*NEW* 13 DAYS GREEK & ROMAN HERITAGE THROUGH THE BALKANS - BY PROF. OLS

Arrival in Thessaloniki

Arrive in Greece’s vibrant second city, the modern heir to ancient Macedon. Settle in and prepare for the journey ahead through lands steeped in heritage.

Pella & Aigai: Heart of Ancient Macedonia

Leave Thessaloniki behind for a full-day excursion into the heartland of Ancient Macedonia. Begin at Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, where mosaics and ruins bring the ancient city to life. Continue to Aigai (modern Vergina), the first capital of the Macedonian Kingdom, to marvel at the royal tombs and treasures of the ancient necropolis.

Cross to North Macedonia: Heraclea & Ohrid

Depart Thessaloniki and cross into North Macedonia today. Drive 2.5 hours to visit the ancient site of Heraclea Lyncestis, founded by Philip II and known for its Roman mosaics and basilicas. Continue for 1.5 hours to the lakeside city of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history and serenity intertwine. Settle in with time to soak up the atmosphere of this cultural gem.

The Spiritual Shorts of Lake Ohrid

Spend the day discovering Ohrid, a spiritual and cultural beacon since antiquity. Visit landmarks such as the Church of Saint Sophia and the ancient theatre. Take in the panoramic views over Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest lakes, and wander through cobbled streets steeped in centuries of heritage. Visit the Bay of Bones Museum to the south of the city, a remarkable reconstruction of a prehistoric lakeside settlement, which stands as an important archaeological site in the wider Ohrid region.

Into Albania: Tirana Arrival

Leave North Macedonia behind and journey west into Albania, arriving in the bustling capital of Tirana after a 3-hour drive. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided introduction to the city’s main landmarks, including Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum. The city’s colourful buildings and energetic pace offer a striking contrast to the ancient sites visited so far, reflecting Albania’s vibrant cultural evolution.

Coastal Echoes: Durrës

Take a day trip from Tirana to explore Durrës, Albania’s main port since Roman times, where an ancient amphitheatre and seafront promenade invite exploration. This leg of the journey follows the route of the ancient Via Egnatia, a Roman road that once linked Byzantium with the Adriatic Sea, passing through Thessaloniki and Durrës. 

Berat: City of a Thousand Windows

Travel south to Berat, in less than 2.5 hours, you will arrive at one of Albania’s most photogenic towns. With its white Ottoman houses stacked up the hillsides, Berat is a living museum. Explore its imposing castle, home to Byzantine churches and frescoes, and stroll through its beautifully preserved old town. Admire the town’s harmonious blend of architecture, history, and natural beauty that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Hellenistic Traces: Bylis to Gjirokastër

Depart Berat and drive 2 hours to the remote ruins of Bylis, once a flourishing Hellenistic city commanding strategic views of southern Albania. Its impressive stone theatre and basilicas reflect its former significance.

Continue to drive for 1 hour 15 minutes to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinctive Ottoman architecture and dramatic hilltop setting. Settle into the historic ambiance and enjoy an evening walk through its cobbled streets.

Butrint: A Crossroads of Civilisations

Embark on an excursion to Butrint, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Balkans. Set in a lush national park, this ancient city reveals layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian history. Walk among temples, forums, and theatres while gaining deeper understanding through expert commentary. On the return, enjoy more time to explore the historic charm of Gjirokastër.

Return to Greece: Meteora Monasteries

Re-enter Greece and head to Meteora (3.5-hour drive), where monasteries seem to float atop monumental rock formations. These UNESCO-listed spiritual retreats date back to the 14th century and remain active to this day. Visit some of the monasteries to admire their frescoes, tranquil chapels, and breathtaking views. The serene and surreal landscape provides a powerful reflection point as your journey nears its end.

Delphi and Drive to Athens

On our way to Athens, visit Delphi en route (3-hour drive). This sacred site was once home to the oracle of Apollo. Wander through its hauntingly beautiful ruins including the temple, stadium, and theatre, set dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. A visit to the museum deepens the experience with its celebrated sculptures and artifacts. After that, continue driving for 2.5 hours to the Greek capital of Athens where you will rest for tonight.

Athens: Legacy of a Civilisation

Today, embark on an enriching exploration of Athens’ most iconic cultural treasures. Ascend the legendary Acropolis Hill, where timeless monuments rise above the city, embodying the ideals of classical beauty and human achievement. Continue to the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural gem that houses the masterpieces of the sacred rock with elegance and clarity. Conclude at the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Greek art and artifacts—offering a profound window into the soul of a great civilisation.

Departure from Athens

Bid farewell to your fellow travellers and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As you depart, carry with you the rich tapestry of landscapes, histories, and insights gained throughout this memorable exploration of the ancient Macedonian world and its enduring legacies.