Essential Southern Balkans

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
9 Days
From AUD $1895
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

Essential Southern Balkans

Essential Southern Balkans

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
4.4
20 Reviews
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Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

On this nine-day journey, say hello to the Southern Balkans. Steeped in medieval history, overflowing with colourful towns and blessed with a glistening coastline, this area has so much to see and do.

Highlights

  • Visit the seldom-visited Gjirokaster in Albania and get your caffeine fix with a taste of the local Turkish coffee made ‘on the stone’ with a local guide.
  • Head to the Albanian Riviera and float in the sparkling waters of Himare’s hidden coves. Go on a speed boat tour to Pirate’s Cave and take refreshing swims in the coastal waters. Then, kick back in Corfu – one of Greece’s famed islands.
  • Discover the walled cities of Kotor and the coastal town of Ulcinj, teeming with history from a bygone era. With a local leader who knows all the hotspots and heaps of free time to wander on your own, you’re bound to find all the best bits!
  • Descend into one of the world’s most peculiar contemporary art museums in Tirana – housed in an underground bunker built for the Albanian political elite.
  • Walk the walls of the Old City of medieval Dubrovnik and spot the film locations that have been used in worldwide blockbusters (if you loved Game of Thrones, this place might look a little familiar).

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Ferry,Bus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Dubrovnik, Albania

Finishes

Corfu, Albania

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Dubrovnik
Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Dubrovnik. Your adventure begins in sun-kissed Croatia with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you arrive early, maybe head to the walled Old City through the Pile Gate drawbridge – the best way to explore Dubrovnik is on foot, so walk the walls and take your time. There’s a bar on the wall to grab a drink and admire the view too. In town, there are plenty of cool eateries to grab a quick lunch of fresh seafood or take a leisurely afternoon to people-watch. If a swim is on the cards, maybe head outside the walls to a cove and dive into the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea that surround you – Suluci or Banje Beach are great for a dip.

Optional Activities:

  • Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure (69 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car (27 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum (10 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence (4 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Sunset Sailing Trip (64 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip (30 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Dubrovnik / Kotor / Ulcinj
This morning, hit the road to Kotor in Montenegro. Spend some free time exploring this terracotta-lined medieval town, maybe walking up Kampana Tower to see the surrounding turquoise waters and limestone cliffs or finding one of the many churches dotted around this relatively small town. Continue to Ulcinj – sitting on the Adriatic Coast, this town is home to scenic beaches, medieval city walls and thriving nightlife. When you arrive, maybe wander through the Old Town’s cobblestone streets and see Ulcinj Castle. Later, maybe watch the sunset on the beach.

Optional Activities:

  • St Tryphon's Cathedral - Free
  • Kotor - Fortress (3 EUR)
  • Kotor - Maritime Museum (5 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Tirana
This morning after breakfast, you’ll drive across the border into Albania to your next stop in Tirana. When you arrive, take a leader-led orientation walk around the city to get your bearings. Visit Bunk’Art – a history and contemporary art museum. Head through a long, dark tunnel in the hillside that leads you to the entrance, on the side of an active Albanian military base. From here, you’ll descend into 3000 square metres of underground space, originally meant as a bunker in the 1970s for Albania’s political elite. Now, it houses different exhibitions of Albanian modern history and contemporary art pieces. This afternoon, you’ll have time to explore this eclectic city at your own pace – maybe head out to the Block for drinks and swap stories with your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:

  • Tirana - Bunk'Art Bunker Exhibition Visit

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Tirana
Wake up without an alarm today – you’ve got a free day. Maybe make like the locals at the colourful street markets, explore the city’s traditional cuisine or jump on public transport to Kruja – this ancient Albanian city is just 32 km out of Tirana. Tonight, you might like to gather your newfound travel buds and head to the Blloku neighbourhood – a hotspot for pre-dinner drinks. Then, why not treat yourself to dinner at Tirana Castle – a Byzantine time castle transformed into a trendy outdoor shopping area with plenty of restaurant options to take your fancy.

Optional Activities:

  • Tirana - National Art Gallery (200 ALL)
  • Tirana - National History Museum (700 ALL)
  • Tirana - Sky Tower (400 ALL)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Himare
After breakfast today, set your sights on the Riviera and make your way to Himare. Sitting between the Ionian Sea and Ceraunian Mountains, this town is a less-touristed part of Albania and is home to a great local food scene! When you arrive, you have a free day to soak up the scenic town – maybe explore the Old Town on the rocky hill for views of the sea and see the ruins of Himare Castle, over 3500 years old. After, head to a local cafe for coffee and cake or make your way to one of the secluded beach coves, perfect for having a dip in the sea and getting stuck into a good book.

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Himare
Head out on a speed boat tour this morning, taking in the coastal sights from a different perspective. Take to the water and visit Pigeon’s Cave, Crystal Bay, Gjipe Beach and Pirate's Cave – one of the most spectacular caves in the country and only accessible by boat. Along the way, you’ll stop for swims in the caves and on the beaches near the Gjipe Canyon, giving you the ultimate chance to refresh under the sun. Later, enjoy a free afternoon to find a local restaurant with sea and sunset views – your leader will know some great spots!

Included Activities:

  • Himare - Local Boat Tour

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Gjirokaster
Leave the sparkling Adriatic shores behind and head to Gjirokaster – a well-preserved Ottoman town in Albania’s south. When you arrive, visit one of the traditional tower houses with a local guide who has all the insights and taste the traditional coffee 'on the stone', roasted on the fire right in front of you! If you’re lucky, you might even get your fortune read. You’ll spend the night here, so maybe find some speca me glize (stuffed peppers) for dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Gjirokaster - Zekate Tower House
  • Gjirokaster - Local Guide
  • Gjirokaster - Turkish Coffee 'on the Stone'
  • Gjirokaster - Gjirokaster Fortress

Optional Activities:

  • Gjirokaster - Ismail Kadare's House (200 ALL)
  • Gjirokaster - Ethnographic Museum (200 ALL)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Corfu
Today you’ll head south to Saranda – a coastal resort town near the Albania and Greece border. From here, take a hydrofoil ferry to Corfu – an island off Greece’s northwest coast in the Ionian Sea. Corfu is known for its mountainous landscapes that extend to the shores and its cultural heritage, spent under rule from Venetian, French and British influences. Your group leader will take you on an orientation walk near where you’re staying, so you can find all the best spots and get your bearings for later. Tonight is all yours – maybe round up your group and head out for sunset drinks at one of the local restaurants.

Optional Activities:

  • Corfu - Palaiopoli Archaeological Site (4 EUR)
  • Corfu - Mon Repos Summer Palace (4 EUR)
  • Corfu - Archaeological Museum (6 EUR)
  • Corfu - Corfu Fortifications (5 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Corfu
With no planned activities today, you’re free to leave anytime. If shorelines and souvlakis are still on the cards, you don’t have to leave just yet! If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $1,895
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

On this nine-day journey, say hello to the Southern Balkans. Steeped in medieval history, overflowing with colourful towns and blessed with a glistening coastline, this area has so much to see and do.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 16 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Katie
Traveled, September 2023

09/07/2023

I would 100% recommend this trip to anyone considering! You see so much across the perfect amount of time and the hotels and activities are fantastic. You'll also meet some amazing friends! Definitely add two days before hand and after :)

4.5
Zaynab
Traveled, August 2023

09/07/2023

Amazing trip, met the best people ever ?? such lovely locations. Seriously unforgettable experience, and perfect for a first solo travel trip! Hotels were beautiful. Wish I could repeat it again!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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