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Essential Europe: Italy, Croatia & Mediterranean Magic

21 days, Munich to Corfu

Map of the route for Essential Europe: Italy, Croatia & Mediterranean Magic
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Itinerary

Day 1Munich

Arrive at any time, find a comfy spot in the hostel to relax or go out to explore before meeting fellow Roamies in the evening.

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.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

Wombats Munich Werksviertel (or similar)
Hostel

Day 2Munich/Innsbruck

Get this adventure started with a CEO-led walk in Munich, followed by a train ride to Innsbruck in the afternoon. Nestled snugly in a picturesque valley with panoramic views of the alps, Innsbruck won't disappoint. Get your bearings on a short orientation walk and spend some time becoming familiar with your hostel and surroundings. Opt to wander along Maria Theresien Street, explore the Grassmayr Bell Foundry, or check out Ambras Castle, famous for its renaissance gardens. Get ready to fill your camera roll!

Munich Orientation Walk With CEO
Munich

Stroll around with your CEO and admire the sights while walking around Munich. Stop by the Marienplatz or town centre, the Hofbräuhaus, and/or the Frauenkirche Cathedral. This capital city of Bavaria is buzzing with life and a walk around is the perfect way to soak in the energy.

Train
Munich – Innsbruck

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Innsbruck Orientation Walk With CEO
Innsbruck

Take a scenic tour of Innsbruck with your CEO , starting at Maria-Theressien Strasse and ending in the charming Old Town. If you have time, make sure to ride the cable car to Hafelaker from the heart of the city.

Accommodation

Innsbruck Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 3Innsbruck/Venice

Check out the Imperial Palace of Innsbruck before piling back onto the train to head into epic scenery of the Dolomites. Think filling your feed with crystal clear mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks. Don't forget that Venice is the end goal of today so pump yourself up for the famous canal city on the horizon. Tonight join your CEO for a nice cold beverage and see where the night takes you.

Imperial Palace Innsbruck
Innsbruck

Welcome to the Imperial Innsbruck Castle where you'll explore grand halls, rich Renaissance architecture, royal chambers, and centuries of Tyrolean history—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Alps. A short journey through imperial splendor!

Train
Innsbruck – Venice

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Accommodation

Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 4Venice

“Oh what a night, what a beautiful night…” This tends to be the song stuck in our heads whenever a visit to Venice is on the table. Can’t you just hear that accordion? After becoming acquainted with Venice's cuisine on a CEO-led food tour, and learning of ghostly legends, the day is yours, no judgments here on what you decide to do. From canals to gondola rides, and inspiring architecture, what’s not to love?

The main city is small enough that you can walk it in several hours with the added bonus of getting those steps in. Explore the canals, relax in the small squares, and go cafe-hopping for coffee, pastries, wine, or all three, because why not? See Venice from the water on a gondola ride through the canals, run through the pigeons or people watch in St. Mark’s Square, take an elevator ride up to the top of the Campanile Di San Marco for panoramic views of the city below. Your only real job today is to have a blast!!

Your Foodie Moment: Street Food Tour

Indulge your inner foodie with a street food tour in Venice. Follow your CEO through this unique city and experience Italy in the best possible way, through food.

Venice ghost tour : Venice Events
Venice

Experience the spine-tingling tales surrounding the mysteries of Venice's alleyways. Steps into the shadows (with your CEO, of course) to learn where history and the paranormal collide.

Free Time
Venice

The main city is small enough that you can walk it in several hours. Explore the canals, relax in the small squares, and go cafe-hopping for coffee, pastries, and wine. See Venice from the water on a gondola ride through the canals, run through the pigeons or people watch in St. Mark’s Square, take an elevator ride up to the top of the Campanile Di San Marco for panoramic views of the city below.

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Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

Campanile San Marco Lookout
Venice
8EUR per person

Climb to the top of the Campanile - Venice's tallest building - to take in a great bird's eye view of the cityscape and lagoon.

