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Athens to Rome: Mediterranean Marvels in 14 Days

Not Rated

Duration

14

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

8 people

Languages

___

Overview

Number of PersonsPrice / Person
Group Price 8+ Pax2629 €
Group Price 2-7 Pax3289 €
Solo Traveler Price6249 €

Join this tour through Mediterranean marvels of Greece, Albania , North Macedonia and Italy from Athens to Rome. Embark on this enchanting tour to experience the sunset in Meteora and admire the beauty of Ohrid Lake, immerse yourself in the lively capital of Albania, Tirana, drive through the scenic Amalfi Coast, and experience the ancient city of Rome. Visit the UNESCO sites of Kalabaka, Gjirokaster, Berat, Ohrid, and Alberobello. This journey through the Mediterranean Marvels of Greece, Albania, North Macedonia, and Italy promises a delightful blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and urban exploration.

Important information:

* All participants are responsible for having their own health/travel insurance.

*Please ensure you bring your passport or travel document with you during the trip.

*Kindly note that visa requirements are the responsibility of each traveler and Choose Balkans cannot advise on different requirements or restrictions.

* Single Supplement: To guarantee tour departure even for one participant we require a single supplement. If other participants join this tour, you will be refunded 50% of the single supplement amount  1480 Euros and your room occupancy will still be private. We organize small groups up to 8 pax. Please contact us if you are a larger group of participants for a quotation.

* Please note that prices are calculated on double/twin/triple/quadruple room occupancy in 3 star hotel accommodation.

* Single room occupancy is possible on 75 Euros extra charge per night per person in 3 star hotel accommodation.

* Hotel upgrade is possible, please enquire within.

* Children pricing: Age 0 – 1.99 Free of charge; Age 2+ full fare.

* Choose Balkans reserves the rights to add other participants in and during the tour program. If you are interested in a private tour, please contact us for a quotation.

* Private tour is possible at an additional 630 Euros/person.

* Tour’s schedule or itinerary may be affected/adopted due to; weather, Acts of God, labour strikes, bank holidays, site temporary closure/renovation or other external forces outside the Company’s control.

* On request this tour may also depart from other cities of Greece or neighboring countries such as Albania, Kosovo, N. Macedonia or Italy. Please contact us for more information on the extra costs.

* Please note that Choose Balkans needs to receive the net (full) quoted amount. Transaction and payment fees are on the sender (you in this case). We will notify you with a print screen of the amount received at our account as soon as we receive your down payment.

* Please note that Credit/Debit card payments are possible at our office in Tirana and apply a 5% bank commission.

* If you confirm to book this tour or any other service offered by Choose Balkans, via Choose Balkans official channels; email/facebook/whatsapp/phonecall or any other form of communication it means that you have read and agreed to the terms &conditions. 

https://choosebalkans.com/terms-conditions-tours/

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HIGHLIGHTS

  • Monasteries of Meteora
  • Meteora in Kalabaka
  • Ioannina Castel
  • Ioannina Old Town
  • The polyphonic festival stage inside the castle in Gjirokaster
  • Medieval bazaar in Gjirokaster
  • Zekate or Skenduli preserved house
  • The old city Gjirokaster
  • The fortress (Kalaja e Gjirokastres)
  • Xhamia e Beqarit – Bachelor’s Mosque in Berat
  • The Onufri Museum in Berat
  • “Ura e Gorrices” – Gorrica Bridge in Berat
  • Gorica neighbourhood in Berat
  • Mangalem neighbourhood in Berat
  • Fortress of Berat
  • Drilon National Park
  • Tushemisht
  • St. Naum Monastery
  • The ruins of Ohrid Amphitheater
  • Ohrid bazaar and shopping area
  • Mosque Halveti Hayati Tekke in Ohrid
  • Viewpoint of St. John at Kaneo
  • Samoils Fortress Ohrid
  • Bunk’Art in Tirana
  • Local Neighbourhoods
  • Bicycle Bazaar
  • New Bazaar
  • Çam Bazaar
  • Local fresh vegetables market
  • Skanderbeg square in Tirana
  • Vollga in Durres
  • Durres Amphitheatre
  • Durres City
  • Bari Old Town
  • Rione Monti
  • Alberobello
  • Matera
  • Amalfi Coast
  • Quartieri Spagnoli in Naples
  • Galleria Umberto I in Naples
  • Piazza del Plebiscito in Naples
  • Naples
  • Rome
  • Trastevere in Rome
  • Local Markets of Rome (Trastevere neigorhood)

Itinerary

Day 1 Pickup in Athens (Greece) – Delphi – Meteora (Kalabaka)
Day 1 Pickup in Athens (Greece) – Delphi – Meteora (Kalabaka)

After having experienced the capital of Greece and cultural capital of Europe, Athens (by yourself), our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Athens. We will begin this amazing journey by driving towards Delphi, UNESCO world heritage site. This ancient Greek archaeological site is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world, including multiple monuments such as the Temple of Apollo, the Castallian Fountain and the Large Sphynx of Naxos. You will be astonished by Treasury of the Athenians, the Theatre, the Stadium and the Museum with the famous statue of Antinoos and the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dated from 475 B.C. After we will drive towards Meteora, also part of UNESCO world heritage dating back in the 14th – 15th century. The monasteries are built on top of the spectacular rock formations, creating a beautiful and impressive sight. Get ready to witness one of the best and stunning sunsets you have ever experienced. As the sun continues to sink, the sky above Meteora is painted with a vivid array of colors. Truly, one in a lifetime experience. Overnight in Kalabaka.

Day 2 Meteora – Ioannina – Gjirokaster (Albania)
Day 2 Meteora – Ioannina – Gjirokaster (Albania)

Our first destination for today would be Ioannina, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes. As we wander through the cobbled streets of the old town, you'll be transported back in time. The remains of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras are evident in the architecture, with ancient walls and charming houses. Our next stop will be the imposing Ioannina Castle, which dates back to the Byzantine era. Within the castle walls, we'll find a labyrinthine network of narrow streets and historic buildings. As we wander through the vibrant streets, you'll encounter charming cafes, inviting you to savor traditional Greek cuisine and local delicacies. Have some free time to stroll through the old town of Ioannina. In the afternoon we drive towards the “Stone City”, Gjirokaster. Overnight in Gjirokaster (Albania)

Day 3 Day tour of Gjirokaster
Day 3 Day tour of Gjirokaster

Today we will visit Gjirokaster, also known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage is situated in Southern Albania on the eastern side of mountain “Mali i Gjere”. Gjirokastra resembles a fortified city where every single house is like a small fortress. The origin of the city starts with the castle of Gjirokastra, built in IV century A.D., and is considered as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. Every five years Gjirokastra becomes the capital of the Albanian folklore and traditional music, where passionate folklore ensembles gather in the “stone city” and perform their traditional music, dances and show off their costumes. Right before entering the castle of Gjirokastra you would have to pass by the medieval bazar. The atmospheric old town cascading down in graceful hill crammed with beautiful narrowed stone decorated streets, where you will be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. We will visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where everything is totally original and authentic. Overnight in Gjirokaster.

Day 4 Gjirokaster – Berat
Day 4 Gjirokaster – Berat

Our next destination after breakfast is Berat, known as the town of 1001 windows, part of UNESCO world heritage. Walking through the narrowed stone streets offers a fantastic view of the medieval old houses, with windows that seem to stand on top of each other. The city’s life began in the 6th-5th century B.C. as an Illyrian settlement. Later, in the 3rd century B.C., it was turned into a castle city known as Antipatrea. Uniquely today, residents still live inside of the castle walls. Berat has it all; a beautiful medieval castle, ancient churches and mosques, a lively lower town consisting of grand old houses draped on steep hillsides, an old stone bridge, great museums and remains from the communist era in Albania. Berat is also known as the birthplace of Onufri, the famous painter of churches all-over the Balkans, distinguished for creating a specific reddish colour still difficult to imitate. We will continue our tour and visit the Gorica Neighbourhood. Overnight in Berat

