Best Islands of Greece - Ciconia Travel

Journey through the gorgeous sights of Greece & Balkans from Athens to Sofia over 19 days.

19 Days
15 Cities
8 Country
Discovery
5 & 4 Star Hotels
Around 20 People
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COLLAPSE ALL

Welcome to Greece

Meet the unparalleled cultural heritage of ancient Greece on an epic adventure in comfort and style.  Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by a Ciconia representative at the airport. In the afternoon, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Greet the sophisticated and delicious Greek cuisine tonight on a group dinner, make sure to leave room for amazing desserts.

Hotel

Grand Hyatt Hotel

Meals

n/a

Optional Experiences

Group Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Group Dinner ( Optional Activity )

Athens City Tour

Journey to the depths of ancient Greece as we embark on a comprehensive city tour of the cradle of western civilization with our expert guide. Soak in unique sights such as the world-famous Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple and follow the footsteps of Socrates and Plato. On the way to Acropolis, we will have a scenic drive & photo stops where you will be seeing the Acropolis Museum, the Royal Palace, Temple of Zeus and Agora. We will also stop for photos at historic sites as Hadrian’s Arch and commemorate the first ever modern Olympics of 1896. You will have personal leisure time in the afternoon to continue your in-depth discovery until our exciting dinner plans. Gather for dinner at a local restaurant to experience the authentic Greek cuisine and culture with a folklore show, together with complimentary house wine!

Hotel

Grand Hyatt Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner with Greek Folklore Show

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Parthenon
Sightseeing of Temple of Zeus and Agora
Acropolis
Royal Palace visit
Greek Folklore Show with dinner

Ferry to Mykonos

Wake up to the beautiful view of Acropolis overlooking Athens and transfer to the bustling port of Piraeus for your ferry to Mykonos. Sailing the open seas on a comfortable Aegean ferry, approach the charming windmills and whitewashed houses covering the slopes surrounding the port. The famous island offers gorgeous towns of narrow cobbled streets, lively beach clubs, exquisite authentic dining and an endless nightlife. Checking into your hotel in the late afternoon, launch your discovery through the mazes of streets filled with stalls, shops, cafes and bars. In the evening, we have special dinner plans at the well-known Platis Gialos beach where you can try out fine samples of Greek cuisine.

Hotel

Nimbus Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner at Platis Gialos

Sightseeing Activities

Mykonos Orientation Walk
Dinner at Pilatis Gialos

Mykonos

You have a full day to make the best of Mykonos, enjoy one of its stylish seaside clubs or colourful party beaches, lose yourself purposefully among the labyrinthine streets uncovering its hidden gems. Start with an orientation walk with your guide around the main port to get your bearings – as navigating the narrow maze-like streets is no small feat. Our boat trip today to Delos island presents incredible ancient ruins at the ‘birthplace’ of the gods Apollo and Artemis. Inhabited since 3rd millennium BC, it is one of the most prized mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in all of Greece. In the evening, taste delicious local seafood and view the most stunning sunset over Little Venice. As you finish your tasteful wine, feel free to discover the rich nightlife of Mykonos.

Hotel

Nimbus Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Delos Island Boat Trip

Leisure Time

Soak in the Aegean sun and the energizing beat at one of Mykonos’ famous beaches. Start learning your way around town and discover beautiful quaint villages scattered around the island. Hire a ride to create your personal itinerary and discover the diverse range of attractions in Mykonos. Find your favourite ice cream store and view a stunning sunset at Little Venice with the waves ascending beside colourful houses lined by the sea. Enjoy delicious seafood and a trendy bar at the seaside.

Hotel

Nimbus Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Little Venice

Ferry to Santorini

Bid farewell to the beautiful and crazy Mykonos and ferry to the gorgeous Santorini. Comfortably cruising the Aegean, approach the breath-taking view of steep cliffs and terraces of whitewashed houses. Santorini is blessed with a unique geology and nature, colourful beaches of volcanic sand, immense historical and cultural treasures, and a world-famous sunset. Stroll the vibrant town and soak in a scenery of a lifetime as blue churches and white houses unfold before you. In the evening, get to savour the delicious seafood and local recipes at a select restaurant in Oia with incredible views over the sea.

