How to Plan Your Grand Tour of the Balkans in 21 Days

Looking to experience the beauty and history of Albania and Kosovo? Then consider taking the Grand Tour of the Balkans in 21 days, a multi-day small group tour that takes you through the cities and national parks of both countries, while visiting five UNESCO sites. Here’s how to plan your perfect Balkan trip:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

To start your tour, visit this link and book the Grand Tour of the Balkans offered by a third-party company. This booking includes everything from hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Tirana hotel to professional tour leaders.

Step 2: Plan Your Itinerary

Before embarking on your Balkan tour, it’s important to plan out your itinerary. You’ll be visiting multiple UNESCO sites and national parks, so make sure to do some research and note the places you don’t want to miss.

Here’s a sample itinerary for the Grand Tour of the Balkans:

Day 1 – Tirana
Day 2 – Kruja, Prizren
Day 3 – Prizren, Rugova Canyon
Day 4 – Peja, Decani, Prizren
Day 5 – Berat
Day 6 – Saranda
Day 7 – Butrint
Day 8 – Gjirokaster, Blue Eye
Day 9 – Llogara National Park, Dhermi
Day 10 – Porto Palermo, Himara, Borsh
Day 11 – Saranda, Gjirokastra
Day 12 – Permet, Tepelena
Day 13 – Vjosa River, Gjirokastra
Day 14 – Bylis, Apollonia, Berat
Day 15 – Lake Ohrid, Tirana
Day 16 – Kruja, Shkoder
Day 17 – Theth
Day 18 – Koman Lake, Valbona
Day 19 – Valbona, Prizren
Day 20 – Prizren, Marash
Day 21 – Tirana

Step 3: Pack Appropriately

When packing for your Balkan tour, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking while exploring the cities and national parks. Also, bring clothing appropriate for the time of year you’re visiting, as well as essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

Step 4: Prepare for the Culture

Albania and Kosovo are both rich in history and culture, so it’s important to be respectful of the customs and traditions of both countries. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and make an effort to learn a few basic phrases in the local language to show your appreciation for the culture.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tour!

Now that you’ve booked your tour, planned your itinerary, packed your bags, and prepared for the culture, it’s time to enjoy your Grand Tour of the Balkans. You’ll enjoy accommodations and breakfast at three-star hotels, private transportation with professional tour leaders, and help with pickup and drop-off arrangements.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an immersive and hassle-free way to experience the history and beauty of Albania and Kosovo, the Grand Tour of the Balkans in 21 days is an excellent choice. Just follow these simple steps to plan your perfect Balkan adventure, and get ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to Planning Your Grand Tour of the Balkans in 21 Days

If you’re planning to explore the Balkan region, there’s no better way to do it than by taking a grand tour that covers the best of everything. Here’s a 21-day itinerary that will take you through some of the most picturesque and vibrant cities in the region, including Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Tirana, Ohrid, and Skopje.

Attractions

There are countless attractions to explore as you embark on your Balkan grand tour. In Sarajevo, take a walk through the historic Bascarsija quarter and explore the Old Town. The Latin Bridge is also worth visiting, as it is the place where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. In Mostar, be sure to visit the Stari Most bridge and the Old Bazaar. In Dubrovnik, take a walk around the city walls and explore the charming streets of the Old Town. Kotor’s old town is also a must-see, as well as Tirana’s Skanderbeg Square, and Skopje’s Memorial House of Mother Teresa.

Dining

As you travel through the Balkans, be sure to treat your taste buds to some of the delicious local cuisine. In Sarajevo, don’t miss the chance to try some authentic Bosnian dishes such as Cevapi and Burek. In Mostar, try the local speciality, Pita, a pastry filled with meat or cheese. Dubrovnik offers some of the best seafood dishes in the region, and Kotor is famous for its fresh seafood as well. In Tirana, be sure to try the traditional Albanian casserole called Tave Kosi. And in Skopje, be sure to have some local grilled meats and Ajvar (a pepper spread).

Cultural Experiences

The Balkans are rich in history and culture, so be sure to take advantage of the many cultural experiences on offer. Sarajevo is famous for its coppersmiths and you can try your hand at creating your own souvenir by attending a workshop. In Mostar, you can experience a traditional Dervish dance ceremony. Dubrovnik offers traditional Konavle embroidery workshops, and Kotor will take you on a boat ride to visit the Lady of the Rock, a church built on a man-made island. Ohrid’s beautiful ancient churches are a must-visit. Skopje’s Old Bazaar is a great place for shopping for souvenirs.

Local History

As you travel through the Balkans, you’ll come across some fascinating local history that is worth knowing. Sarajevo is known as the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ because of its rich history of religious tolerance. Mostar’s Stari Most bridge is a symbol of the city’s tumultuous history, which was destroyed during the Bosnian War and has since been rebuilt. Dubrovnik has a history of being an important trading port and republic. Kotor’s historic center is protected by UNESCO due to its Venetian architecture and Greek and Roman ruins. Tirana’s National History Museum offers an interesting insight into the city’s past, and Skopje has a culturally rich foundation that showcases the city’s long history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While exploring the Balkans’ main attractions is a must, you should also consider getting off the beaten path to get a more authentic experience of the region. In Sarajevo, visit the Yellow Fortress for a stunning view of the city. In Mostar, explore the surrounding countryside to find hidden waterfalls and take a dip in the emerald green river. Dubrovnik’s nearby island of Lokrum is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some more built-out natural beauty. Kotor’s Lovcen National Park offers fantastic hiking trails and jaw-dropping natural scenery. Tirana’s Blloku neighborhood is a trendy and up-and-coming area where you can experience an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and art galleries. Ohrid offers a peaceful respite, with a beautiful lake and nearby mountain village for hiking and picnicking. And in Skopje, escape to the Matka Canyon for a hidden world of unspoiled natural beauty.

In conclusion, the Balkans are a beautiful region with so much to offer, whether you’re looking for history, culture, or natural beauty. With this insider’s guide, you can plan your 21-day grand tour to perfection, making the most of your trip by visiting the best attractions, dining at the finest restaurants, experiencing the rich local culture, and exploring the region’s hidden gems.