Western Balkans Uncovered

12 Days | Venture through the original kingdoms of Eastern Europe.

4.7 out of 5 based on 19 reviews submitted.
Explorer
From
CAD $4,150
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Be the star of your own historical epic as you walk along the city walls of ‘Game of Thrones’ fame in Dubrovnik, explore the World Heritage-listed architecture of Montenegro’s Kotor, and stroll down hidden alleyways that have existed since ancient times. This adventure combines the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of North Macedonia and Albania to create the perfect blend of old and new. Hang out in some of Europe’s most atmospheric and lesser known Old Towns, cruise around Lake Ohrid, and explore boutiques in Tirana. You’ll check out regional hot spots and experience a hefty dollop of cultural hospitality on this immersive 12-day journey.

Trip overview

Map of Western Balkans Uncovered including Albania, Croatia, Macedonia, Republic Of, Montenegro and Kosovo
Start
Skopje, North Macedonia (Macedonia)
Finish
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
North Macedonia (Macedonia), Kosovo, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Comfort
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
WMKK
This trip generates 22.83 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Sail across the blue waters of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest lakes. No wonder North Macedonia and Albania share this beautiful attraction – nobody would want to let it go.
  • Admire the World Heritage-listed architecture of Dubrovnik and Montenegro’s Kotor as you walk along their ancient city walls.
  • Enjoy a traditional Balkan dinner, featuring dishes like stuffed peppers, cheese and spinach pies, hearty meat dishes, plenty of grilled and fresh veggies, and perhaps a glass or two of raki.
  • Lose yourself in Tirana, Albania's colourful capital, and explore the wonders of Berat on walking tours with expert local guides.
  • Venture out to Matka Canyon, a deep ravine cut into the Suva mountains by the Treska River, and explore this beautiful natural area on foot or by boat.

Is this trip right for you?
  • We recommend packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train and bus stations and hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs, and across cobblestones.
  • Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40C), which can be uncomfortable. It's important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
  • This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It's all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. There are a few long days of travel, as you'll be covering a lot of ground. You will, however, make stops at interesting locations to break up the longer drives. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

Itinerary

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2023 to 31 December 2023.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Map of Western Balkans Uncovered including Albania, Croatia, Macedonia, Republic Of, Montenegro and Kosovo

Inclusions

Meals

11 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Transport

Private vehicle, Taxi

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights)

Activities
  • Matka Canyon - Boat Ride
  • Skopje - Matka Canyon
  • Prizren - Kalaja Fortress Visit
  • Skopje - Day Trip to Prizren
  • Ohrid - Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • Ohrid - Lake Ohrid Boat Cruise
  • Berat - Castle Visit
  • Berat - Walking tour with a local guide
  • Berat - Traditional Balkan Dinner
  • Tirana - Walking tour with a local guide
  • Kruja - Fortress Visit
  • Kruja - Day Trip to Kruja
  • Shkoder - Rozafa Castle
  • Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport and entry to sites)
  • Dubrovnik - City Walls Walk
Add on activities
  • Skopje - Daut Pasha Hammam - MKD60
  • Skopje - Iconic Stone Bridge - Free
  • Skopje - Holocaust Memorial Centre - MKD300
  • Skopje - Kale Fortress - Free
  • Skopje - Mount Vodno Cable Car to Millennium Cross - MKD100
  • Skopje - City Museum - Free
  • Ohrid - St Jovan Church - MKD150
  • Ohrid - Robev Family House National Museum - MKD150
  • Tirana - National Art Gallery - ALL200
  • Tirana - Sky Tower - ALL400
  • Tirana - Dajti Mountain Cable Car - ALL1000
  • Tirana - Bunk'Art Gallery - ALL500
  • Tirana - National History Museum - ALL700
  • Kotor - Cruise on Kotor Fjord - EUR40
  • Kotor - Maritime Museum - EUR5
  • Kotor - Fortress - EUR3
  • Kotor - St. Tryphon’s Cathedral - EUR4
  • Dubrovnik - Hike up Mt Srd - Free
  • Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car - EUR27
  • Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure - EUR69
  • Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum - EUR10
  • Dubrovnik - Rector's Palace - EUR13
  • Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip - EUR27
  • Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence - EUR4

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 based on 19 reviews submitted.
While we try our best to display all reviews, removal may be due to the following: privacy concerns, profanity/inappropriate content or it is unrelated to this trip. We welcome honest feedback and will directly respond to negative reviews.

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Paul · Traveled August 2023
Great introduction to the western Balkan’s culture food people and history. Highly enjoyable and recommended
Review submitted 17 Aug 2023

Sarah · Traveled August 2023
The Western Balkans are bursting with breathtaking panoramic views from the many fortresses and mountains as well thought provoking historical stories. Our guide led us through the countries with a wealth of knowledge and an abundance of humour to ensure we all had the best time.
Review submitted 19 Aug 2023

Steven · Traveled July 2023
An opportunity to discover the history of the Western Balkans and experience the local culture
Review submitted 12 Aug 2023

Kirsten · Traveled July 2023
Lovely trip around the Balkans/ Adriatic Coast with a good mix of historical sites, stunning coastlines and great restaurants
Review submitted 12 Aug 2023

Simin · Traveled July 2023
I am a longstanding supporter of Intrepid having travelled with on numerous occasions in the past through South America and even a Private Tour in Panama. This trip was disappointing and my Intrepid days may be over due to many reasons; being sent to the wrong hotel on arrival, unhelpful Local Operator, 2 star hotels claiming 4 stars, being checked in and entering an already occupied hotel room,......
Review submitted 16 Jul 2023
Western Balkans Uncovered
From
CAD $4,150