Small Group Tour from Athens; Greece, Albania & N.Macedonia

Discover the Charm of Greece, Albania, & North Macedonia in 7 Days

Traveling through Greece and its neighboring countries often feels like flipping through a history book—except here, you get to walk the pages. This 7-day Small Group Tour from Athens promises an engaging mix of ancient ruins, vibrant towns, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s designed for those who want a deeper look into the Balkans’ cultural tapestry without the hassle of planning every detail.

What really draws us in is how this trip balances the must-see sights like Delphi and Meteora with off-the-beaten-path gems like Gjirokaster and Ohrid. Plus, the chance to try authentic Albanian food and learn about local cultures makes it feel genuinely immersive. That said, the itinerary involves quite a bit of travel—so, if you’re someone who prefers slow-paced sightseeing, this might feel a bit rushed.

A potential consideration is the group size, which isn’t explicitly stated but is described as small or private. That’s a plus for a more personalized experience, but it’s worth noting that the overall price of around $2,112 per person reflects a comprehensive, well-organized trip rather than a budget option. Overall, if you’re looking for a rich mix of history, scenery, and cultural insight in just a week, this tour could be a great fit.

This trip works best for travelers eager to explore multiple countries in a manageable timeframe—no long, tiring transit days—while enjoying some of the Balkans’ most iconic sights. If you’re comfortable with a busy itinerary and want a guided experience that covers a lot of ground, keep reading.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary: Combines Greece’s famous sites with hidden Balkan treasures.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable tour leaders enhance the experience.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views at Meteora and Ohrid Lake.
• Cultural immersion: Opportunities to taste local dishes and learn history.
• Comfortable accommodation: 3-star hotels with breakfast included.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour Experience

This 7-day journey is quite the whirlwind—perfect if you want a taste of Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia without the hassle of organizing each transit or attraction. From the moment your guide picks you up in Athens, you’re set for a packed but rewarding adventure. The focus is on key highlights, but it’s balanced with enough free time and local flavor to keep things engaging.

Day 1: Athens to Delphi and Meteora

Starting from Athens, the first stop is Delphi, a UNESCO-listed site that’s widely considered one of Greece’s most beautiful archaeological locations. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the ruins, making history come alive. The site includes multiple monuments and a stunning mountain backdrop. You’ll get plenty of time to explore and snap photos.

Later, the journey continues to Meteora, famous for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. We found the sight of these monasteries genuinely spectacular—each one like a scene from a movie. The combination of history and scenery here is hard to beat. Staying overnight in Kalabaka means you can soak in the views without rushing.

Day 2: From Meteora to Ioannina and Gjirokaster

The morning’s highlight is a visit to Ioannina, where cobblestone streets and Byzantine castles create a charming walkable old town. Our guide pointed out the historical significance of Ioannina Castle, adding context that helped us appreciate the place far beyond its pretty streets.

Then, with a scenic drive, you cross into Albania to visit Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s medieval houses, resembling tiny fortresses, are remarkably well-preserved. The atmosphere is like stepping back in time, and the views of surrounding hills are truly memorable. We loved wandering through the old town, soaking up its authentic vibe.

Day 3: Exploring Gjirokaster

This day is dedicated exclusively to Gjirokaster, giving you more time to enjoy its atmospheric streets and historical sites. The town’s architecture is a highlight—each house feels like a fortress—and it’s one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. This offers a real sense of stepping into history, with plenty of photo opportunities.

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Day 4: From Gjirokaster to Berat

Next, the tour takes you to Berat, another UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its “town of 1001 windows.” We loved wandering through Berat’s hillside neighborhoods, looking up at the medieval houses that line the streets. The visit to Gorica Neighbourhood added a local touch, and the views of the Osum River valley are striking.

Day 5: Crossing into North Macedonia – Ohrid and St. Naum

The journey continues as you border into North Macedonia, with stops at Drilon National Park—a peaceful spot perfect for stretching your legs—and St. Naum Monastery, situated right at the source of River Crni Drim. The monastery’s location next to Lake Ohrid provides some of the most picturesque views. Lake Ohrid itself is a highlight, with its clear waters and surrounding mountains.

Day 6: Exploring Ohrid and Heading to Tirana

In Ohrid, you’ll walk through historic streets, visiting churches like St. John and St. Nicolas, plus the city’s fortress and amphitheater. The views from the church of St. John are often called some of the best scenery on the trip, and it’s easy to see why. The city’s blend of architecture and lakeside charm makes it a standout.

Later, the group heads to Tirana, the lively capital of Albania. The city’s modern vibe contrasts beautifully with the ancient sites visited earlier. The welcome to Tirana includes insights into its history and culture, capped off with a local Albanian lunch and a visit to BUNKART, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past.

Day 7: Final Day in Tirana

Your last day is dedicated to discovering Tirana’s unique sights and flavors. You’ll get to try Byrek (a savory pastry), experience Albanian coffee culture, and enjoy a traditional Raki at lunch. This makes for a nice, relaxed end to an intense week. The guide’s local insights really enrich the experience, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of Tirana’s transformation.

Transportation, Accommodation, & Value

The tour provides private transport for all travel between sites, which makes the experience smooth and comfortable. The group size is kept small, which helps with personalized attention and flexibility. Staying in 3-star hotels with breakfast included ensures a decent level of comfort without breaking the bank.

At $2,112 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the number of UNESCO sites, expert guiding, private transport, and accommodations included. While it isn’t a budget option, it’s a good deal for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized adventure without the stress of planning everything independently.

Notable Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the stunning views at Meteora and Ohrid Lake as trip highlights. One traveler noted, “The views are breathtaking, especially from the church on the hill in Ohrid.” Others appreciated the blend of history and local culture—“The guide’s explanations really made the sites come alive, and I loved tasting authentic Albanian food.” A few pointed out that the itinerary is busy, but that’s part of the appeal if you’re eager to see a lot in a week.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys a mix of history, scenery, and cultural encounters—all in a manageable timeframe—this trip is a good pick. It’s especially suited to those who don’t mind a full schedule and want the comfort of guided visits and organized transportation. The inclusion of UNESCO sites, scenic stops, and local food gives it a well-rounded, authentic feel.

However, if you prefer slow-paced travels or are on a tighter budget, this might not be ideal. Also, the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users, so accessibility could be an issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally geared toward adult travelers, given the pace and the sites involved. It’s best for those comfortable with a busy schedule and some travel days.

What does the price include?
Your fee covers accommodation, breakfast, private transport, the tour guide, entry tickets to sites, taxes, and insurance. It does not include meals beyond breakfast, drinks, or snacks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute adjustments.

Are there options for private or small groups?
Yes, the tour offers private or small group options, which could enhance the experience with more personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential since there’s a fair amount of walking, plus your passport or ID. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, depending on the season.

How long are the travel days?
While not explicitly detailed, expect some full days of travel between sites, especially when crossing borders. The itinerary is packed, so early starts are likely.

Is there a specific age range this tour is best suited for?
There’s no explicit mention of age restrictions, but given the walking and site visits, it’s best suited for physically capable adults or older teens.

In Summary: This 7-day tour offers a fantastic way to see Greece and the Balkans’ highlights without the stress of planning every detail. It combines awe-inspiring landscapes, UNESCO-listed sites, and local culture into a balanced adventure. While it’s busy and not budget-friendly, the value is clear, especially if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground with expert guidance. For those hungry for history, scenic views, and authentic local experiences, this trip checks all the boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here: