Balkan Adventure (14 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the captivating landscapes and rich histories of Eastern Europe and the Balkans. From the elegant boulevards of Bucharest to the medieval charm of Veliko Târnovo, this journey offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Discover the legendary Bran Castle, delve into the vibrant streets of Skopje, and experience the multicultural tapestry of Sarajevo. With expert guidance and comfortable accommodations, each day promises new adventures and insights. Whether you're exploring ancient fortresses or savoring local delicacies, this tour is designed to create lasting memories. Join us for an enriching experience across Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia, where history and modernity intertwine in fascinating ways.
Included
7 Dinner (D)
13 Breakfast (B)
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Mercure Bucharest Unirii
Ana Bradul
Yantra Grand
Astoria Grand
Next Door Park and Spa
Hilton Garden Inn
TQ Plaza
Novotel Bristol
Mercure Excelsior
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Skopje: Spend quality time with the locals when you join an exclusive Be My Guest experience featuring local hospitality and cuisine.
Bran: Visit the infamous mythical home of Count Dracula and favourite residence of Romanian royalty - Bran Castle.
Bucharest: Bask in the rich history of Bucharest and its lasting legacies.
Sinaia: Journey to the Carpathian Mountains and discover Peles Castle.
Brasov: Journey through the medieval streets of Brasov and discover its trading history.
Veliko Tarnovo: Discover the rich history of Veliko Tarnovo with a Local Specialist.
Sofia: Journey to Sofia and spend the day basking in the wonders of Bulgaria's modern-day capital.
Skopje: Join a Local Specialist on a city tour of the historic center of Skopje.
Tirana: Meet a local resident who will show you Skanderbeg Square and walk you through their home city as they share insights into life in the Albanian capital.
Budva: Spend the day exploring the picturesque town of Budva.
Mostar: Discover the magnificent coves and cliffs of the Dalmatian coast as well as the monumental Mostar Bridge.
Kotor: Spend the day discovering the wonders of Kotor.
Sarajevo: Discover the wonders and hidden treasures of Sarajevo.
Sarajevo: Discover the history of the Bosnian war tunnel in Sarajevo.
Belgrade: Discover the rich history of Belgrade and all it's wonderful sights.
Mostar: Meet Denis, one of the last traditional coppersmith artisans in Mostar. Learn about the techniques required to design elaborate copper jewellery and appreciate the importance of this traditional craft during a lively demonstration. Your experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Explore Bucharest, Braşov, Veliko Târnovo, Sofia, Skopje, Tirana, Mostar, Sarajevo and Belgrade
Discover Budva and Kotor
Visit Bran Castle in Braşov, Tsaravets Fortress in Veliko Târnovo, the Church of Holy Nativity in Arbanasi, and the War Tunnel in Sarajevo
View Peleş Castle in Sinaia, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Sofia Church in Sofia, the Palace of Culture and the National Library in Tirana and Mostar's Stari Most
See the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest
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
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Destinations
Sofia
Skopje
Tirana
Mostar
Belgrade
Veliko Tarnovo
Kotor
Sinaia
Brasov
Bucharest
BudvaMap
Attractions
Peleș Castle
Bran Castle
Black Church
Kalemegdan
Palace of the ParliamentDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Bucharest
- Bucharest - Arrival day
- More
- Bellu Cemetery
- More
Begin your journey in the heart of Romania's capital, Bucharest, where the charm of the Belle-Époque era is palpable. Spend the day at your leisure, wandering through elegant boulevards and the cobbled streets of the Old City. In the evening, join your Travel Director and fellow adventurers for a Welcome Reception, setting the stage for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Bucharest to Poiana Brașov
- Bucharest
- Sinaia
- Brasov
- More
- Peleș Castle
- Palace of the Parliament
- More
Embark on a day of exploration in Bucharest, starting with a visit to the monumental Palace of the Parliament. Journey into the Carpathian Mountains to Sinaia, where the splendid Peleș Castle awaits. Continue to Brașov, and settle into your hotel in the picturesque Poiana Brașov ski resort. Enjoy a delightful dinner with traditional Romanian flavors, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas.
