24 Day Ancient Greece, Croatia & Albania Small Group Tour

Welcome to Croatia! Upon your arrival in Zagreb, you'll be transferred to the hotel, where a welcome drink awaits to mark the beginning of your adventure. Once you've settled in, enjoy a warm welcome dinner as you start to soak in the excitement of the journey ahead. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, set out on a guided walking tour of Zagreb led by an expert English-speaking guide. As we explore the charming, fortified Upper Town, we'll encounter some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including St. Mark's Church with its striking multicolored tiled roof, the Parliament building, the government palace, and a number of beautifully preserved historic structures. Following the tour, the journey continues to the scenic shores of Kvarner Bay, arriving in Opatija—a town often regarded as the birthplace of Croatian tourism. Once a beloved retreat of the Habsburgs and European aristocracy, Opatija was frequented by cultural figures such as Mahler, Chekhov, and Isadora Duncan. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in this elegant coastal town. Inspiring Highlights Zagreb Walking Tour Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Today offers a chance to explore the enchanting Istrian peninsula, beginning with a visit to the ancient city of Pula, home to a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre that has stood for over 2,000 years. From there, we'll continue to Rovinj—a coastal gem often considered the most beautiful town in Istria and a long-time muse for artists and creatives. After some free time to wander Rovinj's charming streets and soak in its vibrant atmosphere, the journey takes us inland to the hilltop town of Motovun. Here, you'll have the opportunity to sample one of Istria's most celebrated culinary delights: the truffle. The day concludes with a return to Opatija for an overnight stay. Inspiring Highlights Istria Peninsula Highlights: Pula, Rovinj and Motovun Pula Amphitheatre Truffle Tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

An early morning departure sets the tone for an unforgettable day as we journey to Plitvice Lakes National Park—Croatia's oldest and most renowned national park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the mountainous region of Lika, this natural wonder features a breathtaking network of 16 interconnected lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forested trails. Most of the park is explored on foot, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. A scenic boat ride across the emerald-green waters of Lake Kozjak adds to the experience, immersing you in the park's unique turquoise beauty. The visit lasts approximately three hours and offers countless moments of awe and reflection. Afterwards, we continue on to the historic coastal city of Zadar, where dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant, followed by an overnight stay. Inspiring Highlights Plitvice Lakes - UNESCO World Heritage Site Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

After breakfast and check-out from the hotel, the day begins with a guided exploration of Zadar—a city steeped in history and cultural richness. Highlights include the impressive Roman Forum, dating back to the 1st century AD, and the 9th-century Church of St. Donatus, a symbol of early medieval architecture. A true modern marvel awaits at the Zadar Sea Organ, an innovative installation that transforms the movement of the sea into hauntingly beautiful music—an experience unique to this coastal town. From Zadar's Old Town, we venture into the Dalmatian hinterland for a visit to a local winery. Here, you'll enjoy a tasting of authentic Dalmatian wines alongside refined international cuvées, paired with Croatian-style tapas—a delicious way to experience the region's culinary traditions. The day concludes with a scenic drive to Split, where we'll settle in for the night. Inspiring Highlights Guided tour of Zadar Wine and Croatian Tapas Tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today offers a rich exploration of Split, a city shaped by seventeen centuries of continuous change. Here, history is ever-present—where 18th-century homes blend seamlessly with ancient Roman walls, and fourth-century chambers have evolved into modern-day apartments. At the heart of this layered urban tapestry stands Diocletian's Palace, built by the Roman emperor as his retirement residence in the early 4th century. This living monument remains the centerpiece of Split's old town and a remarkable symbol of the city's enduring legacy. Following our time in Split, we'll journey to the nearby town of Trogir for a special lunch featuring a traditional Dalmatian dish, served at the charming Tragos restaurant. Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts over 2,300 years of uninterrupted urban history, shaped by Greek, Roman, and Venetian influences. With its wealth of palaces, churches, towers, and a fortress all clustered on a small island, Trogir is often called a “floating museum”—a fitting description for a town that so beautifully preserves its storied past. Inspiring Highlights Diocletian Palace Trogir Visit - UNESCO World Heritage Site Traditional Dalmatian Lunch Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

