{"id":69656,"date":"2026-08-28T21:29:39","date_gmt":"2026-08-28T13:29:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/?p=69656"},"modified":"2026-09-09T10:52:58","modified_gmt":"2026-09-09T02:52:58","slug":"13-days-greek-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-04-16-sep-2027","status":"publish","type":"itinerary","link":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/itinerary\/13-days-greek-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-04-16-sep-2027\/","title":{"rendered":"13 DAYS GREEK &#038; ROMAN HERITAGE THROUGH BALKANS &#8211; BY PROF OLS"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Step back in time on this tailor-made journey tracing the legacy of Ancient Macedonia across the Balkan Peninsula. From the birthplace of Alexander the Great in Pella to the sacred city of Aigai, this immersive route threads together the ancient heartlands of Northern Greece and Albania. Along the way, discover evocative archaeological wonders, vibrant UNESCO World Heritage towns, and a spectrum of cultural influences from Roman to Ottoman layered over ancient Macedonian foundations.<\/p>\n<p>Adding a layer of academic depth, we are honored to have Prof. Ols Lafe &#8211; a classical archaeologist and esteemed author &#8211; accompanying the journey as our guest tour leader. His presence will enrich the experience through engaging lectures and insightful commentary, helping bring the ancient world vividly to life.<\/p>\n<p>Curated for the culturally curious, this tour offers privileged insight into one of the most influential empires of antiquity, brought vividly to life through expert guiding, refined accommodations, and local culinary delights.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Step back in time on this tailor-made journey tracing the legacy of Ancient Macedonia across the Balkan Peninsula. From the birthplace of Alexander the Great in Pella to the sacred city of Aigai, this immersive route threads together the ancient heartlands of Northern Greece and Albania. Along the way, discover evocative archaeological wonders, vibrant UNESCO [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":69641,"template":"","itinerary-tags":[605],"sub-region":[],"region":[85],"experience-level":[571],"language":[37],"interest":[43],"journey-type":[33],"country":[197,128],"class_list":["post-69656","itinerary","type-itinerary","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","itinerary-tags-new","region-europe","experience-level-history-heritage-culture","language-english","interest-history-culture","journey-type-small-group-journeys","country-albania","country-greece"],"meta_box":{"popularity_score":"5","select_brands":[],"hotels_section_title":"","select_hotel":[45167,69597,69610,69616,45159,69622,69628,45164],"faq_content_block":[],"hotel_tour_tiers_title":"Hotels & Tour Price","tiers":[{"price_currency":"HKD","price_amount":"89880","hotel_tour_tiers":["45167","69597","69610","69616","45159","69622","69628"]}],"intriq_note":"","intriq_inquire_url":"","itinerary_banner":[{"width":150,"height":150,"file":"2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner.png","filesize":2662004,"sizes":{"medium":{"file":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-300x94.png","width":300,"height":94,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":60556,"url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-300x94.png"},"large":{"file":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-1024x320.png","width":1024,"height":320,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":633834,"url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-1024x320.png"},"thumbnail":{"file":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-150x150.png","width":150,"height":150,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":50999,"url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-150x150.png"},"medium_large":{"file":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-768x240.png","width":768,"height":240,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":369481,"url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-768x240.png"},"1536x1536":{"file":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-1536x480.png","width":1536,"height":480,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":1351888,"url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-1536x480.png"}},"image_meta":{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0","keywords":[],"alt":""},"ID":"69642","name":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner.png","path":"\/var\/www\/html\/intriq\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner.png","url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner-150x150.png","full_url":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner.png","title":"13d-greek-and-roman-heritage-through-balkans-by-prof-ols-banner","caption":"","description":"","alt":"","srcset":false}],"start_date":"2027-09-04","end_date":"2027-09-16","duration_days":"13","duration_nights":"12","pricing_options":[{"price_label":"Twin sharing","price_currency":"HKD","price_amount":"89880","price_unit":"Per