Gallerie dell'Accademia
Venice
12EUR per person

Featuring works from famed artists including Bellini, Tintoretto, and Veronese, there is no better place to delve into the history of Venetian art.

Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit
Venice
17EUR per person

Visit this former palace, rebuilt and restored numerous times, and admire the Gothic Venetian architecture. Once the seat of the government, the Palazzo Ducale is now a grand museum. Enjoy the stellar artwork, ornate chambers, and courtyards.

Accommodation

Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 5Venice/Florence

We promise your tastebuds will thank you and rejoice with what’s on the menu for today’s adventure. All aboard the train from Venice to Florence. Being one of Italy’s most sought after food capitals, make sure you stuff your face while here. Eat the city’s signature pasta and venture out of those comfort zones to sample any specialty dishes you may stumble upon. Your CEO will point you in the right direction on CEO-led food and market tour.

This evening happens to be perfect if you are looking to relax, eat some more (if you can), or recover from those food comas in your hostel before a quick highlight tour of the city.

Train
Venice – Florence2h30m255km

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Your Foodie Moment: Florence Market and Food Tour

Enjoy the local specialities on this CEO-led market and food tour. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells, and enjoy every moment.

Accommodation

Hostel Plus Florence (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 6Florence

Live your best life on this free day in Florence! Grab some pals, lace up those walking shoes, and let the good times roll. Take in famous works of art hung in the Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia. “Oh and ah” at the grand architectural masterpieces of the Duomo and the Palazzo Pitti, and smell the flowers in Boboli Gardens. Looking for more chill vibes? We got you covered. Walk along the Arno and over the Ponte Vecchio before eating your way through the Firenze’s many cafes, ristorantes, and gelato shops.

Free Time
Florence

Take in famous works of art hung in the Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia. Marvel at the grand architectural masterpieces of the Duomo and the Palazzo Pitti, and smell the flowers in Boboli Gardens. Walk along the Arno and over the Ponte Vecchio before eating your way through the Firenze’s many cafes, ristorantes, and gelato shops.

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Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow

Medici Chapels Visit
Florence1h-1h11m
9-32EUR per person

Admire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family.

Piazza della Repubblica Visit
Florence

Join your CEO for a walk to the Piazza della Repubblica - site of the city's ancient Roman forum - then ride on a unique wooden carousel maintained by the same family for five generations.

National Museum of Bargello
Florence
15.75EUR per person

Explore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.

Mercato Centrale (Mercato di San Lorenzo) Visit
Florence

Pick up a purse (or several!), leatherbound journals, Florentine paper, and any off-colour David statue souvenirs you wish.

Ponte Vecchio Visit
Florence

Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.

Uffizi Gallery Visit
Florence1h-2h
25EUR per person

Head to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.

Il Duomo di Firenze Visit
Florence1h-2h
Free-30EUR per person

This green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!

Accommodation

Hostel Plus Florence (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 7Florence/Rome

Leave Florence behind and catch the train to Rome. Upon arrival grab your travel mates and enjoy a walking your before letting your appetites run wild on an afternoon food tour; cue those Italian fantasies. Sample pizza, gelato and more as you learn about the heart and soul behind Italian cooking.

The night is yours! Did someone say dance party?

Train
Florence – Rome

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Food Tour in Rome
Rome

Get a true taste of Italy's cuisine on a food tour in Rome. Try dishes you always imagined and immerse yourself completely in the Italian culture.

Rome Orientation Walk With CEO
Rome

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. They 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.

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Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow

St. Peter's Square Walk
Rome
3-5EUR per person

With your CEO, explore St. Peter's Square, located in Vatican City. Created in the 17th century by Bernini, the square has an elliptic shape, surrounded on two sides by colonnades before St. Peter's Basilica. Statues sit atop the colonnades. At the center of the ellipse stands an Egyptian obelisk that was transported from Egypt to Rome during the reign of Emperor Augustus.

Spanish Steps
Rome
Free

Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.