As we make our way to Dubrovnik, our journey will make a stop near the historic town of Ston, where we'll visit a family-run winery renowned for producing “Plavac Mali,” a grape variety closely related to Zinfandel. This vineyard carries a rich heritage, with traditional winemaking techniques passed down through generations—each bottle telling a story of care, legacy, and deep connection to the land. During our visit, we'll enjoy a guided wine presentation that offers insight into the distinctive characteristics of the Plavac Mali grape and the winemaking process itself. The tasting will be accompanied by a selection of local snacks, allowing us to savour the full expression of the region's flavors. We then continue on to Dubrovnik, where we'll arrive in time for dinner and settle in for the night. Inspiring Highlights Winery visit with tasting and local snacks Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Step back in time as we explore the magnificent old city of Dubrovnik, a place where history and heritage have been remarkably preserved. Completed in the 13th century, the city's layout has remained largely unchanged, with its impressive medieval ramparts still fully enclosing the Old Town. Entry is through one of two historic gates, and as you cross the stone bridge beneath the gaze of Saint Blaise—Dubrovnik's revered patron—you'll be immersed in the city's enduring spirit. Our guided walk along the Stradun, the gleaming stone-paved promenade at the heart of the Old Town, will be complemented by a visit to the Franciscan Church and Monastery. This serene complex is home to one of the oldest functioning pharmacies in Europe, as well as an elegant cloister and rich collection of religious art—offering a quiet moment of reflection amid the city's lively streets. After the tour, enjoy some free time to explore Dubrovnik at your own pace—whether that's visiting more historical landmarks, relaxing at a café, or taking in the views from the city walls. Inspiring Highlights Guided tour of Dubrovnik Franciscan Church and Monastery

After breakfast, it's time to farewell Croatia as you transfer to Dubrovnik Airport for your flight to Greece. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, make your own way to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure—perhaps take a stroll through the lively streets of Athens and soak up the city's rich history, charming neighborhoods, and vibrant culture, a perfect introduction to your Greek adventure. Special Information Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (50 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed (additional fees are payable directly to the airline).

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, preparing you for an exciting exploration of Athens, a city where ancient wonders blend seamlessly with modern vibrancy. Today's itinerary is designed to immerse you in the heart of Greek history and culture, offering a balance of guided sightseeing and moments to pause and reflect on the city's enduring legacy. Your journey begins with a panoramic tour of Athens, passing iconic landmarks such as Hadrian's Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. These architectural marvels stand as testaments to the grandeur of ancient Greece and the influence of Roman times. As the tour continues admire the Panathenaic Stadium, the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games, as you make your way towards the legendary Acropolis. When you arrive at the Acropolis with an entry ticket in hand, you'll explore the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the iconic Parthenon, marveling at their architectural brilliance and the stories they tell. Following this, delve deeper into the city's history with a visit to the Acropolis Museum, where artifacts and exhibits bring the ancient world to life. After the tour, return to your hotel to relax and unwind, with the evening at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Hadrien's Arch Temple of Olympian Zeus Panathenaic Stadium Acropolis Acropolis Museum

Begin your day with an early departure from Athens, traveling along the scenic coastal road toward the Corinth Canal. Here, enjoy a brief stop to marvel at this engineering marvel, which connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas and offers stunning views of its steep, narrow cliffs. Continuing your journey, visit the renowned Theatre of Epidaurus, celebrated for its exceptional acoustics and timeless architectural elegance. Standing in this ancient amphitheater, imagine the performances and gatherings that brought the community together thousands of years ago. From there, proceed to the picturesque town of Nafplion, Greece's first capital, where you'll pause briefly to take in its charming streets, neoclassical architecture, and captivating waterfront views. After Nafplion, journey through the Central Peloponnese, passing the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis en route to Olympia. Arrive and check into your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the next day's exploration of this historic area. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner at the hotel with the group. Inspiring Highlights Corinth Canal Theatre of Epidauros Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

