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Balkan Delight

Operated by: Trafalgar

12 Days from $2,813 per person
APR - OCT 2023
Rooftops of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Countries Visited

Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro ...more Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro

Locations Visited

Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, Plitvice Lakes National Park ...more Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, Plitvice Lakes National Park
  1. 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 travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive.

    meals Welcome Reception
    hotel Hilton Garden Inn
  2. 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 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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Hilton Garden Inn
  3. 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.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Novotel
  4. Day 4 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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Novotel
  5. 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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Ariston
  6. Day 6 Discover Picturesque Dubrovnik Connect with Locals

    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.

    meals Breakfast, Be My Guest
    hotel Ariston
  7. Day 7 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 dine at our hotel.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Ariston
  8. Day 8 Onwards to Split Dive Into Culture

    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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Corner
  9. 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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Corner
  10. 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.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Mirjana - Rastoke
  11. Day 11 Return to Zagreb Make Travel Matter

    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.

    meals Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
    hotel Westin
  12. Day 12 Farewell Zagreb

    Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.

    meals Breakfast
Balkan Delight Guided Tour Map
Price Includes

Whats Included

  • 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

Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Be My Guest

  • Dubrovnik: 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

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

Iconic Experience

  • Zagreb: Spend the day discovering the diverse cultures and traditions of Zagreb.
  • Zagreb: Take in the scenic landscapes of Zagreb.
  • Sarajevo: Discover the history of the Bosnian war tunnel in Sarajevo.
  • Sarajevo: Discover the wonders and hidden treasures of Sarajevo.
  • Mostar: Discover the magnificent coves and cliffs of the Dalmatian coast as well as the monumental Mostar Bridge.
  • Dubrovnik: Explore the Pearl of the Adriatic with your Local Specialist during a sightseeing walk in a small group. Walk the stone-paved streets of the Old Town to see Onofrio's Fountain, Rector's Palace and the medieval city walls.
  • Kotor: Take in the stunning surroundings of the Bay of Kotor.
  • Split: Discover the rich history of Split on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist.
  • Trogir: Enjoy the Renaissance art and the Romanesque architecture on the island of Trogir.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

  • 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.

Must-see Highlights

  • : Explore Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, and Plitvice National Park with a Local Specialist
  • : 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

Whats Included

  • : 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

Dates & Prices

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.

Online Booking Process

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May 2023
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Optional Add-Ons

Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.

Zagreb

Available on Day 2

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 Yugoslavia, Marshall Tito. You’ll see his former home 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: € 65

Sarajevo

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
Note: This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.,

Available on Day 4

Sarajevo: Off the Beaten Track

Discover two fascinating icons of Bosnia that continue to impact the identity of Sarajevo today. Our Local Specialist unravels 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. At the summit, we'll admire spectacular city panoramas with a photo stop at the war-torn bobsled track, before enjoying a refreshment at one of the most spectacular vistas of the city.
Adult Price: € 35

Available on Day 4

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.
Adult Price: € 49

Dubrovnik

Available on Day 5

Sunset Cruise And Dinner

Our sunset cruise takes us along the spectacular Dalmatian coast to one of the secluded bays where we'll enjoy a delicious local dinner with drinks. To complete the evening, we'll cruise outside the old city walls and explore the beautiful illuminated city of Dubrovnik, before returning by coach to our hotel.
Adult Price: € 62
Note: This optional is weather dependent and may not be available on all departures. On occasion the cruise may sail in the bay only and/or operate during the day with lunch.

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

Split

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

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 at 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.
Adult Price: € 89
Note: Hvar may be substituted for Brac or an alternative optional to Sibenik and Krka, due to ferry timetables and in the case of inclement weather.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Robert Homant
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
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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