Trevi Fountain
Rome
Free

Built above an ancient water source, Trevi Fountain takes its name from the three streets (tre vie) that intersect at this world-famous fountain. Sculpted from travertine stone, the fountain as we know it today was completed in the 18th century. Work your way through the crowds to toss a coin in (with your right hand, over your left shoulder) for good luck - it's also your best chance to see the fountain's marvelous detail.

Accommodation

Roma Scout Center (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 8Rome

From gardens to museums and gelato to slices of pizza we’re pretty sure you’ll have your hands full (literally) on this free day in Rome. You can visit the mighty Colosseum, home to past gladiator tournaments. Walk up the 135 stairs of the Spanish steps. Meander around the Roman Forum; one of the most important Roman ruins in Italy, and stare up at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (knowing you could probably never paint something as grand). Whatever you decide, make sure you meet up for tiramisu, limoncello, a glass or two of wine and whatever else you crave along the way. When in Rome right?

Please note that if Vatican City is on your must-see list, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online several weeks prior to your trip. Advance tickets can be reserved online at https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home. Same-day entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) cannot be guaranteed without advance tickets.

We also recommend pre-booking your ticket to the Colosseum to guarantee entrance and avoid long queues:
https://ticketing.colosseo.it/en

Free Time
Rome

On this free day in Rome you can visit the mighty Colosseum, the Spanish steps, the Roman Forum, the Sistine Chapel and much more.

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Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow

Colosseum Visit
Rome
24EUR per person

Enjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!

Pantheon Visit
Rome
2-5EUR per person

The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings.

Trevi Fountain
Rome
Free

Built above an ancient water source, Trevi Fountain takes its name from the three streets (tre vie) that intersect at this world-famous fountain. Sculpted from travertine stone, the fountain as we know it today was completed in the 18th century. Work your way through the crowds to toss a coin in (with your right hand, over your left shoulder) for good luck - it's also your best chance to see the fountain's marvelous detail.

Spanish Steps
Rome
Free

Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.

Accommodation

Roma Scout Center (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 9Rome to Split

It’s all about those good vibes and finding that connection today. Say, “Arrivederci Rome”, as you cruise towards the Adriatic Coast. Once we arrive in Ancona you’ll board an overnight ferry to Split, Croatia. Sleeping cabins are included and we bet you’ll have some stories to tell afterwards. We can’t wait to hear them!

Free Time
Rome Morning

Enjoy a free morning in Rome to explore. Check out the famous Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, or the Pantheon. If tickets are required, we recommend purchasing in advance.

Private Vehicle
Rome – Ancona4h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle.

Ferry
Ancona – Split

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 10Split

Wipe the sleep from those eyes with a quick breakfast onboard the ferry. Then, on your mark, get set, GO explore the second largest city in Croatia! Modern life and ancient history collide here ensuring there’s plenty of experiences to keep you preoccupied. The only challenge? Seeing as much as you can without rushing it. We’ll let you in on a secret. For the best views of the city consider climbing the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral, then head out on a sightseeing guided tour to explore Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace. But after all this we wanted to do you a favour, so we’ll give you back your evening to do as you will. Think drinks in the hostel with new friends, or heading out on the town for a night of laughter and dancing. Doesn’t sound like you could go wrong.

Split Guided Tour
Split

During this Split sightseeing tour walk to UNESCO protected Diocletian's Palace and through Old town.

Diocletian's Palace is one of the most imposing Roman ruins in Europe. It took over 10 years to construct and is built of white stone imported from the island of Brač. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site is a perfect way to learn more about the history of Split.

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Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow

Mestrovic Gallery
Split
30HRK per person

Filled with the incredible sculptures of Croatian artist and architect Ivan Meštrović, this gallery is beautiful inside and out. The gallery is housed in a villa designed by Meštrović as a summer home which overlooks a wonderful garden where you can view more sculptures and enjoy the breeze from the sea.

