Balkan Explorer

Conditional cancellation
24/7 customer support
Best price guarantee

Description

Summary

Starts
Athens
Duration
16 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
10 years

Description

Embark on a captivating 16-day tour through the heart of the Balkans, where ancient history, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes await. Begin your adventure in Athens, Greece's bustling capital, and journey through the enchanting regions of North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Discover iconic landmarks, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and immerse yourself in the diverse traditions and cuisines of each destination. With expertly guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals included, this multi-day tour promises an unforgettable experience as you traverse the rich tapestry of the Balkans. Whether you're wandering through medieval towns, marveling at natural wonders, or savoring local delicacies, each day offers new opportunities for discovery and adventure. Join us on this extraordinary journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Read more

Included

Explore Athens; Greece’s ancient capital city

Enjoy a welcome dinner in Athens

Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi

Visit Meteora; see the formation of Eastern Orthodox monasteries

Guided tour of Ohrid

Walking tour of Tirana

Explore Budva and Kotor in Montenegro

Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik

Visit Mostar; a medieval Balkan town

Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

Guided walking tour of Ljubljana

See the best-loved sights in Budapest on a driving tour

Visit Novi Sad in Serbia

Guided walking tour of Belgrade

Visit Tinkers Alley and enjoy a lunch stop in Niš

Enjoy a guided tour of Sofia

Discover Thessaloniki; a Greek port city

Visit Kamena Vourla; a scenic coastal Greek city

Farewell dinner in Athens

Read more

15 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 8 Dinners

Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

vegetarian, vegan, meat

Read more

15 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms

Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Read more

Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader

Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical detail

Read more

Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard

Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Read more

Destinations

Sofia - city in BulgariaSofia
The aerial view of Dubrovnik, a city in southern Croatia fronting the Adriatic Sea, Europe.Dubrovnik
AthensAthens
Aerial view of Samuel's Fortress and Plaosnik at Ohrid in North Macedonia.Ohrid
Tirana County - region in AlbaniaTirana
Niš - city in SerbiaNiš
Budapest - city in HungaryBudapest
Photo of aerial view of the old bridge and river in city of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.Mostar
Thessaloniki Municipal Unit - city in GreeceThessaloniki
Kallithea - city in GreeceKallithea
Capital of Slovenia, panoramic view with old town and castle.Ljubljana
BelgradeBelgrade
Kotor -  in MontenegroKotor
Photo of panoramic aerial view of old town of Budva, Montenegro.Budva

Map

Attractions

Photo of St. Sofia church in Ohrid in a beautiful summer day, Republic of Macedonia.Church of St. Sophia
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Porat Dubrovnik, Grad Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik-Neretva County, CroatiaPorat Dubrovnik
Photo of Hungarian Parliament at daytime. Budapest. One of the most beautiful buildings in the Hungarian capital.Hungarian Parliament Building
Photo of aerial view of the main street (Stradun or Placa), the Franciscan Monastery, St. Saviour Church in Dubrovnik, Croatia.Franciscan Church and Monastery
Thessaloniki Waterfront
Budakeszi Wildlife Park, Budakeszi, Budakeszi járás, Pest megye, Central Hungary, HungaryBudakeszi Wildlife Park
Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, Kalampaka Municipality, Trikala Regional Unit, Thessaly, Thessaly and Central Greece, GreeceNatural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum
Photo of Stari Most is a reconstruction of a 16th-century Ottoman bridge in the city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina that crosses the river Neretva and connects two parts of the city.Old Bridge Mostar

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1

  • Athens - Arrival day
  • More
  • Acropolis of Athens
  • National Archaeological Museum of Athens
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • Andreas Papandreou Park
  • Hadrian's Library
  • Panathenaic Stadium
  • More

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Athens, where ancient history meets modern life. After meeting your tour leader and fellow travelers at the hotel, embark on an orientation tour of Greece's capital. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Academy, National Library, and the Greek Parliament. Marvel at the grandeur of the Panathinaikos Stadium and the ancient wonders of Hadrian's Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. In the evening, savor a delightful welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll get your first taste of authentic Greek cuisine.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Kallithea
  • More
  • Monastery of St Stephan
  • Museum of Delphic Festivals
  • Tholos of Delphi
  • More

Journey north through Greece's mainland, pausing at the mystical site of Delphi, once considered the center of the world. Explore the Sanctuary of Apollo and the Treasury of the Athenians, and delve into the rich history at the Museum of Delphi. Continue to the awe-inspiring Meteora, where you'll visit St. Stephen's Monastery, perched dramatically on towering rock formations. Take in the breathtaking views of Kalambaka before settling in for the night in this charming town.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Ohrid
  • More
  • Church of Saint John the Theologian
  • More

Cross the border into North Macedonia and discover the hidden gem of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This ancient city, one of Europe's oldest settlements, is renowned for its 365 churches. Explore the Old Town with a guided tour, visiting landmarks such as the Church of St. John at Kaneo, which offers stunning views over the lake. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner, soaking in the serene beauty of Ohrid.

