Dubrovnik to Athens

(20 reviews)

From:

CAD $4382 Was CAD $5155

15 Days

Best Rate: Guarantee

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

This European adventure combines the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of North Macedonia and Albania – creating the perfect balance between old and new.

Check Availability

Contact Agent

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 17 Apr 2027

Exclusive Discounts

Get the best rates plus exclusive discounts and promotions

Best Tour Selection

We've got multiple top rated tour suppliers to choose from

Best Advice

Our local travel consultants can help you select the best tour for needs.

Experience Overview

Join a 15-day adventure that combines the highlights of the Balkans and the less-travelled destinations of North Macedonia and Albania, creating the perfect balance between must-see spots and off-the-beaten-track experiences. Hang out in Dubrovnik's Old Town, cruise around Lake Ohrid, go on hikes in Pelister National Park and the foothills of Mt Olympus and sample regional delicacies in Athens. With a curated selection of inclusions, plenty of free time to tailor your adventure and an expert local leader to give you all the best recommendations, this slice of Europe is all yours to explore.

Highlights

Admire the UNESCO World Heritage-listed architecture of Dubrovnik and Montenegro’s Kotor, then opt to take a cruise on the Kotor Fjord – the longest fjord south of Scandinavia!
Lose yourself in Tirana, Albania's colourful capital, and partake in the locals' favourite pastime – drinking coffee and people-watching.
Sail across Lake Ohrid – one of Europe's oldest lakes. Plus, go on a guided walking tour of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site dotted with prehistoric dwellings and the ruins of an early Christian church.
Hike the slopes of Mt Olympus, the mythological home of the Olympians (the 12 main Greek gods), maybe going for a dip in a waterfall and visiting the St Dionysios Monastery along the way.
Taste authentic regional dishes, including a lunch with a local family in the city of Bitola in North Macedonia. Your local leader will be ready with recommendations for the best restaurants to try at each location.

View Larger Map

Trip Details

Product Code: 3250

Tour Type: Small Group

Accommodation: Moderate

Transport: Public bus, Private vehicle, Taxi, Boat, Train

Guide Language: English

Travel Styles: Explorer, Budget

Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel

Supplier Code: ZMSM

Starts: Dubrovnik, Albania

Finishes: Athens, Albania

Duration: 15 days

Departures: Not Guaranteed

Physical Rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (14), Lunch (1),
Accommodation: Hotel (10 nights), Guesthouse (2 nights), Hostel with ensuite facilities (1 night)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4382 ($292 /day)

Itinerary

Day 1: Dubrovnik

Dobro dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure begins in Dubrovnik. Though this city experienced devastation during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s, the restored Old Town remains as charming as ever. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive in Dubrovnik early, why not head out to one of the Elafiti Islands? You could visit Sipan – the most populous of the islands – Lopud, a quiet island with scenic hikes, clean beaches and fortress ruins, or maybe Kolocep – a sleepy enclave with walking trails for every fitness level. There are also many monuments to explore in Dubrovnik itself, including the 15th-century Rector's Palace, monasteries with cloistered gardens and baroque churches with copper domes.

Optional Activities:

Dubrovnik - Church of St. Blaise - Free
Dubrovnik - Hike up Mt Srd - Free
Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car (from) (30 EUR)
Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure (149 EUR)
Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum (10 EUR)
Dubrovnik - Rector's Palace (13 EUR)
Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence (4 EUR)
Dubrovnik - Franciscan Monastery (4 EUR)
Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip (30 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Kotor

Leave Dubrovnik and take a private transfer to Kotor on the coast of Montenegro. This 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is set on a secluded bay, with towering peaks surrounding a rocky coastline dotted with towns. When you arrive, why not check out the 12th-century cathedral, the South Gates and the Armoury Square. Later, maybe take a cruise on the Kotor Fjord – the longest fjord south of Scandinavia – and visit an island with a church that's almost as big as the island itself! In the evening, the city walls are lit up – it’s worth a visit for a different perspective on the city.