Person"},{"price_label":"Single Supplement","price_currency":"HKD","price_amount":"16480","price_unit":"Per Person"}],"promotions_grp":{"promo_title":"Early Bird Offer","promo_description":"First three bookings with deposit (limit to three rooms) will get complimentary upgrade to Executive Sea view room in Makedonia Palace Hotel for 2 nights"},"download_itinerary_label":"","download_itinerary_attachment":[],"intro_content":"<p>Step back in time on this tailor-made journey tracing the legacy of Ancient Macedonia across the Balkan Peninsula. From the birthplace of Alexander the Great in Pella to the sacred city of Aigai, this immersive route threads together the ancient heartlands of Northern Greece and Albania. Along the way, discover evocative archaeological wonders, vibrant UNESCO World Heritage towns, and a spectrum of cultural influences from Roman to Ottoman layered over ancient Macedonian foundations.<\/p>\n<p>Adding a layer of academic depth, we are honored to have Prof. Ols Lafe - a classical archaeologist and esteemed author - accompanying the journey as our guest tour leader. 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Settle in and prepare for the journey ahead through lands steeped in heritage.","day_hotel":"45167","meals_included_list":["dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69645"],"day_title":"05 September 2027 (Sun) Thessaloniki","itinerary_content":"<strong>Pella &amp; Aigai: Heart of Ancient Macedonia<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLeave 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.","day_hotel":"45167","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69646"],"day_title":"06 September 2027 (Mon) Thessaloniki \/ Kor\u00e7\u00eb","itinerary_content":"<strong>Journey to Kor\u00e7\u00eb<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLeave Thessaloniki this morning and journey east through northern Greece before crossing into Albania, arriving in Kor\u00e7\u00eb after a scenic 3.5 hours (~250km) drive. On arrival, settle into your boutique hotel on lively Republika Boulevard and enjoy an introductory walk through Kor\u00e7\u00eb\u2019s historic centre, a cultured mountain city often called Albania\u2019s \u2018Little Paris\u2019, with elegant boulevards, an old bazaar and lively caf\u00e9 terraces.","day_hotel":"69597","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69647"],"day_title":"07 September 2027 (Tue) Kor\u00e7\u00eb \/ Tirana","itinerary_content":"<strong>Tirana Arrival<\/strong>\r\n\r\nDepart Kor\u00e7\u00eb and travel north-west across rural Albania, watching the landscape shift from upland valleys to broad plains as you approach the capital, after a 3.5 hours (~168km) drive. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided introduction to the city\u2019s main landmarks, including Skanderbeg Square. The city\u2019s colourful buildings and energetic pace offer a striking contrast to the ancient sites visited so far, reflecting Albania\u2019s vibrant cultural evolution.","day_hotel":"69610","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69648"],"day_title":"08 September 2027 (Wed) Tirana","itinerary_content":"<strong>Coastal Echoes: Durr\u00ebs<\/strong>\r\n\r\nTake a day trip from Tirana to explore Durr\u00ebs, Albania\u2019s 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 Durr\u00ebs.","day_hotel":"69610","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69649"],"day_title":"09 September 2027 (Thu) Tirana \/ Berat","itinerary_content":"<strong>Berat: City of a Thousand Windows<\/strong>\r\n\r\nTravel south to Berat, in about 2 hours (~100km), you will arrive at one of Albania\u2019s 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\u2019s harmonious blend of architecture, history, and natural beauty that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.","day_hotel":"69616","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69650"],"day_title":"10 September 2027 (Fri) Berat \/ Gjirokaster","itinerary_content":"<strong>Hellenistic Traces: Bylis to Gjirokast\u00ebr<\/strong>\r\n\r\nDepart Berat and drive less than 2 hours (~72km) 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 1.5 hour (~82km) to Gjirokast\u00ebr, 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.","day_hotel":"45159","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69651"],"day_title":"11 September 2027 (Sat) Gjirokaster","itinerary_content":"<strong>Butrint: A Crossroads of Civilizations<\/strong>\r\n\r\nEmbark 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 Gjirokast\u00ebr.","day_hotel":"45159","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69652"],"day_title":"12 September 2027 (Sun) Gjirokaster \/ Metsovo","itinerary_content":"<strong>Truffle hunting in Metsovo<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday you cross into northern Greece, travelling through the Pindus mountains to the alpine town of Metsovo (2.5hour ~140km), known for stone-built houses and red-tiled roofs. After checking in at Grand Forest Metsovo, join a Truffle Treasure Trek: an afternoon truffle-hunting experience with expert guide, followed by truffle-based specialties and local wine in a forest setting.","day_hotel":"69622","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69653"],"day_title":"13 September 2027 (Mon) Metsovo \/ Meteora \/ Arachova","itinerary_content":"<strong>Explore Meteora Monasteries<\/strong>\r\n\r\nDrive to Meteora (1h15m, ~88km) to explore its extraordinary cluster of monasteries perched atop sandstone pinnacles, one of Greece\u2019s most spectacular spiritual landscapes. 