7 nights from
£1595
Collectively known as the Cradle of the Balkans, and separately steeped in their centuries of history and heritage, these three countries share some attributes, display delightful differences, and complement each other in this captivating tour.
Landlocked Kosovo is Europe’s youngest nation, its past presented in mosques, monasteries, and commemorative monuments, which we visit in Pristina, Prizren and Peja. A refreshing ferry journey on the Koman Lake takes us into Albania, which has blossomed in recent years, transforming Tirana from its soviet-era image to a vibrant city, where formerly soulless Stalinist buildings are now exuberantly painted in rainbow hues; while historic Berat has UNESCO World Heritage listing for the best examples of Ottoman architecture outside Turkey. North Macedonia, home to Alexander the Great, is now a land less-visited, its myriad churches and ancient ruins largely unheralded but hugely rewarding. With medieval streets and a 3million year-old lake, Ohrid has the rare UNESCO listing as both a cultural and natural heritage site; while Skopje, almost obliterated by an earthquake in 1963, has been lavishly ‘repopulated’ with multiple statues and modern monuments mimicking neoclassical grandeur.
This is a full itinerary with many visits on foot including some uneven surfaces and inclines.
Most travel is along a well-established road network but some minor roads may be in poor repair.
On occasion hotels of a similar standard may be substituted.
On occasion hotels of a similar standard may be substituted.
Air travel and taxes, transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 2 dinners, itinerary as described, services of guides and local representatives. If our specially negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of booking, a supplement may apply.
Travel insurance, optional excursions, tipping, any government taxes or compulsory charges introduced after publication.
Highlights of Albania
A four-night tour, to four fascinating cities, this short break shows you ancient, medieval, and modern Albania. From a well-placed base in Durrës, on the shore of the Adriatic, included excursions take you to characterful Kruja, the capital, Tirana, and beguiling Berat
Classical Tour of Albania
Unspoilt, uncrowded, and unique in its culture, Albania is a treasure chest of ancient cities, mystical mountains, museums, castles and coastline, its feast of Ottoman architecture the jewel in its crown. This tour lifts the lid on its riches, of heritage and of nature
The Balkans Revealed
Covering three countries’ capitals and a kaleidoscope of colours and cultures, this bountiful tour of the Balkans crosses borders and beautiful landscapes, to reveal the ancient sites, artistic treasures, and medieval monuments of Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania
Discover Bulgaria
Across Bulgaria’s beautiful landscapes, monasteries, monuments, and museums mark thousands of years of historic heritage. From the Rila Mountains to river valleys and Black Sea shores, this beguiling tour visits stately cities, intriguing towns, and tiny villages
Treasures of Transylvania
A remarkable tour of Romania, this journey begins at Bucharest’s majestic monuments and takes you to medieval towns and rural villages, legendary castles and iconic ‘painted churches’, via mountain roads, river gorges, idyllic landscapes and inspiring heritage