Hotel

The Majestic Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner at Oia

Sightseeing Activities

Santorini Orientation Walk
Dinner at Oia

Santorini Walking Tour

Journey through the heart of the town on a walking tour with your guide. Uncover the bustling town centre, famous landmarks and the popular hotspots for the best views. Take a short boat trip to the crater and hot springs part of the volcano that gave Santorini its unique shape and features. In the afternoon at Oia village, watch the sun disappear in the blurred horizon between the sky and the sea from a pool atop the cliffs. Discover the diverse nightlife of Santorini with plentiful restaurants, lounges, bars and clubs.

Hotel

The Majestic Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Santorini Volcano Tour

Leisure Time

Freely discover the myriad of beautiful sights at Santorini that you couldn’t make the time for. You can hire quadbikes or motorcycles from a local provider to make it to the black or white beach in the South, then the Archaeological Museum of Thera before a refreshing stop; shape your journey as per your wishes. Visit prehistoric settlements; beaches of colourful sand and water sports; quaint villages, wineries and more. Sample the fine Greek cuisine and delightful local wine with astounding views over the village to cement your memories of Santorini.

Hotel

The Majestic Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Santorini

Flight to Belgrade

Wake up to the beautiful Santorini for a final breakfast on the island. Transfer to the airport for your connecting flight to Belgrade (via Athens). Upon arrival in Belgrade, a Ciconia representative will meet you at the airport & drive you to the hotel.

Hotel

Hotel Metropol Palace

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Belgrade City Tour

The day is yours to soak in all the beauty Belgrade offers. Launch your adventure with a comprehensive guided tour of the city at the bustling shopping street Knez Mihailova. Roam the Belgrade Fortress overlooking a merge of Danube and Sava Rivers with feudal cannons in display – declared a Monument of Culture of Great Importance. Uncover the marvellous blend of medieval and modern through a myriad of impressive sites at the heart of the city. You will have plentiful personal leisure time in the afternoon to shop around, continue your cultural discovery and sip delicious cocktails at a contemporary local bar. Your dinner seat is reserved at our hotel's impressive restaurant.

Hotel

Hotel Metropol Palace

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Belgrade
Kalemegdan Belgrade Visit
Belgrade Visit
Belgrade Visit

Depart for Sarajevo

Bidding farewell to the buzzing Belgrade, we embark on a journey through green forests to meet the multi-coloured fabric of Bosnia & Herzegovina at Sarajevo. Home to people of various religions, ethnic and cultural background, the diverse architectural and cultural landscape is reflected all around the town. Witnessing the start of World War 1, splitting of the Eastern and Western Roman Empire, and the devastating Yugoslav War in recent history; the marks of history are hidden around every corner. As your Travel Director and local expert guide you through the charming old town and the Bascarsija, learn all about the rich history of the country. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. Make sure to try traditional Turkish coffee for the best finish to your dinner.

Hotel

Swissotel Sarajevo

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sarajevo Visit
Sarajevo Visit
Sarajevo Visit
Sarajevo Visit

Depart for Trebinje

Drive through lush fields and valleys towards the adorable village of Mostar. Famously known for the gorgeous stone bridge in the old town, a prime example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, designed by a student of the Great Ottoman architect, Sinan. Join your guide for a walking tour through the Stari Most and the old carsija (market), still presenting the authentic style of 15th century in its splendid architecture. Sample the delicious cuisine over lunch at one of the lovely venues and complete your discovery. In the afternoon, we depart for Trebinje, located by the border with Croatia. We arrive just in time for dinner at our hotel, where we will spend two nights.

