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

Discover the Balkans: A 14-Day Journey from Split to Athens or Corfu

Thinking about exploring the Balkans on a comprehensive, culturally rich route? This 14-day tour organized by Co Adventures offers an intriguing blend of history, nature, and authentic small-town charm. Starting in Split, Croatia, and ending in either Athens or Corfu, Greece, this journey takes you through some of Southeast Europe’s most captivating destinations. From UNESCO-listed towns to lively markets and scenic coastlines, it provides a broad yet intimate view of this diverse region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expertly curated itinerary hits many highlights—Mostar’s Old Bridge, Sarajevo’s fascinating history, Kotor’s dramatic bay, and the legendary Meteora. Second, the small group size (limited to 8) ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of room for questions and spontaneous stops. One potential drawback? The pace is brisk, covering a lot of ground in just two weeks, so travelers should be prepared for long days and some early mornings.

This tour suits travelers who love history, scenic drives, and authentic experiences without feeling rushed. If you’re comfortable with walking, enjoy learning about local cultures, and appreciate small-group intimacy, this could be a perfect fit. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time to explore on their own.

Key Points

• Authentic small-group experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Diverse itinerary: Covers UNESCO sites, historic towns, scenic coastlines, and mountain landscapes.
• Comprehensive inclusions: Hotels, breakfast, private transport, guided tours, entry tickets, and ferry included.
• Value for cost: At $4,438 per person, you get a thorough overview of the Balkans with expert guides.
• Active itinerary: Expect walking and some early starts, but also leisure days for personal exploration.
• Flexible ending options: Choose to finish in Athens or Corfu, with transfers and ferry tickets included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Balkans: A Deep Dive into the 14-Day Itinerary

Day 1-2: From Split to Mostar and Sarajevo

Starting in Split, Croatia, travelers get a taste of Dalmatian coastal charm before heading inland. The transfer to Mostar introduces you to one of the Balkans’ most iconic sights—the Old Bridge (Stari Most). Built in the 16th century, this UNESCO-listed marvel is a perfect symbol of Ottoman influence. We loved the way the tour balances history and atmosphere—wandering through the colorful Old Bazaar here offers a lively, intimate glimpse into local life.

The next day, the tour guides you through Sarajevo, a city where East meets West. You’ll visit the Latin Bridge, famous for the assassination that sparked WWI, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, which reveals how residents managed to survive during the siege in the 1990s. Travelers often remark on the emotional depth here—one review noted, “Seeing the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum brought the city’s recent history to life in a way that’s hard to forget.” The guided tours are well-paced, providing enough context without feeling overwhelming.

Day 3-4: From Sarajevo to Kotor and the Montenegrin Coast

Crossing into Montenegro, the journey takes you to the stunning Kotor. This fortified town, on the edge of a fjord-like bay, feels like stepping into a medieval postcard. The guided tour delivers fascinating insights into its history and architecture. You’ll love the views from the city walls and the narrow, winding streets filled with cafes and shops.

Following Kotor, the tour moves along the Montenegrin Riviera, famous for its dramatic coastlines and pebble beaches. The leisure time here allows you to soak in the scenery or relax at your hotel—ideal for those who want a moment away from sightseeing.

Day 5-6: From Sveti Stefan to Shkoder and Prizren

Next, you’ll explore Budva, an energetic coastal town with a lively old town and beaches. Visiting Sveti Stefan, a picturesque island resort, offers some fantastic photo opportunities and guided tours of this tiny, luxurious island. Then, the journey continues into Albania’s Shkoder, where you can enjoy local sights at your own pace.

A highlight is the visit to Mirizi i Zanave Agro tourism, giving a taste of rural Albanian life. On day 6, the tour visits Prizren, a charming town in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Travelers often appreciate the blend of different cultures here, and one reviewer described it as “a perfect example of Balkan diversity.”

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Day 7-8: From Prizren to Tirana and its Highlights

Leaving Prizren, you’ll stop in Kruje, home of the legendary Skanderbeg Castle, before reaching Tirana, Albania’s lively capital. The guided city tour features highlights like the National History Museum and the Et’hem Bey Mosque. We liked how the guides explain Albania’s recent history in an accessible way, making the city’s rapid transformation easier to understand.

