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

Traveling through the Balkans offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, and this 14-day tour from Split packs a lot of that into two weeks. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, detailed reviews and the itinerary outline reveal what makes it a compelling way to explore Southeast Europe.

What we love most: the chance to see UNESCO heritage sites like Mostar’s Old Bridge, experience diverse cities like Sarajevo and Gjirokaster, and enjoy scenic drives along the Montenegrin Riviera. The small group size—limited to just 8 travelers—means you’ll get personalized attention and meaningful interactions.

A possible consideration? The long days of travel and walking might be tiring for some, especially with multiple border crossings. And the price of $4,438 per person, while reflecting a comprehensive experience, might seem high for travelers on a tight budget.

This tour suits culturally curious travelers who want a structured, guided exploration of the Balkans without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re after immersive experiences, off-the-beaten-path towns, and scenic landscapes, this tour offers good value for the effort.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Experience: Comfortable 3-star hotel stays, private transportation, and entrance fees are covered, reducing stress during your trip.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: You’ll visit bustling bazaars, UNESCO sites, and explore local vineyards, providing genuine regional flavor.
• Expert Guidance: A professional tour leader ensures you get insightful commentary and smooth logistics.
• Diverse Destinations: The itinerary covers a wide range of cities, from historic towns to lively coastal resorts.
• Small Group Travel: With only 8 participants, expect a more intimate and flexible atmosphere.
• Travel Flexibility: Option to end in Athens or Corfu, with included ferry tickets, gives a sense of control over your next destination.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1 & 2: From Split to Mostar and Sarajevo

The journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Split, setting the tone for this Balkan adventure. We love the ease of border crossings with a dedicated tour leader managing logistics—something that can often be a hassle if you’re traveling solo. Once in Mostar, you’ll gaze upon the Stari Most—the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge—and walk through the Old Bazaar, bursting with local crafts and lively cafes. Several reviewers point out how the bridge’s architecture and history are awe-inspiring, and that wandering the vibrant streets of Mostar feels like stepping into a fairytale.

The next day in Sarajevo offers a deep dive into history. You’ll visit landmarks such as the Latin Bridge, site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, which tells stories of resilience during the 1990s conflict. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who make the complex history accessible and engaging. The city’s mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences makes it a captivating stop.

Day 3 & 4: Kotor and the Montenegrin Riviera

Traveling to Kotor, you’ll explore its stunning medieval fortress walls and narrow streets. Many travelers mention how the panoramic views from Kotor’s fortress are worth the climb—expect to be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the bay. The guided tour provides insights into its maritime history, and the town’s charm lies in its preserved architecture and serene atmosphere.

Following Kotor, the tour takes you to the Montenegrin Riviera, including the iconic Sveti Stefan. Tourists highlight how this area features beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts, ideal for relaxing or simply soaking up the scenery. The balance between guided sightseeing and free time allows for personal exploration.

Day 5 & 6: Shkoder, Prizren, and the Surroundings

In Shkoder, you’ll experience local culture at Mirizi i Zanave Agro tourism—an opportunity to see regional agriculture and traditional life firsthand. Reviewers mention how these stops feel authentic, away from tourist crowds.

Moving to Prizren, the city’s Ottoman architecture and lively atmosphere are a highlight. The tour includes visits to Gjakove, Decan, and vineyards near Rahovec, giving a taste of regional history, religious sites, and local wine production. The guided tours are described as insightful, with local guides sharing stories that bring places like Decan’s monasteries to life.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 7 & 8: Tirana and the Albanian Capital

Tirana, often overlooked, surprises many with its vibrant streets and intriguing history. A guided tour covers landmarks like the National History Museum and Et’hem Bey Mosque. From reviews, the city’s mix of colorful buildings and modern art scenes makes it a lively stop, showcasing Albania’s dynamic identity. The optional free time allows you to explore cafes or shop for local crafts.

Day 9 & 10: Ohrid and Berat

Ohrid, with its UNESCO-listed lake and historic churches, is a fan favorite. The city’s relaxed vibe combined with stunning views makes it ideal for unwinding at your leisure. Visiting St. Naum and the nearby lakeside towns enhances the experience, offering both natural beauty and cultural sights.