Hotel

Hotel Central Park

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Stari Most
Sightseeing of Mostar

Depart for Dubrovnik

Ready your cameras and sunscreen as we head out to the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik. Crossing into Croatia with a short ride, soak in the unique sight of terra-cotta tiled roofs encircled by might medieval walls, preserved in incredible condition. Stop for an amazing view of the old town from the overlooking hills, and meet your local expert at the gates to launch your guided tour of Dubrovnik. Learn about the intriguing history of the once-great city state, thriving through its maritime connections and protected by its gigantic ramparts. As we cover the must-see highlights, relax at a breezy restaurant over a delicious seafood lunch. You will have personal leisure time in the afternoon for your preferred activities, whether strolling on the walls, taking an optional boat trip, discovering the quaint streets and pedestrian avenues, or taking a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea. We drive back to Trebinje for dinner at our hotel.

Hotel

Hotel Central Park

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Optional Experiences

Dubrovnik Boat Trip - €40

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Dubrovnik Old Town
Old City Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik

Depart for Shkodra

Our adventure continues to a less crowded, but just as impressive location. Driving along the skirts of mountains along the coast, we reach Kotor surrounded by monumental walls. Join a walking tour in the old town fortress with your expert local guide and Travel Director, wandering the labyrinthine narrow streets. Enjoy a refreshing lunch at a local restaurant and pace your adventure with personal leisure time in the afternoon. You can hike to the top of the incredible fortress for spectacular views over Kotor Bay or capture the prettiest pictures of the remarkable medieval village. Travel to one of the oldest cities in the Balkans as we cross into Albania, Shkodra, for dinner and a relaxing stay at our hotel.

Hotel

Grand Hotel Europa

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Kotor
Sightseeing of Kotor Old Town

Depart for Ohrid

Starting our journey into Albanian culture, we embark on a walking tour of Shkodra witnessing the influence of Romans, Byzantine, Greek and Ottomans reflected in the town's fabric. Continue towards the centre of culture, religion, arts and entertainment, the charming capital of Tirana. With a panoramic city tour, savour the finest samples of Albanian architecture portraying the influence of various cultures. After a sightseeing tour of the popular sights and the bustling Skenderbeg Square, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Our journey resumes into Macedoni, Ohrid. Enjoy your dinner and a relaxing rest at the hotel.

Hotel

Hotel Unique Resort and Spa

Hotel

Hotel Inex Olgica

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Tirana
Shkodra Visit

Depart for Ohrid

Ohrid is home to the dazzling Ohrid Lake at the backdrop of a charming village ascending towards the hills, up to the marvellous castle – an immense site of UNESCO World Heritage. Join the optional experience of a calming boat trip on the Lake Ohrid, one of the deepest and oldest lakes of Europe, presenting splendid views of the village and monasteries along the coast. Disembark at the old town to launch your guided tour. Join your expert guide as we discover the hidden chapels, ancient crafts and all the stunning sights scattered along the narrow cobble-stone streets. We then depart for the gorgeous St. Naum Monastery complex and natural wonderland. Perched on the hills with astounding views of the lake, the incredibly well-preserved Eastern Orthodox monastery stood for more than a thousand years. After discovering the charming monastery, savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, surrounded by astounding nature, floating above natural pools maintained by the lake. Blessed with lakes, waterfalls and a beach to Lake Ohrid, we will enjoy our afternoon relaxing at St. Naum, never wanting to leave. We return to our hotel in Ohrid in time for dinner.

Hotel

Hotel Unique Resort and Spa

Hotel

Hotel Inex Olgica

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Ohrid Lake Visit
St. Naum Monastery Visit

Depart for Skopje

Following breakfast, we part with the marvelous Lake Ohrid and drive to the stunning Matka Canyon. Home to diverse endemic life, wonderful lakes, medieval monasteries, caves, valleys and trekking routes, the canyon offers a myriad of unique experiences. You can join an optional boat trip in Matka Lake, visiting the fascinating caves only accessible via water, and have lunch with spectacular views after trekking through the canyon on a nature adventure. In the afternoon we make our way to the Macedonian capital. With a scenic ride through lush fields, hills and mountains, we arrive in Skopje and check-in to our hotel late in the afternoon.