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.\r\n\r\nIn the afternoon, continue south toward Delphi (3 hours, ~230km), arriving in the Arachova region to check into your mountain resort, where you can unwind and enjoy the crisp highland air.","day_hotel":"69628","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69654"],"day_title":"14 September 2027 (Tue) Arachova \/ Delphi \/ Athens","itinerary_content":"<strong>Delphi and Drive to Athens<\/strong>\r\n\r\nSpend the morning at the sanctuary of Delphi, visiting the archaeological site and museum to trace the myths, oracles and political influence of this famed ancient centre. Wander through its hauntingly beautiful ruins including the temple, stadium, and theatre, set dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. After lunch, travel on to Athens (2h45m, ~190km) and settle into your city-centre hotel.","day_hotel":"45164","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69655"],"day_title":"15 September 2027 (Wed) Athens","itinerary_content":"<strong>Athens: Legacy of a Civilization<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday, embark on an enriching exploration of Athens\u2019 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.\r\n\r\nContinue 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\u2019s most important collections of ancient Greek art and artifacts-offering a profound window into the soul of a great civilization.","day_hotel":"45164","meals_included_list":["breakfast","lunch","dinner"]},{"itinerary_day_image":["69643"],"day_title":"16 September 2027 (Thu) Departure from Athens","itinerary_content":"<strong>Departure from Athens<\/strong>\r\n\r\nBid 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.","meals_included_list":["breakfast"]}],"promo_pay_terms":"20% deposit at sign up","book_now_url":"","inquire_now_url":"","includes_title":"Includes","excludes_title":"Excludes","includes_content":"<ul>\n<li>Accommodation as stated on twin sharing basis, unless on single supplement, on bed &amp; breakfast basis<\/li>\n<li>All transportations and transfers as stated on an air-conditioned vehicle<\/li>\n<li>Service of local English-speaking guide<\/li>\n<li>All entrance fees of sites as stated<\/li>\n<li>Lunches and dinners with beverages in restaurants<\/li>\n<li>All tipping to local guides, porters and other local service staffs<\/li>\n<li>Service of Intriq's Tour Concierge throughout the trip<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","excludes_content":"<ul>\n<li>International airfare and airport taxes<\/li>\n<li>Visa and entry taxes (if required)<\/li>\n<li>Airport transfer before or after stated travel dates<\/li>\n<li>Travel insurance<\/li>\n<li>Personal expenses such as spa, laundry, telephone and bar bills<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","tour_price_section_title":"","date":"","duration":"","price":"","traveller_type":"per_person","pre_post_countries_extensions":[],"featured_transport_group":[],"partner_showcase":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/itinerary\/69656","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/itinerary"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/itinerary"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/itinerary\/69656\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":70174,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/itinerary\/69656\/revisions\/70174"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/69641"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=69656"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"itinerary-tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/itinerary-tags?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"sub-region","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/sub-region?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"region","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/region?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"experience-level","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/experience-level?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"language","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/language?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"interest","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/interest?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"journey-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/journey-type?post=69656"},{"taxonomy":"country","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.intriqjourney.com\/hk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/country?post=69656"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}