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Balkan Delight
12 Day Balkans Tour of Zagreb, Sarajevo and Dubrovnik
The secrets of Balkan travel are revealed on this jam-packed eastern Europe trip. Go underground and learn how Sarajevo once relied on its Bosnian War Tunnel, see the bridge of peace rebuilt with salvaged stone and explore Adriatic beauty, from Dubrovnik to Kotor.
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Trip code
BALK
Balkan Delight
12 Day Balkans Tour of Zagreb, Sarajevo and Dubrovnik
The secrets of Balkan travel are revealed on this jam-packed eastern Europe trip. Go underground and learn how Sarajevo once relied on its Bosnian War Tunnel, see the bridge of peace rebuilt with salvaged stone and explore Adriatic beauty, from Dubrovnik to Kotor.
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.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - DoubleTree by Hilton
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.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Kumrovec with Food and Drinks
A scenic drive out of Zagreb with our Local Specialist brings us to the Croatian village of Kumrovec, birthplace of the late President of Yugoslavia, Marshall Tito. You’ll see his house, now a museum, and have time to explore the museum village. Later, share a meal of delicious regional specialities in a picturesque restaurant with magnificent views of the Croatian countryside.
Adult Price: €62.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Journey to Sarajevo
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.
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.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Sarajevo Home Hosted Evening
Enjoy a true insight into local culture as you’re invited into a Sarajevo local's home, to savour warm hospitality and tasty traditional cuisine. There’ll be no more than several guests with each family, ensuring a cosy and memorable evening.
Adult Price: €56.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment
Enjoy a typical Bosnian evening in an authentic restaurant, famous for its local cuisine, accompanied with lively entertainment, to ensure an unforgettable final evening in Sarajevo.
Adult Price: €49.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Sarajevo: Off the Beaten Track
Discover the fascinating historical periods of Bosnia that continue to impact the identity of Sarajevo today. Our Local Specialist will share with us the beauty of a traditional Mosque, its architecture and traditions. We then fast forward to the 1984 Winter Olympics, hearing stories of ice skaters Torvill and Dean and their famous gold medal, while ascending Mt Trebevic by coach, where we'll admire spectacular city panoramas. Learn about the Siege of Sarajvo with a photo stop at the war-torn bobsled track, and enjoy a refreshment at one of the most spectacular vistas of the city.
Adult Price: €35.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
Along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
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. Enjoy some free time to explore the town, 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.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Ariston
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Sunset Cruise And Dinner
Our sunset cruise takes us along the spectacular Dalmatian coast to a secluded bay, where we'll enjoy a delicious local dinner with drinks. To complete the evening, we'll cruise alongside the old city walls and explore the beautiful illuminated city of Dubrovnik, before returning by coach to our hotel. Note: This optional is weather dependent and may not be available on all departures. On occasion, the cruise may sail in the bay only.
Adult Price: €62.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Discover Picturesque Dubrovnik
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 a traditional tavern overlooking the Dubrovnik Hills and meet the Knez family for a wonderful 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.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
Panoramic Cavtat
Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbour on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with our Local Specialist in the quaint old town and take the opportunity to admire the yachts in the marina, visit the beach or walk up to the Racic Mausoleum.
Adult Price: €35.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 7
A Day in Montenegro
Dazzling natural surrounds are ours to enjoy today as we travel to the Republic of Montenegro, where we will meet a Local Specialist and head towards 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.
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.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Corner
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Traditional Konoba Dinner
If you want to truly experience Dalmatian cuisine, a dinner in a traditional stone basement 'konoba' is the best choice. You'll select from a variety of seafood or meats accompanied by Dalmatian wines and typical live music, which will add a local touch to your journey on the Croatian Adriatic coastline.
Adult Price: €55.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Split Your Way
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.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Jewel of the Adriatic
A memorable day trip to Hvar, one of the most beautiful islands in the Croatian archipelago. Embarking on a boat ride from Split harbour, we'll explore the historic Hvar Old Town on foot with our Local Specialist. You'll spend free time relaxing along one of the seafront restaurants or soaking up the stunning views from the Venetian hilltop fortress. We then sail back over the Adriatic on our return to Split. Please note: during May or September, Hvar may be substituted for Brac
Adult Price: €75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 10
Admire Trogir’s Architecture and on to Plitvice
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.
Journey with your Local Specialist through this picturesque region to the fairytale watermill village of Rastoke, with its cascading waterfalls and architectural heritage dating from the 17th century. We´ll also visit a family farm to sample local products and hear of centuries-old traditions.
Adult Price: €38.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 11
Return to Zagreb
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.
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Kumrovec with Food and Drinks
A scenic drive out of Zagreb with our Local Specialist brings us to the Croatian village of Kumrovec, birthplace of the late President of Yugoslavia, Marshall Tito. You’ll see his house, now a museum, and have time to explore the museum village. Later, share a meal of delicious regional specialities in a picturesque restaurant with magnificent views of the Croatian countryside.
Adult Price: €62.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Sarajevo Home Hosted Evening
Enjoy a true insight into local culture as you’re invited into a Sarajevo local's home, to savour warm hospitality and tasty traditional cuisine. There’ll be no more than several guests with each family, ensuring a cosy and memorable evening.
