The Balkan Adventure

The Balkan Adventure

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The Balkan Adventure

15 Days Starting and ending in United Kingdom

Visiting: Split, Sarajevo, Budva, Kotor, Tirana, Ohrid, Lake Ohrid, Skopje, Belgrade, Novi Sad, Zagreb

Tour operator:

Travelsphere

Tour code:

FBOCR2

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on "The Balkan Adventure," a captivating journey through Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia, and Macedonia. This cultural tour offers a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty, including an evening guided walk in Split's old town, the iconic 'Old Bridge' in Mostar, and the breathtaking Kotor Bay. Discover the capitals of Sarajevo, Belgrade, Tirana, Skopje, and Zagreb, and explore Sutjeska National Park, home to Mount Maglic. Enjoy an orientation walk in Budva, visit the hill town of Kruje, and relax by Lake Ohrid. With 14 nights in 4-star hotels, 23 meals, and expert guides, this tour promises an unforgettable Balkan experience.

Highlights

  • Evening guided walk in Split's old town

  • Visit the iconic 'Old Bridge' in Mostar

  • Discover the capitals of Sarajevo, Belgrade, Tirana, Skopje and Zagreb

  • Breathtakingly beautiful Kotor Bay

  • Sutjeska National Park, home to Mount Maglic

  • Lake Ohrid and the Bay of Bones

  • Explore Novi Sad, on the banks of the Danube

  • Croatian wine-tasting in Kutjevo

Itinerary

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Day 1 Uk - Split

Location: Split

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Amphora

Meals Included: Dinner

Today you will fly to Split, from where we will transfer you to your hotel.

Day 2 Split - Sarajevo

Location: Sarajevo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a leisurely breakfast we begin our journey inland, crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina before reaching one of the Balkan's most iconic cities - Mostar. Situated at the Neretva River, this historic city is famed for its enchanting 'Old Bridge'. After a guided tour of the bridge and the old town there will be free time before our journey continues to the country's capital, Sarajevo where we'll settle into our hotel this evening.

Day 3 Sarajevo

Location: Sarajevo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott

Meals Included: Breakfast

We're going to explore Sarajevo today, a city revered for its cultural and religious diversity. You'll see the Ottoman-style Emperor's Mosque in the same neighbourhood as the Catholic Sacred Heart Cathedral, the Orthodox Church of the Nativity and a Jewish synagogue. During your full-day tour you'll also be reminded of Torvill and Dean's 1984 Winter Olympics figure skating success at the quirky Olympic Museum.

Day 4 Sarajevo - Budva

Location: Budva

Accommodation Name: Hotel Slovenska Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Sutjeska National Park is home to the highest peak in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Maglic Mountain. We'll see this today before an included lunch and an onward journey across the border into Montenegro. Here the picturesque coastal town of Budva is our new base.

Day 5 Kotor Bay & Becici

Location: Kotor

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Slovenska Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast

You've the chance to admire more mountain scenery today on a drive to the fjord-like Kotor Bay. We'll take a stroll around the walled city of Kotor before we cruise to 'Our Lady of the Rocks' – a man-made islet housing a church and museum. Legend has it that the tiny island was formed by fishermen dropping a rock into the bay each time they returned from a successful voyage. This afternoon we'll spend some time in the neighbouring towns of Becici and Budva. At Becici, we'll find a lovely sandy beach, and in Budva a walking tour will reveal a picturesque Old Town enclosed by Venetian walls. Why not head back into the town this evening and find a restaurant in which to enjoy local delicacies.

Day 6 Budva - Tirana

Location: Tirana

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Tirana International Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today's journey takes you to Albania's capital, Tirana, with a stop on the way at the hill town of Kruje. Here you'll see its 5th century fortress, dramatically located on top of a rocky outcrop. Afterwards, continue to your hotel in the centre of the city where modern and historical buildings exist side by side.

Day 7 Tirana - Lake Ohrid

Location: Ohrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Royal View

Meals Included: Breakfast

There's time for a walking tour of Tirana this morning before we head to the Macedonian border and on to Lake Ohrid. Your lakeside hotel offers lovely views, so simply relax and enjoy. This evening why not enjoy a walk around the lake's promenade, where you'll find a good selection of restaurants and cafés.

Day 8 Lake Ohrid

Location: Lake Ohrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Royal View

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

We're going to spend today discovering the beauty of Lake Ohrid. Our first stop is the Bay of Bones, a reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement that was built on the water between 1200 and 600 BC. After lunch, we'll enjoy the lake from a different perspective when we take to the water on a relaxing cruise. It promises to be a very serene and peaceful experience and is the perfect way to take in the magnificent beauty of the surrounding mountains and unspoilt landscapes. Later, there's time to explore the historic town of Ohrid too. Cobbled streets, ancient churches and lakeside cafés are all part of its allure and there are some lovely shops if you want to hunt for souvenirs.

