Overview

Embark on an epic 9-day Balkan adventure from Athens to Dubrovnik, exploring ancient ruins, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant cultures across Southeastern Europe. Wander through the Acropolis, marvel at the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora, explore the historic streets of Sofia and Skopje, and soak in the coastal beauty of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor. This small group experience is designed for connection, comfort, and immersive local moments. With flights from major USA cities, curated hotels, guided experiences, select meals, and seamless transfers included, Excel Trips makes your Balkan journey effortless and unforgettable.

8 Nights 9 Days 06 Apr, 06 Apr, 06 Apr, and more
Highlights
  • Ancient Athens & Delphi Ruins
  • Meteora Monasteries
  • Cultural Capitals of Sofia & Skopje
  • Bay of Kotor & Dubrovnik Old Town
Dates and Rates
date & duration Variant price
Itinerary
Day 1

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Athens
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Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, a private transfer to the hotel is provided where you will be greeted with a warm welcome. (In case your flight is delayed, there is no reason to worry because our driver will meet you accordingly. There are no additional charges for flight delays). After checking in, enjoy some leisure time to explore Athens at your own pace. Wander through the city’s charming streets or relax and soak in the local ambiance before retiring for a restful overnight stay in the heart of Athens.

Accommodation: Athens One Smart Hotel or similar.

Day 2

Day 2: Athens City & Acropolis Tour

Athens
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Start your morning exploring the magnificent Acropolis of Athens on a guided walking tour. With your licensed local guide, you’ll visit famous landmarks such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Feel the history come alive as you walk through this ancient site. From the top of the Acropolis, enjoy stunning views of Athens and take amazing photos of the city below.

Your tour continues with a visit to the Acropolis Museum, where your guide will share fascinating stories and details about ancient Greek civilization.

Please note:

You’ll need to go to the meeting point on your own in the morning.

The tour lasts about 4 hours, and the Acropolis entrance ticket is included.

After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore Athens at your own pace.

Accommodation: Athens One Smart Hotel or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Athens City tour with Licensed local Guide

Day 3

Day 3: Athens – Delphi – Meteora (Kalabaka)

Meteora
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In the morning, private transport will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the meeting point. Board your comfortable, air-conditioned bus and travel northwest toward Delphi, enjoying the beautiful Greek countryside along the way.

Arriving around noon, you’ll explore the archaeological site of Delphi, home to the Temple of Apollo—once believed to be the center of the ancient world and famous for its oracle. After lunch, continue your journey through Central Greece, passing the towns of Lamia (with a short stop) and Trikala, before crossing the fertile Thessalian Plain to reach Kalambaka in the evening.

Kalambaka is a lovely town located at the foot of the Meteora rock formations, known for their incredible monasteries perched high on the cliffs. Before checking in at your hotel, you’ll have a short stop to shop for local souvenirs.

Accommodation: Hotel Orfeas or similar.
Meal: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel
Visit: Licensed Guided tour at Delphi. Entrance ticket to Delphi is included.
Route: Athens to Delphi 213km-Delphi Meteora 220km (Notice: This day is the longest journey of our tour)

Day 4

Day 4: Meteora (Kalabaka) to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki
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After breakfast at your hotel, visit the world-famous Meteora Monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll explore two of the most impressive monasteries, built on top of towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. Once a peaceful retreat for monks, Meteora is now one of the most inspiring and spiritual places in Greece.

After the tour, your tour leader will drop you off at Orfeas Hotel, where you’ll meet our Ajdini’s Travel guide to continue your journey to Thessaloniki.

Accommodation: Hotel Egnatia or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Monastery entrance ticket is included (Note: To enter in the monasteries, appropriate clothing is required. Ladies should not wear short skirts and must have long sleeves. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.)
Route: Meteora-Thessaloniki 228km

Day 5

Day 5: Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery

Sofia
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Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards Sofia. En route, make a significant stop at the Rila Monastery, an architectural and spiritual gem nestled in the Rila Mountains. As Bulgaria’s largest and most celebrated Eastern Orthodox monastery, Rila Monastery is renowned for its intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and serene mountain setting. Explore the monastery’s rich history and artistic treasures before continuing your journey. Upon arrival in Sofia, check in to your comfortable hotel and unwind after a day of exploration with an overnight stay in this vibrant city.