Bacvice Beach Visit
Split
Free

Head to this local hot spot to soak up some rays or play in the calm waters. The sandy shores are often packed with rows of lounge chairs and umbrellas, but it's still a great place to spend some time if you’re looking to cool off. Visit some of the cafes along the waterfront, wade out into the shallow water, or rent a lounge chair and relax.

Marjan's Peak Visit
Split3h-4h
30EUR per person

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to visit Marjan's Peak. The area has nice hiking and biking trails for those that want to embrace nature and escape the port town.

St Duje Cathedral Visit
Split
15-40HRK per person

The Cathedral of St Duje is said to be the oldest cathedral in the world, built around 305 AD. Climb up the bell tower for excellent views of Split and the surrounding port area.

Accommodation

En Route Hostel Split (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 11Brač/Split

Get your sea legs ready for a ferry ride to the island of Brač today. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or head into the heart of Supetar, the largest town on the island. Get your fill of historic buildings, tasty food, and completely unbeatable Mediterranean views before returning to Split.

Ferry
Split – Otok Brač

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.

Free Time
Brac Full Day

Experience the island life with a free day in Brač. Use your day to explore Supetar, go to the beach, or fill your feed with insta worthy shots of the Island.

Ferry
Otok Brač – Split

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.

Accommodation

En Route Hostel Split (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 12Split/Dubrovnik

Did someone say Peljesac Peninsula? No? Well anyway, you’ll see some of this gem on your way from Split to Dubrovnik. Wave your goodbyes as you head toward a place renowned for the best red wine in Croatia. Wander the Wall of Ston, from Ston to Mali. Then continue down the coast to live your best life in Dubrovnik.

Private Vehicle
Split – Dubrovnik

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit to Ston & Walk Along Wall
Ston

Ston is famous for its Artisan salt production and best oysters in Europe. Upon arrival to Ston walk the Ston wall from Ston to Mali Ston (5.5km).

Accommodation

Akademis Hotel Dubrovnik (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 13Dubrovnik

Wake up in the iconic Dubrovnik, and enjoy free time before heading out with your travel besties on a group walk through the Old Town. Play eye spy and see if you can spot Dubrovnik Cathedral, Lovrijenac Fort, and a Franciscan Monastery. Afterwards, revel in the timeless atmosphere of this port city. You might never leave and we wouldn’t blame you.

Free Time
Dubrovnik Afternoon

There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.

Dubrovnik Orientation Walk With CEO
Dubrovnik

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO around the city of Dubrovnik. Walk with your CEO and explore Dubrovnik old town, walk from the gate via main street called Stradun to the end. See Dubrovnik Cathedral, Lovrijenac Fort, and Franciscan Monastery. All visits are from outside with no entrance fees included.

Accommodation

Akademis Hotel Dubrovnik (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 14Dubrovnik

You have a whole day ahead of you to experience Dubrovnik as you please. Admire one of the most gorgeous coastlines in the world, stroll along the city’s walls, hike up to Minčeta Fortress; the highest fort in Dubrovnik only accessible from the city walls. (yes, we know it sounds cool!) Hunt down some Game of Thrones filming locations (there are plenty) and let out your inner Khaleesi! Grab a towel, find a place to swim your heart out, kayak for unique views of the city from the water, and perhaps end your day sipping a beverage and witnessing a gorgeous sunset from a cliff top bar. Sounds like a win in our book.

Free Time
Dubrovnik

You have a whole day ahead of you to experience Dubrovnik. Admire one of the most gorgeous coastlines in the world, stroll along the city’s walls, hike up to Minčeta Fortress or hunt down some Game of Thrones filming locations.

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Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow

Cable Car Ride
Dubrovnik
150HRK per person

Get 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.

Museum of Croatian War of Independence
Dubrovnik1h-2h
20HRK per person

Hop 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.

Rector's Palace
Dubrovnik1h-2h
70HRK per person

Originally 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.

