cuisine! Indulge in a 7-course meal after an immersive, traditional show.
Experience an interactive evening exploring Albanian culture and cuisine! Indulge in a 7-course meal after an immersive, traditional show.
Say goodbye to Albania and journey through Montenegro. Arrive in the scenic coastal town of Budva, famous for its well-preserved medieval walled city, and explore at leisure. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Kotor. Next, continue to Croatia and marvel at Dubrovnik's entrance gate to the Old Town. Tonight is yours to explore.
Travel to the coast of this beautiful Balkan country. Enjoy free time in historic Budva and embark on a guided tour of UNESCO-listed Kotor.
Travel to the coast of this beautiful Balkan country. Enjoy free time in historic Budva and embark on a guided tour of UNESCO-listed Kotor.
Start another exciting day with a locally-guided walking tour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, complete with the City Walls and Franciscan Monastery. Next, depart on a walking tour from the spectacular Amerling Fountain. The rest of the day is free. Join the Blue Cave Boat Tour to explore the azure waters of some of Dubrovnik’s famous and hidden caves!
Join a local guide and get acquainted with this medieval walled city featuring a tapestry of spectacular architecture - including churches, monasteries, fountains and museums.
Join a local guide and get acquainted with this medieval walled city featuring a tapestry of spectacular architecture - including churches, monasteries, fountains and museums.
Embark on an unforgettable, 4-hour cruise and stop to swim in some of Dubrovnik’s magical islands and caves, including the famous Blue Cave.
Embark on an unforgettable, 4-hour cruise and stop to swim in some of Dubrovnik’s magical islands and caves, including the famous Blue Cave.
Cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country rich with history and culture and filled with charming towns and picturesque landscapes! Visit Mostar and admire the city's most iconic sight, the Stari Most bridge. Later, travel to Sarajevo, the country’s fascinating capital. Head out on a locally-guided tour before tasting local cuisine during this evening's dinner.
Enjoy free time to explore this charming medieval Balkan city located in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The famous Stari Most is a must see!
Enjoy free time to explore this charming medieval Balkan city located in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The famous Stari Most is a must see!
Join a local guide and learn all about Sarajevo’s turbulent past, rich history and vibrant local culture.
Join a local guide and learn all about Sarajevo’s turbulent past, rich history and vibrant local culture.
Head back to Croatia this morning. After arriving in the seaside city of Split, head out on an orientation tour of the scenic Old Town. Behold the Baroque architecture of Fruit Square, discover the age-old Diocletian's Palace and traverse the lively Split Riva waterfront. This evening's accommodation lies within the Plitvice Lakes region. Dinner is served at the hotel tonight.
Head into Split’s Old Town to visit key sights such as Fruit Square and Diocletian’s Palace on an orientation tour followed by free time.
Head into Split’s Old Town to visit key sights such as Fruit Square and Diocletian’s Palace on an orientation tour followed by free time.
Start today’s adventure by visiting the Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Europe’s most beautiful natural sights. Marvel at cascading waterfalls and spellbinding surroundings. Up next is the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana. Embark on a locally-guided walking tour and embrace the city’s fairytale feeling. For a night of Slovenian wine and cuisine, join the Taste of Ljubljana optional excursion.
The world-famous Plitvice Lakes National Park is filled with waterfalls, lush vegetation and countless lakes. This is one of Europe’s most beautiful natural destinations!
The world-famous Plitvice Lakes National Park is filled with waterfalls, lush vegetation and countless lakes. This is one of Europe’s most beautiful natural destinations!
Join a local guide to explore Ljubljana’s old town, Preseren Square, the Riverfront, Dragon Bridge and more. Don’t miss St. Nicholas Church’s spectacular Baroque architecture!
Join a local guide to explore Ljubljana’s old town, Preseren Square, the Riverfront, Dragon Bridge and more. Don’t miss St. Nicholas Church’s spectacular Baroque architecture!
Discover Slovenian wine culture with a sommelier-led tasting in Ljubljana’s Old Town, followed by a delicious three-course dinner of local delicacies.
Discover Slovenian wine culture with a sommelier-led tasting in Ljubljana’s Old Town, followed by a delicious three-course dinner of local delicacies.
Cross the border into Hungary, stopping in Maribor, Slovenia's second-largest city, for an orientation tour. Next, enter Hungary and visit Lake Balaton - one of Europe's most breathtaking freshwater lakes. This afternoon, journey to Budapest, Hungary’s breathtaking capital. Enjoy a driving tour of the city with a local guide. Celebrate the first night in Budapest with a group dinner tonight.