Day 3 – Day 3: Poiana Brașov to Brașov
- Bran
- Brasov
- More
- The Council Square
- Bran Castle
- Black Church
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Today's highlight is a visit to the legendary Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula myth. Discover its intriguing history with a Local Specialist. Continue to the medieval city of Brașov, where you'll explore the historic Town Hall Square and the iconic Black Church. The evening is yours to savor local Transylvanian dishes or join an optional dinner with your travel companions.
Day 4 – Day 4: Brașov to Veliko Târnovo
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Brasov
- More
Travel south through serene landscapes and across the Danube River into Bulgaria. Arrive in Veliko Târnovo, the historic 'City of the Tsars' and former capital of the Bulgarian Empire. After a scenic drive, unwind at your hotel and enjoy a group dinner. Later, take a leisurely stroll through the Old City, admiring its Renaissance architecture.
Day 5 – Day 5: Veliko Târnovo to Sofia
- Sofia
- More
Explore the medieval allure of Veliko Târnovo with a visit to the Tsarevets Fortress. Continue to the UNESCO-listed town of Arbanasi, known for its Bulgarian National Revival architecture. Visit the Church of Holy Nativity before heading to Sofia. In the evening, consider attending a traditional folklore show to experience Bulgarian culture.
Day 6 – Day 6: Sofia
- Sofia
- More
- Boyana Church
- St Mina Monastery
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Discover the vibrant capital of Bulgaria with a guided tour, including views of the majestic St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Sofia Church. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you stroll along the city's elegant boulevards. Alternatively, opt for an excursion to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, a masterpiece of Bulgarian architecture.
Day 7 – Day 7: Sofia to Skopje
- Skopje
- Sofia
- More
Cross into North Macedonia and arrive in Skopje, a city rich in history and culture. Join a Local Specialist for a tour of the city's Ottoman heritage, including its mosques and bustling bazaars. In the evening, enjoy a unique Be My Guest experience, savoring local flavors and stories.
Day 8 – Day 8: Skopje to Tirana
- Skopje
- Tirana
- More
Depart North Macedonia and journey to Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. Upon arrival, explore the city's transformation from its communist past to a lively tourism hub. Visit landmarks such as the Palace of Culture, National Library, and Clock Tower. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Day 9 – Day 9: Tirana to Budva
- Tirana
- Kotor
- Budva
- More
Travel to the coastal city of Budva, often referred to as 'Montenegro's Miami.' After an orientation tour, enjoy the rest of the day exploring the charming Stari Grad, the Old Town, with its 15th-century ramparts and quaint squares. Relax and soak in the Mediterranean ambiance.
Day 10 – Day 10: Budva to Sarajevo
- Budva
- Mostar
- Kotor
- More
After a brief orientation in Kotor, travel to Mostar for a guided tour of its colorful streets and the iconic Stari Most. Meet a traditional coppersmith artisan and learn about local crafts. Continue to Sarajevo, where you'll delve into the city's rich multicultural heritage. Enjoy a group dinner at your hotel.
Day 11 – Day 11: Sarajevo
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Sofia
- More
Join a guided walking tour of Sarajevo, uncovering its diverse religious history through its synagogues, mosques, and churches. Visit the War Tunnel, a poignant reminder of the city's resilience during the Bosnian War. Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town at your own pace, tracing the Sarajevo Roses scattered throughout the city.
Day 12 – Day 12: Sarajevo to Belgrade
- Belgrade
- More
Travel through the lush landscapes of Bosnia and into Serbia, concluding the day in Belgrade. Known as the 'White City,' Belgrade boasts a rich history that you'll have the opportunity to explore further tomorrow.
Day 13 – Day 13: Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Kalemegdan
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Explore Belgrade with a Local Specialist, delving into its diverse history influenced by various empires. Visit the iconic Kalemegdan Fortress, strategically positioned overlooking the confluence of two rivers. In the evening, gather for a Farewell Dinner, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences shared during this journey.
Day 14 – Day 14: Departure from Belgrade
- Belgrade - Departure day
- More
As your Balkan adventure comes to a close, bid farewell to your newfound friends and reflect on the incredible memories made throughout this journey. Depart from Belgrade, taking with you the stories and experiences of this remarkable tour.
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