Balkan Delight
Balkan Delight
Balkan Delight
11 Days Starting in Zagreb, Croatia and ending in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Visiting: Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Kotor
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BALKAZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Balkan Delight" tour, a captivating journey through Croatia, Bosnia, and Montenegro, where history and natural beauty intertwine. Begin in Zagreb, exploring its medieval charm before venturing to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. Discover the ancient allure of Trogir and Split, with its iconic Diocletian's Palace. In Sarajevo, delve into the city's rich multicultural heritage and poignant war history. Marvel at the reconstructed Mostar Bridge and the stunning Dalmatian coast en route to Dubrovnik, where you'll wander its medieval streets and enjoy a "Be My Guest" experience with local Croatian hospitality. Conclude your adventure in Montenegro's picturesque Bay of Kotor, celebrating the region's vibrant history and culture. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and immersive experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the Balkans' most enchanting destinations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Zagreb
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn
Accommodation Name: Zonar Zagreb
Embark on an epic discovery of the Balkans. Croatia's capital city of Zagreb is your springboard to a fascinating journey through what was once a troubled region and is today a land of diverse cultures and traditions which you will have a unique opportunity to enjoy with newfound friends. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive.
Day 2: Explore Historic Zagreb
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn
Accommodation Name: Zonar Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
The paved squares and steep alleyways of Zagreb are ours to explore this morning as we join a Local Specialist to delve into the city's rich medieval and religious history. See the majestic cathedral on Kaptol and St. Mark's Church, with its vividly coloured tiled roof. Admire the Opera House, then take a stroll around the 17th-century Ban Jelačić Square. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own – enjoy panoramic city views from Strossmayer promenade, pay tribute to Zagreb's patron saint at the Stone Gate or wander through the Old Town, twirling your Šestine umbrella as you ramble through its labyrinthine lanes. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to Kumrovec, birthplace of the iconic leader Tito and enjoy a delicious meal of regional specialities with magnificent views of the Croatian countryside.
Day 3: Off To Stunning Plitvice
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation Name: Palcich
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Few experiences will match today’s guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Plitviče, one of the oldest and largest national parks in Croatia. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll choose one of two walks revealing the cascading lake waters shifting from azure to green, grey to blue depending on how the sun hits the water. Admire sweeping views of the canyon during your short walk and, if you’re feeling a little more energetic, there’s always an opportunity to lace up for the long walk where you’ll join your Local Specialist and head into the canyon to Kozjek Lake, taking the electric boat across the lake back to your hotel. You’ll discover how these beautiful lakes, caves and waterfalls have been shaped over thousands of years and remain pristine for generations to come thanks to visits like yours to the area.
Day 4: Admire Historic Trogir And On To Split
Location: Split
Accommodation Name: Atrium
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Specialist and go beyond the fortress walls of Trogir to explore its charming medieval heart connected to the mainland and island of Čiovo by bridges. Learn about its rich history which spans the Hellenistic period to a time when Venice was the ruler of the Adriatic as you admire the island’s ornate Renaissance and Baroque buildings. You’ll visit Diocletian’s Palace around which the city of Split was built and Dive Into Culture hearing about the legacy of the Roman Empire and how Emperor Diocletian settled on this stunning landscape for his retirement, building a palace fit for an emperor. Your Local Specialist will share the remnants of luxurious squares and temples that still stand many centuries later. You’ll have plenty of time over the next two days to discover the city by night along with its Dalmatian flavours.
Day 5: Split Your Way
Location: Split
Accommodation Name: Atrium
Meals Included: Breakfast
Discover why Split has justifiably earned its nickname “the most beautiful city in the world” with a full day to explore its heart and beyond. People-watch in Pjaca Square where citizens of Split have met for centuries, then ascend the bell tower for magnificent views of the sprawling terracotta roofs and white marble façades that seem to tumble into the Adriatic. Having worked up an appetite, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the many cafés tucked away in hidden lanes – find one to enjoy a leisurely local lunch surrounded by Split’s rich history. You could choose instead a full-day Optional Experience to one of the Dalmatian Islands which will leave you with a deep appreciation for what it’s like to live in an area that is as beautiful as its history was tumultuous.
