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Balkan Delight

12 Day Balkans Tour of Zagreb, Sarajevo

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AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $323
From $2,903
WAS $3,225
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11 Days
3 Countries

Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro

8 Cities

Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Trogir, Split, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor

15 Meals

1 Welcome Reception, 10 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

Comfortable

Mainly 2 and 3 night stays in each location. Comfortable travel days with numerous stops. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 40-45
Tour brand Trafalgar

Trafalgar

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience included advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community. As the world’s leading tour company and trusted by more than 5 million guests, Trafalgar tours are simply the best value for your vacation dollar.

View all Trafalgar Tours

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.

Reviews
3
Average group size
average 40-45
Tour brand
Trafalgar
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to 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 travelers this evening for a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive.

The St Marks Church in Zagreb, Croatia
Arrival Transfer Depart the airport at 11:30, 14:30
Accommodation Zonar Zagreb
Included Meals Welcome Reception
Iconic Experience Street in Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb Orientation

Spend the day discovering the diverse cultures and traditions of Zagreb. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 2

Explore Historic Zagreb

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 colored 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 specialties with magnificent views of the Croatian countryside.

A Street in Zagreb, Croatia
Accommodation Zonar Zagreb
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience St Mark's Church in Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb City Tour

Take in the scenic landscapes of Zagreb. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Croatian countryside experience in Kumrovec, Croatia
Croatian Countryside Experience

A scenic drive out of Zagreb with our Local Specialist brings us to the Croatian village of Kumrovec, birthplace of the late President of Yugoslavi...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 3

Off to Stunning Plitvice

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.

Boardwalk at National Park of Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Accommodation Hotel Placich, Plitvice
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® See Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed protected area
Visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park

Admire the irresistible beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed protected area and home to bears, wolves and many rare bird species...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Day 4

Admire Historic Trogir and on to Split

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 flavors.

The Old Town in Trogir, Croatia
Accommodation Hotel Corner Split
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Cathedral of St. Lawrence in Trogir, Croatia
Trogir City Tour

Enjoy the Renaissance art and the Romanesque architecture on the island of Trogir. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Dive Into Culture Visit the Diocletian Palace in Split, Croatia
Discover the ancient fortress of Roman Emperor Diocletian

See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.

Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Iconic Experience Street and houses in Split, Croatia
Split City Tour

Discover the rich history of Split on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 5

Split Your Way

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.

Boats in harbour in Split, Croatia
Accommodation Hotel Corner Split
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences Enjoy a boat trip to Hvar with a tour, Croatia
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 harbor, we'll expl...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 6

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.

Skyline of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Accommodation Novotel Sarajevo Bristol
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Tunnel of Hope in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo Tunnel Tour

Discover the history of the Bosnian war tunnel in Sarajevo. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 7

Uncover Sarajevo’s Secrets

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.

Market in old town of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Accommodation Novotel Sarajevo Bristol
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Sebilj Fountain in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo City Tour

Discover the wonders and hidden treasures of Sarajevo. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Traditional dinner with entertainment in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment

Enjoy a typical Bosnian evening in an authentic restaurant, famous for its local cuisine. With lively entertainment, it truly is an unforgettable evening in Sarajevo.

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
East Meets West

Discover the best of Sarajevo on a visit to Sarajevo’s iconic City Hall, an impressive Austro-Hungarian building that suffered major damage during ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

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. Later, we continue 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.

Mostar Bridge in Mostar Bosnia and Herzegovina
Accommodation City Hotel
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Mostar Bridge in Mostar Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar Bridge Visit

Discover the magnificent coves and cliffs of the Dalmatian coast as well as the monumental Mostar Bridge. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Konoba dinner in Split, Croatia
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 varie...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 9

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 specialties and feel fully immersed in your hosts’ warm Croatian hospitality. 

The Old Town in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Accommodation City Hotel
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Be My Guest
Dine at Winery Botaro

Meet Matea Botaro and her family to gain a deep appreciation for Croatian hospitality as you to enjoy a Be My Guest experience at a local winery. T...

See More
Included in Trip

Be My Guest

Optional Experiences Enjoy a boat trip to Hvar with a tour, Croatia
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 harbor, we'll expl...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 10

A Day in Montenegro

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.

The Boka Bay in Kotor, Montenegro
Accommodation Hotel Lero Dubrovnik
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor City Tour

Take in the stunning surroundings of the Bay of Kotor.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 11

Farewell Dubrovnik

Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast.

View of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Departure Transfer Arrive at the airport at 05:00, 08:00, 11:30
Included Meals Breakfast

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Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Iconic Experience
Zagreb Orientation

Spend the day discovering the diverse cultures and traditions of Zagreb. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Zagreb City Tour

Take in the scenic landscapes of Zagreb. 

Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park

Admire the irresistible beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed protected area and home to bears, wolves and many rare bird species...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Trogir City Tour

Enjoy the Renaissance art and the Romanesque architecture on the island of Trogir. 

Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Discover the ancient fortress of Roman Emperor Diocletian

See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Split City Tour

Discover the rich history of Split on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Sarajevo Tunnel Tour

Discover the history of the Bosnian war tunnel in Sarajevo. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Sarajevo City Tour

Discover the wonders and hidden treasures of Sarajevo. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Mostar Bridge Visit

Discover the magnificent coves and cliffs of the Dalmatian coast as well as the monumental Mostar Bridge. 

