- 4.9/5 650 Latest reviews
- Destination: Greece, Serbia, Croatia
- Duration: 12 Days
- Tour Type: Private Tour
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Explore the vibrant cultures and rich histories of Greece, Serbia, and Croatia on this captivating 12-day journey. Begin in Greece by uncovering the legends of Greek mythology in Athens and Delphi, before venturing to the dramatic clifftop monasteries of Meteora. Continue your adventure in Serbia, where you’ll visit historic fortresses, grand palaces, and magnificent cathedrals, immersing yourself in the country’s storied past and architectural heritage. Conclude your journey along the Adriatic coast in Croatia. Start in Zagreb, marvel at the stunning Plitvice Lakes, and enjoy guided tours through the medieval coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik, experiencing their culture, history, and seaside charm.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 4
Greece
Athens: City Tour with Acropolis
Delphi: Archaeological Sites including Apollos Temple
Meteora: Byzantine Monasteries
5 - 6
Serbia
Belgrade: City Tour with Belgrade Fortress
Sremski Karlovci: Petrovaradin Fortress
Novi Sad: Discover Palaces and Cathedrals
7 - 12
Croatia
Zagreb: Historic Walking Tour in Old Town
Plitvice Lakes: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Split: Palace of Diocletian and Other City Landmarks
Dubrovnik: Franciscan Monastery, the Cathedral, Rector's Palace
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Athens – Private Airport Transfer
Welcome to the historic city of Athens. Upon landing at the airport, a private transfer will take you directly to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or start exploring the lively streets and timeless landmarks of the city.
- Athens
- Day 2: Athens – Guided City Tour with Acropolis
Begin your city tour at Constitution Square, a site that has witnessed numerous historic events in Greece. Admire the Parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the Evzones in their iconic uniforms, with the ceremonial changing of the guard taking place every hour. For many visitors, this ceremony is a must-see. Nearby, you will also view the Presidential Palace and the National Library.
Continue to Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium, famed for hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Then, ascend to the Acropolis to explore the Parthenon, a lasting symbol of Western civilization. Conclude your tour with a visit to the Acropolis Museum, showcasing artifacts from the ancient citadel.
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- Athens
- Day 3: Athens – Delphi – Kalabaka, Temple of Apollo
Delphi today combines an archaeological treasure with a modern town set amid stunning scenery. Known across the ancient Greek world, Delphi served as the sanctuary of Apollo, home to his famous oracle, and was considered the center of the Earth.
Explore the archaeological highlights, including the Temple of Apollo, the Omphalos stone—believed to mark the navel of the world—and the Delphi Museum, which houses priceless artifacts from the site. Later, stop in the picturesque village of Arachova to experience traditional Greek culture before continuing on a scenic three-hour drive through central Greece to Kalabaka, the gateway to the remarkable Meteora monasteries.
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- Kalabaka
- Day 4: Kalabaka – Meteora – Athens, Guided Visit to Meteora
Meteora is renowned for its dramatic rock pillars and the monasteries astonishingly perched atop them, seemingly inaccessible. This morning, enjoy a guided tour of Meteora, exploring two of the six Byzantine monasteries that hold important religious and historical treasures. The earliest monastery here was founded in the 14th century by a monk from Mount Athos. In earlier times, monks relied on long ladders and baskets to carry themselves and their supplies up the steep cliffs.
In the afternoon, travel back to Athens, stopping briefly at the Leonidas Monument to view the historic site of the Battle of Thermopylae. Here, pay tribute to Leonidas, the legendary Spartan king, and his 300 warriors who played a pivotal role in European and Western history.
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- Athens
- Day 5: Athens – Belgrade, City Tour Including Belgrade Fortress
Take an early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia. Upon arrival, meet your guide and head into the city for a tour beginning at the historic Belgrade Fortress, perched at the junction of the Sava and Danube rivers. Constructed between the 3rd and 18th centuries, the fortress has been a witness to numerous battles and the rich history of the city. From here, enjoy sweeping views of the rivers and Belgrade, watch locals strolling in the park, and observe children playing in the surrounding greenery. Continue exploring key landmarks such as Slavija Square, Republic Square, Knez Mihailova Street, Saint Sava Temple, and the Memorial of Marshal Tito.
