In the Footsteps of “Alexander the Great” from Danube River to the Aegean Sea

In the Footsteps of “Alexander the Great” from Danube River to the Aegean Sea

Hungary/Slovakia - Romania - Bulgaria -North Macedonia - Albania - Greece

Duration: 18 Days / 17 Nights | Type: Unique Tailor-Made

Valid for 2026 and 2027, featuring the Rose Festival departure from May 26 to June 09

This grand overland expedition spans Central Europe, the Balkans, and Ancient Greece across seven nations. Tracing a legendary route from the Danube River to the Aegean Sea, the journey showcases Budapest, Transylvania’s fairytale castles, Bucharest, Kazanlak’s Rose Valley, Sofia, Skopje, the pristine waters of Lake Ohrid, Tirana, the cliffside monasteries of Meteora, and the historic wonders of Athens.

Wonders of Romania | The Most Incredible Places in Romania | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcHQvp-34k4

Day	Country	City	Itinerary
01	Hungary	Budapest	> Arrival BUDAPEST (-/-/D)
02	Hungary	Budapest	BUDAPEST – ESZTERGOM - STUROVO – BUDAPEST (B/L/D)
03	Romania	Cluj-Napoca	BUDAPEST – ORADEA - CLUJ-NAPOCA (B/L/D)
04	Romania	Sibiu	CLUJ-NAPOCA – TURDA - ALBA IULIA - SIBIU (B/L/D)
05	Romania	Sighisoara	SIBIU – MEDIAS – BIERTAN - SIGHISOARA (B/L/D)
06	Romania	Brasov	SIGHISOARA – BRAN – BRASOV (B/L/D)
07	Romania	Bucharest	BRASOV – SINAIA – BUCHAREST (B/L/D)
08	Romania	Bucharest	BUCHAREST (B/L/D)
09	Bulgaria	Veliko Tarnovo	BUCHAREST – KAZANLAK - VELIKO TARNOVO (B/L/D)
10	Bulgaria	Sofia	VELIKO TARNOVO - SOFIA (B/L/D)
11	North Macedonia	Skopje	SOFIA - RILA MONASTERY - SKOPJE (B/L/D)
12	North Macedonia	Ohrid	SKOPJE- MATKA GORGE/CANYON-OHRID (B/L/D)
13	Albania	Tirana	OHRID - TIRANA (B/L/D)
14	Greece	Ioannina	TIRANA – DURRES – GJIROKASTER - IOANNINA (B/L/D)
15	Greece	Athens	IOANNINA - METEORA - ATHENS (B/L/D)
16	Greece	Athens	ATHENS - EGINA ISLAND - ATHENS (B/L/D)
17	Greece	Athens	ATHENS – MARATHONAS - ATHENS (B/L/D)
18			ATHENS > Flight back home (B/-/-)

Daily programme

Day 1: Arrival in Budapest - Welcome Dinner       

Welcome to Budapest.

Upon arrival at Budapest International Airport (BUD), complete immigration and customs formalities for entry into Hungary and the Schengen area.

Meet your guide at the arrivals hall and transfer to your hotel for check-in and leisure time to unwind.

Danube River Dinner Cruise (2.5 Hours)

• Transfer to the pier near the iconic Chain Bridge to board your cruise.
• Take in illuminated landmarks from the water, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Castle District, Royal Palace, Citadella, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the majestic Danube bridges.
• Savor a delicious onboard BBQ dinner paired with unlimited drinks (selected cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, Prosecco, and soft drinks).
• Delight in live musical performances throughout the cruise.

Accommodation in Budapest

Day 2: Budapest - Visegrád - Esztergom - Štúrovo (Slovakia) - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel

Depart Budapest for a scenic drive along the Danube Bend towards Esztergom (approx. 70 km / 1 hour).

En route, stop in Visegrád for an exterior view of the historic Visegrád High Castle.

Continue the drive along the riverbank to Esztergom, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Hungary (975–1249) and the coronation site of King Saint Stephen.

Esztergom served as the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary between 975 and 1249, before the capital was moved to Buda. It is also the historic site of Hungary's foundation, where King Saint Stephen I was crowned on either Christmas Day in the year 1000 or January 1, 1001.