Day 9 Lake Ohrid - Skopje

Location: Skopje

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Solun Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Next stop on your adventure is the Macedonian capital, Skopje, which is home to the memorial house of Mother Teresa. Come on a walk through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Bazaar and take in panoramic views from the Upper Town.

Day 10 Skopje - Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Prag

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we're going to cross the border into Serbia, where its capital Belgrade will be our home for the next two nights. We reach it via a visit to the imposing Manasija Monastery with its 11 towers and impressive fortified walls. We're also going to have some free time in nearby Despotovac, a pretty town named after Serbian prince Stefan Lazarevic, who was given the title Despot. There's lots to discover in Belgrade, and with a free evening you can head into the city for dinner at a restaurant of your choosing.

Day 11 Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Prag

Meals Included: Breakfast

You'll see the highlights of Belgrade on a guided tour today. The former capital of Yugoslavia has plenty of sights to offer, starting with the quaint cobbled lanes of the Bohemian Quarter, often compared to Montmartre in Paris. You'll see the Residence of Princess Ljubica, now a museum, and the imposing Captain Miša's Mansion. Your tour also passes the old and new palaces, which now house the Belgrade City Assembly and the office of the President of the Republic of Serbia.

Day 12 Belgrade - Novi Sad

Location: Novi Sad

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Zoo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we'll introduce you to Serbia's second-largest city, Novi Sad, for a tour and an overnight stay. Take in the sight of the imposing Petrovaradin Fortress, located on the right bank of the Danube, and the equally impressive Freedom Square.

Day 13 Novi Sad - Zagreb

Location: Zagreb

Accommodation Name: Hotel Academia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Your final destination on the Balkan Peninsula is Croatia, where we'll base ourselves in its capital Zagreb. En route we'll pay a visit to Osijek, situated where the Drava and Danube Rivers meet, and home to a fortified centre. A little later we'll find ourselves in Kutjevo, a town known for its wines, so of course, we'll head to a winery for a tasting. This evening we'll head to nearby taverna and enjoy a dinner of local specialities.

Day 14 Zagreb - Split

Location: Split

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Amphora

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, your tour of Zagreb will introduce you to a city reminiscent of Prague, Budapest and Vienna, whose upper town is filled with churches and palaces. This afternoon we make the return journey to Split where we overnight.

Day 15 Split - Uk

Location: Split

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

What's Included

  • Return flights from London

    Return flights from London are included in the tour package.

  • 14 nights in 4-star hotels

    Accommodation for 14 nights in 4-star hotels is included.

  • 23 meals

    The package includes 23 meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners, and a welcome drink.

  • Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide

    A Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide will accompany the tour.

  • Overseas transfers, other transportation, and porterage

    Overseas transfers, other transportation, and porterage are included.

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 must be arranged separately.

  • Optional excursions

    Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • Visa fees

    Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with return flights from London, overseas transfers, and other transportation provided throughout the tour, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey across the Balkans.

Accommodation

Enjoy 14 nights in comfortable 4-star hotels, including Hotel Amphora in Split, Courtyard by Marriott in Sarajevo, Hotel Slovenska Plaza in Budva, Tirana International Hotel, Royal View in Lake Ohrid, Solun Hotel & Spa in Skopje, Hotel Prag in Belgrade, and Hotel Zoo in Novi Sad.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 14 nights in 4-star hotels.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes 23 meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners, and a welcome drink.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, a Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide will accompany you during the tour.

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes overseas transfers, other transportation, and porterage.

  • What activities are planned for the visit to Sarajevo?

    In Sarajevo, you will explore the city's cultural and religious diversity, including visits to the Ottoman-style Emperor's Mosque, the Catholic Sacred Heart Cathedral, the Orthodox Church of the Nativity, and a Jewish synagogue. You will also visit the Olympic Museum.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Kotor Bay?

    During the visit to Kotor Bay, you will take a stroll around the walled city of Kotor, cruise to 'Our Lady of the Rocks' islet, and spend time in the neighbouring towns of Becici and Budva.

  • What is special about the visit to Lake Ohrid?

    At Lake Ohrid, you will visit the Bay of Bones, a reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the lake, and explore the historic town of Ohrid with its cobbled streets, ancient churches, and lakeside cafés.

  • What highlights are included in the visit to Belgrade?

    In Belgrade, you will see the highlights on a guided tour, including the Bohemian Quarter, the Residence of Princess Ljubica, Captain Miša's Mansion, and the old and new palaces.

  • Is there any wine tasting included in the tour?

    Yes, there is a wine-tasting session included in Kutjevo, Croatia.

  • What is the final destination of the tour?

    The final destination of the tour is Split, Croatia, where you will spend the last night before transferring to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Travelsphere’s Flexibility Promise has been created to give you complete peace of mind and make you feel confident when booking your holiday with us. We have also been awarded the WTTC safe travels stamp which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Travelsphere has been operating escorted touring holidays for 60 years

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travelsphere, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    You will receive Holiday conformation upon booking, and then several documents detailing any adddiotnal information and the optional excursions that you can book before you travel. The final information covering your flights, hotels and itinerary will be sent to you around 14 days before your departure date.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, we do not offer single share options

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, Im afraid not

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If we can accomadate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - and make sure you have your booking number to hand.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Our Travelsphere Cares programmes, in partnership with the Planeterra Foundation, support local projects and social enterprises by helping them earn an income from tourism. We simply donate a portion of the funds from our tours, so it’s great to know that when you travel with us you are helping to change lives and turn travel into real impact.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Like minded travellers

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.

Reviews of this operator

KARL WILSON (Google Reviewer)  

A great company and we'll...

28-Mar-2024

A great company and we'll definitely be using them again. Our trip to south America was fantastic.

Alison Packer (Google Reviewer)  

Great escorted holiday to Austria. Well...

05-Aug-2019

Great escorted holiday to Austria. Well looked after by Paul tour leader and Ollie coach driver and the staff at the hotel. Austria is beautiful the lakes are stunning met some great people Well lead tours interesting and not to long Great food and accommodation very Austrian lovely to see the traditional side of Austria good value holiday if you prefer a guide to all the attraction door to door.

Sue Williams  

enjoyable trip to Bulgaria

07-Jun-2021

We had a really enjoyable trip to Bulgaria , all the excursions and hotels were very good . Our Tour Director and Tour Guide were excellent and helped to make the holiday extra special. It is the first time that I have ever used Travelsphere but would not hesitate using them again in the future or to recommend them to friends or family .

Charles  

Best travel company I have ever booked with!

03-Aug-2021

As a previous traveller with Travelsphere,I know that customer care and excellent tours are their stock in trade.When the Covid 19 Vaccination scheme was announced in November 2020 I booked Discover New Zealand with a cook island add on,all my internet and telephone calls were top rate ,my questions answered and my monies safe.As the pandemic changed I had to cancel the cook Island add on,again all handled in a prompt,efficient and personable way.Now due to the Covid Restrictions in New Zealand,my your has been cancelled and a full refund given.Excellent customer service from a well established and careing company.Thank you to all at Travelsphere.I am now planning a double tour to Australia and New Zealand when circumstances allow and have the Travelsphere brochure on order !

Jennifer Zammit (Google Reviewer)  

Can't fault them always polite...

15-Dec-2019

Can't fault them always polite friendly and very helpful on phone. I booked Canada last year and they were first class from start to finish. Also went to Italy with them and already booked for next year Chicago to New Orleans. Keep up the good service and you'll always have my bookings and 5 star status .

Terry Hill  

Such enjoyable holidays

03-May-2022

I have been lucky enough to have travelled 13 times with Travelsphere with several more booked over the next 18 months. Every holiday has been fantastic with three main reasons. (1) The itineraries in many wonderful locations. (2) The excellent Tour Managers. (3) The fellow travellers who also enjoy such fantastic Touring holidays. Thoroughly recommend Travelsphere and cannot wait for our 14th holiday starting next week!

Keith Taylor (Google Reviewer)  

Travel company providing tours. We...

18-Aug-2023

Travel company providing tours. We did top to toe Italy in 2008 and are travelling with them again on a tour around Turkey in 2024.

Pauline Jones (Google Reviewer)  

Toured Analucia, or should I...

29-Sep-2023

Toured Analucia, or should I say visited. Too much travelling time, not enough seeing anything, great rep, hotel good but evening buffet hit and miss. Maybe a different company next time

Nicola Fallows (Google Reviewer)  

Nice but disappointing honeymoon trip...

19-Sep-2024

Nice but disappointing honeymoon trip to Italy. Wish that every element could have been perfect, but sadly it wasn't. Couldn't fault the tour guide Karina in Vico Equense, or the Country itself. There were some excellent tours organised (but a hell of a lot of walking involved, some days we covered 6 miles). Beware though if you have any special dietary requirements. We are both Vegan and spent the first week of our holiday having the meat and the fish elements of meals substituted with mostly cold tomatoes (or sometimes pumpkin / courgette / aubergine / melon?!). The hotel had no understanding of what other protein sources to use that didn't come from meat/fish. Knew we would have limited options but didn't realise just how much! Was left often hungry and having to shop for snacks in local supermarkets, or left bloated and in pain from having nothing much other than bread or pasta all day. The hotel food in general (in Vico Equense) was complained about by most of the travellers, not just by us. Food was slightly better at the next hotel in Ischia, but that Hotel wanted to charge everything as extras, even tea/coffee and water but also pool towels and swimming caps (which were mandatory). Also quite a few things were rearranged/changed at the last minute. No stop off at Amalfi, crossing to Ischia was changed, and timings for coming home were changed and barely notified to the group.

Julie Smith (Google Reviewer)  

I have been trying to...

08-Jan-2024

I have been trying to contact Travelsphere by email for several weeks now but not a single email ahs been answered. How can an enquiry go unanswered???

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travelsphere allows you to make 4 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 75 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Travelsphere allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform travelsphere, 75 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Travelsphere requires a minimum deposit of 21% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 84 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travelsphere charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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