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

Traveling through the Balkans offers a chance to witness a patchwork of diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories—all packed into a manageable two-week itinerary. This 14-day guided tour from Belgrade to either Athens or Corfu takes you through some of the most captivating spots in Southeast Europe, blending bustling cities, ancient landmarks, and scenic coastlines. The journey is designed for those who love authentic experiences and want a deeper understanding of this fascinating region, all while enjoying the comfort of a small group.

What really stands out about this tour is its balance between cultural exploration and scenic beauty, with highlights like Sarajevo’s historic streets, the stunning Kotor Bay, and the picturesque island of Sveti Stefan. Plus, the inclusiveness—entrance fees to all sites and an air-conditioned coach—means you’re free to focus on making memories rather than managing logistics. That said, the price tag of around $4,438 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the extensive itinerary and all the included experiences, it offers good value for those eager to soak in the Balkans’ richness.

However, a notable consideration is the moderate walking involved, especially around cities like Gjirokaster and Berat, which feature cobbled streets and hillside pathways. If mobility is a concern, this is something to keep in mind. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy history, culture, and scenic drives, and who don’t mind small group settings that foster a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers over a dozen destinations across multiple countries, blending history, culture, and landscapes.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, accommodation, and breakfast are covered—plus guided tours of key sites.
• Scenic Highlights: From ancient cities to stunning coastlines, the tour is rich in breathtaking views.
• Flexible Endpoints: Choose to end your journey in Athens or Corfu, depending on your travel plans.
• Active Pace: Expect some moderate walking, especially through historic towns with cobbled streets.

A Detailed Look at the 14-Day Balkans Tour

Starting Point: Belgrade and the Journey Into Bosnia

The adventure kicks off in Belgrade, where you’ll be picked up from your accommodation, setting a relaxed tone for the journey. The first stop is Zvornik, a town that embodies a mix of history and natural beauty. While not as prominent as other sites, Zvornik offers a glimpse into local life and its strategic importance along the Drina River.

In the afternoon, the group heads towards Sarajevo, a city that feels like a living museum. Here, your guide will take you on a tour of significant landmarks such as the Old Bazaar and the Latin Bridge, where the spark for WWI was fired. The Sarajevo Tunnel Museum offers a sobering look at the city’s recent past, providing context that enriches your understanding of the region’s resilience.

Exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina

The next day is dedicated to Sarajevo’s complex history and vibrant street life, with options to explore local cafes or visit more sites like the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. Moving on, a short drive takes you to Mostar, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). Guided tours here reveal stories of resilience and multicultural heritage that define this city. One reviewer noted, “Walking across the Old Bridge, I felt the centuries of history beneath my feet.”

Montenegro’s Breathtaking Coastlines

Crossing into Montenegro, the group’s first stop is Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and fortress walls that cling dramatically to the hillside. A guided tour here uncovers the city’s rich maritime history, while the views from the fortress are truly jaw-dropping.

Later, you’ll relax on the Montenegrin Riviera, where options include wandering the narrow streets of Budva or taking in the allure of Sveti Stefan. The latter, a tiny island turned luxury resort, is a must-see. Tourists often mention how the island’s charming exteriors look like a movie set—perfect for those postcard photos.

From Albania to Kosovo

The itinerary then moves into Albania, with Shkoder offering a blend of Ottoman architecture and lakeside scenery. The visit to Mirizi i Zanave Agro tourism is a unique addition—guided tours here showcase agricultural life and local traditions, adding authenticity to your experience.

Next, you’ll visit Prizren, a lively city with a rich Ottoman influence. The city’s mix of mosques, old bridges, and vibrant markets offers a colorful snapshot of Balkan diversity.

In Kosovo, the tour highlights Gjakove and Decan, where guided visits reveal more about the region’s complex history. The vineyards near Rahovec are a highlight for wine enthusiasts, with a guided tour that explores local wine-making traditions—a relaxing way to deepen your regional understanding.

Albanian Heartland & the Capital Tirana

Moving into Albania’s inland, Kruje offers a glimpse of Albania’s medieval past, with its fortress and old bazaar. The capital, Tirana, is a lively city with modern energy and historical sites like Skanderbeg Square. The guided city tour here provides context about Albania’s recent transformation.

North Macedonia and Lake Ohrid

The journey continues into North Macedonia, with Struga and Ohrid offering lakeside beauty and historical charm. UNESCO-listed Ohrid is famed for its monasteries, old town, and stunning views across the lake. A visit to St. Naum adds a sense of spirituality and tranquility to the trip.

The Final Leg: Berat, Gjirokaster, and Greece

In Albania, Berat and Gjirokaster provide a deep dive into Ottoman architecture and hillside villages. The guided tours here are detailed, revealing the stories behind these well-preserved towns.

The journey concludes in Ioannina and Meteora, Greece’s famous rock formations topped with monasteries. The views from Meteora are often described as breathtaking, with towering rock pillars creating a surreal backdrop.

Finally, you’ll transfer to Athens or Corfu—both fantastic options depending on whether you prefer city history or island relaxation. The transfer offers a smooth end to this whirlwind adventure, leaving you with lasting impressions of the Balkans’ diverse beauty.

Practical Considerations and Value

The price of $4,438 per person reflects the comprehensive nature of this tour. With accommodation, breakfast, entrance fees, and guided tours included, you’re paying for an all-in package that takes the stress out of planning. This makes it excellent value for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of logistics.

Transportation is by air-conditioned coach, which is comfortable for the long drives and scenic routes. The small group size (up to 8) is a real advantage, offering personalized attention and opportunities for spontaneous conversations with your guide, who is fluent in English and well-versed in the region’s history.

While the itinerary is packed, it’s paced reasonably well, balancing sightseeing with leisure. Expect some moderate walking, especially through historic towns with cobblestone streets—so comfortable shoes are a must.

What’s Missing?

Given that meals outside breakfast are not included, you’ll need to budget for lunches and dinners. Also, travelers should remember to bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, camera, and passport. The tour is flexible in starting times and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving a bit of peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who love cultural exploration, scenic drives, and off-the-beaten-path towns. It’s ideal if you want to see the Balkans’ diversity in a relatively short period, with a focus on history and authentic local life. The small group setting is perfect for those who appreciate a more intimate atmosphere and personal interactions with guides.

It’s also a good choice if you’re comfortable with some moderate walking and want a value-packed experience with all logistics taken care of. If a relaxed island stay or city-focused city break is more your style, you might prefer a more specialized or shorter tour.

The Sum Up

This 14-day Balkans tour provides a thorough, engaging look at a region full of contrasts. From ancient towns and war-torn cities to stunning coastlines and vibrant capitals, it offers a well-rounded experience that balances cultural discovery, natural beauty, and historical insight. The inclusion of key sites, scenic stops like Sveti Stefan and Meteora, and the small group approach make it both personal and enriching.

For travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour delivers a lot of value—though it does require some walking and a willingness to keep a brisk pace. Whether ending in Athens or Corfu, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for the Balkans’ diversity and a camera full of memorable views.

If you’re drawn to authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and a comprehensive journey through Southeast Europe, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for adventure-lovers who want to enjoy history, culture, and natural beauty across a manageable timeframe.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $4,438 price covers the 14-day guided tour, accommodation, breakfast, entrance fees to all sites, and transportation by air-conditioned coach.

Can I end the tour in Athens or Corfu?
Yes, the tour concludes with a transfer to either Athens or Corfu, offering flexibility based on your travel plans.

Are meals besides breakfast included?
No, lunches and dinners are not included, so you will need to budget additionally for meals during the trip.

What kind of group size should I expect?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, making it intimate and allowing for personalized attention from your guide.

Is the itinerary suitable for all fitness levels?
While most activities involve some moderate walking, the pace is generally manageable. Be prepared for walking on cobbled streets and hills.

Do I need a visa or special documents?
Travel documents such as a passport or ID are needed; a copy is accepted. Check specific entry requirements for each country before travel.

How flexible are the starting times?
The tour offers flexibility with departure times, and you can reserve and pay later, providing some peace of mind.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, camera, and your passport or ID are recommended essentials for this journey.