Balkan Delight
Experience Overview
The secrets of the Balkans are revealed on this historically packed 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.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
Be My Guest
- Dubrovnik: 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. The business is located in the center of the Konavle valley, and the Botaro family have been producing high quality wines for five centuries! Enjoy a taste of liquor, followed by a delicious meal with wine.
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.
- Trogir: Enjoy the Renaissance art and the Romanesque architecture on the island of Trogir.
- Split: Discover the rich history of Split on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist.
- 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.
- Kotor: Take in the stunning surroundings of the Bay of Kotor.
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. This experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 14 & 15: Life Below Water & Life on your Land.
- Sarajevo: Meet third-generation coppersmiths Adnan and Kenan, who are preserving Bosnia’s Ottoman-era metalwork tradition. Using repurposed war materials, they craft intricate coffee sets, jewelery and decorative pieces, keeping their family’s legacy alive despite the rise of mass production. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Must-see Highlights
- 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
Trip Details
Product Code: 19157
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family, 55+
Tour Operator:
Trafalgar (CA)
Supplier Code: 84.293A
Starts: Zagreb, Croatia (Hrvatska)
Finishes: Dubrovnik, Croatia (Hrvatska)
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
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
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,342 ($395 /day)
Itinerary
Embark on an epic discovery of the Balkans. Croatia's capital, Zagreb, is your springboard to a fascinating journey through 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 dinner and an orientation drive.
Accommodation: Zonar Zagreb
Meals: Dinner
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.
Accommodation: Zonar Zagreb
Meals: Breakfast
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, gray 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 take the electric boat across Kozjek Lake. 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.
Accommodation: Palcich
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Accommodation: Atrium
Meals: Breakfast
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 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.
Accommodation: Atrium
Meals: Breakfast
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.
Accommodation: Mövenpick Sarajevo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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. Later, meet third-generation coppersmiths Adnan and Kenan, who are preserving Bosnia’s Ottoman-era metalwork tradition on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. 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.
Accommodation: Mövenpick Sarajevo
Meals: Breakfast
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.
Accommodation: City
Meals: Breakfast
Stroll through the limestone streets of this stunning mediaeval city on a walking tour of Dubrovnik’s main sights 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 will travel to a local winery to meet Matea Botaro and her family for a wonderful Be My Guest experience. You’ll Connect With Locals as you dine on Dubrovnik specialties and enjoy the warm Croatian hospitality of your hosts.
Accommodation: City
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Accommodation: City
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast.
Meals: Breakfast
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Tour Operator
Trafalgar (CA)
Family owned and run since 1920, The Travel Corporation (TTC) is the world leader in immersive travel experiences across an extensive range of travel categories. Each year TTC's 40 award winning hospitality and travel brands connect over 1 million happy travellers to the world. We give you access to the 12 DMC’s behind these brands, so you can build your business by capitalizing on the extensive experience, local expertise, and financial assurance of TTC. LOCAL EXPERTISE The world leaders in travel for over 100 years, we offer unparalleled local expertise with a global footprint. Our 12 DMCs, led by experienced in-destination teams, deliver experience rich travel solutions in more than 80 countries. Additionally, our market based teams are on hand to support across our 40 offices worldwide
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
Trusted Customer - Traveled, May 2024
Wonderful experience, highly recommended. Great, very happy with the experience. *Personal information removed by Feefo* our TD is the best, such an amazing and energetic person. Always checking on us making sure the group is ok. Always have something to share, full of surprises. She made this trip extra special. This is our 3rd trip with Trafalgar, so far she is the best. Amazing itinerary lots of amazing and interesting places to see.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2024
Vernon Meade - Traveled, June 2024
Great tour. Great tour packages. Our coach & driver were great. Hotels & excursions were good. Over all a great tour. Itinerary was very good, very educational. Trafalgar’s charge for an airport to hotel transfer was too expensive. Our flight was 5 hours late (weather) , so the driver was not at the airport at 2 am. We took a taxi to hotel at half the price we had already paid Trafalgar. Otherwise, the tour was good. *Personal information removed by Feefo*, our Tour Director was excellent. This was our fifth trip with Trafalgar/Insight, all have been good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/18/2024
Shiva Prasad Kordale - Traveled, June 2024
Balkans Delight, really a delight! Mr. *Personal information removed by Feefo*, our tour manager, was always cool, smiling, and very resourceful. He was able to address my gluten intolerance by arranging for gluten free bread everywhere! As this was our 2nd trip with Trafalgar, we knew the processes. In future, more non-wheat, less red-meat options are welcome. Suggestions as to where to eat, especially vegetarian, would be helpful. In one of the hotels, there was no tea Kettle, however hotel personnel were too helpful. Our earlier travel plan to the Dalmatian coast was postponed due to Covid. When Trafalgar launched this Balkans Delight trip, we were excited. Our local travel agent Thomas Cook was very helpful in arranging the trip and scheduling the dates. Balkans Delight trip was immaculately planned by Trafalgar. *Personal information removed by Feefo* (my wife) and I thoroughly enjoyed the trip, Since we opted for all the optional trips, it was a bit hectic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/19/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, October 2024
It really was a Balkan Delight! I really found our tour director when out of her way to ensure we were all looked after. I really appreciated her taking care of folks with different dietary needs and different physical abilities to ensure we all had options. The tour guide *Personal information removed by Feefo* was great! I loved the winery, options to have diner with local families local guides with walking tours and seeing the beautiful countryside. One thing that could be improved, is there were about 5 tours of "old towns". I wonder if there could be different cultural activities included in those tours besides the history and food conversations, so that they are each a little different. - i.e. children's groups, museums, art galleries, theatre performances, dance, textiles, crafts etc.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, October 2024
I’ll travel with Trafalgar again. Trafalgar service is excellent. Normal duties handled efficiently, effectively and with aplomb. Unexpected events (flood disruption, border crossings for example) were dealt with openly and to good result. Tour director was knowledgeable, able to relate well, thoughtful. Local guides were very appropriate and conversant. I’ll travel Trafalgar again. Great itinerary. Variety of sites and sights. I appreciated historical context relating to early rulers and governance, as well as recent regional history. I enjoyed references to architecture, culture and trade as well. One small observation is that there were multiple stops at walled cities of the same vintage which at times seemed repetitive.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/16/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, September 2024
Very good tour director and very good bus drivers. Hotel check in was fast. Would be better to stay overnight in Montenegro as it was long on the bus with border crossing. Excellent tour director, excellent drivers. Saw a lot of top sites with very good local guides.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/21/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, September 2024
Tour director and bus drivers were excellent. Would have liked to stay in Montenegro overnight as it was a longer bus ride to go there and back with the border crossings.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/26/2024
Colston Moore Jr. - Traveled, October 2024
Great Tour! Less than desirable food and accommodations. Our director and driver were excellent!!! The itinerary was great. However, the hotels were not comfortable from a temperature standpoint. We were not able to cool our rooms down to comfortable temperatures. The food in most hotels was cold especially at breakfast time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/22/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, October 2024
Great bus driver, Tour Director, and area tours. The accommodations were sometimes not very good, though may be the best Trafalgar could find in an area. No hot water a few times, tiny single beds, etc.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/23/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, September 2024
Trafalgar is never disappointing. It is always dependable. Trafalgar always has great itineraries for all its tours.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2024
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