• Visit the majestic Esztergom Basilica, followed by a panoramic city tour covering the Town Hall, Franciscan Church, Old Seminary, and Courthouse.

Lunch at a local restaurant in Esztergom.

• Cross the Maria Valeria Bridge over the Danube River into Štúrovo, Slovakia.
• Enjoy a short panoramic tour of Štúrovo to experience the charm of this Slovakian border town.

Return to Hungary and drive back to Budapest via Piliscsaba (approx. 50 km / 1 hour).

Traditional Hungarian dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation in Budapest.

Day 3: Budapest - Oradea - Cluj-Napoca - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Depart Budapest for Transylvania, Romania (Approx. 310 km / 4 to 4.30 hrs drive including border control).

Cross the Hungarian-Romanian border and arrive at Oradea, one of Romania’s most elegant cities, renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau and Baroque architecture.

Savor lunch at a local restaurant in Oradea.

Embark on a guided walking city tour of Oradea’s historic center. Highlights include:

• Unirii Square & The Moon Church (Biserica cu Lună): Famous for its unique astronomical clock mechanism showing the phases of the moon.
• Black Eagle Palace (Palatul Vulturul Negru): The iconic Art Nouveau architectural gem of the city with its famous stained-glass passage.
• Oradea Town Hall & The Baroque Complex: Architectural landmarks reflecting the Austro-Hungarian heritage.
• Oradea Fortress (Cetatea Oradea): The impressive star-shaped medieval stronghold.

Continue the drive through the picturesque countryside towards Cluj-Napoca (155 km / approx. 2 to 2.30 hrs drive), the unofficial capital of Transylvania and a vibrant cultural and technology hub.

Arrive in Cluj-Napoca, check in to your hotel, and relax.

Enjoy dinner at a fine local restaurant

Accommodation in Cluj-Napoca.

Day 4: Cluj-Napoca - Turda - Alba Iulia - Sibiu - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Guided walking tour of Cluj-Napoca.

• Key highlights include St. Michael’s Church, the historic University, the Evangelical Church, Matthias Corvinus House, the National Theatre, and the Romanian Orthodox Cathedral.

Depart Cluj-Napoca for Turda (Approx. 35 km / 40 mins drive).

• Visit the legendary Salina Turda (Turda Salt Mine), a subterranean theme park inside one of the oldest and most spectacular salt mines in the world.

Depart for Alba Iulia (Approx. 70 km / 1 hr drive), known as "Romania’s Union Capital."

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Alba Iulia.

Embark on a comprehensive historical city tour:

• The Coronation Cathedral (Reunification Cathedral): Built in 1921–1922, where King Ferdinand I and Queen Marie were crowned monarchs of United "Great Romania" on October 15, 1922.
• St. Michael's Catholic Cathedral, the Princely Palace, and the iconic Equestrian Statue of Michael the Brave (the first prince to unite Transylvania, Wallachia, and Moldavia in 1600).
• Pass by the National Museum of the Union and busts of key historical figures.
• Alba Carolina Citadel: Explore this magnificent 18th-century Vauban-style star fort. Tour its impressive gates and, subject to schedule, witness the colorful Ceremony of the Changing of the Guard.
• Conclude with a visit to the historic cell of revolutionaries Horea, Cloșca, and Crișan (or the Union Hall as an alternative).

Depart Alba Iulia for Sibiu (Approx. 80 km / 1 hr 30 mins drive). Arrive in Sibiu, check in to the hotel.

Traditional dinner at Crama Ileana in Sibiu; accompanied by live traditional Romanian folklore melodies.

Accommodation in Sibiu

Day 5:  Sibiu - Mediaș - Biertan - Sighişoara - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Guided walking tour of Sibiu (European Capital of Culture 2007). Explore its iconic medieval architecture and historic squares:

• The Grand Square (Marele Piață), Little Square (Piața Mică), and Huet Square.
• Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor), Craftsmen’s Square, and Goldsmiths' Square.
• Exterior visits of Brukenthal National Museum and the City Hall Tower.
• Landmarks of faith: Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, St. Mary's Evangelical Lutheran Cathedral, and the Catholic Basilica.

Depart for Mediaș (Approx. 55 km / 1 hr drive), one of the historic Saxon Siebenbürgen (seven fortified towns).

