Visit: Athens, Kalambaka, Ohrid, Tirana, Kolasin, Durmitor, Budva
Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Athens. (O)
See the highlights of Athens this morning on a sightseeing tour. This cosmopolitan and bustling capital city is set amidst reminders of a long and glorious past: graceful temples, centuries-old monasteries, and ornate Byzantine churches. Visit the immortal Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Erectheion with the Porch of the Maidens, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Wingless Victory. Below the Acropolis lies the ancient Agora and the Theaters of Dionysus and Herodus Atticus. Your afternoon and evening are free. Overnight in Athens. (B)
Your first stop this morning is Delphi, where the famous oracle foretold the destiny of men. The Temple of Apollo, in which the oracle functioned, was built in the 6th century B.C. Also see the Sacred Way, the Stadium and the Castilian Fountain, where pilgrims cleansed themselves in preparation for consulting the oracle. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi, which contains an impressive collection of finds from the site, including the beautiful "Bronze Charioteer," before continuing to Kalambaka. Overnight in Kalambaka. (B)
After breakfast, admire the fantastic landscapes of Meteora (payment on spot), known as "the rocks that fell from the sky." Here monks built their rock-top monasteries, far away from civilization. Of the 13 large and 20 small monasteries and hermit’s cells, only 4 are now active. The most important is Megalo or Great Meteoro, of peculiar architecture with its tall and intricate dome, 12 sides and fine frescoes. Continue across the border to Macedonia, and on to Ohrid. Overnight in Ohrid. (B)
The lakeside resort of Ohrid is an important cultural and spiritual center, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start your morning sightseeing tour with a walk through the cobblestone streets of the old town. Visit the Cathedral of St. Sofia, containing some magnificent frescoes from the 10th century. In the early afternoon, travel to Tirana, the capital of Albania. Overnight in Tirana. (B)
On a morning sightseeing tour, see the Skanderbeg Square, the Mosque of Et’hem Bey, the Clock Tower, and the statue of G.K. Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero; the Palace of Culture, built with Soviet assistance; and the National History Museum, with a mosaic on its facade portraying Albanian history. Your afternoon is free to continue exploring on your own, shop, or just relax. Overnight in Tirana. (B)
Depart Tirana to Shkodra, ancient Illyrian capital, cultural centre of the region and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Drive by the ruins of mythical Rozafa Castle a former Illyrian stronghold situated atop a rocky hill. Continue to Montenegro and visit without local guide the largest medieval Orthodox monument in Montenegro, Moraca Monastery. On to spa town & mountain resort of Kolasin offering beautiful views of the surrounding Bjelasica, Sinjajevina, and Komovi peaks. Overnight in Kolasin. (B)
After breakfast, depart to Durmitor National Park, characterized by high peaks, glittering glacial lakes, abundant forests and deep gorges, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Tara River zigzags its way through the park, creating one of the deepest gorges in Europe. Stop at Biogradsko one of the most picturesque lakes in the Balkan Peninsula. Overnight in Kolasin. (B)
Travel to Cetinje, historical capital of Montenegro, a treasure of Montenegrin cultural and historical heritage, located at the foot of Mount Lovcen. After visit of Cetinje Museum continue to Budva, country’s most visited destination. Overnight in Budva. (B)
Drive to medieval town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover its ancient monuments and medieval architecture. Continue to charming town of Perast and enjoy walk in Venice-like architecture of this beautiful village. Overnight in Budva. (B)
Transfer to Tivat/Podgorica/Dubrovnik airport or train or bus station. (B)
Inclusion
10 nights in double or twin bedded or single rooms in your select hotels or similar; hotel taxes
10 breakfasts
Arrival and departure transfers
Entrances as per program when indicated in bold letters
Transfers with air-conditioned car or van
Touring with air-conditioned car or van from hotel in Athens on day 03 till hotel in Budva on day 10
English speaking local guides: Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Ohrid, Tirana, Skhodra
Sightseeing as per program with English speaking guide from Skhodra on day day 07 till Budva hotel on day 10
Exclusion
International airfares
Optional activities
Other meals, drinks, tips and other personal expenses or services not specified on the program
Personal equipment
Travel insurance
Gratuities
Voluntary tips for guides or drivers
Travel and medical insurance
Any items not mentioned as included
Note
Hotel Accommodation:
ATHENS hotel type Titania 4* or similar
KALAMBAKA hotel type Amalia 4* or similar
OHRID hotel type Park Lakeside 4* or similar
TIRANA hotel type International 4* or similar
KOLASIN hotel type Bianca 4* or similar
DURMITOR hotel type Polar Star 4* or similar
BUDVA: hotel type Budva / Bracera 4* or similar