Dubrovnik City Wall Walk
Dubrovnik1h-2h
35EUR per person

Opt 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.

Accommodation

Akademis Hotel Dubrovnik (or similar)
Hotel

Day 15Dubrovnik/Kotor

Pull out those travel journals and cross another country off your bucket-lists today because it’s time to leave Croatia behind and give some love and attention to Montenegro. All of the boxes will be checked today, beautiful sites, quaint villages, and your first glimpse of Kotor Bay, a unique fjord of the Adriatic.

You’ll check out the historic village of Perast. Think marvellous buildings, postcard-like churches, and a romantic waterfront that seems to feature in every painting of European sailing towns. Rest of the day you get to hang out with your super cool and fun CEO. They will take you on a highlights walk of UNESCO protected Kotor and show you places like the Old City, St. Tryphon Cathedral, and the famous Clock Tower. Don’t let the fun end here! Make a plan and keep hanging out and see if your CEO can accompany you to a few hole in the wall places that will make your time here truly unique.

Private Vehicle
Dubrovnik – Kotor3h-4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Perast Visit
Perast

Visit the small seaside town of Perast for a taste of the quaint in Montenegro.

Kotor City Exploration
Kotor15m-30m

Take 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.

Accommodation

Old Town Kotor Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 16Kotor

Amazing views and a magical experience are on the menu for today. It all starts as the sun rises over the land on a morning hike up the Ladder of Kotor. Grab some fun group photos with your CEO as you revel in the views.

The rest of the day belongs to you. Explore, bop around, and experience Kotor as you wish. Even if that means laying low at the hostel with a few friends, we won’t judge, in fact, the best moments often happen when you least expect them. Cat lovers rejoice! Because Kotor has their very own Cat Museum you can visit. Not feeling an afternoon of felines? That’s ok, walk into the impressive interior of St. Nicholas’ Church, hop on a boat and visit Our Lady of the Rocks, or book an excursion to Blue Cave for a bucket-list worthy swim spot.

The Ladder of Kotor Hike
Kotor

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.

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Optional Activities - Day 16 HideShow

Sea Kayaking
Kotor
20EUR per person

Head 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.

Kotor - Tivat Inland Tour
Kotor
40EUR per person

Tour the twin cities of Kotor and Tivat, with visits to the town of Cetinje and Lovcen National park. This tour is a perfect chance to explore inland and experience all the varied environments and historical architecture Montenegro has to offer.

Tour includes all transportation and tickets.

Donji Stoliv Hike
Kotor

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
Kotor

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 Maritime Museum
Kotor
4EUR per person

At 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.

Accommodation

Old Town Kotor Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 17Kotor/Tirana

Another day, another dollar. Just kidding, it’s free to make awesome memories with your friends and it’s guaranteed that you will as you travel along the Montenegrin coastline towards Tirana, Albania. Make a pit stop overlooking St Stefan, part island, part luxury resort. It’s a great place to get out, stretch those legs and pretend you have just arrived on your private yacht like most guests do. From there you’ll get to visit Dolphin-shaped Lake Skadar on the border of Albania and Montenegro. Explore the area surrounded by steep mountains, island monasteries, and crystal-clear waters by foot.

Finish the day in Tirana with a half day guided walking tour through the streets featuring Skanderbeg Square!

St Stefan Overlook Visit
Sveti Stefan

St Stefan is a fortified village that dates back to the 15th century. The island has a unique setting of cobbled lanes, lush courtyards, and unbeatable views of the sea. This part luxury resort, part island, has been referred to as one of Europe's most luxurious hotels. Stop at a lookout point here to stretch those legs and take in the scenery.

Private Vehicle
Kotor – Tirana

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Lake Skadar National Park
Kotor

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.

Guided Walking Tour of Tirana
Tirana

Walk through the streets of Tirana with a local guide. Visit Skanderbeg Square and experience Albanian hospitality.

