Zagreb to Santorini: 35 Unforgettable Days

This small-group escorted tour with G Adventures sets out from Zagreb, Croatia, with an orientation walk and visits to landmarks like the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Croatian Museum of Naive Art. From here, the journey winds through the Balkans, including stops in Sarajevo and Mostar where the local history draws a complex picture, and hiking to remote shepherd outposts in Albania’s mountains.

The itinerary weaves between coast and countryside, encompassing islands such as Hvar, Corfu, Paros, Ios, and finally Santorini, each with its own character, whether it’s a climb up a fortress or a stroll along volcanic cliffs. Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor offers boat tours and hikes to fortresses, while Greece’s ancient sites, including Athens and Meteora, come with their archaeological museums and orientation walks in the company of local guides.

The trip’s pace balances city orientation walks, outdoor activities like white-water rafting and hiking in national parks, alongside some free time on Greek islands to take in the less accessible corners or just watch the sea. It’s an itinerary that respects the legwork needed to appreciate the varied terrain and history, with local food tours and evening get-togethers shaping the group’s experience off the beaten tourist track.