G Adventures
Tirana to Santorini: The Albanian Riviera & Iconic Greek Islands
Tirana to Santorini: The Albanian Riviera & Iconic Greek Islands
Escape the ordinary and dive into something extraordinary on this 18-day adventure through Albania and Greece. With just a backpack and your new crew, you’ll create unforgettable memories from the sparkling Albanian Riviera to the dreamy Greek islands. Get a true taste of local culture with an immersive cooking experience, then hit the trails for breathtaking hikes through these beautiful landscapes. Sail across crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, explore hidden beaches, and take in those jaw-dropping Greek sunsets that feel straight out of a postcard. It’s the kind of journey where every moment feels like magic.
Highlights
Witness the beauty of wild horses on a sunset jeep safari, Immerse yourself in Albanian traditional life in the mountains on a hike to a shepherd outpost, Hike across the island of Corfu, Go island-hopping as you cruise through the Mediterranean, Soak up the epic views in Santorini.
Accommodation
Hotels (7 nts, twin share), hostel (10 nt. multi share with 4-5 people)
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guide.
Group Size Notes
Max 16, avg 10.
Meals Included
17 breakfasts, 4 lunches
What’s Included
Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage, Athens
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment – Meet Your CEO and Group
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Foodie Moment: Tirana Cooking Class, Tirana
Your Local Living Moment: Hike to a Shepherd Outpost with Lunch, Tragjas
Your Big Night Out Moment: Corfu
Your Big Night Out Moment: Athens
Your Discover Moment: Athens. Orientation walk of Tirana. Explore Kruje on foot. Walking tour of Berat including the castle. Visit the coastal wetlands of the Vjosë-Nartë Delta Protected Area. Walking tour of Himarë. Corfu Trail hike across the island to Benitses. Meteora Monasteries hike from Kalabaka. Orientation walk of Athens. CEO-led orientation walk in Paros. Free time in Paros and Ios. Half-day Paros beaches tour. Orientation walk in Ios. Best of beaches tour Ios. Caldera walk in Santorini. Transport to/from all included activities and between all destinations.
| Day 1 |
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 2 |
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 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 |
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. |
| Day 5 |
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| Day 6 |
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| Day 7 |
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 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. |
| Day 10 |
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 11 |
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| Day 12 |
Ancient history comes alive in Athens, the capital of Greece. Gaze in wonder at the Acropolis and its iconic crown, the Parthenon. Take a deeper dive into the past and visit both the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, which house fascinating artifacts from this ancient city.
With influences Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman, Athens contains multitudes. The city's architecture and cuisine reflect these influences in a most elegant way. It's not all antiquity, though – Athens still exhibits a modern cool, with eye-catching street art, nightlife and music festivals beckoning new generations. A lively energy is afoot at the Agora-Athens Central Market, where locals shop, and visitors find amazing, reasonably priced meals. A stroll through the Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, is also a must for shopping and eating at outdoor restaurants. Visit Athens between March and May, and from September to November, as the weather is comfortable and there are thinner crowds. You will also find that hotels and flights are a bit easier to reserve. |
| Day 13 |
Paros, one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, is a Greek gem known for its whitewashed villages, golden beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Paros offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration. The island’s iconic Cycladic architecture is a sight to see. For those seeking sandy shores, Paros does not disappoint. Kolymbithres Beach, with its unique granite rock formations, offers a beautiful and tranquil setting for sunbathing and swimming. Golden Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent windsurfing conditions, is another favorite among locals and visitors. Meanwhile, the charming fishing village of Naoussa is perfect for an evening out or a seaside lunch. Paros is also a hiker’s paradise. Ancient footpaths crisscross the island, connecting villages like Lefkes and Marpissa, which are brimming with traditional charm. Lefkes, a hilltop village surrounded by olive groves, provides stunning views of the island and the sea. These trails offer a unique way to explore Paros’s natural beauty. |
| Day 14 |
Paros, one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, is a Greek gem known for its whitewashed villages, golden beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Paros offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration. The island’s iconic Cycladic architecture is a sight to see. For those seeking sandy shores, Paros does not disappoint. Kolymbithres Beach, with its unique granite rock formations, offers a beautiful and tranquil setting for sunbathing and swimming. Golden Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent windsurfing conditions, is another favorite among locals and visitors. Meanwhile, the charming fishing village of Naoussa is perfect for an evening out or a seaside lunch. Paros is also a hiker’s paradise. Ancient footpaths crisscross the island, connecting villages like Lefkes and Marpissa, which are brimming with traditional charm. Lefkes, a hilltop village surrounded by olive groves, provides stunning views of the island and the sea. These trails offer a unique way to explore Paros’s natural beauty. |
| Day 15 |
The coastline of this mountainous island is dotted with chapels, olive trees, vineyards and small exotic coves. |
| Day 16 |
The coastline of this mountainous island is dotted with chapels, olive trees, vineyards and small exotic coves. |
| Day 17 |
Reshaped by volcanic activity, the rugged yet enchanting Santorini beckons all seafaring souls in the Aegean Sea.
Visitors to this breathtaking and romantic Cyclades archipelago will gaze at the whitewashed cubiform houses sitting cliffside and hovering over the water. Santorini is technically an active volcano, and perhaps the only volcano on the planet with its crater situated in the sea. But don't worry too much; the last eruption was 3600 years ago. Instead, couples and tourists should explore, taste the local wine, and lounge in the sun on black sand beaches. As the sun sets dramatically, visitors will find a taverna or bar and toast their impeccable taste in travel destinations. |
| Day 18 |
Reshaped by volcanic activity, the rugged yet enchanting Santorini beckons all seafaring souls in the Aegean Sea.
Visitors to this breathtaking and romantic Cyclades archipelago will gaze at the whitewashed cubiform houses sitting cliffside and hovering over the water. Santorini is technically an active volcano, and perhaps the only volcano on the planet with its crater situated in the sea. But don't worry too much; the last eruption was 3600 years ago. Instead, couples and tourists should explore, taste the local wine, and lounge in the sun on black sand beaches. As the sun sets dramatically, visitors will find a taverna or bar and toast their impeccable taste in travel destinations. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
04/30/25 - 05/17/25 |
Starting At $3,579 |
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|
05/14/25 - 05/31/25 |
Starting At $2,863 |
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|
05/21/25 - 06/07/25 |
Starting At $2,684 |
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|
05/28/25 - 06/14/25 |
Starting At $3,579 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/11/25 - 06/28/25 |
Starting At $3,749 |
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|
07/02/25 - 07/23/25 |
Starting At $3,103 |
Get A Quote | |
|
08/06/25 - 08/27/25 |
Starting At $3,879 |
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|
09/03/25 - 09/24/25 |
Starting At $3,749 |
Get A Quote | |
|
04/29/26 - 05/27/26 |
Starting At $3,579 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/03/26 - 06/24/26 |
Starting At $3,749 |
Get A Quote | |
|
07/01/26 - 08/26/26 |
Starting At $3,879 |
Get A Quote | |
|
09/02/26 - 09/23/26 |
Starting At $3,749 |
Get A Quote |
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
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.
