Balkan Delight
Balkan Delight
Balkan Delight
12 Days Starting and ending in Zagreb, Croatia
Visiting: Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BALKZM19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Balkan Delight" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of the Balkans, exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Begin in Zagreb, where you'll delve into the city's medieval charm before heading to Sarajevo to uncover its poignant history. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dalmatian coast, with stops at the iconic Mostar Bridge and the enchanting city of Dubrovnik. Discover the stunning Bay of Kotor in Montenegro and the ancient wonders of Split, including Diocletian's Palace. Marvel at the Renaissance art in Trogir and the natural splendor of Plitvice Lakes National Park. With expert guides, luxurious accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and local hospitality, ensuring an unforgettable Balkan adventure.
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: Journey To Sarajevo
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation: Novotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Bristol
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 4: Uncover Sarajevo’S Secrets
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation: Novotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Bristol
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 Latin Bridge 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 5: Along The Dalmatian Coast To Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Lero
Accommodation Name: Lero
Meals Included: Breakfast
We 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. Meet a traditional coppersmith artisan on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, before continuing to the ancient city of Dubrovnik. This evening, consider joining a private sunset cruise with dinner, enjoying the best views of this enchanting city from the water.
Day 6: Discover Picturesque Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Lero
Accommodation Name: Lero
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stroll through the limestone streets of this stunning medieval city, joining a Small Group Sightseeing walking tour of the main sights of Dubrovnik 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 travel to Winery Botaro Be My Guest experience. You’ll Connect With Locals as you dine on Dubrovnik specialities and feel fully immersed in your hosts’ warm Croatian hospitality.
Day 7: A Day In Montenegro
Location: Kotor
Accommodation: Lero
Accommodation Name: Lero
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 dine at our hotel.
Day 8: Onwards To Split Dive Into Culture
Location: Split
Accommodation: Corner
Accommodation Name: Corner
Meals Included: Breakfast
We pass old fishing villages and modern resorts, arriving in the vibrant city of Split. Enjoy a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist featuring the historic inner city. Dive Into Culture and admire the façades of Diocletian's Palace, which today forms half of the Old Town of Split. See the city’s Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral. Spend the evening on your own, or join an Optional Experience to savour traditional Dalmatian flavours.
Day 9: Split Your Way
Location: Split
Accommodation: Corner
Accommodation Name: Corner
Meals Included: Breakfast
Indulge in a full free day to discover Split on your terms. Ascend the bell tower for magnificent views of the sprawling terracotta roofs that edge onto the Adriatic or consider a full-day Optional Experience to one of the Dalmatian islands.
Day 10: Admire Trogir’S Architecture And On To Plitvice
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation: Mirjana - Rastoke
Accommodation Name: Placich
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, we visit the walled island of Trogir with a Local Specialist. The stone town is a boon for lovers of art and Renaissance, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. We leave the coast and journey to the forested National Park of Plitvice, where we will dine tonight at our hotel.
Day 11: Return To Zagreb Make Travel Matter
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation: Westin
Accommodation Name: Zonar Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The tranquil turquoise, emerald and grey waters of Plitvice's multitude of lakes and waterfalls are explored today on an unforgettable walking tour with a Local Specialist. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll connect with the exquisite beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder, admiring the cascade of spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear waters reflecting green, grey and blue against the lush landscape. You’ll walk along the wooden pathways suspended over these mesmerising natural landscapes, absorbing the irresistible beauty of as many as 16 upper and lower lakes and caves that are all magically connected by waterfalls. Enchanted by the experience, you’ll return to Zagreb for a final Farewell Dinner together, reminiscing over an unforgettable Balkan exploration.
Day 12: Farewell Zagreb
Location: Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast.
What's Included
-
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.
-
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
-
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
-
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
The tour covers all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes.
-
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.
-
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
-
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
-
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Transportation is provided by a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
-
Optional Experiences and free time
The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
-
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Hotels of similar standard and location may be used if necessary.
What's Not Included
-
Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
-
Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
-
Visa fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey across the stunning landscapes of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at cherry-picked hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn in Zagreb, Novotel Bristol in Sarajevo, and Lero in Dubrovnik, ensuring a trusted and pleasant experience throughout your Balkan journey.
Check out our Q&As
-
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 enjoy Croatian hospitality and a meal with wine. In Mostar, you will meet a traditional coppersmith artisan and learn about copper jewelry design. Additionally, you will explore the Bosnian war tunnel in Sarajevo and enjoy a guided walking tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
-
What kind of meals are provided during the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. There are also special dining experiences such as a Welcome Reception in Zagreb and a Be My Guest dinner at a winery in Dubrovnik.
-
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
-
Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional experiences available, such as a visit to Kumrovec, birthplace of Tito, a private sunset cruise with dinner in Dubrovnik, and a full-day trip to one of the Dalmatian islands from Split.
-
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.
-
What is the focus of the sightseeing tours included in the itinerary?
The sightseeing tours focus on cultural and historical highlights, such as exploring the medieval city of Dubrovnik, visiting Diocletian's Palace in Split, and discovering the diverse cultures and traditions of Zagreb.
-
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.
-
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.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
-
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.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.What are travellers saying about Tourhub
Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Trafalgar allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform trafalgar, 90 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."