Intrepid Travel
Essential Southern Balkans
Essential Southern Balkans
On this nine-day journey, say hello to the Southern Balkans. Steeped in medieval history, overflowing with colourful towns and blessed with a glistening coastline, this area has so much to see and do. From Dubrovnik, you’ll head to bucket list location Corfu – a Greek island where battle zones, beaches, bunkers and bars are all rolled together. Discover Ulcinj and its medieval delights, explore the political history of Albania’s capital Tirana, lay beachside on the Albanian Riviera and try the local coffee in Gjirokaster with your new mates. Is this a whirlwind adventure or a slice of paradise?
Activities
- Tirana – Bunk’Art Bunker Exhibition Visit
- Himare – Local Boat Tour
- Gjirokaster – Zekate Tower House
- Gjirokaster – Local Guide
- Gjirokaster – Turkish Coffee ‘on the Stone’
- Gjirokaster – Gjirokaster Fortress
Highlights
- Visit the seldom-visited Gjirokaster in Albania and get your caffeine fix with a taste of the local Turkish coffee made ‘on the stone’ with a local guide.
- Head to the Albanian Riviera and float in the sparkling waters of Himare’s hidden coves. Go on a speed boat tour to Pirate’s Cave and take refreshing swims in the coastal waters. Then, kick back in Corfu – one of Greece’s famed islands.
- Discover the walled cities of Kotor and the coastal town of Ulcinj, teeming with history from a bygone era. With a local leader who knows all the hotspots and heaps of free time to wander on your own, you’re bound to find all the best bits!
- Descend into one of the world’s most peculiar contemporary art museums in Tirana – housed in an underground bunker built for the Albanian political elite.
- Walk the walls of the Old City of medieval Dubrovnik and spot the film locations that have been used in worldwide blockbusters (if you loved Game of Thrones, this place might look a little familiar).
Day 1 |
Dubrovnik, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city where history and stunning natural beauty converge. Enclosed within its ancient city walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant culture. The city's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, lined with baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and charming squares. A stroll along the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past and lively present. A must-see for visitors is the City Walls, which stretch over 2 kilometers and provide panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea and terracotta rooftops below. Walking the walls is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to marvel at the impressive fortifications and catch glimpses of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline source. The walls also featured prominently in the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," further boosting Dubrovnik’s allure as a filming location for fans of the show. Dubrovnik’s natural beauty extends beyond its historic walls. The city is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Banje Beach, located just a short walk from the Old Town, offers stunning views of the city walls and is perfect for a refreshing swim or sunbathing. For a more secluded experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Lokrum Island, a serene retreat with botanical gardens, rocky coves, and a historic monastery. Fun fact: Dubrovnik's Old Town was used as a stand-in for King’s Landing in "Game of Thrones," making it a popular destination for fans of the series. The city's well-preserved medieval ambiance and striking scenery have earned it accolades as one of the most photogenic locations in the world. |
Day 2 |
Dubrovnik, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city where history and stunning natural beauty converge. Enclosed within its ancient city walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant culture. The city's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, lined with baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and charming squares. A stroll along the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past and lively present. A must-see for visitors is the City Walls, which stretch over 2 kilometers and provide panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea and terracotta rooftops below. Walking the walls is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to marvel at the impressive fortifications and catch glimpses of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline source. The walls also featured prominently in the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," further boosting Dubrovnik’s allure as a filming location for fans of the show. Dubrovnik’s natural beauty extends beyond its historic walls. The city is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Banje Beach, located just a short walk from the Old Town, offers stunning views of the city walls and is perfect for a refreshing swim or sunbathing. For a more secluded experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Lokrum Island, a serene retreat with botanical gardens, rocky coves, and a historic monastery. Fun fact: Dubrovnik's Old Town was used as a stand-in for King’s Landing in "Game of Thrones," making it a popular destination for fans of the series. The city's well-preserved medieval ambiance and striking scenery have earned it accolades as one of the most photogenic locations in the world. |
Day 3 |
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. |
Day 4 |
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. |
Day 5 |
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Day 6 |
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Day 7 |
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. |
Day 8 |
Eluding Ottoman oppression sure makes you beautiful! Besides breathtaking beaches and lovely pools, this Greek island in the Ionian Sea offers many charms, from its Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to Venetian fortresses to cypresses waving in the ocean breeze. Corfu's Byzantine castle, Angelokastro, is located on a dramatic hilltop and offers stunning views. In Greek mythology, Odysseus was washed ashore on Corfu but soon left the island... we recommend staying awhile in this cobalt paradise. |
Day 9 |
Eluding Ottoman oppression sure makes you beautiful! Besides breathtaking beaches and lovely pools, this Greek island in the Ionian Sea offers many charms, from its Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to Venetian fortresses to cypresses waving in the ocean breeze. Corfu's Byzantine castle, Angelokastro, is located on a dramatic hilltop and offers stunning views. In Greek mythology, Odysseus was washed ashore on Corfu but soon left the island... we recommend staying awhile in this cobalt paradise. |
Travel Dates | Price | ||
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05/17/25 - 05/25/25 |
Starting At $1,314 |
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05/31/25 - 06/08/25 |
Starting At $1,445 |
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06/07/25 - 06/15/25 |
Starting At $1,610 |
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06/14/25 - 06/22/25 |
Starting At $1,560 |
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06/21/25 - 06/29/25 |
Starting At $1,575 |
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07/05/25 - 07/13/25 |
Starting At $1,535 |
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07/12/25 - 07/20/25 |
Starting At $1,500 |
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07/26/25 - 08/03/25 |
Starting At $1,480 |
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08/09/25 - 08/17/25 |
Starting At $1,373 |
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08/16/25 - 08/24/25 |
Starting At $1,445 |
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08/23/25 - 08/30/25 |
Starting At $1,500 |
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09/06/25 - 09/14/25 |
Starting At $1,745 |
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09/13/25 - 09/20/25 |
Starting At $1,560 |
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10/04/25 - 10/12/25 |
Starting At $1,500 |
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05/16/26 - 05/23/26 |
Starting At $1,480 |
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06/06/26 - 06/13/26 |
Starting At $1,540 |
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06/20/26 - 07/04/26 |
Starting At $1,595 |
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07/11/26 - 07/19/26 |
Starting At $1,540 |
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07/18/26 - 07/25/26 |
Starting At $1,480 |
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08/08/26 - 08/22/26 |
Starting At $1,540 |
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08/29/26 - 09/12/26 |
Starting At $1,595 |
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09/19/26 - 10/02/27 |
Starting At $1,480 |
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