Take an orientation walking tour of Mediaș: Castle Square, St. Margaret's Church (Cathedral) with its leaning tower, Stephan Ludwig Roth College.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Drive to Biertan (Approx. 30 km / 30 mins drive), one of the most famous Transylvanian Saxon villages.

• Visit the Biertan Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural masterpiece. Serving as the see of the Lutheran Evangelical Bishop of Transylvania for nearly 300 years (1572–1867), it stands as the most prestigious of the region's fortified churches.

Depart Biertan for Sighişoara (Approx. 30 km / 40 mins drive), Europe's best-preserved inhabited medieval citadel. Arrival in Sighişoara, hotel check-in, and dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation in Sighisoara.

Day 6: Sighişoara - Bran - Brașov - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Guided walking tour of Sighișoara Citadel: Explore one of Europe’s best-preserved, continuously inhabited medieval citadels and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Dracula’s Birthplace: View Vlad Dracul House (Casa Vlad Dracul), where Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Țepeș) was born in 1431. His father, Vlad II, took the name "Dracul" after being inducted into the knightly Order of the Dragon.
• Citadel Landmarks: Walk past the Clock Tower (housing the City History Museum), the Venetian House, and the Stag House (Casa cu Cerb).
• Church on the Hill: Ascend the 17th-century Covered Scholars' Stairs to visit the Gothic Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal).

Depart for Bran. Distance: Sighișoara – Bran 150 km (approx. 2 hours 30 minutes drive).

• Visit Bran Castle, the world-famous 14th-century fortress dramatically perched on a rocky cliff.

History & Myth: Famously marketed as "Dracula's Castle," this fortress inspired Bram Stoker’s 1897 gothic masterpiece Count Dracula. Learn about its authentic royal history as the beloved summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania, as well as its connection to Vlad the Impaler.

Lunch at a local restaurant near Bran Castle.

Depart for Brașov. Distance: Bran – Brașov 35 km (approx. 40 minutes drive).

Brașov walking city tour:

• Council Square (Piața Sfatului): Heart of the old town, anchored by the historic Town Hall Tower.
• The Black Church (Biserica Neagră): Visit the largest Gothic church in Southeastern Europe, renowned for its imposing 4,000-pipe Buchholz organ and rare collection of 15ths–17th century Anatolian carpets.
• Rope Street (Strada Sforii): Walk down one of Europe's narrowest pedestrian alleys.
• Historical Gates: Pass Catherine’s Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) and Schei Gate.

Hotel check-in in Brașov.

Dinner at a local restaurant in the old town

Accommodation in Brasov

Day 7: Brașov - Sinaia - Bucharest - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Depart Brașov and travel south through the Prahova Valley to Sinaia, known as the "Pearl of the Carpathians" (Approx. 45 km | 1 hour drive).

• Visit Peleș Castle; a Neo-Renaissance architectural masterpiece and former summer residence of the Romanian Royal Family.

History & highlights: Built between 1873 and 1914 by King Carol I of Romania, the castle features stunning German Neo-Renaissance woodwork, stained glass, and lavish art collections, making it one of the premier museum monuments in Transylvania.

Depart Sinaia for Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania historically nicknamed "Little Paris" (Micul Paris) for its elegant Belle Époque architecture (Approx. 140 km | 2 hours drive).

Lunch at a local restaurant en route or upon arrival in Bucharest.

Arrival in Bucharest and check-in at the hotel.

• Visit the Palace of the Parliament: guided tour inside the Palace of the Parliament

Destination highlight: Constructed during the Communist regime under Nicolae Ceaușescu, it is the world’s heaviest building and the second-largest administrative building on Earth after the Pentagon.

Bucharest panoramic city tour:

Discover the historical layers and legends of Bucharest—from its origin attested in 1459 by Prince Vlad Țepeș (Vlad the Impaler) at the Old Princely Court (Curtea Veche), to its shepherd legend of Bucur and modern landmarks:

• Revolution Square (Piața Revoluției): The historic site of Romania's 1989 Revolution.
• Romanian Athenaeum (Ateneul Român): The prestigious landmark concert hall.
• University Square & Unirii Square: The bustling central plazas connecting major avenues.
• Religious Heritage: Pass by the Patriarchal Cathedral and the grand People's Salvation Cathedral (Catedrala Mântuirii Neamului).

Transfer to an authentic traditional restaurant (such as Locanta Jariștea or Caru' cu Bere).

Enjoy a special Romania dinner featuring classic national gastronomy, local wines, and live folk performances.

Accomodation in Bucharest

Day 8: Bucharest - Wellness & Shopping - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel

Therme București experience: Transfer to Therme București, Europe’s largest indoor thermal relaxation and wellness complex located just north of the city. Entrance tiket includes: 3-hour admission to The Palm zone, towel and slipper rentals, and 01 complimentary drink.

Highlights: Experience thermal mineral pools, botanical gardens, saunas, and hydrotherapy treatments; a perfect leisure touchpoint for wellness and relaxation.

Return transfer to the city center.

Lunch at a local restaurant in Bucharest.

Private transfer to one of Bucharest’s premier shopping destinations (such as Băneasa Shopping City or the boutiques of the Old Town).

Curated shopping highlights & authentic gifts:

• Gerovital / Farmec: Romania’s world-famous anti-aging cosmetics developed by Dr. Ana Aslan.
• Romanian "Ia": Traditional hand-embroidered blouse (recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage).
• Horezu Ceramics: Handcrafted traditional pottery.
• Fine wines & spirits: Premium Romanian wines (Fetească Neagră) and traditional Țuică / Pălincă (plum brandy).
• Artisanal craftsmanship: Carved wooden spoons, hand-painted Easter eggs, handmade traditional jewelry, woven veils, organic honey, and artisanal fruit jams.

Transfer to an atmospheric restaurant in Bucharest (such as Hanu' lui Manuc or a lakeside fine-dining venue). Enjoy a relaxing dinner featuring contemporary Romanian and international fusion cuisine.

Accomodation in Bucharest

Day 9: Bucharest - Kazanlak (Valley of the Roses) - Veliko Tarnovo - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out.

Depart for Kazanlak in the famed Valley of the Roses, Bulgaria.

Cross the Romania–Bulgaria border via the Friendship Bridge over the Danube River at Ruse.

Distance: Bucharest – Kazanlak   280 km (approx. 5 hours drive, including border procedures).

Arrive in the Valley of the Roses, the center of Bulgaria’s world-renowned rose oil industry (Rosa Damascena), introduced centuries ago from ancient Persia and producing "liquid gold" essential oils.

Participate in the Rose Festival Experience:

• Damascena Complex: Visit the Damascena Ethnographic Complex, Bulgaria's premier private rose oil distillery. Learn about traditional copper-still distillation versus modern extraction methods.
• Rose-Picking Ritual (Rozober): Join locals in the rose fields for the authentic morning harvest ritual amidst music and folk costumes (seasonal feature).
• Tastings & Delicacies: Sample rose-infused local specialties, including rose jam, rose wine, liqueurs, and traditional pastries.
• Festive Carnival Parade & Performances: Immerse in the vibrant carnival atmosphere featuring folk dancers, musicians, Kukeri (masked performers), and local artisans.
• Shopping: Free time to purchase authentic Bulgarian rose products—pure essential rose oil, organic cosmetics, perfumes, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Lunch at a local restaurant within the festival area or Damascena Complex.

Depart Kazanlak for Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, driving through the scenic Balkan Mountains and Shipka Pass.

Distance: Kazanlak – Veliko Tarnovo 100 km (approx. 2 hours drive).

Arrival in Veliko Tarnovo and hotel check-in.

Dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Bulgarian cuisine

Accomodation in Veliko Tarnovo

Day 10: Veliko Tarnovo - Sofia - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Guided city tour of Veliko Tarnovo:

• Tsarevets Fortress: Explore the grand medieval stronghold of the Second Bulgarian Empire, including the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of God crowning the hill.
• Historical Landmarks: View the Church of SS. Peter and Paul, the imposing Asen Dynasty Monument, and Mini Bulgaria Park at the foot of the fortress.

Depart for Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city. Distance: Veliko Tarnovo – Sofia 220 km (approx. 3 hours drive via A2 highway).

Arrive in Sofia, nestled in the Sofia Valley at the foot of Mount Vitosha.

