Day 1 - Corfu, Greece 🇬🇷
Corfu
@sreeja
Corfu, a lush Greek island in the Ionian Sea, is known for its stunning beaches, Venetian-influenced architecture, and vibrant Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, from olive groves and emerald hills to crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Key highlights include the Old Fortress, Liston Promenade, and picturesque villages like Paleokastritsa. Corfu’s rich history, warm hospitality, and lively atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
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Where I stayed:
🛏️ The Pink Palace
What to Do:
Kick off your adventure with a warm welcome at **The Pink Palace**! This lively hostel is known for its vibrant social scene and stunning ocean views, making it the perfect introduction to Corfu.
Spend your day soaking in the beach vibes, and as the sun begins to set, grab a refreshing drink and connect with fellow travelers. 🌅🍹
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Day 2 - Beach Fun ☀️
Plan for the Day:
Pack your towel and sunscreen because today is all about Faliraki Beach! 🌞 Dive into the Ionian Sea, soak up the sun, or try your hand at some exhilarating water sports! 🌊🏄♂️
Ionian Sea
@sreeja
The Ionian Sea is more than just a body of water—it’s a gateway to natural beauty, rich mythology, and diverse cultures, with an ambiance that calls travelers to explore, unwind, and connect with the magic of the Mediterranean.
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Take a break at a beachside taverna to indulge in fresh mezze and a chilled frappe. 🥙🍹 As the sun dips below the horizon, take a leisurely stroll along the shore and prepare for a night out enjoying Corfu’s nightlife! 🕶️🎶
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Day 3 - Sarandë, Albania 🇦🇱
Accommodation:
🏨 Backpackers SR
Things to Enjoy:
Wander along the beautiful promenade of Sarandë, taking in the welcoming coastal views. 🌅 Savor some local seafood at a cozy restaurant—perfect for your first night in Albania! 🐟🍷
Sarandë
@sreeja
Sarandë, a charming coastal town in southern Albania, is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. Just a short ferry ride from Corfu, this sunny destination offers easy access to natural wonders like the Blue Eye spring and historic sites like Lëkurësi Castle, which overlooks the town with panoramic views. Known for its laid-back vibe, Sarandë is a gateway to Albania’s Riviera, making it a favorite for beach lovers and adventurers alike.
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Day 4 : Blue Eye & Lëkurësi Castle 💧🏰
Highlights of the Day:
Visit the mesmerizing Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)! This natural spring dazzles with deep blue waters that look like nature’s own sapphire. 💎💦
Blue Eye
@sreeja
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a mesmerizing natural spring near Sarandë, Albania, famous for its vivid blue waters that seem to shimmer like a sapphire. This stunning water source bubbles up from over 50 meters deep, and its clarity and intense color make it look like a giant blue eye. Surrounded by lush forests, it’s a popular spot for visitors to admire, take a refreshing dip, and explore the trails around this hidden natural wonder.
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Next, head up to Lëkurësi Castle, perched above Sarandë, for a stroll through ancient ruins and breathtaking views over the town. 🏰🌄 Afterward, explore Quender (Town Center) for an authentic taste of Sarandë life and perhaps some delicious Albanian treats. 🍢✨
Kalaja e Lëkurësit
@sreeja
Kalaja e Lëkurësit, or Lëkurësi Castle, is a historic hilltop fortress overlooking the town of Sarandë, Albania. Built in the 16th century by the Ottomans, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, Sarandë, and even the nearby island of Corfu. A popular spot for sunset, it’s a scenic destination for those interested in history and Albanian culture. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy a meal or drink at the castle’s terrace restaurant, taking in one of the best views along Albania’s Riviera.
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Day 5 - Tirana’s Cultural Core 🇦🇱
My stay:
🛌 Trip’n Hostel
What to Explore:
Immerse yourself in Skanderbeg Square, the vibrant cultural heart of Tirana. Visit the National History Museum to learn about Albania’s rich past and explore the square where history meets modern life. 🏛️📸
Skanderbeg Square
@sreeja
Skanderbeg Square is the heart of Tirana, Albania, and a central hub for the country’s culture and history. Named after Albania's national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, the square features a grand statue of him on horseback. Surrounding the square are some of Tirana’s most iconic landmarks, including the Et'hem Bey Mosque, the National History Museum, and the Clock Tower. Known for its open spaces and vibrant atmosphere, Skanderbeg Square is perfect for a leisurely stroll, immersing yourself in Albanian heritage, and admiring modern Tirana’s lively spirit.
