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Dubrovnik to Santorini: Croatia Highlights & Greek Island Hopping
15 days, Dubrovnik to Santorini
Itinerary
Day 1Dubrovnik
For your first night out, take to the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik with your CEO and group. After making your way between historic, domed buildings, settle in at a bar in Dubrovnik’s old town or a similar trendy neighborhood for drinks and conversation with your new friends.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Sea Kayaking
36EUR per personHead offshore by sea kayak to gain a different perspective of Dubrovnik and fully appreciate this gorgeous area. Tour around the city walls and take a loop around Lokrum.
Rector's Palace
70HRK per personOriginally built in the 12th century, today's Rector's Palace is a cultural history museum with an intriguing past. A mix of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, it began as the seat of Dubrovnik's rector, becoming a place for merchants and citizens of the republic to gather by the 16th century. In the atrium, you'll find a statue of Miho Pracat, one such merchant who bequeathed his wealth to the city. Wander the galleries and admire paintings, sculptures and furniture from Croatia's past. Today the courtyard is a venue for music and cultural performances - and is often used as a filming location for shows such as Game of Thrones.
Museum of Croatian War of Independence
20HRK per personHop in a cable car to the top of Mount Srd and take in a bird's eye view of the walled city of Dubrovnik. Admire the vistas surrounding this ancient fortress perched above the Adriatic Sea, then make your way to the Croatian War of Independence Museum housed in a wing of Fort Imperial. Built to commemorate the war which lasted from 1991-1995, find artifacts such as documents, photos, military equipment, maps and other everyday objects from Croatians who lived through the siege. Pause for a moment at the memorial plaque, engraved with the names of those who died defending the city.
Franciscan Monastery & Museum
30HRK per personTake a wander through this Franciscan Monastery complex. Originally constructed as a public pharmacy in 1317, the Friars Minor pharmacy is the third oldest functioning pharmacy in the world today.
War Photography Museum
10EUR per personThe War Photo Limited gallery displays exhibits from leading photojournalists who cover recent and present conflicts across the world. Curated by photographer Wade Goddard, who covered the Balkan wars in the 1990s, the gallery is spread over two floors and aims to raise public awareness on the injustices and effects of war.
Cable Car Ride
150HRK per personGet an amazing view of the rows of red roofs of Dubrovnik and the sea on a scenic cable car ride. While you slowly creep up the side of the mountain, look down on the winding streets and out to the nearby oceans. If you run out of time during the day hop on the cable car near sunset to see the tints of pink, red, and orange spread across the sky.
Dubrovnik City Wall Walk
35EUR per personOpt to take a walking tour or head out on your own to explore the city's ancient walls. A trip to Dubrovnik isn't complete without doing this 2km (1.1 mi) walk. See highlights along the way that include Fort Minceta, Fort St. John, Fort Lawrence, Fort Revelin, and St. Luke’s Tower. There are three main entrances to the city walls, the principal one located by the Inner Pile Gates.
Day 2Dubrovnik/Kotor
Cross the border into Montenegro and go hiking or visit Lake Skadar.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Border Crossing (Croatia - Montenegro)
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Free Time
Enjoy free time to explore this beautiful small country.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Donji Stoliv Hike
Follow a less challenging hike along the fjords lining the northern border, enjoying amazing views of the bay along the way, before coming upon the quaint fishing village of Donji Stoliv. This hike is mostly flat and is best enjoyed during the day.
The Ladder of Kotor Hike
Hikers looking to get their adrenaline pumping should strap on their boots and head toward the Krstac Pass, standing 940m (3,083 ft) above the Old City. There's no better compliment to an increased heart rate than incredible views, and that's exactly what you'll get here. Be prepared with a camera and lots of water.
Kotor City Exploration
FreeTake some time to explore this picturesque town surrounded by a walled fortress built by the Republic of Venice. Kotor has a Mediterranean feel to it and the bay offers a stunning backdrop for photographs.
Sea Kayaking
20EUR per personHead out by sea kayak to fully appreciate this gorgeous area. Start just outside the Old Town walls and explore the coast. Stop at a beach bar for a break or a swim.
Lake Skadar National Park
Take a visit to the breathtaking Lake Skadar National Park. A short bus ride from Kotor, this dolphin-shaped water body is the largest lake in the Balkan region, and is one of the richest bird habitats in Europe.
Kotor Maritime Museum
4EUR per personAt the Maritime Museum, explore the history, culture and living artifacts that connect modern Kotor with its centuries-old naval traditions. Learn about the Boka Marines, a fraternity of sailors and navigators who helped shipbuilding flourish in the Balkans.
Sveti Ivan Fortress Hike
Hike up the medieval steps to Sveti Ivan Fortress and be rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of the Old City, harbour and Bay of Boka Kotorska. This hike takes about an hour and is moderately challenging, but a highlight when visiting the area. Climb up just before sunset for the best experience.
Day 3Kotor
Take the day to explore the city of Kotor or the beaches of Herceg Novi. Opt to take a day trip to the beautiful nearby village of Perast.
Free Time
Enjoy free time to explore this beautiful small country.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Donji Stoliv Hike
Follow a less challenging hike along the fjords lining the northern border, enjoying amazing views of the bay along the way, before coming upon the quaint fishing village of Donji Stoliv. This hike is mostly flat and is best enjoyed during the day.
The Ladder of Kotor Hike
Hikers looking to get their adrenaline pumping should strap on their boots and head toward the Krstac Pass, standing 940m (3,083 ft) above the Old City. There's no better compliment to an increased heart rate than incredible views, and that's exactly what you'll get here. Be prepared with a camera and lots of water.
Kotor City Exploration
FreeTake some time to explore this picturesque town surrounded by a walled fortress built by the Republic of Venice. Kotor has a Mediterranean feel to it and the bay offers a stunning backdrop for photographs.
Perast Visit
Visit the small seaside town of Perast for a taste of the quaint in Montenegro.
Risan town and Roman Mosaics Visit
10EUR per personRisan, once the capital of Kotor Bay, is a lovely town. Its most famous characteristic is the archaeological site is known as the Roman Mosaics. The mosaics are found in what remains of an ancient Roman villa, built sometime between the 2nd and 3rd century BC.
Herceg Novi Beach Visit
If relaxing is your style, the beaches of Herceg Novi offer a great escape. There are also local mud therapy spas nearby, so test out the natural healing properties of the area's sand if you like.
Sea Kayaking
20EUR per personHead out by sea kayak to fully appreciate this gorgeous area. Start just outside the Old Town walls and explore the coast. Stop at a beach bar for a break or a swim.
Lake Skadar National Park
Take a visit to the breathtaking Lake Skadar National Park. A short bus ride from Kotor, this dolphin-shaped water body is the largest lake in the Balkan region, and is one of the richest bird habitats in Europe.
Kotor Maritime Museum
4EUR per personAt the Maritime Museum, explore the history, culture and living artifacts that connect modern Kotor with its centuries-old naval traditions. Learn about the Boka Marines, a fraternity of sailors and navigators who helped shipbuilding flourish in the Balkans.
Sveti Ivan Fortress Hike
Hike up the medieval steps to Sveti Ivan Fortress and be rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of the Old City, harbour and Bay of Boka Kotorska. This hike takes about an hour and is moderately challenging, but a highlight when visiting the area. Climb up just before sunset for the best experience.
Day 4Kotor/Tirana
Check out all that the capital of Albania has to offer on an included orientation walk.
Be sure to check out the lively nightlife here.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Border Crossing (Montenegro - Albania)
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Dajti Ekspres Cable Car Ride
6EUR per personTake a ride up to the top of Dajti Mountain. Spanning 1 km long, this is the longest cableway in the Balkans and offers views of the city.