Berat, called the “town of a thousand windows,” impresses with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Several reviews mention how wandering through Berat’s old town feels like stepping back in time. The guided tour highlights its UNESCO status and history.

Day 11 & 12: Gjirokaster and Ioannina

Gjirokaster, with its stone streets and castle, is another highlight. Travelers love the authentic atmosphere and how the guide explains the town’s significance. Continuing to Ioannina, you’ll get a glimpse of Greek mountain culture before heading to Meteora. The monasteries perched atop rock formations are visually stunning and offer a peaceful end to the day.

Day 13 & 14: Final Transfers to Athens or Corfu

The journey concludes with a transfer to Athens or the port at Igoumenitsa (for Corfu). The ferry tickets included make this seamless, and many reviews note how smooth the logistics are, even with border crossings and transportation. This flexibility allows travelers to extend their trip or continue exploring Greece at their leisure.

How We Evaluate the Experience

This tour’s pricing at $4,438 covers all major components—accommodation, transportation, and entry tickets—making it relatively straightforward in terms of budgeting. The big advantage here is value for money, especially considering the inclusion of guided tours and small group size, which tend to enhance the overall experience.

The hotels are rated 3-star, providing comfort without luxury, which suits travelers who want a good night’s sleep after busy days exploring. The included breakfast each morning helps start the day energized, although lunches and dinners are not covered, so you’ll want to budget extra for those.

Transport is private, providing comfort and convenience for the long drives between countries. The small group format (max 8 participants) is a major plus, fostering a more relaxed and personal environment, and making it easier to ask questions or customize parts of your day.

Travelers have mentioned that the itinerary is well-paced, offering enough time at major sites without feeling rushed. The balance of guided visits and leisure time allows for both educational insights and spontaneous exploration.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciate the expert local guides, who explain the significance of sites without overwhelming visitors. Comments about the smooth border crossings and well-organized logistics** are common, especially with the tour leader managing these details.

Some reviews point out the long travel days, especially when crossing borders, but most agree that the scenery and cultural richness make up for it. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy a structured, yet flexible, cultural adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This 14-day Balkans tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights—from historic towns and UNESCO sites to scenic coastlines and bustling capitals. It’s ideal for travelers who value guided experiences and want to see a lot without the stress of planning every detail.

If you appreciate small groups, authentic local encounters, and a mix of cultural sights and natural beauty, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially good for those who are comfortable with long days of travel and are eager to discover lesser-known corners of Southeast Europe.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent travel, the price point and structured schedule might be less appealing. But for those seeking an immersive, well-organized journey with expert guides, this tour delivers great value and memorable experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers who dislike long travel days?
While there are some long days, the journey is broken into manageable segments with guided border crossings and private transport, making it more comfortable than independent multi-country travel.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, all overnight stays are in 3-star hotels, offering a good balance of comfort and affordability, with breakfast included each morning.

What is included in the price?
The price covers accommodation, breakfast, private transport, entry tickets, tour leader, hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, drop-off in Athens or port transfer (including ferry to Corfu), tourist taxes, insurance, road taxes, and petrol.

Can I end the tour in Athens or Corfu?
Yes, the tour finishes with transfers to either Athens or Corfu, giving you flexibility to continue your travels or explore the Greek islands.

Is this tour good for history buffs?
Absolutely. The itinerary includes many UNESCO sites, museums, and historic towns, with guides providing insightful explanations.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with weather-appropriate clothing. Border crossings may require your passport, so don’t forget that.

Are there opportunities to explore independently?
Yes, some stops like Tirana, Ohrid, and Berat offer free time for you to explore on your own, shopping or relaxing at your leisure.

To sum it up, this 14-day Balkan adventure offers a well-rounded, immersive experience for those eager to uncover the region’s treasures without the hassle of planning. Its mix of guided tours, authentic towns, and scenic coastal drives make it a worthwhile choice for culturally curious travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and a genuine taste of Southeast Europe.

You can check if your dates are available here: