G Adventures
Classic Balkans: Bosnia & Herzegovina to Albania
Classic Balkans: Bosnia & Herzegovina to Albania
Get ready for a 20-day adventure through the Balkans, where every stop adds a new layer to what makes this region so special. Collect three new passport stamps while wandering through an ancient Ottoman stone town and an inspiring art colony, off-roading in Montenegro by 4×4, and stepping into history at the legendary Castle of Ali Pasha from The Count of Monte Cristo. Feast on a farm-to-table meal that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance, and bond with locals and fellow adventurers alike. This is the kind of trip that makes memories you’ll be talking about for years.
Highlights
Visit a 5th generation women run apiary and local farm for farm-to-table dining experience, See the spectacular Kravica and Kocuša Waterfalls, Delve into Bosnia and Herzegovina’s history in Mostar and Sarajevo, Set off on a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor and visit the old town of Perast, Spend 2 nights at eco-lodges in the mountains of Montenegro, Be immersed in Albanian culture on a hike to a shepherd outpost, Drive along the spectacular Albanian Riviera and visit the Ali Pasha Castle
Accommodation
Hotels (17 nts), Eco Lodge (2 nts).
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Group Size Notes
Max 16, avg 12.
Meals Included
19 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
What’s Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment – Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Trebinje Market Tour, Trebinje
Your Local Living Moment: Apiary Visit, Trebinje
Your Local Living Moment: Cheese Making Farm Visit, Trebinje
Your Foodie Moment: Sarajevo Food Tour, Sarajevo
Your Local Living Moment: Hike to a Shepherd Outpost with Lunch, Tragjas
Your Foodie Moment: Gjirokastër Winery Visit and Light Dinner, Gjirokastër. Orientation walk in Trebinje. Visit the town of Stolac and the necropolis tombstones. See Kravica and Kocuša Waterfalls. Dinner and wine pairing at a winery in Citluk. Visit the Pocitelj Ottoman stone town. Hike to the Blagaj Fortress. Visit the Dervish Monastery. Guided walking tour of Mostar. Kotor orientation walk. Boat tour from Kotor to Perast. Budva Old Town walk. Visit Ostrog Monastery. Full-day excursion to Biogradska Gora National Park. Kolašin 4×4 Off-Road Excursion. Orientaion walk of Podgorica. Theth National Park visit. Walking tour of Shkoder. Walking tour of Kruje. Evening orientaion walk of Tirana. Tour of the Durrës archaeological site. Orientation walk of Vlorë. Visit Himare. Entrance to the Ali Pasha Castle. Visit Butrint National Archaeological Park. Walking tour of Gjirokastër. Walking tour of Berat. Farewell Dinner. Transport to/from all included activities and between all destinations.
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Mostar, a picturesque city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Renowned for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), this 16th-century Ottoman structure arches gracefully over the Neretva River, symbolizing the city’s historical role as a bridge between East and West. The bridge, which was reconstructed in 2004 after being destroyed during the Bosnian War, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for visitors. Climbing the bridge’s adjacent tower provides breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and the charming old town below source. The old bazaar, known as Bazar, is a labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with traditional shops selling handcrafts, jewelry, and local souvenirs. Here, visitors can experience the rich cultural tapestry of Mostar, from its Ottoman-era architecture to its vibrant market life. Don't miss trying some local cuisine at a traditional restaurant, where you can savor dishes like ćevapi (grilled minced meat) and burek (savory pastry) while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city source. One of Mostar’s most enchanting experiences is the nightly light show at the Old Bridge. As the sun sets, the bridge is illuminated, casting a golden glow over the Neretva River and creating a magical backdrop for evening strolls. Additionally, Mostar is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Kravica Waterfalls, where you can enjoy swimming and picnicking amidst lush greenery source. Fun fact: Mostar is famous for its daring bridge divers. Each summer, brave locals and tourists alike leap from the 21-meter-high bridge into the river below, a tradition that dates back to the 16th century. This thrilling spectacle draws crowds and adds to the city’s vibrant, adventurous spirit source. |
| Day 6 |
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where history, culture, and resilience converge. Often called the "Jerusalem of Europe," Sarajevo is a place where East meets West, reflected in its diverse architecture, which seamlessly blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. A stroll through Baščaršija, the city's historic bazaar, transports visitors back to the 15th century, with its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional shops, and the iconic Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, one of the most significant examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans. Sarajevo's history is both rich and complex, marked by moments of grandeur and tragedy. It was here that the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 set the stage for World War I. The Latin Bridge, near the site of the assassination, stands as a poignant reminder of this pivotal event in world history (Sarajevo History Museum). Visitors can delve deeper into the city's past at the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, which tells the story of the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War, offering a powerful glimpse into the resilience of the city's inhabitants during one of the longest sieges in modern history. Despite its tumultuous past, Sarajevo is a vibrant and welcoming city, renowned for its cultural festivals, diverse cuisine, and warm hospitality. The Sarajevo Film Festival, held annually in August, is one of the most prestigious film festivals in Southeast Europe, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world (Sarajevo Film Festival). For food enthusiasts, Sarajevo offers a delightful culinary experience, from the savory čevapi served in traditional aščinicas (local eateries) to the sweet baklava that reflects the city's Ottoman heritage. Fun Fact: Sarajevo hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, and remnants of this legacy can still be seen today at sites like the Bjelašnica and Jahorina mountains, which are popular for skiing and hiking. The city’s Olympic legacy is a source of pride and a reminder of Sarajevo’s place on the global stage. |