The leisure afternoon is an excellent chance to explore neighborhoods or enjoy local cafés. The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup in Dubrovnik is a practical bonus, especially for travelers who want a seamless start.

Day 9-10: From Tirana to Ohrid and Berat

The journey takes you into North Macedonia, visiting Struga, renowned for its riverside setting and poetry festival, then Ohrid, a UNESCO site filled with churches and ancient ruins. Exploring St. Naum monastery and Lake Ohrid offers both cultural and natural beauty. Travelers have praised the balance here—one said, “Ohrid’s charm is undeniable, and the guided tour made sure I didn’t miss the highlights.”

Continuing into Albania again, you visit Berat, known for its Ottoman architecture and hilltop castle. The guided tour here provides insights into the city’s history, and free time allows you to wander and soak in the atmosphere.

Day 11-12: Gjirokaster and the Mountain Villages

Gjirokaster, called the “City of Stone,” impresses with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Walking through its cobbled streets, you see houses made of dark stone, and the castle offers panoramic views. The tour’s focus on Gjirokaster’s history adds depth to your visit.

The next day, the journey takes you to Ioannina in Greece, a lively lakeside town with a storied past. Then, you visit the famous Meteora monasteries, perched atop towering cliffs. The scenery here is breathtaking, and the guided tour offers insight into the spiritual and cultural significance of these monasteries.

Day 13-14: Final Destinations and Transfer to Greece

Your tour concludes with a transfer to Athens or Corfu, depending on your choice. The included ferry tickets to Corfu make for a smooth transition, and the transfer logistics are well-organized—one reviewer appreciated the seamlessness of the arrangements.

The Value Proposition

At $4,438 per person, this tour offers an extensive look at the Balkans, with accommodations in 3-star hotels, guided tours, and all major transportation costs included. For those who love guided travel, the price reflects a comprehensive package with expert guides who enrich your understanding of each stop. The inclusion of entry tickets, ferry rides, and local taxes helps avoid surprise expenses, making it easier to budget.

While the cost might seem high, especially considering meals and personal expenses aren’t included, many travelers find the convenience, comfort, and depth of experience justify the investment. Traveling with a small group ensures more personalized attention, and the pace—covering a lot over 14 days—means you’ll see far more than you could on a self-guided trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers eager for a structured yet flexible exploration of the Balkans’ highlights. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those who enjoy scenic drives and authentic local encounters. If you prefer a relaxed pace or a more independent experience, you might find the schedule a bit intense, but for most, it packs enough variety and depth to be well worth it.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day Balkan tour offers a genuine and balanced snapshot of the region’s best bits, with a focus on authentic sights, small-group intimacy, and expert guides. You’ll walk through centuries-old streets, marvel at UNESCO sites, and enjoy stunning landscapes—all while gaining insight into the complex history and vibrant cultures that make the Balkans so unique.

It’s a journey that rewards curious travelers who want more than just surface-level touring. The combination of guided city visits, leisure time, and scenic drives makes it a compelling choice for those ready to see the diverse face of Southeast Europe. Whether you end in Athens or Corfu, this tour leaves you with stories, photos, and memories that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone with limited mobility?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking, especially at sites like Kotor and Meteora. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and some tours may involve navigating cobblestone streets and stairs.

Are meals included in the price?
No, lunches, dinners, drinks, and snacks are not included. You’ll have free time to explore local eateries and try regional cuisine, which we recommend for authentic experiences.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and ensures everyone gets personalized attention from the guide.

Are border crossings smooth?
Yes, border crossings are included as part of the transfer, but travelers are responsible for their passports and any visa requirements.

Can I choose to end the tour in Athens instead of Corfu?
Yes, the tour ends either in Athens or Corfu, with transfers and ferry tickets included. Just specify your preference when booking.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket or raincoat, as weather can vary. Remember your passport for border crossings.

This 14-day Balkan adventure provides a well-rounded, authentic taste of a region full of surprises. Whether you’re after history, culture, or stunning scenery, it’s a route that combines the best of Southeast Europe in one memorable trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: