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Self-Drive Tour: Grand Balkan Loop – Albania, Montenegro & Croatia

Not Rated
Duration

10-day

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Overview

A journey along the Adriatic, from Ioannina all the way to Dalmatia, in your own car. Three countries, three currencies, and a coastal road that changes character every few kilometres: from the wild beaches of the Albanian Riviera, to the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, and finally to the walls of Dubrovnik.

The self-drive route

The logical order is: Kakavia → Gjirokaster → Sarande → the Riviera → Tirana → Shkodra → Božaj → Kotor → Dubrovnik → Split, returning either the same way or via Bosnia and Serbia for variety. Allow 4–6 hours of driving on the “long” days and leave two overnight stays at the places worth it. A green card covering all three countries, and watch out for the Neum corridor.

History

The route crosses the borders of four empires: Roman Butrint, Ottoman Gjirokaster, Venetian Bay of Kotor, and the independent Republic of Ragusa in Dubrovnik. It’s one of the few routes in Europe where you see so many historical layers in such a short distance.

Highlights

The castle of Gjirokaster; Butrint and the Blue Eye; the Llogara Pass and the beaches of the Riviera; Shkodra and its lake; the walls of Kotor and Perast; Dubrovnik from its walls; and Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

Food

Three cuisines on one route: Albanian, with Ottoman roots and low prices; Montenegrin, which shifts from seafood to mountain fare within an hour; and Dalmatian, purely Mediterranean, with an emphasis on fish and olive oil. The price difference from Albania to Croatia is noticeable — budget accordingly.

Nightlife

Sarande and Himara for relaxed seaside evenings; Budva for lively nightlife; Kotor for atmospheric alleys; and Hvar or Split if you make it that far. Every stop has a different rhythm, which is really the point of a road trip.

Useful information

Currencies: Lek (Albania), Euro (Montenegro, Croatia). Time zone: Albania same as Greece; Montenegro and Croatia one hour behind. You’ll need a passport, vehicle registration and a green card covering all three countries. Best time to visit: May–June and September, to avoid both the summer heat and Croatia’s peak season.

Ready to book?

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Price and availability last updated: 21 September 2026

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Payment options:Alpha Bonus points acceptedYouth Pass accepted (€150)details ›

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No account needed. We will let you know if anything worth knowing happens.

  • The price drops
  • A new departure date opens
  • Only a few seats are left
  • It becomes available again
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Things to do there

We arrange your trip. For the days in between, these two partners cover tours, tickets and activities in Grand Balkan Loop.

These activities are provided and sold by our partners. You complete the booking on their page, at exactly the same price.

Internet abroad, no roaming chargesMyEsim — Greek eSIM for 180+ countries, set up before you fly. 10% off as our customer.LIASTRAVELMyEsim →

  • Accommodation at selected properties with breakfast
  • Suggested route and sightseeing itinerary
  • Office support before and during your trip
  • Transport to/from the destination — you travel in your own car
  • Fuel, tolls and green card insurance
  • Taxes, surcharges and fees where not stated
  • Travel insurance
  • Entrance fees to museums and sights
  • Meals and drinks (other than breakfast)
  • Optional excursions and guided tours
  • Personal expenses and anything not listed under "Included"

Albania
Croatia
Mavrovoynio

All year round

9+ days

Islands
Paralia & Chalarosi

Europe

Individual trips
Self-drive

Athens
Thessaloniki

Tour's Location

What is the best time of year for this trip?

This trip is tailored to you, so you choose the dates yourself. We're happy to advise you on the best season for this destination and how weather, prices and crowds change throughout the year — just let us know roughly when you're thinking of travelling.

What does the price include?

The essentials included are:

  • Accommodation with breakfast
  • Suggested route & sightseeing itinerary
  • Office support

Transport is not included — this is a trip in your own car. The full list of what is and isn't included is in the "Included / Not included" section of the page.

Is the "From €X" price what I'll actually pay?

Not necessarily. The "From €X" price is the lowest price currently available, based on flight and hotel availability for those specific dates. Since availability changes daily, the final price for your trip may differ. We'll send you a final, written quote before you're charged anything, once you tell us the dates you're interested in.

Why does the price change depending on the date?

Flight and hotel prices change daily depending on the season, demand, day of the week and how far in advance you book. That's why the price you see is indicative — the earlier you tell us your dates, the easier it is for us to secure the best possible price.

How much does a single room cost?

The single-room supplement varies by hotel and destination and is included in the price/quote you receive for your specific dates. If you're travelling alone, let us know from the start so the quote includes the correct single-room price right away.

When do I pay for my trip?

Payment is made immediately upon booking. For certain properties with their own payment policy (e.g. a deposit or a specific payment deadline), we will inform you explicitly before you proceed, so you know exactly the terms.

If I book now, is the price locked in?

Yes — once your booking is completed, the price is fixed and is not affected by later changes in flight or hotel prices. Availability and price can only change before your booking is finalised.

Is there a surcharge if I depart from a different city?

As this is a trip in your own car, there is no departure surcharge — you start from wherever suits you.

What travel documents do I need?

For your trip within Greece, a valid ID card or passport is enough. If you're travelling by air, you'll need an official photo ID for airport checks. For minors travelling, please check what documentation may be required.

Can I change dates or cancel?

Changes and cancellations follow the terms of the airlines, hotels and suppliers booked on your behalf, so the cost depends on how close to departure we are and each fare's rules. Let us know as early as possible and we'll look for the least costly solution. The general terms of participation apply to every booking.

Is travel insurance included?

Travel insurance is not included in the price unless explicitly stated in the page's inclusions. We strongly recommend it, especially for trips outside the European Union, so that medical care, cancellation and luggage loss are covered. We can arrange it for you — just ask when booking.

Can the trip be customised?

Yes — this is an individual trip, not a group departure. There's no fixed itinerary or coach schedule: you travel on your own, at your own pace. We can change the overnight stays, the hotel category, add or remove destinations, and arrange transfers, car hire or private guided tours.

How do I book?

Send us a request through the form on this page, call us, or visit our office. We'll get back to you with availability and a written quote before anything is charged.

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