Tirana - Kruja - Durres (UNESCO) - Ferry to Bari (Italy).

Tirana - Begin the day by exploring the vibrant capital of Albania. Visit Skanderbeg Square, honoring the national hero, the historic Mosque of Ethem Bey, and the Archaeological Museum, among other attractions. Next, travel to Kruja, a town of great historical significance due to its role in resisting the Ottomans. Explore the Skanderbeg Museum, the castle, and the old bazaar.

Durres - Continue the journey to Durres, a city on the Adriatic coast and Albania’s main commercial port. As the second largest city, formerly known as Durrahium, it is one of the oldest in the Mediterranean and Europe, mentioned in ancient texts as Taulantia. Legend has it that it was founded by the Illyrian King Epidamnos, who named it after himself and the port after his grandson, Dyrrah. For centuries, it was the largest port on the Adriatic and the starting point of the Via Egnatia to Constantinople/Istanbul. Visit the Roman amphitheater, the largest in the Balkans with a 20,000-seat capacity, and the Archaeological Museum near the sea, rich with artifacts from Durres. Also, explore the Roman Baths behind the Aleksander Moisiu Theatre in the central square. In the evening, board the ferry to Bari, Italy.

Naples (UNESCO) (253 km, 3h 15 min).

Naples - After breakfast, depart for Naples. This ancient city is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited areas, with its historic center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 9th century BC as the Greek colony Neapolis, meaning New City, it is the EU’s tenth most populated urban area, with over 4 million residents. Home to the world’s oldest public university, the University of Napoli Federico II, Naples’ historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Enjoy a walking tour to see key sights like Cappella San Severo with Veiled Christ, Church of Gesù Nuovo, San Gregorio Armeno, Santa Chiara cloister, Piazza Plebiscito, and Maschio Angioino.

Pompeii (UNESCO) - Amalfi (UNESCO) - Salerno. (95 km, 2h 25 min).

Pompeii - After breakfast, head to Pompeii to explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD preserved the town under ash, keeping it intact until rediscovered in the 18th century. Visit the thermal baths, the large theater, the Basilica, the Macellum, and the famous House of Faun, uncovering fascinating insights into this ancient commercial city.

Amalfi - Continue to the Amalfi Coast, driving along nearly 50 miles of scenic coastal roads with the sea on one side and the majestic Lattari mountains on the other. Overnight in Salerno.

Pollino National Park (UNESCO) - Cosenza

Pollino National Park - After breakfast, proceed to Pollino National Park. This UNESCO Global Geopark protects one of Italy’s most extraordinary natural environments, featuring diverse landscapes and rich historical and cultural settings. The park’s geological and geomorphological evolution is the foundation for its exceptional biodiversity and historical richness, making it a captivating area along the borders of Calabria and Basilicata. Arrive in Castrovillari in the afternoon.

Cosenza - Continue to Cosenza, where the region’s history is evident from prehistoric times. Neolithic sites along the coast attest to early human presence. Waterways have been vital travel routes since the Magna Graecia and Roman periods. In the Middle Ages, the Byzantines introduced new agricultural techniques and sericulture, enhancing the economy. Their influence, along with that of the Normans, Angevins, Aragonese, and Spaniards, is visible in the elegant architecture.

Messina. (220 km, 2h 55 min).

Messina - Depart in the morning for Messina, located across the Strait of Messina, separating Calabria from Sicily. This area is a natural masterpiece, with the sea as its backdrop. Historically, Messina has been the main gateway to Sicily, influenced by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Swabians. Discover precious art in its churches and palaces, and traces of ancient civilizations.

Etna (UNESCO) - Catania. (132 km, 2h 25 min).

Mount Etna - Proceed to Catania, enjoying views of the magnificent Etna volcano. On Sicily’s eastern coast, Mount Etna is Europe’s highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its eruptions have shaped unique landscapes of lava and ice, now part of a vast nature reserve with numerous trails.

Catania - Arrive in Catania for a cultural and artistic tour. Discover the city’s contrasts: historical sites like Piazza Duomo, liberty buildings, baroque churches, and the imposing Etna volcano. Experience lively local markets, scenic views, and a vibrant nightlife.

Palermo (UNESCO). (211 km, 2h 30 min).

Palermo - After breakfast, continue to Palermo. Visit Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house, and explore traditional markets. Discover the recently restored baroque Church of the Immaculate Conception. Walk through narrow streets to the Norman Cathedral, visiting Frederick II of Swabia’s tomb and Santa Rosalia’s silver “Vara.” Explore Villa Bonanno’s gardens and ancient Roman ruins, reaching The Royal Palace, which houses 3000 years of history. Photograph St. John of The Hermits, an example of Arab-Norman architecture, and stroll along “Cassaro,” Palermo’s oldest street, ending at the “Teatro del Sole,” an elegant baroque crossroads.

Cefalu (UNESCO) - Reggio Calabria. (243 km, 3h 45 min).

Cefalu - After breakfast, head to Cefalu, a coastal city in northern Sicily known for its Norman cathedral, a 12th-century fortress-like structure with intricate Byzantine mosaics and twin towers.

Reggio Calabria - Continue to Reggio Calabria, situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, between the coast and mountains. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the south and east, it borders Catanzaro to the northeast and Vibo Valentia to the northwest. Just 2 miles across the Strait of Messina lies Sicily.