Hotel

Skopje Marriott Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Matka Canyon Visit

Depart for Sofia

Enjoy a filling breakfast at our stylish hotel, it is time to join a guided tour with our local expert and follow the footsteps of Alexander the Great. Discover the immense cultural heritage with countless monuments and samples of fine architecture scattered all around the vibrant town. Later we drive through the beautiful Balkans landscape and arrive to Sofia. Embark on an adventure through the streets of Sofia with our expert local guide visiting a myriad of impressive sights such as National Library, Sofia University, The Parliament, and continue on to The St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the National Theatre and St. Sofia Church. Your guide will provide insightful commentary about the diverse history of Bulgaria and the communist era as you visit the houses of the Council of Ministers, presidency and the former communist party headquarters. In the evening, join a heart-warming farewell dinner with your fellow travelers, the perfect end to your discovery of the colorful Balkans.

Hotel

Hilton Sofia

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Skopje Walking Tour
Skopje Walking Tour
Sightseeing of National Library
Sightseeing of National Theatre
Sightseeing of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Goodbye

Our incredible Balkans adventure comes to an end following breakfast. Make sure to bid farewell to your newfound friends and exchange numbers before checking-out of the hotel (at 11:00). Complementary airport transfers are available

Meals

Breakfast

SERVICES

Ciconia Exclusive Tours include premium services such as 5-star accommodation, modern comfortable transportation, incredible sights & all entrance fees, breakfasts & most dinners, tips, porterage and more.

5 & 4 Star Hotels

Accommodation in comfortable and ideally located hotels.

Comfortable Transportation

Deluxe air-conditioned coach, ferry between Athens & Mykonos, Mykonos & Santorini, flight between Santorini-Athens, Athens-Belgrade.

Exceptional Authentic Dining

18 Breakfasts, 13 Dinners.

Travel Director

Local & Expert Travel Director throughout your trip.

Journey Highlights

Must see sights, hidden gems & authentic experiences. Find more details below and in the itinerary.

All Entrance Fees To All Sights

Entrance fees to all cultural, historical and natural sites on tour.

Private Airport Transfer

Complimentary private airport transfers on arrival and departure dates.

Baggage Handling

Seamless baggage handling, delivered to your room at every hotel.

All Tips, Taxes And Porterage Charges

Tips at the hotels and restaurants, all taxes and porterage fees.

Free Wi-Fi

Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

HOTELS

Knowing that your accommodation may separate a great holiday from a perfect one, we take ultimate care whilst hand-picking each location we host you. Only the truly exceptional in terms of comfort, character, amenities, location and service are suitable to our standards. (Hotels are subject to change depending on the group size.)

Grand Hyatt Hotel

Athens

Located on the famous Syngrou Avenue, between the cultural center of the historic city of Athens and the cosmopolitan Athenian Riviera, Grand Hyatt Athens offers the ultimate hospitality experience in a city with a heady mix of history and edginess.

Nimbus Hotel

Mykonos

This luxurious hotel with a minimalist yet elegant design offers you a unique experience in the dazzling island of Mykonos. Take a drink at the pool bar and savour the Eagean way of living.

The Majestic Hotel

Santorini

A splendid accommodation with a perfect location, offering rooms with balcony, 2 fresh water swimming pools & 1 heated pool, a wellness center including a sauna & Turkish hammam, and a fitness room.

Hotel Metropol Palace

Belgrade

Metropol Palace is a stunning Luxury Collection Hotel in the very center of Belgrade with its park surroundings. The luxurious Limegrove Fitness & Spa Center encompasses a 25-meter long pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, relaxation area, steam bath, ice fountain and 6 treatment rooms.

Hotel Central Park

Trebinje

Hotel Central Park is located in the heart of charming Trebinje and has a terrace with a nice and cozy restaurant. The hotel was built in 1894, shortly after the arrival of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in the area, in the architectural style that dominated the second half of the 19th century.