Optional Activities:

Kotor - Cruise on Kotor Fjord (40 EUR)
Kotor - Fortress (3 EUR)
Kotor - St. Tryphon’s Cathedral (4 EUR)
Kotor - Maritime Museum (5 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Tirana

After breakfast, drive across the border into Albania. You’ll travel to the city of Shkoder, where you’ll have time to explore Rozafa Castle. This site was occupied by a fortress in Illyrian times, however most of the ruins that can be seen today are of Venetian origin. Then, continue to Tirana. A mixture of diverse cultures and customs, bustling Tirana is scattered with mosques, citadels, Ottoman architecture and medieval ruins. The locals here are warm and welcoming – you’re bound to find yourself swapping stories over a glass of raki or two. When you arrive, you’ll go on an orientation walk to get your bearings. Tirana is the capital of Albania and its biggest city, but it's still small and compact, making it relatively easy to explore on foot.

Included Activities:

Shkoder - Rozafa Castle

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Tirana

Today, take a half-day trip to the mountain village and former Albanian capital of Kruja, where you’ll have time to explore the citadel and the bazaar area. Maybe pay a visit to the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed inside a fortress. You’ll return to Tirana after lunch, where you’ll have free time to maybe explore one of the local museums. You can't miss the National History Museum – just look for the gargantuan mosaic on its facade, which depicts the development of Albania's history. The highlight in Tirana is the Et'hem Bey Mosque, which sits in the city's main square. Closed under communist rule, the mosque resumed as a place of worship in 1991. 10,000 people attended the reopening, and the event was considered a milestone in the rebirth of religious freedom in Albania. Be sure to take a look at the intricate frescoes on the portico and the interior of the mosque.

Included Activities:

Kruja - Day Trip
Kruja - Skanderbeg Museum
Kruja - Fortress Visit

Optional Activities:

Tirana - Sky Tower (400 ALL)
Tirana - National Art Gallery (200 ALL)
Tirana - National History Museum (700 ALL)
Tirana - Bunk'Art Gallery (500 ALL)
Tirana - Dajti Mountain Cable Car (1000 ALL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Berat

Travel by public bus to Berat, known as the ‘city of a thousand windows.’ The town’s old Mangalem Quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to three mosques. You’ll go on a guided tour of the town this afternoon to see the looming fortress – the Kala – which was built during the 13th century and is now home to local families. The walk to the castle is steep and slippery, so make sure you bring some sturdy footwear with you. The views from the top of the fortress across Berat and the Osum Canyon are well worth the effort!

Included Activities:

Berat - Walking tour with a local guide
Berat - Castle Visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Ohrid

Travel by private bus to Ohrid in North Macedonia, situated on a lake of the same name. Ohrid has an abundance of historic sites and religious monuments to explore. The town is said to have once been home to 365 churches, one for each day of the year, earning it the nickname ‘the Jerusalem of the Balkans’. Despite being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, Ohrid has remained a lesser-known destination. Get your bearings on an orientation walk around the town, maybe picking up a bargain or two in the vibrant Old Bazaar. Then, you’ll go on a scenic cruise on Lake Ohrid, surrounded by views of mountains, villages and beaches.

Included Activities:

Ohrid - Lake Ohrid Boat Cruise

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Ohrid

At 34 km long, 14 km wide and over 300 m deep, all shared between Albania and North Macedonia, there’s plenty of vast Lake Ohrid to explore, and today is free for you to do just that! You might like to explore the many nearby churches and monasteries – one of the most popular is the Macedonian Orthodox Church of St John, situated on a rocky outcrop above the town, overlooking the lake. Past the church, you can wander around to the back of town, exploring the old walls and fortress and admiring the views of the lake. The Sveti Naum Monastery is also a great option, lying on the lake’s shores just south of town, with well-kept grounds that are home to peacocks. The ancient Tsar Samuel’s Fortress stands on the top of Ohrid Hill and looks across the town, while a 2000-year-old Roman theatre was uncovered near the Upper Gate – in summer it’s still used for concerts and performances today.