Day 5 Berat – Drilon – Tushemisht (Albania) – St. Naum (N. Macedonia) – Ohrid
Day 5 Berat – Drilon – Tushemisht (Albania) – St. Naum (N. Macedonia) – Ohrid

Today we will cross border towards North Macedonia but not before making a stop at the national park of Drilon. Drilon waters springs form a small lake, surrounded by beautiful greenery that makes a unique oasis of beauty and tranquility. The weeping willow trees by the lake's shoreline creates a soothing ambiance, inviting travelers to relax and absorb the beauty of the park. Next, we will stop in Tushemisht a hidden gem that offers visitors a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
Later we will cross border towards North Macedonia and our first stop will be St Naum. The monastery of St. Naum carries the name of a holy place. It is situated right at the source of River Crni Drim, which flows through Lake Ohrid. This monastery complex is part of the National Park Galicica and belongs to one of the strictly protected areas. Crystal clear, spring water reflects both the surrounding greenery and the mountain peaks in the background. Overnight in Ohird.

Day 6 Ohrid (N. Macedonia) – Tirana (Albania)
Day 6 Ohrid (N. Macedonia) – Tirana (Albania)

Today we will visit Ohrid, one of the most seductive destinations in N. Macedonia, indicated as one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. Ohrid city and Ohrid Lake are part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1980. Ohrid Lake and its surroundings where inhabited by the Illyrian Tribe of Enkeleys. The Lake was named by the Romans as “Lyhnidas” (the Light Lake). Our tour continues to the city of Ohrid (UNESCO world heritage) an important center of Orthodoxy. We will continue our tour and visit the famous view point of church of St. John, the church of St. Nicolas and the mosque Halveti Hayati Tekke. Ohrid became an important centre for the Orthodox believers during the Byzantine Empire and is famous for its 365 Orthodox churches, said to have one church for each day of the year. During the Ottoman Empire the city grew on the hills and surrounding areas by the lake. Today the city is famous for its architecture, the churches, the castle on top of the city, the amphitheater, the beautiful view of the lake surrounded by mountains and the pearls from the lake. After this amazing day spent by Lake Ohrid we drive toward Tirana, the capital of Albania. Overnight in Tirana.

Day 7 Local food & walking tour of Tirana
Day 7 Local food & walking tour of Tirana

Today we will discover Tirana, the capital of Albania. Meet with your local companion, and enjoy a unique experience in the city while learning more about the city's culinary treasures.
Our first stop will be at a small local place that only locals know how to find. Here we will have the opportunity to try Byrek and have breakfast like a local. The famous traditional Albanian food is dough with all kinds of filling such as cheese, meat or spinach. The journey then leads towards Çam bazaar, founded by the Albanian Çam community, who originally came from an area called Çameria in today’s North-Western Greece. Here you can buy all kinds of goods from clothes to kitchen equipment and bargain with the sellers for a cheaper price. With your local companion by your side, you’ll skip past the tourist traps and discover the city’s culinary highlights in some of our favorite local neighborhoods, where you'll have the opportunity to savor a traditional dessert at an authentic pastry. We will have an insight into the hidden alleyways and bustling street markets of Tirana, where dozens of street hawkers sell fresh vegetables and fruits. After walking through the busy streets, we'll introduce you to the country's rich coffee culture. We will join locals at a cozy café and taste traditional "Albanian coffee". The tour will continue through the charming neighborhoods of Tirana; observe the daily lives of the city's residents, admire colorful buildings, and get a feel for the authentic atmosphere. We will visit the so-called Bicycle bazaar, where you can find everything, from second hand clothes to second hand furniture. The next stop of our local adventure takes us to the New Bazaar, where an array of culinary delights awaits us. We will try the traditional Albanian lunch – "Qofte" (meatballs) grilled to perfection and paired with freshly baked bread. Vegetarians can enjoy freshly baked bread with Albanian Gjize (cottage cheese).
To wash it all down, we will also taste some Albanian Raki. As we Albanians say, there is nothing that Raki can’t fix!
Our last stop will be BUNKART, one of the most interesting museums in Tirana. Initially designed as a nuclear bunker offering shelter to the Albanian communist supreme leader Enver Hoxha and his close party members during the cold war. The bunker was hidden to the general public until 2014, when the Albanian government decided to initiate an interesting project that converted the nuclear bunker into a museum. BUNKART is video museum exhibition dedicated to the history of the Albanian communist army and to the daily lives of Albanians during the regime. Overnight in Tirana.

Day 8 Tirana – Durres
Day 8 Tirana – Durres

Our day starts with a city tour of the of Durres, which offers a blend of ancient ruins, cultural experiences, and seaside relaxation. During 7th-6th centuries BC the Illyrians named the city Epidamnus. Because of its geographic position, in the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Durres has always been a very important city throughout the history. Known also as the center of Archaeology in Albania, it has the largest Ancient Roman – style Amphitheatre in the region. We will continue our tour towards the promenade by the seaside “Vollga”. Have a coffee while enjoining the view of the endless sea and soak up the sunshine. Not to be missed when visiting Durres is the traditional ice cream which can be found at street vendors. Overnight in Durres

Day 9 Free time Overnight Ferry /flight to Bari (Italy)
Day 9 Free time Overnight Ferry /flight to Bari (Italy)

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast. As this day is organzie as a free day consider taking a gentle walk by the seaside. After enjoining a leisure day in Durres deepening on availability and pricing the transfer from Albania to Bari (Italy) might also be organized by ferry or by plane. In the evening, we will take the ferry to Bari, Italy. Overnight in the ferry. However, the transfer from Albania to Bari might also be organized by plane. In this case, the overnight will be spent in Bari, Italy.

Day 10 Bari (Italy)
Day 10 Bari (Italy)

Today get ready to explore the city of Bari, the capital of the Apulia region wich offers a combination of rich of history, culture, and local flavor. We will explore the city of Bari, known for its historic Bari Vecchia (Old Town), beautiful seafront, and delicious cuisine. You will have some free time to explore Bari and wander through its narrow, winding streets, where you'll encounter charming medieval architecture and lively local life. Do not miss a walk to Lungomare (seaside promenade) for a leisurely walk along the coast. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and beautiful views of the Adriatic. Overnight in Bari

Day 11 Bari – Alberobello – Matera – Salerno
Day 11 Bari – Alberobello – Matera – Salerno

We set out from Bari and journey towards the enchanting town of Alberobello, known as the "city of Trulli." This fairy-tale town, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see when visiting the Puglia region. Alberobello’s historic center is a charming maze of streets lined with unique Trulli houses (stone huts). We will visit the Rione Monti quarter, which is perched on a small hill and features over 1,000 Trulli—remarkable for its almost exclusive use of this traditional building style. You’ll have time to wander around and soak in the magic of Alberobello. Enjoy a meal at a local Trulli restaurant, savoring the region’s delicious cuisine, and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir from one of the local shops to remember your visit.
After having explore the city of Trulli, we will drive towards the fascinating Basilicata region, and visit Matera. You might recognize this historic town from the latest James Bond film, No Time to Die. Matera is renowned for its Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising an intricate network of ancient cave dwellings. Upon arrival, we’ll head to Piazza Vittorio Veneto, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through this picturesque square and take in the stunning views of the city. After exploring Matera, we’ll drive towards Salerno. Overnight near Salerno

Day 12 Salerno – Amalfi Cost – Naples
Day 12 Salerno – Amalfi Cost – Naples

After brekfast, get ready to expereince one of the most scenic drives in the world reaching Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO listed site comprised of towns and village beaches. One look at the Amalfi Coast and you may believe that you've found heaven on earth. Its high cliffs, enchanting coves, small bays and terraces with citrus fruits, vines and olive trees, make it one of the most popular destinations in the world. You will be amazed by the spectacular strip of coastline with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea to one side and the peaks of the Lattari Mountains to the other. Overnight in Naples.