Lunch at a local restaurant.Discover 7,000 years of history: Explore one of Europe’s oldest capitals, traced back to the ancient Thracian Serdi tribe and Roman Serdica.

The Square of Religious Tolerance: Walk through the unique urban intersection where four major world religions coexist within meters of each other: Sveta Nedelya Church (Eastern Orthodox), Banya Bashi Mosque (Islam), Sofia Synagogue (Judaism), Cathedral of St. Joseph (Roman Catholic)

Inside visits:

• St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Tour Bulgaria’s iconic Neo-Byzantine landmark, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world.
• St. Sophia Church: Visit the 6th-century red-brick basilica that gave the city its modern name.

Panoramic views & photo stops: Pass the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the National Opera and Ballet, the Ancient Serdica Complex & Amphitheatre, the National Palace of Culture (NDK), and view Boyana Church at the foothills of Mount Vitosha

Hotel check-in and short rest.

Transfer to a local restaurant for dinner.

Accommodation Sofia

Day 11: Sofia - Rila Monastery - Skopje - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Depart Sofia and travel south into the scenic Rila Mountains toward the famous Rilska River valley (Approx. 120 km | 2 hours drive). Excursion to Rila Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage):

• Guided tour inside the Monastery of Saint John of Rila (Rila Monastery / Sveti Ivan Rilski), situated at an elevation of 1,147 meters.

Cultural highlight: Founded in the 10th century by the hermit Saint Ivan of Rila, this is Bulgaria's largest and most iconic Eastern Orthodox monastery complex. Admire its striking National Revival architecture, vivid outdoor frescoes, rich iconostasis, and the historical Hrelyo’s Tower.

Lunch at a local restaurant nearby featuring traditional mountain cuisine and fresh trout.

Depart and proceed west toward the Bulgarian-North Macedonian border at Gyueshevo / Deve Bair (Approx. 230 km / 3.5 to 4 hrs total drive to Skopje).

Cross into North Macedonia and continue driving through the scenic Vardar valley to Skopje, the vibrant capital of North Macedonia. Arrive in Skopje, check in to your hotel, and relax.

Dinner at a fine local restaurant featuring Macedonian specialties.

Accommodation in Skopje.

Day 12: Skopje - Matka Canyon - Lake Ohrid - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Guided panoramic walking tour of Skopje, a city blending neoclassical grandeur and ancient heritage:

• Macedonia Square: Marvel at the colossal Statue of Alexander the Great (Warrior on a Horse) and the Statue of King Philip II of Macedon.
• Historic Landmarks: Walk across the iconic 15th-century Stone Bridge over the Vardar River, visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, and view the Daut Pasha Hamam.
• Old Bazaar (Stara Čaršija): Explore Europe’s second-largest Ottoman bazaar, including Kale Fortress views and a visit to Kuršumli An, a beautifully preserved 16th-century Ottoman caravanserai (if open).

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Depart Skopje for Matka Canyon (Approx. 17 km / 30 mins drive), a breathtaking nature reserve surrounding a deep turquoise canyon. Weather permitting, embark on a tranquil 30-minute boat ride along the Treska River through the canyon, taking in steep limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and medieval monasteries.

Depart Matka Canyon and drive south through the scenic mountains to Ohrid (Approx. 170 km / 2.5 to 3 hrs drive).

Arrive in Ohrid, nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid - one of Europe's oldest, and most biologically diverse freshwater lakes (a dual UNESCO Natural and Cultural Heritage Site).

Hotel check-in followed by dinner at a lakefront restaurant.

Accommodation in Ohrid.

Day 13: Lake Ohrid - Tirana - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Explore Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site famously referred to as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans" for its historic density of churches and religious monuments.

• Visit the iconic Church of Saint John at Kaneo (Sveti Jovan Kaneo), perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid.
• Explore the Church of Saint Sophia (Sveti Sofija), featuring preserved 11th-century frescoes, and the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon at the Plaošnik archaeological site.
• View the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, built in the 2nd century BC, and admire the monuments dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius, fathers of Slavic literacy.Drive to Tirana (Border Crossing). Distance: ~135 km | Driving time: Approx. 3 hours (including border clearance). Cross the North Macedonia – Albania border at the Qafë Thanë (Cafasan) pass, descending through the scenic Shkumbin River valley into central Albania.