Day 6: Journey To Sarajevo
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We journey to Sarajevo, whose rich religious and multicultural heritage has earned it the nickname, the 'Jerusalem of Europe'. Its centuries-old religious history is reflected in its beautiful synagogues, mosques, and Orthodox and Catholic churches. Delving into the depths below Sarajevo, we join a Local Specialist for an insider tour of the Bosnian war tunnel which allowed food, war supplies and humanitarian aid to come into the city, and people to get out. Hear war-time tales of bravery and tragedy. This evening, join your travel companions for dinner at your hotel.
Day 7: Uncover Sarajevo’S Secrets
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of the city's Old Town, past the largest mosque in the Balkans, the Eternal Flame and the Sarajevo Roses that are dotted across the city as a stark reminder of the turmoil Sarajevo endured decades ago. During your free time this afternoon perhaps ramble along Copper Street seeking treasures, or drink from the fountain of Sebilj to secure your return to Sarajevo.
Day 8: Along The Dalmatian Coast To Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Lero
Accommodation Name: City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the secluded coves and dramatic cliffs of the Dalmatian coast that for centuries have attracted famous artists, actors and aristocrats. En route to Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', we stop at the magnificent Mostar Bridge. A Local Specialist will provide tales of this impressive bridge over the Neretva River and the bridge keepers who watched over it in medieval times - giving Mostar its name. The 16th-century bridge, built by Sinan the great Ottoman architect, was destroyed during the war and has been rebuilt using age-old traditions. Later, we continue to the ancient city of Dubrovnik.
Day 9: Discover Picturesque Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Lero
Accommodation Name: City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stroll through the limestone streets of this stunning mediaeval city on a walking tour of Dubrovnik’s main sights with a Local Specialist. Admire the Rector's Palace, Onofrio’s Fountain, and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries. Consider taking a walk along the top of the city walls. This evening, we will travel to a local winery to meet Matea Botaro and her family for a wonderful Be My Guest experience. You’ll Connect With Locals as you dine on Dubrovnik specialities and enjoy the warm Croatian hospitality of your hosts.
Day 10: A Day In Montenegro
Location: Kotor
Accommodation Name: City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Dazzling natural surroundings are ours to enjoy today as we travel to the Republic of Montenegro, where we will meet a Local Specialist and head toward the mouth of the Bay of Kotor. Celebrate centuries of history in the charming town of Kotor, with its Venetian palaces and medieval churches. We return to Dubrovnik this evening and we come together for a memorable Farewell Dinner toasting to the beauty of the Adriatic and new friendships forged.
Day 11: Farewell Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted is included.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included in the itinerary.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are provided.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation
Transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation is included.
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Optional Experiences and free time
Optional experiences and free time are part of the tour.
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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be used.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Visa fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
Dining Summary
1 Welcome Reception (WR)10 Breakfast (B)4 Dinner (D)
Dive Into Culture
Split: See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, or enjoy alternative transportation options such as rail journeys, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience as you explore the Balkans.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn in Zagreb, Placich in Plitvice, Corner in Split, Novotel Bristol in Sarajevo, and City in Dubrovnik, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your Balkan adventure.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Balkan Delight tour?
The tour includes a Be My Guest experience at a local winery in Dubrovnik, where you will meet the Botaro family and enjoy a meal with wine. Additionally, there is a guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park, where you can choose between two walks to explore the park's natural beauty.
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What cultural insights can I expect during the tour?
You will have the opportunity to explore the rich history of the Balkans, including a visit to the War Tunnel in Sarajevo and Diocletian's Palace in Split. The tour also includes a guided walking tour of Dubrovnik's main sights and a visit to the charming town of Kotor in Montenegro.
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Are there any special dining experiences on the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a Welcome Reception, a Be My Guest dinner with the Knez family in Dubrovnik, and a Farewell Dinner celebrating the beauty of the Adriatic and new friendships.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides luxury air-conditioned coach transportation with Wi-Fi in most countries, and there are also options for alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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