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Ohrid
  • Tirana
  • More

Travel to Albania's capital, Tirana, a city that has transformed from its communist past into a lively and colorful metropolis. After a delicious lunch, embark on a walking tour to explore the city's vibrant architecture and historical landmarks, including Skanderbeg Square, the Clock Tower, and the Et'hem Beu Mosque. In the evening, consider joining an optional excursion to delve deeper into Albanian culture with a museum visit and a traditional dinner.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Dubrovnik
  • Budva
  • Tirana
  • Kotor
  • More
  • Sokol grad
  • More

Bid farewell to Albania and journey through Montenegro, starting with the charming coastal town of Budva. Explore its well-preserved medieval walled city before heading to the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, surrounded by stunning fjord-like cliffs. Later, cross into Croatia and arrive in Dubrovnik, where you'll have the evening free to explore the enchanting Old Town at your leisure.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Sofia
  • More
  • Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
  • Franciscan Church and Monastery
  • Onofrio's Large Fountain
  • More

Discover the medieval charm of Dubrovnik with a guided walking tour of the Old Town. Visit the Franciscan Monastery and the iconic City Walls, and enjoy a stroll from the picturesque Amerling Fountain. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city's rich history and culture. Consider joining an optional excursion for a deeper dive into Dubrovnik's heritage, complete with a local lunch and museum visits.

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Dubrovnik
  • More
  • Stara Ćuprija Konjic
  • More

Venture into Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore the historic town of Mostar, known for its iconic Stari Most Bridge. Enjoy free time to wander through the town's rich cultural tapestry, where Roman and Ottoman influences blend seamlessly. After a day of exploration, return to Northern Croatia for an overnight stay.

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Mostar
  • More
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • More

Begin your day with a visit to Croatia's stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, renowned for its cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes. After exploring this natural wonder, travel to Slovenia's charming capital, Ljubljana. Join a local guide for a walking tour of the city's medieval old town, including Preseren Square and the iconic Dragon and Cobblers Bridges. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps opting for a traditional Slovenian dinner with live music.

Read more
Day 9

Day 9

  • Ljubljana
  • More
  • Hungarian Parliament Building
  • Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
  • More

Travel to Hungary's capital, Budapest, a city celebrated for its stunning architecture and thermal springs. Upon arrival, embark on a driving tour with a local guide to see the Castle District, the Hungarian Parliament, and other iconic landmarks. In the evening, enjoy a group dinner and toast to your first night in this enchanting city.

Read more
Day 10

Day 10

  • Budapest
  • Ljubljana
  • More
  • St. Stephen's Basilica
  • Gellért Hill
  • More

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Budapest. Spend the day exploring the city's top attractions, including St. Stephen's Basilica and the bustling Central Market Hall. Alternatively, relax in the thermal waters of Budapest's famous baths. In the evening, consider an optional dinner cruise on the Danube for a magical view of the city by night.

Read more
Day 11

Day 11

  • Budapest
  • More

Depart Budapest and head to Serbia, stopping in Novi Sad, a city known for its vibrant art and music scene. Continue to Belgrade, Serbia's capital, where a local guide will lead you on a walking tour of the city's highlights, including Republic Square, the Bohemian Quarter, and the historic Belgrade Fortress. Enjoy a group dinner in this lively city, where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.

Read more
Day 12

Day 12

  • Budapest
  • Belgrade
  • More
  • Pernik Museum of Mining
  • More

Explore more of Serbia with a visit to Niš, a city steeped in history with Ottoman influences. Stroll through Tinkers Alley, a charming remnant of the city's past, before continuing to Sofia, Bulgaria's capital. Discover Sofia's main attractions on a guided tour, and enjoy a group dinner in this vibrant city.

Read more
Day 13

Day 13

  • Sofia
  • Niš
  • More

Enjoy a free day to explore Sofia at your own pace. This youthful city offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, with ancient Roman ruins, green parks, and a mix of churches and mosques. Alternatively, consider an optional excursion to the Rila Monastery, a stunning Eastern Orthodox site surrounded by natural beauty.

Read more
Day 14

Day 14

  • Thessaloniki
  • Sofia
  • More
  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • Arch of Galerius
  • More

Return to Greece and arrive in Thessaloniki, a vibrant port city with a rich history. Enjoy an orientation tour of the historic center, including the Arch of Galerius and the White Tower. Spend the evening exploring the lively waterfront, where you can indulge in delicious Greek cuisine and experience the city's nightlife.

Read more
Day 15

Day 15

  • Thessaloniki
  • Athens
  • More
  • Παρνασσός
  • More

Travel south through Greece, stopping in the scenic town of Kamena Vourla for lunch. Continue to Athens, where you'll check into your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers. Reflect on the incredible experiences of your Balkan adventure and savor your last night in this historic city.

Read more
Day 16

Day 16

  • Athens - Departure day
  • More

After breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow travelers and conclude your unforgettable Balkan journey. We hope you leave with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich history and diverse cultures of this remarkable region.

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.