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National Historical Museum
@sreeja
The National Historical Museum in Tirana, Albania, is the country’s largest museum and offers a comprehensive look at Albania's history and heritage. Its exhibits cover everything from ancient Illyrian artifacts to the medieval era, Ottoman rule, and the Communist period, ending with the country's path to independence. One of its most famous features is the striking mosaic mural, The Albanians, which adorns the museum's facade and symbolizes Albanian resilience and unity. This museum is a must-visit for understanding Albania’s complex and rich history.
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Over at Pazari i Ri, Tirana’s New Bazaar, you’ll find fresh produce, local souvenirs, and maybe even try some rakia, Albania’s famous spirit! 🍒🥃
Pazari i Ri
@sreeja
Pazari i Ri, or the New Bazaar, is a vibrant market area in Tirana, Albania, known for its lively atmosphere and colorful displays of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. Recently revitalized, the bazaar is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine and drinks. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into Tirana’s daily life and a chance to sample authentic flavors in a charming, bustling setting.
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Day 6 - Views from Mount Dajti 🚠
Plan for the Day:
Hop onto the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car for sweeping views of Tirana and beyond! 🏞️ Once at the top, choose between scenic trails or relax with a coffee while soaking in the stunning vistas. ☕👀
Dajti
@sreeja
Dajti, or Mount Dajti, is a beautiful mountain near Tirana, Albania, offering a natural escape with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. Accessible via the Dajti Ekspres cable car, the mountain is a favorite for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor activities. At the top, you’ll find trails, restaurants with scenic views, and even some adventurous options like paragliding. Known as Tirana’s “Natural Balcony,” Dajti is an ideal spot to experience Albania’s natural beauty just a short trip from the bustling capital.
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Back in the city, continue exploring Tirana’s hidden gems or simply unwind and enjoy the local atmosphere. For a lively night out, head to the Blloku district, buzzing with bars, cafes, and live music! 🎶🍸
Blloku
@sreeja
Blloku is Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood, famous for its vibrant nightlife, stylish cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Once an exclusive area restricted to Communist Party officials, it’s now the city’s cultural and social hub, buzzing with energy day and night. You’ll find everything from cozy coffee spots and gourmet eateries to lively bars and nightclubs. Blloku’s streets are also dotted with street art, modern architecture, and remnants of its past, making it a fascinating blend of history and contemporary Tirana.
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Day 7 - Budva, Montenegro 🇲🇪
Budva
@sreeja
Budva, a gem on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, is famed for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and historic Old Town. Encircled by ancient walls, the Old Town (Stari Grad) boasts narrow, cobbled streets, Venetian architecture, and charming squares filled with cafes and shops. Just outside the Old Town, Budva’s beaches offer crystal-clear waters and plenty of spots to relax or enjoy water sports. Known as a hotspot for both relaxation and entertainment, Budva seamlessly combines coastal beauty with a vibrant atmosphere, making it one of Montenegro’s most popular destinations.
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What to See:
Wander the historic Budva Citadel in the Old Town, where ancient walls meet gorgeous ocean views. 🏛️🌊 Stroll along the cobbled streets lined with charming shops and cozy cafes—it’s nothing short of postcard-perfect! 🖼️
Treat yourself to some fresh seafood by the waterfront and watch the Adriatic waves under the stars. 🌌🦞
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Day 8 - A Magical Day in Kotor 🌌
Kotor
@sreeja
Kotor, nestled in Montenegro’s stunning Bay of Kotor, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its medieval charm and breathtaking scenery. Its Old Town (Stari Grad) is a maze of cobbled streets, historic churches, and charming squares, all surrounded by ancient city walls. The must-do Kotor Fortress Hike rewards climbers with panoramic views of the bay, a fjord-like setting that’s among the most beautiful in Europe. Known for its blend of natural beauty and well-preserved history, Kotor is a captivating destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and old-world charm.
Details
Where I Stayed:
🛏️ Montenegro Hostel 4U
Highlights:
Head to the famous Blue Cave for an unforgettable swim in electric-blue waters! 💧✨
Blue Cave
@sreeja
The Blue Cave in Montenegro is a magical sea cave near the Lustica Peninsula, famous for its brilliant, electric-blue waters that create a glowing effect inside the cavern. Accessible only by boat, the cave’s unique light is due to sunlight reflecting off the sandy seabed, giving the water an enchanting, almost otherworldly glow. Visitors can swim in the clear, cool waters and marvel at the natural beauty surrounding them. A trip to the Blue Cave is often combined with boat tours around Kotor Bay, making it an unforgettable highlight of Montenegro’s coast.