National History Museum
2EUR per personLearn about the history of Albania by spending some time at the National History Museum and checking out the archaeological and historic artifacts. Most displays are translated into English and French to help visitors understand the collections. One of the darker but vastly important sections focuses on the oppression of the communist regime in the country, however this section is a recent addition and has few translations in English.
Piramida Visit
FreeTake a visit to this obscure, culturally-significant building from 1987. It's vandalized state is reflective of the ongoing debate on what, exactly, it should be used for today; originally intended to be used as a museum, and currently being considered for "memorial" status for Albania's 45-year isolation after WWII. Until someone decides, it continues to be the turf of grafitti artists, and skaters.
National Gallery of Arts
2EUR per personCheck out the National Gallery of Arts to see collections of realist paintings, historic and political pieces, propaganda, as well as modern paintings and sculptures. The gallery also houses temporary exhibitions and has one of the best collections of Socialist Realism paintings.
Day 5Tirana/Saranda
Travel through the Albanian countryside to coastal Saranda, stopping along the way to explore towns and local sights. Stop for lunch in the historic centre of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and opt to visit the Gjirokastër Fortress. Arrive early to Saranda with plenty of time to enjoy the Ionian Sea.
The exact stops along the drive depend on the day and weather.
Depending on traffic and arrival/departure times to Saranda, groups may opt to stop by Albania's largest archaeological site from the Greek era, which includes a large Roman amphitheatre and a Byzantine basilica.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow
Mirror Beach Visit
Take a taxi south to Mirror Beach, a secluded natural bay. If you are looking for some quite time in paradise (read: turquoise waters and limestone cliffs), this is the place.
Gjirokaster Fortress
Originally built in the 12th century, this complex has been embellished overtime by Albania's political leaders. Today, it is a historical preservation site including an arms museum providing insight into Albania's independence movement.
Butrint Archaeological Site Visit
20EUR per personTake a taxi to the nearby ruins of the city of Butrint, excavated in 1944. This Greek city and UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a stopping point along trading routes but when the Roman Empire began to decline residents started to leave. After the city was flooded during an earthquake Butrint was abandoned and laid untouched for years under the mud and debris from the quake, preserving artifacts and protecting the ruins.
Bay Visit
FreeTake a walk along the town's horseshoe shaped beach. Grab a scoop of ice cream, rent a paddle boat, or try the catch of the day at a seaside restaurant,
Day 6Saranda/Corfu
Take a late afternoon ferry across the border to the island of Corfu. Enjoy an orientation walk in the old town of Kerkyra, then enjoy free time to hit the beach and the clubs in the evening.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Border Crossing (Albania - Greece)
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Free Time
Do as much or as little as you'd like on this slice of Greek paradise.
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Palaio Frourio
Climb up this fortress (which also happens to been constructed out of the remains of a Byzantine castle) and be rewarded by a spectacular 360 view of Corfu.
Archaeological Museum Corfu
3EUR per personSee some of the amazing artifacts housed at the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, including relics excavated from the ancient city of Corfu, Cassiope, the Gorgon pediment and The Lion of Menecrates. While small, this museum is a great place to see local artifacts and get a sense of the area’s history.
Day 7Corfu
Free time to hit the beach and the clubs. Opt to explore the island by horseback, visit some of the older churches and historic buildings found on the island, or relax on one of its many beautiful beaches.
Free Time
Do as much or as little as you'd like on this slice of Greek paradise.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Archaeological Museum Corfu
3EUR per personSee some of the amazing artifacts housed at the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, including relics excavated from the ancient city of Corfu, Cassiope, the Gorgon pediment and The Lion of Menecrates. While small, this museum is a great place to see local artifacts and get a sense of the area’s history.