After the sightseeing tour, check into your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh.
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- Belgrade
- Day 6: Belgrade – Sremski Karlovci & Novi Sad Excursion
Drive north into the Vojvodina region. After approximately an hour across the scenic Pannonian Plain, arrive at Fruška Gora, the area’s only mountain, home to 16 medieval Orthodox monasteries. Explore one of these monasteries before continuing to Sremski Karlovci, Serbia’s cultural and spiritual hub, renowned for its well-preserved Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, charming cafés, and diverse restaurants. Stroll through the town, visiting its key landmarks, and enjoy tasting the famous Bermet wine along with traditional Kuglof pastries.
Next, a short drive brings you to Petrovaradin Fortress, historically significant in protecting Central Europe from Ottoman invasions. Take a guided walking tour of the fortress, including visits to the City Museum, Military Barracks, and the iconic Clock Tower, while enjoying panoramic views of Novi Sad and the Danube River. Explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, known for its Central European character and proud heritage. Here, you will see landmarks such as the Neo-Romantic Serbian Orthodox Bishop’s Palace, the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. George, and other notable sites throughout the city.
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- Belgrade
- Day 7: Belgrade to Zagreb – Old Town Walking Tour
This morning, travel to Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. Upon arrival, meet your guide and embark on a walking tour of the historic Old Town. Highlights include Ban Jelačić Square, the iconic St. Mark’s Church, Dolac Market, and several other notable landmarks that showcase the city’s charm and history.
After completing the tour, check in to your hotel and take some time to unwind and relax.
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- Zagreb
- Day 8: Zagreb to Plitvice – Exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park
Located roughly 130 kilometers southwest of Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s oldest and largest national park. The park features 16 lakes, some separated by natural barriers and others connected through cascading waterfalls. The surrounding forests are rich in wildlife, including thousands of plant species, over 300 butterfly species, more than 60 bird species, and rare animals such as brown bears.
After breakfast at your hotel, depart for Plitvice. Upon arrival, join an expert guide to explore the park and enjoy its stunning lakes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
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- Plitvice
- Day 9: Plitvice to Split – Explore Split’s Historic Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace
Today, travel approximately 200 kilometers from Plitvice to the coastal city of Split. After checking in at your hotel, join a guided tour to discover the historic charm of Split’s old town.
The heart of Split is dominated by the 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace, originally built as the retirement residence of the Roman emperor Diocletian. Over 1,700 years, the palace has been transformed by various architectural styles. As you stroll through the old town, you’ll encounter Catholic cathedrals constructed from Roman mausoleums, Romanesque churches from the 12th and 13th centuries, medieval fortifications, the 15th-century Gothic palace, and Renaissance and Baroque buildings. Walking here feels like moving through layers of civilizations across time.
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- Split
- Day 10: Split to Dubrovnik – Guided Exploration of Dubrovnik
Many travelers first learn of Dubrovnik through the popular TV series Game of Thrones. However, the city’s history stretches back to the 7th century, and the fortress—portrayed as King’s Landing—was constructed in the 9th century. With a rich and unbreached history, paired with breathtaking coastal views, Dubrovnik has long been a beloved destination. As George Bernard Shaw famously said, “Those seeking paradise on earth should visit Dubrovnik.”
Today, travel from Split to Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a tour of the city, including Stradun Square, St. John’s Fortress, and the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Conclude the tour at the Dubrovnik Funicular, which will take you to the summit of Mt. Srd for panoramic views of the entire city, the sparkling Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands.
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- Dubrovnik
- Day 11: Dubrovnik – Free Day with Exciting Options
Today is yours to enjoy a full day of leisure and explore Dubrovnik at your own pace. You can walk along the iconic city walls and fortresses, take a scenic cruise around the Old Town, join a Game of Thrones-themed tour, or experience the city’s ghost stories and mysteries. For the adventurous, there are options for skydiving or sea kayaking. Whatever your choice, Dubrovnik offers countless ways to create memorable experiences.
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- Dubrovnik
- Day 12: Dubrovnik – Departure
Today marks the conclusion of your European journey.
When it’s time, your driver will meet you and provide a transfer to Dubrovnik Airport for your departing flight.
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