Included in Trip
Be My Guest
Dine at Winery Botaro

Meet Matea Botaro and her family to gain a deep appreciation for Croatian hospitality as you to enjoy a Be My Guest experience at a local winery. T...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Kotor City Tour

Take in the stunning surroundings of the Bay of Kotor.

Included in Trip

About this trip

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

What to expect

Explore Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, and Plitvice National Park
Visit the War Tunnel in Sarajevo and Diocletian's Palace in Split
View the Cathedral in Zagreb, the Rector's Palace and city walls in Dubrovnik and the lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice National Park

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Croatian Countryside Experience

A scenic drive out of Zagreb with our Local Specialist brings us to the Croatian village of Kumrovec, birthplace of the late President of Yugoslavi...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
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 harbor, we'll expl...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment

Enjoy a typical Bosnian evening in an authentic restaurant, famous for its local cuisine. With lively entertainment, it truly is an unforgettable evening in Sarajevo.

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
East Meets West

Discover the best of Sarajevo on a visit to Sarajevo’s iconic City Hall, an impressive Austro-Hungarian building that suffered major damage during ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
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 varie...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
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 harbor, we'll expl...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro

  • Official Language(s) used across Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro: Croatian is the official of Croatia; Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian are the official languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Montenegrin is the official language of Montenegro.
  • Currency used in Balkans: The Croatian Kuna (HRK) is used in Croatia, the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM) is used in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Euro (€) is used in Montenegro.
  • Capital Cites: Zagreb (Croatia), Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and Podgorica (Montenegro)
  • Time Zone(s) in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro: Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Croatia has a diverse climate, with three main regions: coastal, inland, and mountainous. The coastal regions, including cities like Dubrovnik and Split, have a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and mild winters averaging around 10°C (50°F). Inland areas, such as Zagreb, have a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. The mountainous regions, like the Dinaric Alps, experience colder and harsher winters with heavy snowfall, making them ideal for winter sports. Rainfall is generally higher along the coast and decreases inland, with the wettest months being October and November.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a diverse climate due to its varied geography. In the northern regions, the climate is continental with hot summers and cold winters, experiencing occasional snowfall. In the southern areas, the climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The central regions have a mixture of these two climates. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant throughout the country. Rainfall patterns vary, with more precipitation in the mountainous areas and less in the lowlands.

Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate along its coastline, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The interior regions have a more continental climate, characterized by colder winters and warmer summers. Coastal areas experience long, sunny days, making them popular destinations for beachgoers. The mountainous regions, including the Dinaric Alps, see heavy snowfall during winter, offering opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Montenegro's diverse geography contributes to varying microclimates, providing a mix of coastal relaxation and alpine adventure.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Review date: Friday, October 11, 2024
Service
The booking agents were knowledgeable, helpful and capable of answering all my questions.
Vacation
The bus tour was great. Our tour guide was outstanding. The trip had no obvious issues. The food was excellent, but I do question how area-specific the cuisine was. The hotel rooms were good to excellent, although too far from the tourist areas.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your feedback. We are glad that overall you had a enjoyable trip.
Friday, October 11, 2024
Robert Homant
Review date: Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Service
This was our 8th trip with GET...have always been satisfied/happy with their service. Their contact with us was timely as the trip date approached. Minor glitch with arrival and departure times but probably not much GET could do about that.
Vacation
The basic itinerary was very good. I was able to stay quite active (not a lot of down time). I thought a couple of the add-ons could easily have been included; the meals were a notch below what we've been used to (but this may have reflected the cuisine involved--the side dishes very good but the main courses generally weak; choices were too limited given the costs, especially for the add ons). Excursion to Hvar seemed especially over priced (could have done as well on my own for less than half the cost). There ought to be a discount for simply taking all the add-ons (a couple of the hotel locations were a bit inconvenient for doing things on one's own). But these a relatively minor complaints and I'd rate the overall trip a 4.51 (rounded up to 5).
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for taking the time to write. We appreciate your comments and will be sure to share them with the Quality Control Team at Trafalgar. We are happy that despite a couple of glitches, you enjoyed your trip. Thank you for your repeat business!
Thursday, May 2, 2019
Robert Grunkemeyer
Review date: Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Service
This was the best tour guide we have ever had(and we have been on about 7 different tours in various parts of the world over past 15 years) Areas for improvement - need to add at least 6 days that don’t start so early after being out so late the night before. And the musicians at the optional dinner in Split were obnoxious((they stood immediately behind us, literally a foot behind us, and played and sang extremely loudly. The were asked several times to move around, which they did briefly, but came right back to screaming in back of us
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for the suggestions! We will be sure to share them with the Operations Team.  We are so happy that you enjoyed this trip and hope to see you again soon.
Friday, April 27, 2018
Vacation
Best tour guide we have ever had. Areas for improvement - 1) add at least 6 days where the group does not have to start so early, after being out so late the night before. 2) the musicians at the optional dinner in Split were obnoxious. They stood immediately behind us, literally 1 foot, and played and sang extremely loudly. They were asked several times to move to other parts of the table, but would immediately return to right behind us. The spoiled the entire evening
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