Swissotel Sarajevo

Sarajevo

Located in the city center, where hospitality is part of the nature of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Swissotel Sarajevo offers contemporary and modern designed rooms with stunning views, free Wi-Fi, state of the art Wellness and Spa facilities, as well as two restaurants.

Grand Hotel Europa

Shkoder

Grand Hotel Europa provides 50 rooms with a panoramic view of the mountain. Since 1998, it has been hosting guests in Shkoder. This venue offers 24-hour front desk assistance, laundry and a doctor on call as well as a night club, a sunbathing terrace and an indoor swimming pool.

Hotel Unique Resort and Spa

Ohrid

Situated in Ohrid, 2.1 km from Cuba Libre Beach, Unique - Resort and SPA features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool & fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, room service and luggage storage for guests.

Hotel Inex Olgica

Ohrid

Nestled on the shore of the Ohrid Lake, Inex Olgica offers the guests a comfortable & pleasant stay with its elegant interiors, private beach, an indoor swimming pool, a SPA & wellness center, spacious & air-conditioned rooms with lake or mountain view and a restaurant & bar.

Skopje Marriott Hotel

Skopje

Located in the heart of Macedonia Square, the hotel offers spectacular views over the Vardar River and Stone Bridge. During your stay, you will have access to 24 hour fitness room, indoor pool, SPA center and on-site restaurant.

Hilton Sofia

Sofia

In the heart of Sofia and surrounded by South Park, Hilton Sofia offers modern accommodations, premium amenities and stunning views of Vitosha Mountain. Located in the city center, the hotel is only 25 minutes away from Sofia International Airport.

DATES AND RATES

All prices are per person, based on double or twin room share occupancy. Solo passengers may book a private room subject to a supplement.
DEPARTURE
RETURN
STATUS
TWIN ROOM
SOLO ROOM

TWIN ROOM

Share with your travel companion
$7648

YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM

Enjoy a room just for you
$12839

TWIN ROOM

Share with your travel companion
$7794

YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM

Enjoy a room just for you
$13087

TWIN ROOM

Share with your travel companion
$7862

YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM

Enjoy a room just for you
$13202

TWIN ROOM

Share with your travel companion
$7794

YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM

Enjoy a room just for you
$13087

TWIN ROOM

Share with your travel companion
$7648

YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM

Enjoy a room just for you
$12839

HIGHLIGHTS

Home to unparalleled cultural heritage, Greece presents stunning monuments and charming villages, legendary mythology and beautiful nature whether discovering the or the islands. With the second part of the trip, embrace the unique culture of each sight visited from Belgrade to Sarajevo, Mostar, Tirana and Skopje, whilst soaking in the gorgeous nature. Discover the incredible medieval towns of Dubrovnik and Kotor, as well as wonderful hidden gems along the path.
Athens
Athens

You will fall in love with the perfect combination of culture, history and the dynamic contemporary life in one of the oldest cities in the world.

Belgrade
Belgrade

Belgrade is the capital and largest city of the southeast European country of Serbia.

Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik

This complex is one of the most beautiful and strongest fortified systems in Europe, but the lively streets show that there is more! Party in a 13th Century fortress anyone?

Kotor
Kotor

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro and well-known for its World heritage medieval structures.

Mostar
Mostar

Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and known for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge).

Mykonos
Mykonos

Greece’s most famous with blue flag beaches, whitewashed streets and vibrant nightlife. You won’t want to leave the ‘The Island of the Winds’!

Ohrid
Ohrid

Ohrid is a large town in Macedonia on the shore of Lake Ohrid and a UNESCO heritage site since 1980.

Santorini
Santorini

The most beautiful sunset in the world… This volcanic island has unique scenery with its multi-colored cliffs and beaches. Pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy.

Sarajevo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its main cultural, economic centre.

Sofia
Sofia

Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria.ıt has rich history from Roman and Ottoman Empires.

Tirana
Tirana

Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania.It is also culturel and economical center of the country.

Trebinje
Trebinje

Trebinje is the southernmost city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and 28 km far from Dubrovnik.