Explore the beautiful city of Maribor in Slovenia and enjoy free time to find a local spot for lunch.
Explore the beautiful city of Maribor in Slovenia and enjoy free time to find a local spot for lunch.
Meander around the beautiful Lake Balaton and tick the largest lake in central Europe off your bucket list!
Meander around the beautiful Lake Balaton and tick the largest lake in central Europe off your bucket list!
Marvel at must-see attractions like Budapest Parliament, St Stephen's Basilica, the state opera and the castle district on this locally-guided driving tour.
Marvel at must-see attractions like Budapest Parliament, St Stephen's Basilica, the state opera and the castle district on this locally-guided driving tour.
Enjoy a free day to explore Budapest’s history and unusual details. Opt for today's Buda vs Pest optional excursion to tick landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Basilica and Fisherman’s Bastion off your bucket list! Or, spend the day relaxing in the Budapest Baths. This evening, choose to take in views of Budapest by night on the Danube dinner cruise.
Discover Buda and Pest on this locally guided tour. Explore Fisherman’s Bastion and St. Stephen’s Basilica and taste mouthwatering cuisine!
Discover Buda and Pest on this locally guided tour. Explore Fisherman’s Bastion and St. Stephen’s Basilica and taste mouthwatering cuisine!
Escape to the rejuvenating Szechenyi Baths in Budapest! Experience the healing, mineral-rich thermal pools and enjoy skip-the-line access.
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.
Indulge in a traditional Hungarian feast as you admire Budapest’s top sights from the water with a nighttime cruise along the Danube River.
Bid beautiful Budapest goodbye as the journey continues to Serbia. Stop in the charming city of Novi Sad before entering the Serbian capital and embarking on a locally guided walk. See the city's top sights, including Republic Square, the Bohemian Quarter (Skadarlija), Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress. This evening, enjoy an included group dinner.
Make a comfort stop in this Serbian city, the country’s second largest, which is well-loved for being full of art, music and culture!
Make a comfort stop in this Serbian city, the country’s second largest, which is well-loved for being full of art, music and culture!
Explore Knez Mihailova, Belgrade's elegant pedestrian boulevard lined with historically-protected architecture, charming grand coffee houses, and cultural treasures.
Explore Knez Mihailova, Belgrade's elegant pedestrian boulevard lined with historically-protected architecture, charming grand coffee houses, and cultural treasures.
This morning, visit Niš, a historic city in south-eastern Serbia once under Turkish reign. Enjoy a lunch stop and visit Tinkers Alley (Kazandžijsko Sokače). Next up, Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Embark on a walking tour of this lively city. Marvel at the stunning Sofia Cathedral, one of the city's most striking symbols. This evening, a group dinner is included.
Visit Niš, a historic Serbian city with Turkish influence. Wander through Tinkers Alley which used to be the craftsmen alley of this Niš Bazaar.
Visit Niš, a historic Serbian city with Turkish influence. Wander through Tinkers Alley which used to be the craftsmen alley of this Niš Bazaar.
Embark on a locally-guided walking tour of Bulgaria’s capital city. Tick off Sofia’s main sights, including the spectacular St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Embark on a locally-guided walking tour of Bulgaria’s capital city. Tick off Sofia’s main sights, including the spectacular St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Today, the tour's Greek leg kicks off. En route, visit Rila Monastery. This 10th-century Eastern Orthodox monastery astounds with ancient relics, fabulous frescoes and surrounding mountainous scenery. Later, journey to Thessaloniki, a bustling port city. Upon arrival, set out on an orientation tour of its historic sights and waterfront. Enjoy a free evening to spend as you wish!
Located high in the forests of the Rila Mountains, visit this 10th-century monastery, the Tower of Hrelja, ethnographic museum, and church.
Located high in the forests of the Rila Mountains, visit this 10th-century monastery, the Tower of Hrelja, ethnographic museum, and church.
Enjoy an orientation walking tour of Thessaloniki. See historic sights like the Arch of Galerius, the old Byzantine walls, the Rotunda and the White Tower.
Enjoy an orientation walking tour of Thessaloniki. See historic sights like the Arch of Galerius, the old Byzantine walls, the Rotunda and the White Tower.
Start the journey south, admiring the gorgeous Greek countryside along the way. En route to Athens, stop in Kamena Vourla. This is the perfect spot to have lunch and enjoy the serene scenery. Sit down for a group dinner after hotel check-in in Athens. Spend an evening relaxing or catching up with your new travel family.
Enjoy a comfort stop in Kamena Vourla with time to grab lunch in this scenic coastal Greek destination.
Enjoy a comfort stop in Kamena Vourla with time to grab lunch in this scenic coastal Greek destination.