Optional Activities:

Ohrid - Robev Family House National Museum (150 MKD)
Ohrid - St Jovan Church (150 MKD)
Ohrid: Old bazaar street - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Skopje

This morning, board a public bus headed for Skopje, North Macedonia's capital city. Here, you’ll see Byzantine domes, Turkish baths and newly built neoclassical buildings and monuments. Maybe seek out some tasty gozleme or baklava as you explore. The 30 mosques, many caravanserais (ancient roadside inns) and hamams that fill the city’s winding streets are a testament to Skopje’s Ottoman past. You might like to visit the Daut Pasha Hamam or the Holocaust Museum to learn how Macedonia suffered during this tragic chapter of history. Or maybe you’ll wander the narrow lanes of the neighbourhood of Carsija, pay a visit to the Museum of the City of Skopje – housed in an old railway station with a large clock on its exterior, which is stuck at the exact time an earthquake hit the city in 1963.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Skopje

Venture out to Matka Canyon, a deep ravine cut into the Suva mountains by the Treska River, 15 km south-west of the city. This area is home to several medieval monasteries, caves and over 70 species of butterflies. You can also opt to explore the canyon's sights by boat. One of the monasteries worth exploring is St Andrew's Monastery, which contains many fascinating frescoes. There’s also the Vrelo Cave, which is filled with incredible stalagmites. Alternatively, you could take one of the many nature walks in the canyon or follow trails that trace the ridge high above the valley. Return to Skopje, with the remainder of the day free for you to continue exploring at your own pace. Maybe take the Mt Vodno cable car to the giant 66-m-high Millennium Cross for views of the city. For dinner this evening, why not head to the Old Bazaar or check out the restaurants in the Debar Maalo area.

Included Activities:

Skopje - Matka Canyon visit and Boat Ride

Optional Activities:

Skopje - Museum of the City of Skopje - Free
Skopje - Kale Fortress - Free
Skopje - Mount Vodno Cable Car to Millennium Cross (120 MKD)
Skopje - Daut Pasha Hammam (60 MKD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Bitola

Today, you’ll go on a scenic bus ride to the charming town of Bitola, set near Pelister National Park. North Macedonia’s oldest national park, Pelister spans 171 sq km across the striking Baba massif – a dramatic mountain formation. In the afternoon, you’ll visit a local beekeeper’s farm, where you’ll discover traditional honey-making practices and share an authentic lunch with the family. In the evening, return to Bitola for the night.

Included Activities:

Dihovo - Beekeeper farm visit and lunch

Optional Activities:

Bitola Museum (100 MKD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Kastoria

Travel by private vehicle to the Greek border, stopping to explore the Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological site before continuing to Kastoria. This medieval town sits on the western shore of Lake Orestiada in a valley surrounded by limestone mountains. Kastoria is full of Byzantine churches and Ottoman architecture. When you arrive, take an orientation walk along the labyrinthine lanes, with some time to walk along the lakeside where boats bob, Dalmatian pelicans and ducks make ripples on the water and mountains loom in the distance. Later, consider visiting the Spilaio tou Drakou (AKA ‘Dragon Cave’), one of the most impressive caves in Greece, where you’ll see stalactites and underground lakes. The legend goes that this cave was once a gold mine guarded by a sleepless dragon.

Included Activities:

Heraclea Lynestis Archeological Site visit

Optional Activities:

Kastoria - Open Museum (5 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Litochoro

Make the most of a free morning to explore Kastoria. Maybe visit the Neolithic lakeside village at Dispilio, which gives you an insight into village life in the oldest Neolithic settlement in Europe. After lunch, transfer by private vehicle to the town of Litochoro at the base of Mt Olympus. When you arrive, head out on a short orientation walk to familiarise yourself with your surroundings. Head down to the beach at Plaka for some well-deserved relaxation and a dip in the Aegean Sea before tomorrow's hike. Consider having dinner in one of the fish tavernas lining the shore – a chance to indulge in some traditional dishes.