Temple of Artemis
FreeThe Temple of Artemis was built in 580 BC and is the first known example of a Doric temple built with stone. Though many of the temple's preserved columns have been transferred to a nearby museum, the ruins are still considered a milestone of Greek architecture.
Achilleion Palace, Museum and Gardens
10EUR per personMarvel at Queen Sissi of Bavaria's tribute to Greek mythology at the Achilleion Palace, 30 minutes south of Corfu. Built in 1890, the palace grounds are filled with marble statues, delicate fountains and beautifully landscaped gardens that overlook the coastline. Used as a set for the James Bond film "For Your Eyes Only", this splendid sanctuary is worth the drive out of town.
Day 8Corfu/Athens
Hop on a morning flight to Athens, then take a free afternoon to explore Greece's capital city. Tonight, enjoy a Big Night Out with the group!
Spend the day in one of the most renowned ancient capitals of the world. Wander around the open-air museum that is the historic centre. Sample mouthwatering greek food such as Saganaki (fried cheese), or Spanakopita (spinach pie). Opt to visit the Acropolis site, the new Acropolis Museum, the Roman agora and the National Archaeological Museum.
Please note that passenger luggage (up to 15kgs/33lbs per passenger) is included on this flight.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Free Time
Start exploring this fascinating ancient city. Parthenon, anyone?
Your Big Night Out Moment:
Celebrate late into the night with your new travel tribe. Enjoy a drink at the hostel's rooftop bar with an amazing view of the Acropolis.
Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow
Roman Agora Visit
2EUR per personTake a stroll through the former marketplace for old Athens, the Roman Agora was built in the first century BC.
Acropolis and Parthenon Visit
20EUR per personDiscover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
FreeMost of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
12EUR per personTake a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Acropolis Museum Visit
Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Day 9Athens
Enjoy a free day to explore Athens and partake in any of the optional activities you didn't have a chance to try out yesterday. Maybe visit the National Archaeological Museum, or Syntagma (Constitution) Square, and of course the, Acropolis and Parthenon. In the evening maybe opt for a bike tour to watch the sunset.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Athens, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Roman Agora. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
National Archaeological Museum Visit
12EUR per personTake a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Roman Agora Visit
2EUR per personTake a stroll through the former marketplace for old Athens, the Roman Agora was built in the first century BC.
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
FreeMost of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
Athens Sunset Bike Tour
Witness the light of the setting sun transform the ancient city of Athens into a sight to behold - and all from your bicycle seat. Take in the golden hour during a scenic bike tour as you roll past Athens' most noteworthy sites. You will see the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Gardens, and the Acropolis Museum to name a few. Prepare for both up close and personal glimpses into life in Athens as well as breathtaking panoramic views of the city during your bike tour.
Acropolis Museum Visit
Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Acropolis and Parthenon Visit
20EUR per personDiscover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.
Accommodation
Bedbox Hostel Athens (or similar)
Day 10Athens/Páros
Travel by ferry to the Paros, an island of beautiful villages surrounded by picturesque nature and views of the Mediterranean. Head out on an orientation walk starting at the port town of Paroikla with its white cube-shaped houses. Wander past churches, the Venetian Castle on the hill and the Archaeological Museum. Afterwards, take advantage of free time to visit the many restaurants, cafes, and shops along the old town’s main streets.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Paros Orientation Walk
The fertile and hilly island of Paros has been successfully occupied by Cretans, Minoans, Ionians, Arcadians, Macedonians, Romans, and a few others. The island's bustling capital port town of Parkikia full of ancient sites, the resort town of Naoussa, and all of these sweet, rural villages minus the crowds makes this island a must see on any Greek islands adventure. Enjoy a guided walk of the port town and use your free time to try out any cafes, restaurants, and bars that peak your curiosity along the main street.
Free Time
With plenty to see and do this island will not disappoint. Head out for a nice walk through the hills and other fishing villages. Or if feeling more adventurous try out windsurfing, kite-surfing and diving.