Accommodation: Best Western Terminus Hotel, Sofia
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Rila Monastery ticket is included.
Route: Thessaloniki – Rila Monastery 232km; Rila Monastery-Sofia 117km

Day 6

Day 6: Sofia to Skopje

Skopje
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After a hearty breakfast, delve into Sofia’s rich cultural heritage with a guided tour of its major landmarks. Visit the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a monumental symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and the historic St. Sofia Basilica, one of the city’s oldest churches, continue your exploration with National Art Gallery, Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, embark on a journey to another country of Balkan, capital city of North Macedonia Skopje, the bustling capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, enjoy a comprehensive city tour, discovering highlights such as the ancient Kale Fortress overlooking the city, the iconic Stone Bridge spanning the Vardar River, the lively Macedonia Square with its grand statue of Alexander the Great, and the historic Mustafa Pasha Mosque. Spend a relaxing evening at a comfortable Skopje hotel, reflecting on your day’s adventures.

Accommodation: Hotel Alexandar II or similar.
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Panoramic Sofia City Tour, Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, Skopje city tour, Vardar river, Stone bridge
Route: Sofia-Skopje 244km

Day 7

Day 7: Skopje to Tirana via Matka Canyon and Prizren

Tirana
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Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Tirana. Along the way, consider a picturesque stop at Matka Canyon, a natural wonder renowned for its dramatic landscapes and serene lake (optional 25Eur per person). Continue city Prizren another Balkan country Kosovo, a charming city in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene. exploring notable sites such as Prizren Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, the elegant Sinan Pasha Mosque, the tranquil White Drin River, and the bustling Sadrvan Square. Take some time to shop for local handicrafts and savor traditional cuisine before proceeding to Tirana, the lively another Balkan capital city of Albania. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this dynamic city.

Accommodation: Albanopolis Hotel, Tirana
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Sadrvan Square, Sinan Pasha Mosque
Route: Skopje – Prizren 105km Prizren – Tirana 180km

Day 8

Day 8: Tirana - Kotor-Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik
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Enjoy a flavorful breakfast in Tirana before departing for another Balkan countries Montenegro and Croatia to Dubrovnik. Meeting with your driver at your hotel and continue to the journey, visit the historic city of Kotor, guided by a local expert who will unveil the city’s secrets. Discover Kotor’s captivating highlights, including the medieval Castle of Kotor perched high on the city walls, the stunning Triphun Cathedral, the intriguing Archive Museum, and the renowned Wall of Shame, a testament to the city’s storied past. Kotor Bay, with its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring Kotor, relish some free time to soak in the picturesque views and local atmosphere before continuing to Dubrovnik. Arrive in Dubrovnik, check in at your hotel, and spend the night in this enchanting city, known for its stunning old town and crystal-clear waters.

Accommodation: Ivka Hotel, Dubrovnik
Meal: Daily Breakfast
Visit: Kotor city tour
Route: Tirana-Kotor 201km; Kotor-Dubrovnik 92km
Important Notice: Because of seasonal crowds, there may be a delay in arrival times at the hotel.

Day 9

Day 9: Dubrovnik - End of the tour

Dubrovnik
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fter a hearty breakfast in Dubrovnik, the tour concludes.

See you on your next adventure with Excel Trips. 

Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • International flights from the mentioned cities. 
  • Stay in 4 -star hotels with breakfast 
  • A local guided tours in Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Skopje and Kotor covering iconic landmarks
  • Luxurious bus journey for the specified routes, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Insurance not included but highly recommended. 
  • Optional tours
  • Tips for guide and drivers. 
Route Map
Athens to Dubrovnik Adventure - Route mapAthens to Dubrovnik Adventure - Route map
FAQs

What destinations and highlights are covered?

You’ll visit Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki, Sofia, Skopje, Prizren, Kotor and finish in Dubrovnik, exploring ancient ruins, cliff-top monasteries, vibrant capitals, medieval old towns, and UNESCO sites. 

How large is the group and what’s the minimum required to operate?

This small-group experience accommodates 3–12 travelers, and requires a minimum of 3 participants to run.

Are flights included?

Yes, international flights from the mentioned cities are included in the tour price. If you do not see your preferred airport, please reach out to us via email or phone and we will happily give you the custom quote. 

Are entrance fees and optional activities covered?

Some major entrance tickets (like Delphi and Meteora) are included, but additional museum fees, optional excursions, lunches, city taxes, and airport transfers are not included and are paid separately.