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Litochoro

Mt Olympus – Greece's first national park – is the highest mountain in Greece and the second highest in the Balkans, sitting at 2918 m. The mountain is famous in Greek mythology as the dwelling of the 12 Olympian gods, ruled by Zeus. According to Greek mythology, the Mytikas peak was the gods’ meeting place and the Stefani peak was Zeus’ throne, from where he was said to have displayed his mighty power by throwing thunderbolts. Head out early today for a hike along a lush trail in the national park, headed to a waterfall. If it's a hot day, why not brave the cold water? Just don't forget to bring your swimming costume! You can also opt to visit the St Dionysios Monastery on the way back into town. The rest of the day is free for you to continue enjoying the surrounding countryside or simply take in the view of the mountain from the vantage point of the nearby beach.

Included Activities:

Mt Olympus National Park - Orlias Waterfall Hike

Optional Activities:

Litochoro - Agios Dionysios Monastery - Free
Litochoro - Plaka Beach - Free

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Athens

Board a train to Athens this morning. When you arrive, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. There's much to be seen in this vibrant capital city. Named after the goddess of wisdom, Athens has a weighty history that spills out over the modern city, exemplified most dramatically by the ancient Acropolis, where you can enter the Pantheon and see excellent views over the city. You might like to visit the National Gardens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus or the original Olympic Stadium. Another highlight is the renowned changing of the guard ceremony at Syntagma (Parliament) Square. After, maybe gather your group for a delicious dinner of Greek cuisine and a glass of ouzo.

Optional Activities:

Athens - Numismatic Museum (15 EUR)
Athens - National Archaeological Museum (15 EUR)
Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
Athens - Acropolis Pass for 5 Sites (30 EUR)
Athens - Dora Stratou (20 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Athens

There are no activities planned for today and your adventure comes to an end. As there’s so much to see and do in Greece's capital, it’s highly recommended you extend your stay. If you wish to do so, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

Athens - Taste of Athens Urban Adventure (139 EUR)
Athens - Markets, Ruins & Ancient Athens Urban Adventure (139 EUR)
Athens - Twilight Athens Urban Adventure (99 EUR)

Similar Tours

Check Availability

Reviews

Rita - Traveled, September 2023

Have used intrepid for 12 trips - must be doing something right - guides and destinations are great

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023

Brian - Traveled, September 2023

Excellent way to visit the Balkans where there are multiple different languages, currencies and cultures to navigate. Vojin our guide was knowledgeable and expert at getting us from place to place with ease.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/24/2023

James - Traveled, September 2023

I really enjoyed this trip. I knew very little about the Balkans, and the tour was eye-opening.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023

Mary - Traveled, September 2023

Wonderful trip through the Balkans with an interesting and informative guide .. would highly recommend

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/24/2023

Leanne - Traveled, August 2023

The Balkans was a fabulous tour. I learnt so much about the history and people of all the countries we travelled through. The food, people and scenery we amazing. Such a varied and interesting trip, walks, boats, swims, history and beauty. Loved every day.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023

viktoria - Traveled, August 2023

I really liked Dubrovnik to Athens trip, it was real adventure, you see cities, lakes, mountains, lotf of local history stories and more. You will try lots of lok=cal food and have really good choice to buy local crafts. Our guide Dorcan was really amazing, I felt like he was my friend from day one so helpful and looks after us very well. I really like the hikes and the national parks.recommend

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023

Balsiger - Traveled, July 2023

Perfectly organized tour through lesser known parts of the balkan. I would not have considered North Macedonia as a travel destination and I am really glad it was included in this tour as I loved it. Igor was a great tour guide who is very knowledgable and knows where you get the best local foods. Great food, beautiful towns and nature and an enjoyable international group.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/03/2023

Karen - Traveled, July 2023

This trip was excellent, especially having Flutra as our guide. If you do this trip consider continuing on with the extra 8 days from Athens to Santorini, it was definately worth it. We had very hot weather in July which made the swimming extra inviting. No need for warm clothes and we had no rain. This was one of my best trips.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/31/2023

Jennifer - Traveled, July 2023

This is a unique, action packed trip to a variety of countries not visited by most people. Flutra was an amazing leader. She offered us a variety of choices and even organized a "bonus" trip to Kosovo when asked. She provided us with insight and shared her personal experiences. The only thing is, I wish Intrepid would consider extending this trip three days or so. It felt rushed at times.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2023

Kerry - Traveled, July 2023

Our guide Petar was fantastic as his professional and friendly manner shone through, together with his in depth knowledge of the Balkans history, made this tour a wonderful experience with awesome memories made along the way. Absolutely loved learning, exploring and experiencing the Balkans!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/14/2023

BRIONY - Traveled, June 2023

A fantastic introduction to Monténégro, Albania, North Macedonia and Greece. Vlad lead our trip with enthusiasm and knowledge and a joyous love of the Balkans. I can’t wait to see more.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2023

Peter - Traveled, June 2023

An interesting tour that brings to life the history of this turbulent region.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/09/2023

Jean - Traveled, June 2023

Dubrovnik to Athens was a great trip,lots of diversity,amazing sites and great experiences

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2023

Elizabeth - Traveled, June 2023

This trip is an amazing survey of the region. We covered a lot of territory and our guide, who was terrifically knowledgeable and impeccably organized, offered us a wealth of information about the history, culture and politics of the countries we visited. The itinerary is packed and varied. Skopje was not very interesting so our group of 6 decided to use some of that time to visit Kosovo. Unexpectedly, I loved Albania. Outside of Dubrovnik and Athens, it was a treat not to be mobbed by other tourists. You do have to be reasonably fit for some activities and the advice about packing light so you can manage your own luggage is accurate.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/23/2023

Kimberly - Traveled, April 2024

This trip has a lot packed into it. It is a fast paced trip with a lot of history to absorb. You are on your feet a lot except during the transportation between locations. More of a trip that skims the surface of the region to come back later for more dedicated time in the locations.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/07/2023

Paulette - Traveled, May 2023

This trip was fabulous. It included beautiful cities with so much history. The food was amazing. Our group leader was knowledgeable, and caring. The trip incorporated sightseeing with hiking in beautiful countries. I loved it!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/17/2023

William - Traveled, May 2023

For the adventurists who want to encounter new cultures and countries without the hassles and risks of doing it solo make the leap to the Dubrovnik trip.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/06/2023

Vicky - Traveled, September 2023

I just completed a tour from Dubrovnik to Athens . I was lucky enough to have good weather the whole way great travelling group and a fantastic tour guide. October was a great time to travel this year. Not hot not too busy. Fantastic places to go as most places on the tour were not over touristy yet. Good accommodations. I personally love Intrepid‘s environmentally friendly policies.. Thank you to Intrepid, And my fellow travellers for being a great bunch, and thank you from the bottom of my heart to our guide Flutra who went more then the extra mile to make sure I had a great holiday, even with my very limited diet and a unexpected health issues. ?????? Vicky I

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023

Diana - Traveled, September 2023

This trip was a great learning experience and provided a wonderful insight into the Balkans. The scenery was amazing. Our tour leader Vojin was terrific and very knowledgeable. I enjoyed the variety of activities offered on this trip- lots of culture, lots of nature and lots of physical activity. I’d recommend this trip.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/21/2023

SUSANNE - Traveled, September 2023

My 1st trip with Intrepid exceeded my expectations. I look forward to another trip in the future. There is no way all the planning, language barrier, transportation, border crossings, etc would have resulted with this trip had i planned on my own. I highly recommend INTREPID Travel.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/08/2023