Accommodation
Polos Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Páros
Set off on a half-day tour to see more of the island of Paros. Visit the inland village of Lefkes surrounded by hills, pine forests, and olive groves. Then, travel to the resort town of Naousa and Kolymbithres Beach with the clearest water and coolest rock formations you could use for sunbathing. The rest of the day is yours to continue exploring, walk on the beach, grab a bite to eat, and relax in this paradise that offers you a Greek island experience without the crowds.
Paros Island Excursion
Visit the island of Paros in the heart of the Cyclades, known for its hidden beaches, quaint villages and bountiful plant life. The countryside is filled with vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees while in the spring the scenery is dotted with bursts of colour from blooming flowers. Explore or sit back at a tavernas and enjoy the view while savouring some yummy Greek food. History buffs tend to flock to the North side of Paros to Naousa to see the town’s historic port and Venetian ruins.
Free Time
Relax by the water, feel the sun on your face, and swim in the clear blue waters of Paros' beaches. Grab some food at a cafe with outdoor seating and watch the locals go about their day as you enjoy this island paradise.
Accommodation
Polos Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Páros/Íos
Hop on a ferry to your next island destination today and enjoy a small lunch onboard. Upon arrival at Ios the group will enjoy an orientation walk with your CEO of Chora which is the main and only real village of Ios. Wander around admiring the little cube house with the flat roofs and the narrow stone paved winding labyrinth of streets. Afterwards you’ll have free time to visit some of the bars and restaurants for some food and drinks, lounge on the beach, or climb to the highest point on the island for panoramic views of Ios. It’s truly unforgettable, especially during a colorful sunset.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Chora Orientation Walk
Get the lay of the land and wander through the labyrinth of street stumbling across cafes, shops, and bars along the way. Afterwards maybe hike up to the ruins of the venetian castle on top of the hill overlooking the village. At night choose to head out and have a good time with the locals to get a taste of the nightlife on this Greek island.
Free Time
Enjoy time on the island of Ios. Hike to the highest point on the island, relax on the beach, or partake in the nightlife with the locals.
Accommodation
Skala Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Íos
Today is all about beaches, swimming, and living out those Greek Island bucket-lists. In the morning, take advantage of free time to stroll through town before the group embarks on the Best of Beaches Tour of Ios midafternoon. The trip is four hours and you’ll visit seven different beaches along the island. Lunch is included and you’ll have opportunities to swim and try snorkelling at Neverbay. The evening is yours to dance the night away at an island nightclub and bar!
Free Time
Enjoy a free morning on the island of Íos.
Best Beaches of Ios Tour
The best of Beaches Tour in Ios is a four hour trip that will visit seven different beaches along the coast of Ios: Kolistani, Sapounochma, Klima, Pikri Nero, Pepa, Tripiti, and Manganarj beaches. Three swim stops are included and an opportunity to snorkel at "Neverbay" which is also the film location of the movie, "The Big Blue". Lunch is included on tour.
Free Time
After returning from the beaches tour you'll have free time. Opt to grab a drink with the group, find the perfect dinner spot, watch the sunset from the highest point on the island, and maybe dance the night away with the locals.
Accommodation
Skala Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 14Íos/Santorini
Spend the morning in Ios. In the afternoon jump on the ferry to the island of Santorini. Upon arrival the group will enjoy a CEO guided caldera walk. The walk is just under 11km and will take you along the rim of the caldera between Fira and Oia. Afterwards, you have the option of attending dinner with the group for your final night in Santorini.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Caldera Hiking Excursion
Hike along the caldera cliff from Fira to Oia with your CEO as your guide. You'll pass through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli between Fira and Oia. At just under 11km the hike will take between 3 and 4 hours. Part of the path is similar to a sidewalk and some parts are cobblestone and others a simple dirt path. Enjoy the exercise and some of the best views in Santorini.
Accommodation
Castro Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Santorini
Depart at any time.