Bovalino - Soverato - Le Castella. (235 km, 3h 35 min).

Soverato - Proceed to Soverato, a small town in Calabria on the Ionian Sea, surrounded by charming villages and white sand beaches. The town’s economy thrives on tourism, particularly from northern Italy. Soverato is famous for its summer night fair.

Crotone - Matera (UNESCO) (263 km, 3h 40 min).

Matera - Continue to Matera, where ancient dwellings carved into tuff rock surround the Gravina di Matera, a hollow traversed by a stream. The city’s unique architecture creates a picturesque scene, especially at night. Matera was the European Capital of Culture in 2019, and its Rupestrian churches and famous Sassi were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

Taranto - Gallipoli - Santa Maria della Leuca (211 km, 3h 05 min).

Taranto - After breakfast, head to Taranto. The Apulian coast stretches over 87 miles, offering diverse landscapes: wild cliffs, sandy beaches, and vibrant seaside resorts. The area’s rich cultural heritage includes churches, castles, palaces, and ancient ruins.

Santa Maria di Leuca - Continue to Santa Maria della Leuca, the southernmost point in Salento, known for its striking colors and serene atmosphere. At its center is the Basilica of Santa Maria De finibus terrae. Leuca’s history is marked by rupestrian settlements, crypts, churches, castles, ancient olive trees, hidden coves, and a uniquely blue sea. Overnight stay.

Otranto - Lecce - Brindisi . (141 km, 1 h 50 min)

Otranto - After breakfast, proceed to Otranto, located at the narrowest point between Italy and Albania, 73 km apart. It marks the border between the Adriatic and Ionian seas.

Lecce - Continue to Lecce, a city in southern Apulia known for its baroque architecture. In the central Piazza del Duomo, the Cattedrale di Lecce features a double facade and bell tower. The Basilica di Santa Croce boasts sculptures and a rose window. Nearby, the Sant’Oronzo Column and the sunken Roman amphitheater add to the city’s charm.

Brindisi - In the afternoon, head to Brindisi, historically known as the “Gateway to the East.” It was a crucial port for Roman troops and Venetian merchants. Today, it remains an important travel hub with connections to various sea and airports.

Alberobello (UNESCO) - Bari - Ferry to Durres (Albania). (133 km, 1 h 25 min); overnight in ferry, (300 km, 8 hrs).

Alberobello - After breakfast, depart for Alberobello, whose unique Trulli were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Explore the Rione Monti, home to the “Siamese trullo,” the Church of Sant’Antonio, and the Trullo Sovrano. Visit the Museo del Territorio and the Casa d’Amore, a key tourist information point.

Bari - Continue to Bari, the capital of Puglia, where time seems to stand still. The Basilica of Saint Nicholas, housing the saint’s relics, is a major religious site. “Bari vecchia,” the old village, offers a glimpse into local culture and traditions. Enjoy local specialties like orecchiette pasta and street food. In the evening, board the ferry to Durres, Albania.

Durres - Tirana.

Durres - Upon arrival in Durres, embark on a city tour. Situated on the Adriatic coast, Durres is Albania’s main commercial port and second largest city. Known as Durrahium in ancient times, it is one of the country’s oldest towns. Legend attributes its founding to the Illyrian King Epidamnos, who named it after himself and the port after his grandson, Dyrrah. For centuries, it was the largest port on the Adriatic and the starting point of the Via Egnatia to Constantinople/Istanbul. Visit the Roman amphitheater and the Archaeological Museum, rich with artifacts from Durres. Also, explore the Roman Baths behind the Aleksander Moisiu Theatre in the central square.

Tirana - Continue to Tirana, the capital of Albania. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the Mosque of Ethem Bey, and the Archaeological Museum, among other attractions.

• Air-conditioned modern van/minibus/bus transportation
• Ferry tickets with private bathrooms
• Daily breakfast
• 3* hotel accommodation on double occupancy
• English-speaking tour leader/manager

• Admission/entry Fees
• A mandatory service fee for tour guide/bus driver (min. 5-7 Euro /day per person).
• Lunch and Dinner charges (if applicable)
• Everything not mentioned in “Inclusions”
• Local guides (can be provided upon request) and require extra charge
• Travel insurance, visa fees (if applicable)

The Europe Explorer Grand Tour “Mediterranean Route” offers an exceptional opportunity for travelers seeking a unique experience by exploring the highlights of Southern Italy’s Apennine Peninsula and the Illyrian (Balkan) Peninsula’s ancient and modern cultural heritage. These regions are considered vital components of Western Civilization in the Central Mediterranean. This tour allows participants to immerse themselves in the rich cultural legacy, natural beauty, history, traditions, and the diverse ethnic and religious tapestry of the area. The program is meticulously crafted to include all the “must-see” destinations in this part of Southern Italy and Western Albania.

Key Destinations to Visit: Tirana, Durres, Bari, Naples, Caserta, Pompeii, Amalfi, Salerno, Cilento, Cosenza, Messina, Catania, Agrigento, Palermo, Cefalù, Reggio Calabria, Crotone, Matera, Taranto, Leuca, Lecce, Brindisi, Alberobello, and Bari.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.