The day begins with an unforgettable visit to the archaeological sites of Olympia, a cornerstone of ancient Greek history and the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here, you will explore the Temple of Olympian Zeus, where the magnificent statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. Wander through the ancient stadium, imagining the energy and excitement of the games that united Greek city-states in peaceful competition. A visit to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia completes the experience, offering insight into the artifacts and stories that bring this ancient site to life. Leaving Olympia, your journey continues through the verdant plains of Eliad and Achaia, showcasing Greece's natural beauty. En route, marvel at the engineering triumph of the Rion-Antirion Bridge, a stunning structure that spans the Corinthian Bay. As you cross this modern masterpiece, take a moment to reflect on the contrast between Greece's ancient heritage and its contemporary achievements. Arriving in Delphi, known as the "Navel of the Earth" in ancient mythology, you will check into your hotel, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Parnassus. After settling in, enjoy a delicious included dinner at the hotel. The evening is yours to relax, soak in the serene surroundings, and prepare for the next day's exploration of Delphi's sacred sites. Inspiring Highlights Temple of Olympian Zeus Archaeological Museum of Olympia Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Begin the day by exploring the renowned Archaeological Site and Museum of Delphi, a place steeped in ancient mythology and spiritual significance. Walk among the ruins of this sacred sanctuary, where pilgrims once sought the wisdom of the Oracle of Apollo. The site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, adding to its mystique and grandeur. In the museum, admire artifacts that tell the story of Delphi's rich history, including the exquisite bronze statue of the Charioteer, a masterpiece of ancient Greek art dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos of Gela. Following your visit, depart Delphi and journey toward Kalambaka, a picturesque town nestled at the base of the Meteora rock formations. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind in preparation for the wonders to come. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the day's exploration of one of Greece's most iconic and spiritual landmarks. Inspiring Highlights Archaeological Site and Museum of Delphi Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Begin the day with a visit to the awe-inspiring rock formations of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic landscapes and spiritual significance. Perched atop these towering cliffs are centuries-old monasteries that seem to defy gravity. You'll have the opportunity to visit two of these monasteries, each offering a glimpse into the monastic life and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. After the visit, embark on a scenic drive back to Athens, passing through the charming towns Lamia and Thermopylae. Along the way, pause for a photo stop at the iconic Leonidas Monument, commemorating the heroism of King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans at the Battle of Thermopylae. Arrive in Athens Riviera early in the evening and check into your hotel, located in a serene beach town just outside the city. Inspiring Highlights Meteora Rock Formations Monasteries Visits Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. A modest dress code is required for entry to the Monasteries. Men should wear trousers and shirts with sleeves, women should wear long skirts. Visiting the monasteries involves climbing a considerable number of steps and walking.

Spend the day soaking up the serene beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the Athens Riviera, a stunning coastal stretch just outside the bustling city. This is your chance to unwind at your own pace, enjoying the tranquil seaside vibes and picturesque surroundings. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenades, where you'll find inviting cafes, boutique shops, and scenic views of the shimmering Aegean Sea. For those looking to relax, nearby sandy beaches like Vouliagmeni or Glyfada offer a perfect spot to sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the gentle sound of the waves. If you're in the mood for exploration, consider visiting Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal lake nestled amid lush greenery, renowned for its healing waters and peaceful ambiance. Alternatively, food enthusiasts may wish to indulge in a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the Riviera's renowned tavernas, savoring the flavors of fresh, local ingredients. As the day winds down, the Riviera's stunning sunset views provide the perfect opportunity to reflect on your journey through Greece and savor the tranquility of this enchanting destination.

This morning after breakfast, make your own way to Athens International Airport for your flight to Tirana. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. If early check-in is unavailable, you may leave your luggage and relax before meeting your guide. In the early afternoon, we gather for a short welcome meeting to meet fellow travellers and review the journey ahead. Meeting time will be confirmed on arrival based on fellow travellers arrival times (approx 2-3pm.) We then set out on a guided walk through the city's historic and cultural highlights. Explore Skanderbeg Square, visit the elegant Et'hem Bey Mosque, and gain insight into Albania's communist past at Bunk'Art 2. Stroll along the main boulevard, pass the Pyramid of Tirana, and discover Blloku, once reserved for the communist elite and now one of the city's trendiest districts. After returning to the hotel to refresh, we gather in the evening for a Welcome Dinner, celebrating the beginning of our Albanian adventure over authentic local cuisine. Inspiring Highlights: Skanderbeg Square Et'hem Bey Mosque Bunk'Art Special Information Arrival airport transfers in Tirana are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

The morning begins with a relaxed stroll through Tirana, soaking in the café culture and contemporary rhythm of the capital before travelling north toward Shkodër. En route, we pause in Fishte village for lunch at Mrizi i Zanave, a celebrated agritourism initiative championing Albanian slow food and sustainable farming traditions. The seasonal menu offers a refined taste of the countryside and its culinary heritage. In Shkodër, we visit the exceptional Marubi National Museum of Photography, home to a rare photographic archive capturing Albania's social and cultural evolution. We then admire the elegant 18th-century Mesi Bridge, its stone arches set against a scenic backdrop. Our final stop is the Venice Art Masks Factory, where handcrafted masks featured in Hollywood blockbuster Eyes Wide Shut , reflect a blend of tradition and global artistry. The evening is at leisure to dine independently or enjoy a relaxed stroll through Shkodër's atmospheric streets. Inspiring Highlights: Mrizi i Zanave Marubi National Museum of Photography Mesi Bridge Venice Art Masks Factory Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

This morning, we depart Shkodër and journey toward the historic hilltop town of Krujë, a powerful symbol of Albanian resilience and identity. Our first visit is to the Skanderbeg Museum, located within the walls of Krujë Castle. Dedicated to Albania's national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, the museum honours the leader who united Albanian principalities and resisted Ottoman forces for 25 years. Revered across Europe and bestowed the title Athleta Christi by Pope Calixtus III, Skanderbeg remains a defining figure in the nation's history. Afterwards, we wander through the atmospheric Old Bazaar of Kruje, where artisan workshops and traditional crafts line the cobbled street. Here, you may discover handmade souvenirs and the iconic qeleshe, the white wool skullcap traditionally worn by Albanian men. In the afternoon, we continue south to Berat, a UNESCO-listed treasure celebrated for its distinctive Ottoman architecture and cascading white houses—an elegant setting for the next chapter of our journey. Inspiring Highlights Skanderbeg Museum Kruje Castle Old Bazaar of Kruje Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Today we delve deeper into Albania's cultural and historical tapestry, beginning in the UNESCO-listed city of Berat. Within the stone walls of Berat Castle, we explore centuries of layered history, including the revered St. Mary Church. Inside, the remarkable Onufri Museum reveals a treasured collection of religious icons and manuscripts, showcasing the masterful artistry that has defined Albania's spiritual heritage. From fortress walls to fertile hills, we continue to Roshnik village for a wine and culinary experience at Alpeta Agrowinery & Vineyard. Set harmoniously within the countryside, this family-run estate invites us to enjoy a guided wine tasting accompanied by a seasonal farm-to-table lunch. An authentic expression of local terroir and tradition. In the afternoon, we travel back in time at the archaeological site of Apollonia, once a flourishing trade centre where Illyrian, Greek and Roman cultures converged. Praised by Cicero as magna urbs et gravis, Apollonia prospered under Roman rule and educated figures such as the young Augustus and General Agrippa before the rise of empire. Walking among its evocative ruins offers a powerful sense of Albania's ancient legacy. As the day draws to a close, we ascend to Llogara National Park, where mountain air and sweeping coastal vistas provide a serene setting for the evening. Inspiring Highlights: Berat Castle St. Mary Church Onufri Museum Alpeta Agrowinery & Vineyard Apollonia Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