Adult Price: €56.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment
Enjoy a typical Bosnian evening in an authentic restaurant, famous for its local cuisine, accompanied with lively entertainment, to ensure an unforgettable final evening in Sarajevo.
Adult Price: €49.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Sarajevo: Off the Beaten Track
Discover the fascinating historical periods of Bosnia that continue to impact the identity of Sarajevo today. Our Local Specialist will share with us the beauty of a traditional Mosque, its architecture and traditions. We then fast forward to the 1984 Winter Olympics, hearing stories of ice skaters Torvill and Dean and their famous gold medal, while ascending Mt Trebevic by coach, where we'll admire spectacular city panoramas. Learn about the Siege of Sarajvo with a photo stop at the war-torn bobsled track, and enjoy a refreshment at one of the most spectacular vistas of the city.
Adult Price: €35.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Sunset Cruise And Dinner
Our sunset cruise takes us along the spectacular Dalmatian coast to a secluded bay, where we'll enjoy a delicious local dinner with drinks. To complete the evening, we'll cruise alongside the old city walls and explore the beautiful illuminated city of Dubrovnik, before returning by coach to our hotel. Note: This optional is weather dependent and may not be available on all departures. On occasion, the cruise may sail in the bay only.
Adult Price: €62.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Panoramic Cavtat
Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbour on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with our Local Specialist in the quaint old town and take the opportunity to admire the yachts in the marina, visit the beach or walk up to the Racic Mausoleum.
Adult Price: €35.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Traditional Konoba Dinner
If you want to truly experience Dalmatian cuisine, a dinner in a traditional stone basement 'konoba' is the best choice. You'll select from a variety of seafood or meats accompanied by Dalmatian wines and typical live music, which will add a local touch to your journey on the Croatian Adriatic coastline.
Adult Price: €55.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 9
Jewel of the Adriatic
A memorable day trip to Hvar, one of the most beautiful islands in the Croatian archipelago. Embarking on a boat ride from Split harbour, we'll explore the historic Hvar Old Town on foot with our Local Specialist. You'll spend free time relaxing along one of the seafront restaurants or soaking up the stunning views from the Venetian hilltop fortress. We then sail back over the Adriatic on our return to Split. Please note: during May or September, Hvar may be substituted for Brac
Adult Price: €75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 10
Rastoke Falls and Farm Experience
Journey with your Local Specialist through this picturesque region to the fairytale watermill village of Rastoke, with its cascading waterfalls and architectural heritage dating from the 17th century. We´ll also visit a family farm to sample local products and hear of centuries-old traditions.
Adult Price: €38.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
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About this trip
About this trip
What's included
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon
11 nights
Accommodation
Trip Summary Meals Icon
17 Meals
1 Be My Guest, 1 Farewell Dinner, 1 Welcome Reception, 11 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners
Trip Summary Transport Icon
On-trip Transport
All transport shown. VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
The Trafalgar difference
Connect With Locals
Gain a deep appreciation for Croatian hospitality as you meet the Knez family for a heart-warming Be My Guest experience in their tavern overlooking the Dubrovnik Hills.
Dive Into Culture
See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Admire the irresistible beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed protected area and home to bears, wolves and many rare bird species.
Sightseeing highlights
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Explore Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, and Plitvice National Park with a Local Specialist
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Visit the War Tunnel in Sarajevo and Diocletian's Palace in Split
Experience Ti Filled Icon
View the Cathedral in Zagreb, the Rector's Palace and city walls in Dubrovnik and the lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice National Park
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Experience Tick Thin Icon
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Experience Tick Thin Icon
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Optional Experiences and free time
Live, unedited & independent traveller reviews
Balkan Delight trip reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
Overall rating
4.6
Out of 5
Based on 357 independent reviews
Trip rating
Customer experience
Trip rating is the overall quality of the itinerary and trip
4.6
Out of 5
5
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221
4
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117
3
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14
2
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5
1
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Customer experience is the standard of service you receive
one of the best trips I’ve ever taken, thanks to our Travel Director Ivan
Trip Rating
Review Star Icon
5
A very comprehensive itinerary that takes you to the famous tourist places in Croatia, Bosnia and Montenegro. But also like how it takes you to smaller towns which most tourists wouldn’t know about but are just as charming.
Our Travel Director Ivan was excellent. He was very knowledgeable about all the places we visited, very helpful and accommodating, and made everyone feel welcome. He is truly a great asset for Trafalgar. I also like having local specialists conducting the tours in the different cities, all the different places you get to visit that most travellers wouldn’t know about.
It was great being able to stay at a place for two or three nights instead of changing hotels every day which is necessary for other destinations. Great trip!
Travel director was excellent. He was very knowledgeable and gave valuable insights of local traditions and culture. Local specialists were also very good.
Gratuities: You have the option to pre-pay the gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. Please speak with your travel agent.
Important Visa Information: Visas are required for this trip. Please speak to your travel agent at the time of booking to assess your specific requirements. Visas cannot be issued at borders in Europe.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
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Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.
Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them.
What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional) Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.