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Next, stop by Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny, man-made island featuring a beautiful church and fascinating history. This unique experience is steeped in legends and lore! 🕍🌊
Our Lady of the Rocks
@sreeja
Our Lady of the Rocks is a small, picturesque island in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, near the town of Perast. This man-made islet is home to a beautiful Catholic church and a museum, filled with maritime artifacts and artwork, including an iconic tapestry made by a local woman over decades. According to legend, the island was created by local sailors who dropped stones in the bay after finding an icon of the Virgin Mary there. Today, the island is a beloved pilgrimage site, and visitors can reach it by boat to explore its unique history, art, and serene views of the surrounding bay.
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Back in Kotor’s Old Town, find a cozy café to enjoy the medieval charm of this enchanting place. ☕💫
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Day 9 - Kotor Fortress Hike 🏞️
What to Expect:
Start your day with an epic hike up the Kotor Fortress! The panoramic views over Kotor Bay are worth every step and make for perfect photos. 📸🏞️
Kotor Fortress
@sreeja
Kotor Fortress, also known as St. John’s Fortress, is an ancient stronghold perched high above the Old Town of Kotor, Montenegro. The fortress is accessible via a steep hike up a winding stone path, with around 1,350 steps leading to the top. The reward for the climb is one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains. Originally built to protect the city, the fortress now stands as a testament to Kotor’s rich history and offers travelers an unforgettable experience with sweeping vistas over Montenegro’s famed fjord-like bay.
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After your hike, meander down and explore Kotor’s hidden corners. Treat yourself to some delicious local cuisine in the Old Town. 🍲🍷 This is your last night in Kotor, so soak up every moment of this scenic bay! 🛶✨
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Day 10 - Welcome to Dubrovnik, Croatia 🇭🇷
Dubrovnik
@sreeja
Dubrovnik, often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a stunning coastal city in Croatia known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and dramatic seafront setting. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is encircled by ancient stone walls that visitors can walk along for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Dubrovnik's iconic red-roofed buildings. Stroll down Stradun Street, explore historic landmarks like the Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan Monastery, or venture out to nearby Lokrum Island. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Dubrovnik is a captivating destination for travelers from around the world.
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Where to Stay:
🏨 Hostel Lina
Things to Do:
Step through Pile Gate and into Dubrovnik’s enchanting Old Town. Stroll along Stradun Street, visit the Franciscan Monastery, and admire the historic architecture. 🏰🕍
Treat yourself to a gelato and watch the world go by in this bustling, historic city. 🍦👀 End your day with a spectacular view from the city walls as the Adriatic sparkles below. 🌅
Days 11-12 - Explore Dubrovnik’s Treasures 🏖️
Adventure Awaits:
Dive into Dubrovnik’s highlights by visiting Rector’s Palace, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and, of course, taking the scenic walk along the city walls! 🏛️🌊
Rector's Palace
@sreeja
The Rector’s Palace in Dubrovnik is a stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, once serving as the administrative center of the Republic of Ragusa (modern-day Dubrovnik). Built in the 15th century, the palace was home to the rector, or governor, who was elected for a short term and couldn’t leave the palace during his mandate to maintain neutrality. Inside, visitors can explore a museum showcasing artifacts from Dubrovnik’s rich history, period furniture, and art collections. With its elegant arches, courtyard, and intricate design, the Rector’s Palace is a must-see for those interested in the cultural and political history of Dubrovnik.
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The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
@sreeja
The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, also known as Dubrovnik Cathedral, is a beautiful Baroque church located in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Built in the 18th century after an earthquake destroyed the previous structure, this cathedral is known for its elegant architecture and impressive interior, featuring stunning altars and artwork. One of its highlights is the polyptych of the Assumption by the renowned artist Titian, displayed above the main altar. The cathedral also houses a treasury with precious relics, including relics of St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint, making it an important religious and historical site in Dubrovnik.
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For an added adventure, consider a kayak tour around Lokrum Island or take the cable car up Mount Srđ for unbeatable views. 🛶🚠
As your trip wraps up, take in one last look at the Adriatic, carrying memories of this incredible coastal journey!
🎒🌍 And that’s a wrap—my epic Balkan backpacking itinerary! 🛤️💫 If you made it to the end, thank you for coming along for the ride! I hope this adventure guide inspires and helps you plan your own journey through the stunning Balkans. Wishing you safe travels and unforgettable memories ahead! ✈️🌄
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