Arrive in Tirana, Albania’s colorful capital.

Lunch at a local restaurant in the central district.

Explore the vibrant landmark centers of Albania's capital:

• Skanderbeg Square (Sheshi Skënderbej): The heart of Tirana, anchored by the equestrian statue of national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg.
• Et'hem Bey Mosque & Clock Tower: Fine examples of Ottoman-era architecture built between the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
• The Pyramid of Tirana: The former museum of dictator Enver Hoxha, now repurposed into a striking modern cultural and tech pavilion.
• The Peace Bell (Kambana e Paqes): A symbolic monument cast from bullet shell casings gathered by local children after the 1997 unrest.

Transfer and check-in at the hotel.

Free time to explore the lively Blloku district or relax at the hotel.

Dinner served at a traditional Albanian restaurant or hotel dining hall.

Accommodation in Tirana

Day 14: Tirana - Durrës - Gjirokastër - Ioannina - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Depart from Tirana for Durrës, Albania’s primary port city and one of its oldest coastal settlements (40 km | ~50 mins drive).

• Durrës city tour: Discover rich layers of history with visits to the iconic Venetian Tower, the magnificent 2nd-century Durrës Amphitheatre (the largest in the Balkans), the historic Fatih Mosque, the hilltop Royal Villa of Durrës, and the Church of Apostle Paul and Saint Asti.

Depart Durrës and head south toward the UNESCO-listed stone city of Gjirokastër (200 km | ~3 hours drive)

Lunch featuring local coastal cuisine at a regional restaurant.

• Explore Gjirokastër Fortress: Perched atop a strategic hill, this 12th-century stronghold offers sweeping views of the Drino Valley. Tour its military museum, Ottoman clock tower, and ancient ramparts.
• Visit Zekate House (or exterior view): A grand 19th-century Ottoman tower-house (Kulla) showcasing traditional Epirus architectural stonework, carved wooden ceilings, and panoramic upper-story vistas.

Depart Gjirokastër and drive south toward the Kakavia border crossing into Greece (Approx. 90 km / 2 hrs drive including border processing).

Arrive in Ioannina, the historic capital of Epirus, beautifully situated on Lake Pamvotis.

Hotel check-in followed by a traditional Greek dinner

Accommodation in Ioannina

Day 15: Ioannina - Meteora - Athens - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel and check out

Guided morning city tour of Ioannina, the historic capital of Epirus:

• Ioannina Castle & Citadel (Its Kale): Explore the fortified Old Town jutting into Lake Pamvotis.
• Fethiye Mosque & Tomb of Ali Pasha: Key Ottoman-era historical sites.
• Walk past the iconic Clock Tower of Ioannina and enjoy the serene vistas of Lake Pamvotis.

Depart Ioannina and drive east through the Pindus Mountain range to Kalambaka / Meteora (Approx. 110 km / 2 hrs drive).

Lunch featuring traditional Greek cuisine at a local restaurant in Kalambaka.

• Visit the world-famous Great Meteoron Monastery (Monastery of the Transfiguration of Jesus), the largest and oldest of the cliff-top monasteries in Meteora. Perched dramatically on giant natural sandstone pillars over 600 meters high, it stands as a sublime masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and Eastern Orthodox spirituality.

Depart Meteora and travel south across the Thessalian plains toward Athens (Approx. 350 km / 4.5 to 5 hrs drive with rest stops). Pass near historic Thermopylae along the route.

Arrive in Athens in the evening, check in to your hotel,

Dinner at a selected local restaurant

Accommodation in Athens

Day 16: Athens - Aegina Island - Athens - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel

Transfer from Athens to the Port of Piraeus (10 km / approx. 15–20 mins drive).

Board the hydrofoil/ferry for a scenic 40-minute cruise across the Saronic Gulf to Aegina Island.

Board the coach to explore the island's highlights:

• Temple of Aphaia: A remarkably preserved 5th-century BC Doric temple that forms an isosceles "sacred triangle" with the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.
• Temple of Apollo (Kolona Site): Ancient ruins standing near the harbor.
• Monastery of Agios Nektarios: One of the largest Orthodox monasteries in Greece, dedicated to Saint Nektarios.

Lunch featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies at a seaside tavern in Aegina town.