Accommodation

Hotel Kruja (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 18Tirana

The day is yours! Take advantage of free time and get to know Tirana. One of Europe's best-kept secrets, this city hardly ever makes travel bucket lists. Tirana boasts a wide range of optional activities that are guaranteed to charm you. Opt to hike through national parks in the area, or maybe explore history museums that unveil Tirana's turbulent past. Check out food markets full of local cuisine and sweets while you admire the local landmarks of this special place.

Free Time
Tirana Full Day

Today, Tirana is the cultural, political, and entertainment center of Albania. While remnants of the city's Ottoman, Italian, and communist past are still present, Tirana is still becoming a modern European metropolis. See for yourself during your free day exploring.

Choose to visit the Skanderbeg Square, where the National History Museum, the National Library, City Hall and the Et’hem Bej Mosque all reside. Or walk the Murat Toptani street in search of places to browse for keepsakes of your time here. Don't forget to grab some lunch at a traditional Albanian restaurant.

Accommodation

Hotel Kruja (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 19Tirana/Corfu

It’s no secret that travelling is exhausting! Build up that energy with breakfast in the hostel then drive along the coastal route to Saranda known fondly as the “Albanian Riviera”. Strap those sea legs on as you catch the ferry from Saranda to the island of Corfu where once you arrive you’ll have free time to grab a drink, explore Corfu, and laugh it up with your pals at the hostel.

Private Vehicle
Tirana – Saranda4h30m-5h30m265km

Enjoy a private transfer from Tirana to Saranda Ferry port with a stop for lunch along the way.

Ferry
Saranda – Corfu1h

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Free Time
Corfu

Hang out in Corfu tonight. Grab some drinks, find a fun place to eat, and plot out tomorrow's adventure.

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Optional Activities - Day 19 HideShow

Lekuresi Castle
Saranda1h-2h
Free

If you are looking to get a glimpse into Ottoman history, take a visit to Lekursi Castle. Built in the 16th century by Sultan Suleymani, this complex was designed to protect the city from coastal invaders. The site now offers visitors an interesting place to take an afternoon stroll, while taking in panoramic views of Corfu and Ksamil islands in the distance.

Mirror Beach Visit
Saranda

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.

Bay Visit
Saranda1h-4h
Free

Take 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,

Accommodation

Pink Palace Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 20Corfu

Wake up in paradise and know that the choice is yours today and there’s nothing holding you back! Take a taxi and explore the UNESCO-listed town, wander by the laundry swaying in the sea breeze and search for a place to grab lunch and a cocktail or two.

Searching for something more exciting and unique? Chill out on an olive oil tasting experience, or learn about bees and honey production in Corfu. Looking for more adventure? Visit an ancient monastery on steep cliffs overlooking the azure waters. Want to just relax? Lay out beachside working on your tan and swimming in the refreshing waters. Turns out you really can’t go wrong on this Greek island. Tonight, opt to go out with the group to Corfu Town and hit up some of the best nightlife spots. The transfer to and from the hostel is included if you choose to go.

Free Time
Corfu

Free time in Corfu today! Plenty of time to do as you please and discover some hidden gems.

6

Optional Activities - Day 20 HideShow

Achilleion Palace, Museum and Gardens
Corfu2h-3h
10EUR per person

Marvel 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.

Archaeological Museum Corfu
Corfu
3EUR per person

See 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.

Mon Repos Beach
Corfu1h-3h
1.50EUR per person

Take a walk on this beach to discover more of the beautiful Kanoni peninsula.

Palaio Frourio
Corfu

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.

Temple of Artemis
Corfu
Free

The 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.

Hiking Corfu
Corfu

Stretch your legs and explore the picturesque island of Corfu on foot. Your CEO will be happy to help with planning a hike!

Accommodation

Pink Palace Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 21Corfu

Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time, or keep the adventure going by heading south for some good times and epic views in Greece.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Essential Europe: Italy, Croatia & Mediterranean Magic

| 21 days - Munich to Corfu - from $4129 USD