The day begins immersed in nature, with a gentle morning walk through the fresh mountain air of Llogara. After breakfast, we set out along one of the Balkans' most spectacular coastal routes, where dramatic peaks descend toward the shimmering Ionian Sea. At Llogara Pass, sweeping vistas unfold at every turn—an unforgettable meeting of mountain and azure waters. Continuing south, we arrive at Ali Pasha Castle, a striking triangular fortress set on a scenic peninsula. Here, we uncover the story of Ali Pasha of Tepelena, one of the most influential figures of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Time is set aside to relax along the Riviera's turquoise shoreline, with the opportunity to swim or simply soak in the coastal serenity. In the afternoon, we ascend to Upper Qeparo, a timeless hilltop village offering some of Albania's most breathtaking views. Wandering its stone lanes reveals the quiet authenticity of rural life, followed by lunch at a local village restaurant. By evening, we reach Sarandë, where the seafront promenade invites a leisurely stroll. The night is yours to enjoy and explore with perhaps some fresh seafood and the gentle rhythm of the Ionian coast. Inspiring Highlights: Llogara Pass Ali Pasha Castle Upper Qeparo Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

This morning, we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, one of the most significant archaeological treasures in the Balkans. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Butrint evolved from an Illyrian settlement of the Chaonians into a Greek city, a Roman colony, and later a bishopric. Walking through its evocative ruins, spanning the Iron Age to the Middle Ages, reveals layers of civilisations that once shaped this crossroads of the Mediterranean. Beyond its ancient stones, Butrint also offers living traditions. On the waters of Lake Butrint, we embark on a mussel tour led by local guides, learning about traditional cultivation methods. The experience culminates in a tasting lunch where mussels take centre stage, complemented by fresh vegetables, homemade bread and local white wine. Continuing inland, we pause at the mesmerising Blue Eye, a crystal-clear natural spring set amid lush greenery. An unforgettable natural spectacle. By late afternoon, we arrive in Gjirokastër, another UNESCO-listed gem, celebrated for its stone houses and dramatic hillside setting. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure in this atmospheric historic town. Inspiring Highlights: Butrint Lake Butrint Blue Eye Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Today we explore the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër, famously known as the “City of Stone” and birthplace of acclaimed writer Ismail Kadare, whose novels vividly capture the mystique of this remarkable town. Our guided tour begins at Gjirokaster Castle, the Balkans' second-largest fortress. Rising above the city, its commanding walls offer sweeping views and reveal centuries of history, from medieval stronghold to museum. We then visit the beautifully preserved Skenduli House, an Ottoman-era residence providing insight into traditional domestic life. Time follows to wander through the atmospheric Gjirokaster Old Bazaar, where cobbled lanes and artisan shops echo the scenes described in Kadare's works. A traditional lunch may be enjoyed at leisure. In the afternoon, we journey to the village of Labova e Kryqit to visit the remarkable Church of Saint Mary. Dating to the 6th century, this sacred site preserves exquisite 9th–11th century Byzantine frescoes and once safeguarded a revered relic of the True Cross. The day concludes back in Gjirokastër, where you may relax or further explore the Old Bazaar at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights: Gjirokaster Castle Skenduli House Gjirokaster Old Bazaar Church of Saint Mary Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

This morning, we depart the cobbled lanes of Gjirokastër and step into the timeless rhythm of rural life in Dhoksat. Here, an authentic village experience awaits as we visit a local family and gain insight into daily traditions that have been preserved across generations. A short guided walk introduces us to the history and character of the village, before we roll up our sleeves for a hands-on cooking experience. Together, we prepare and enjoy a traditional homemade lunch—an intimate and memorable way to connect with Albania's culinary heritage. In the afternoon, we journey north toward Tirana, travelling through scenic landscapes that mark the final stretch of our adventure. This evening, we gather for a special farewell dinner—an opportunity to reflect on shared experiences, exchange photographs and stories, and celebrate the unforgettable moments of our journey through Albania. Inspiring Highlights: Dhoksat Traditional Albanian cooking experience (local family visit) Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

This morning is yours to enjoy at leisure in Tirana. Depending on your departure time, you may wish to take a final stroll through the city streets, enjoy a quiet coffee, or simply soak in the last moments of Albania's vibrant atmosphere. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. As you depart, carry with you the flavours, landscapes, and warm hospitality experienced throughout your journey. Thank you for travelling with us. We hope this Albanian adventure has left you inspired. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If you choose to extend your stay (e.g., departing after the final tour date) and have booked your additional accommodation independently, this included service will be forfeited and no refund will be issued. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.