Free time to sample and buy Aegina’s famous PDO-certified pistachios.

• Explore the historic Paleochora (Ghost Village): The former medieval island capital built into the hills, home to over 30 historic Byzantine churches and chapel ruins.
• Photo stop at the House of Nikos Kazantzakis: The seaside residence where the renowned author wrote his masterpiece, "Zorba the Greek".

Return to Aegina Port. Ferry ride back from Aegina to the Port of Piraeus. Transfer back to Athens, hotel check-in.

Dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation in Athens.

Day 17: Athens - Marathonas - Athens - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel

Guided walking tour through Athens’ most historic quarters:

• Plaka Quarter: The ancient district nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, famed for its cobblestone alleys, classical architecture, and vibrant tavernas.
• Photo stop at the Hellenic Parliament / Syntagma Square.
• Anafiotika Neighborhood: A hidden architectural gem built in the 19th century by stonemasons from Anafi Island. Stroll through narrow whitewashed lanes and blue-shuttered houses that evoke the authentic charm of the Cycladic islands.
• The Acropolis Landmark Tour: Ascend the 156-meter rocky outcrop to explore the crown jewel of Western civilization:
• The Parthenon: The masterwork of ancient Greek architecture dedicated to Athena.
• Erechtheion (with the famous Porch of the Caryatids) and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Lunch featuring traditional Greek cuisine at a local restaurant.

Depart Athens for Marathon (Marathonas) (43 km / approx. 50 mins drive), the site of one of history’s most decisive battles.

• Explore the historic site where in 490 BC, a small Athenian force heroically defeated the invading Persian army of King Darius I.

The legend of the Marathon: Learn about the courier Pheidippides (Philippides), who ran approximately 42 kilometers from the battlefield to Athens to announce victory with the words "Nenikēkamen!" ("We have won!"), inspiring the modern Olympic marathon race.

• Visit the Tomb of the Athenians (Marathon Tumulus) and the nearby Battlefield Museum.

Drive back to Athens. Return to the hotel to refresh.

Enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner at a fine restaurant with panoramic views of the illuminated Acropolis, welcomed with a complimentary glass of house wine for each guest.

Accommodation in Athens.

Day 18: Athens - Departure / Flight back home - Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel and complete the check-out process

Time at leisure for last-minute shopping or personal exploration depending on your flight schedule.

Transfer from the hotel to Athens International Airport (ATH) for your departure flight back home.

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🌟 Tour Highlights:

• Smart Transnational Gateway (Days 1–2): A seamless introduction to Central Europe that pairs Budapest with Esztergom and Štúrovo, crossing the iconic Danube to briefly touch Slovakia—offering two countries in one day with zero hotel-switching hassle.
• The Romania Masterpiece (Days 3–8): An extraordinary journey through Transylvania and Wallachia, featuring the Art Nouveau charm of Oradea, the subterranean wonder of Salina Turda, the medieval citadel of Sighișoara, and the UNESCO-listed fortified church of Biertan; alongside the iconic Dracula legend at Bran Castle and a wellness escape at Therme București; delivering high-impact visuals and rich heritage tailored for discerning travelers.
• The Bulgarian Rose & Heritage Trail (Days 9–11): An enchanting cross-border passage into Bulgaria, featuring a seasonal immersion in the world-famous Rose Valley of Kazanlăk, the medieval royal stronghold of Veliko Tărnovo, and the spiritual majesty of the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery.
• Macedonian Jewels & Lake Ohrid (Days 12–13): A captivating exploration of North Macedonia’s pristine nature and ancient roots, moving from the dramatic cliffs of Matka Canyon to the jewel of the Balkans; Lake Ohrid, complete with a private boat cruise surrounded by Byzantine heritage.
• Curated Balkan & Greek Heritage (Days 14–15): A thoughtful overland route through Gjirokastër (Albania’s Ottoman stone city) and historic Ioannina, leading into the breathtaking cliff-top monasteries of Meteora in Greece.
• Beyond the Standard Aegean (Days 16–17): An exclusive Greek finale escaping the standard tourist tracks with a private island excursion to Aegina and a coastal journey to historic Marathon, blending island lifestyle, ancient lore, and seaside luxury.

...and many more unforgettable memories waiting to be made!