Day 13 Naples – Rome
Day 13 Naples – Rome

Today we will explore the vibrant city of Naples, the third-largest city in Italy. Situated along a lovely bay, Naples is known for its chaotic charm, narrow streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The town is full or Art, History, Music and Culture. Our first stop will be the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, one of the largest squares in Naples. You can admire the Royal Palace and the San Francesco di Paola church. Just off the Piazza del Plebiscito, we will visit the Galleria Umberto I, an impressive shopping arcade with stunning architecture. Later we will walk towards Quartieri Spagnoli, or the Spanish Quarters, is a historic and vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Naples, The Quartieri Spagnoli is home to many traditional Neapolitan restaurants and pizzerias. You can have some free time enjoy some of the best local cuisine here, including pizza, pasta, and street food. Later this day we drive towards the one and only ancient city of Rome. Overnight in Rome

Day 14 Food tour in Rome - End of the tour
Day 14 Food tour in Rome - End of the tour

Get ready to embark on a delightful food tour and explore the neighbourhood of Trastevere, known for its lively nightlife, charming streets, and hidden culinary gems.
Our tour begins at a bustling local market, where the air is filled with the irresistible aromas of fresh ingredients. At this stop, we will try all kinds of spreadable creams made of rich and unique flavors such as truffle, mushrooms and cheese. After sampling these treats, we raise a glass and toast to the day with a refreshing limoncello.
Next, we step into a charming store renowned for its selection of local products from the Norcia region. Here, we will try fresh prosciutto, ham, and salamis. The store’s warm atmosphere and the quality of the products make this stop a highlight for any food enthusiast.
Our local food tour adventure continues at a local pizzeria, where we’ll enjoy mouthwatering arancini—crispy rice balls that are a Roman specialty. We’ll then head to the next pizzeria to sample authentic Roman pizza, known for its super-crispy, thin crust. This classic pizza is simply topped with cheese, tomato, and a drizzle of fine olive oil, allowing the pure flavors to shine.
For our final stop, we’ll visit a gelateria to try authentic Italian gelato! Here, you will experience the smooth, rich textures and vibrant flavors that define this delicious and iconic Italian treat. This marks the end of this unique adventure.
Spend your last day exploring the city at your own pace. As the saying goes; "All roads lead to Rome". So here you are, at the heart of ancient Rome; take this opportunity to wander through the enchanting streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the city. Find a bustling café to savor an espresso and a Cannoli (filled pastry) while soaking in the Italian charm. Do not forget to buy some gifts and souvenirs as a memory of this amazing trip. This remarks the end of this unforgettable tour through the Mediterranean Marvels.

Included/Excluded

  • BB (Accommodation and Breakfast) for all overnights in 3 star hotels
  • Private transport provided by the company
  • Professional tour leader
  • Local food tour in Tirana (day 7)
  • Local food tour in Rome (day 14)
  • Hotel Pick up in Athens
  • Hotel drop off in Rome (day 13)
  • Entry tickets for the ‘’will be visited’’ sites
  • Tourist taxes
  • International car insurance
  • Road taxes
  • Petrol
  • Lunches, Dinners, Drinks & Snacks
  • Souvenirs
  • Personal spending
  • Everything that is not mentioned in the included
  • * Tips are not a must in Europe or the Balkans, however, our recommendation is to tip the tour leader/driver as an international practice to tip good service.

Epic journeys

BB for all overnights
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from 2,629.00€ 2,234.65€

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Member Since 2020

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[email protected]

Website

https://choosebalkans.com/

Phone

+355684400400

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