Athens awaits with a variety of attractions today! Choose to join a new group of travellers on a more in-depth city tour and behold the city's top sights such as the Academy, National Library, Greek parliament, Panathinaikos, Hadrian’s Arch, and the temple of Olympian Zeus. Enjoy an included Greek lunch before spending the rest of the day however you like.
Discover iconic landmarks such as the National Library, Parliament, Panathinaikos Stadium, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Temple of Zeus on an insightful driving tour.
Discover iconic landmarks such as the National Library, Parliament, Panathinaikos Stadium, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Temple of Zeus on an insightful driving tour.
Can you hear Mykonos calling? After catching the ferry, arrive in magical Mykonos and settle into your accommodation. Next, embark on a tour of Mykonos Chora, learning interesting facts and spotting the top sights! Enjoy the night as you wish, exploring some of the fun local bars, sipping sundowners, or simply relaxing for the night.
World-renowned for its pristine beaches, iconic windmills and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is a must-visit Greek island destination!
World-renowned for its pristine beaches, iconic windmills and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is a must-visit Greek island destination!
Today is yours to make memories in Mykonos as you wish. Sunbathe on local beaches, explore the lively town or enjoy some downtime. Alternatively, join today's optional Rhenia & Delos Cruise around the scenic Cycladic islands! Visit the idyllic Rhenia island, swim in turquoise waters and explore the Delos archaeological site, full of ancient treasures.
Cruise around the scenic Cycladic islands! Visit Rehnia island and explore the Delos archaeological site. Swim, relax and explore local history!
Cruise around the scenic Cycladic islands! Visit Rehnia island and explore the Delos archaeological site. Swim, relax and explore local history!
After breakfast, catch the ferry heading to Santorini. As you cruise, soak up the spectacular island vistas and picture-perfect ports as well as Santorini's towering cliffs, breathtaking beaches, and blue-and-white buildings the ferry makes its approach. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel before heading to Fira Town for an orientation tour. Spend the evening in Santorini as you wish!
Experience two full free days on this picturesque island beloved for its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches and dreamy sunsets.
Experience two full free days on this picturesque island beloved for its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches and dreamy sunsets.
Savour this free day in Santorini and explore your way today. Our Santorini Highlights optional excursion comes highly recommended as the ultimate way to explore the island! Santorini's black-and-red sands are a must-see and an ancient village's local winery calls for a Greek wine tasting. Marvel at Oia's iconic sunset with the group to end it off!
Discover Santorini’s iconic beaches, visit a local winery, explore a prehistoric city and watch the sunset in Oia on this full-day tour.
Discover Santorini’s iconic beaches, visit a local winery, explore a prehistoric city and watch the sunset in Oia on this full-day tour.
Take full advantage of the last full day in Santorini. Join the Caldera Islands optional excursion to visit Thirassia Island and Amoudi Bay, see an active volcano and take a dip in some hot springs! End it all with another memorable sunset in Oia. The tour comes to an end tomorrow so make the most of your last night!
Explore the islands of the Santorini caldera! Visit the famous volcano and relax at the hot springs.
Explore the islands of the Santorini caldera! Visit the famous volcano and relax at the hot springs.
This morning, take an early transfer to Santorini airport for a local flight back to Athens. The tour concludes upon arrival in Athens. Don't forget to swap contact details with your new global travel family before heading your separate ways. Expat Explore wishes you a safe journey ahead and hopes to see you on tour again soon!
Skip the queues and tour the sacred rock of the Acropolis! Visit the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, the temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon.
Indulge in a traditional Hungarian feast as you admire Budapest’s top sights from the water with a nighttime cruise along the Danube River.
Journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste delicious meze, fresh produce, pastries and more from local markets and restaurants.
Embark on an unforgettable, 4-hour cruise and stop to swim in some of Dubrovnik’s magical islands and caves, including the famous Blue Cave.
The world-famous Plitvice Lakes National Park is filled with waterfalls, lush vegetation and countless lakes. This is one of Europe’s most beautiful natural destinations!
You'll Love
Enhance your tour with these carefully selected optional experiences. Each one is designed to add depth and excitement to your journey, allowing you to customize your adventure according to your interests.
Journey through authentic Greek cuisine in Athens! Taste delicious meze, fresh produce, pastries and more from local markets and restaurants.
Skip the queues and tour the sacred rock of the Acropolis! Visit the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, the temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon.
Embark on an evening trip to a hidden cave in the foothills of Meteora and visit a scenic village for a traditional Greek farmhouse dinner!