| Day 7 |
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where history, culture, and resilience converge. Often called the "Jerusalem of Europe," Sarajevo is a place where East meets West, reflected in its diverse architecture, which seamlessly blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. A stroll through Baščaršija, the city's historic bazaar, transports visitors back to the 15th century, with its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional shops, and the iconic Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, one of the most significant examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans. Sarajevo's history is both rich and complex, marked by moments of grandeur and tragedy. It was here that the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 set the stage for World War I. The Latin Bridge, near the site of the assassination, stands as a poignant reminder of this pivotal event in world history (Sarajevo History Museum). Visitors can delve deeper into the city's past at the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, which tells the story of the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War, offering a powerful glimpse into the resilience of the city's inhabitants during one of the longest sieges in modern history. Despite its tumultuous past, Sarajevo is a vibrant and welcoming city, renowned for its cultural festivals, diverse cuisine, and warm hospitality. The Sarajevo Film Festival, held annually in August, is one of the most prestigious film festivals in Southeast Europe, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world (Sarajevo Film Festival). For food enthusiasts, Sarajevo offers a delightful culinary experience, from the savory čevapi served in traditional aščinicas (local eateries) to the sweet baklava that reflects the city's Ottoman heritage. Fun Fact: Sarajevo hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, and remnants of this legacy can still be seen today at sites like the Bjelašnica and Jahorina mountains, which are popular for skiing and hiking. The city’s Olympic legacy is a source of pride and a reminder of Sarajevo’s place on the global stage. |
| Day 8 |
This coastal town in Montenegro is part of the World Heritage Site dubbed the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. It holds several summer events, such as the Summer Carnival or Bokeljska Noc. One of the most notable and charming aspects of the town is the large population of cats that have become a symbol of the city. |
| Day 9 |
This coastal town in Montenegro is part of the World Heritage Site dubbed the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. It holds several summer events, such as the Summer Carnival or Bokeljska Noc. One of the most notable and charming aspects of the town is the large population of cats that have become a symbol of the city. |
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Tirana, the lively capital of Albania, is a city that blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. At the heart of its transformation is Skanderbeg Square, a bustling hub named after the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. The square is surrounded by architectural gems like the National History Museum, whose mosaic facade depicts Albania's rich past, and the Et'hem Bey Mosque, a beautifully preserved Ottoman-era structure. For a deeper dive into local culture, visit the nearby Grand Park of Tirana, a green oasis perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride on its artificial lake. Tirana's colorful, eclectic architecture is a testament to its dynamic history and contemporary spirit. The cityscape features a striking blend of communist-era buildings and modern constructions, including the innovative Pyramid of Tirana, originally built as a museum dedicated to the former dictator Enver Hoxha and now reimagined as a cultural space. Vibrant murals and street art adorn many buildings, reflecting the city’s artistic pulse and youthful energy. The ongoing urban renewal projects are reshaping Tirana into a hub of creativity and modernity. For those interested in culinary adventures, Tirana offers a feast of traditional Albanian cuisine. Enjoy local dishes such as byrek (savory pastries filled with cheese or meat), or sample fresh seafood from the Mediterranean. The Blloku neighborhood, once an exclusive area for the communist elite, is now a trendy district filled with cafes, restaurants, and bars that provide a lively nightlife scene. Stroll through the colorful streets and experience the city’s warm hospitality and rich flavors. Fun fact: Tirana’s transformation into a colorful city was inspired by the vision of former mayor Edi Rama, who was also an artist. His efforts to brighten up the city with vibrant colors and innovative urban design have significantly contributed to Tirana's unique and welcoming atmosphere. |
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Gjirokaster is Albania's second museum city, where you can see the Fortress with its Armory Museum and the Teque Mosque and Bazaar. A city of stone, the peculiarities of its construction have led many to call it the "The Silver City". Gjirokaster is the birthplace of Enver Hoxja who was, until recently, Albania's infamous dictator. |
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Berat, a museum city, lies on both sides of the Osum River and is noted for its characteristic architecture. In the 4th century B.C. it was called Antipatrea and was the center of the Illyrian clan of Desaretes, which controlled access to the upper part of the Osum valley. This city was occupied by a number of different invaders until it fell under the Ottoman Empire. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
08/03/25 - 09/14/25 |
Starting At $4,649 |
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|
09/21/25 - 10/12/25 |
Starting At $4,349 |
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|
10/19/25 - 10/26/25 |
Starting At $4,099 |
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|
05/03/26 - 06/21/26 |
Starting At $4,349 |
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|
07/05/26 - 09/13/26 |
Starting At $4,649 |
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|
09/20/26 - 10/11/26 |
Starting At $4,349 |
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|
10/18/26 - 10/25/26 |
Starting At $4,099 |
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Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