Experience an interactive evening exploring Albanian culture and cuisine! Indulge in a 7-course meal after an immersive, traditional show.
Embark on an unforgettable, 4-hour cruise and stop to swim in some of Dubrovnik’s magical islands and caves, including the famous Blue Cave.
Discover Slovenian wine culture with a sommelier-led tasting in Ljubljana’s Old Town, followed by a delicious three-course dinner of local delicacies.
Discover Buda and Pest on this locally guided tour. Explore Fisherman’s Bastion and St. Stephen’s Basilica and taste mouthwatering cuisine!
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.
Cruise around the scenic Cycladic islands! Visit Rehnia island and explore the Delos archaeological site. Swim, relax and explore local history!
Discover Santorini’s iconic beaches, visit a local winery, explore a prehistoric city and watch the sunset in Oia on this full-day tour.
Explore the islands of the Santorini caldera! Visit the famous volcano and relax at the hot springs.
If you are planning to travel a different year, please select here to view the relevant itinerary:
Price is based on a sharing twin room. Single room (optional).
Price is based on a sharing twin room. Single room (optional).
Price is based on a sharing twin room. Single room (optional).
Price is based on a sharing twin room. Single room (optional).
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.
I had a great time on the Balkan Explorer tour! We had an amazing driver and great guide. This is a fast-paced tour with a lot of bus time, but also enough time in each location to...
This trip was amazing. It was great to see some countries that have been at war (or people just didn't feel safe traveling there), opening up and embracing tourism. Loved Croatia a...
The experience of meeting people and developing a special bond is priceless. The historical knowledge and driving through the most beautiful scenes and sites will always be with me
Explore more with our diverse selection of tours, featuring similar adventures with unique destinations and unforgettable experiences.
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.
This tour features unmissable optional excursions that must be booked prior to the start of the tour. Contact us for more information and to book now!
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights. Please click here to visit Skyscanner - a useful tool for comparing prices from the vast majority of airlines.
When you book for more than one person, we will by default group you together in the same room(s), unless you request single supplements or specifically request us not to.
If there are unequal numbers (3, 5, 7 etc.) then the remaining traveller will be roomed with another passenger of the same gender. Please note that minors under the age of 18 cannot share with another traveller outside of your group's booking.
If you are making separate bookings and would like to share the same room(s), please send us an email with the booking references for each of the travellers and the details of your preferred rooming allocation.
Yes, and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance. Passengers and their personal property travel with Expat Explore solely at their own risk. A suitable insurance policy should provide adequate cover for medical expenses arising through illness or accident prior to or during the holiday, and loss of holiday monies through cancellation or curtailment of the holiday or other insurable reasons. Clients should ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting protection for the type of activities in their tour.
For a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with the peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries. To receive a quote from our preferred travel insurance partner please visit World Nomads*.
For more information on what to look for in a travel insurance policy, click here.
While Expat Explore cannot assist with booking pre or post-tour accommodation, we have partnered with Booking.com for affordable accommodation options prior to and after the tour.
If you would like to receive the hotel list in advance so that you can book accommodation at or nearby the start hotel, please request this by sending an email to info@expatexplore.com with your booking reference.
Expat Explore can provide travellers requiring visas with visa support documents on a request basis. Please note that you are required to pay for your tour in full in order to receive the documents. This is an embassy/consulate requirement by law. Once you have received confirmation that your booking has been paid in full, you can request your visa support documents by emailing info@expatexplore.com - please allow up to 10 working days to receive these documents.
All travellers are required to carry their own bags. Our walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down stairs. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
Your deposit secures your spot on tour and locks in the price you pay. Although the deposit you pay at the time of booking is non-refundable, you're protected by our 10-Day Money-Back Guarantee – a full refund if you cancel within 10 days of making your booking.
For more information, please refer to the 10-Day Money-Back Guarantee in our Terms & Conditions.
Before the tour starts, you will receive an email from us requesting your dietary requirements. There is always a vegetarian option available. We try as much as we can to offer you the traditional local cuisine.
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. We have partnered with Welcome Pickups to secure a hassle-free service. You will be met at the arrivals gate by your driver. Your driver will track your flight, so they'll wait for you even if it's delayed. Please click here to book an airport transfer.
This is up to you and will vary depending on how much you wish to spend on snacks, drinks, souvenirs etc. We do not include entrance fees to attractions and museums. We do, however, provide you with free time to see everything you want, and our tour leaders will have all the information on pricing and locations so you can manage your own budget. Please refer to your tours specific pre-departure information and optional excursions guide for further details.
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email for consideration. Expat Explore reserves the absolute right to accept or decline a booking at our discretion.