Are children allowed?

Yes, but anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Also, keep in mind that some of the activities on our Balkan Adventure tour are not appropriate for children under the age of 12.

What documents do I need to travel?

Depending on your nationality and the countries you are traveling to, you will need a valid passport and an entry visa. Check this well in advance of the departure date of your tour since some visa processing times may take multiple weeks. Be mindful that Slovenia is the only country we visit that is in the Schengen area, so every other country has its entry conditions. Some even require passports to have 3-6 months left until the expiry date, so be sure to double-check before booking your tour. When deciding to book your travels, contact us for assistance, so we can help you to get everything you need for a stress-free tour through the Balkans.

What's not included that I should budget for?

Besides the price of the flight tickets, it depends on how much you anticipate spending on food, drinks, and shopping. On average, the prices in the Balkans are lower than in Western Europe and decrease the further south you go. It is also common practice to tip in restaurants, bars, hotels, and taxis if you feel you have received excellent service.

Will I be able to access WiFi on my trip?

All of the hotels and other accommodations on our tours have WiFi available.

How many people will there be in a group?

Traveling in small groups – 8 or fewer people – is our motto, which makes the tours more flexible and overall more enjoyable.

Anyone in good health can join our trips. Some paths to attraction include ascending steps or small slopes. The Balkan Adventure holidays include more strenuous activities like easy hiking, meaning your fitness level must coincide.

What if I want to make the trip longer?

Each trip can be made shorter or longer. Inform us of your wishes upon or before booking.

How are trips rated? What does “moderate” mean?

Our trips are rated Easy , Moderate , and Challenging . Easy : These are for everyone, also children & elderly, and don’t require any special skills. There are some small slopes and stairs you have to reach during our sightseeing. Moderate : Some of the activities require special equipment (provided by operators unless specified otherwise) and can present a challenge for older people and children (feel free to contact us for more information). It is recommended that you move to some more uneven terrain. Challenging : They include some hiking and other more challenging activities for which you need to have good enough fitness.

When are the departure dates?

Our tours are private and organized per request, which means we don’t have any set departure dates. When the tour begins and ends is entirely up to you

I like one of the tours, but I’d like to make some changes to the itinerary. Is it possible?

Of course. All of our tours are fully customizable. Itineraries can be prolonged, shortened, combined or just tweaked a little, with no extra charge for you.

I would like to choose some of the hotels on the tour. Can I do that?

Sure. Choosing the hotels can always be up to you. If you’re on more of a budget, we can offer you affordable accommodation options, or upgrade to more premium ones for a more luxurious experience.

I see that in most cases, only breakfast is included. Why is that?

We don’t want to take away from one of the main advantages of a private tour – flexibility. Meals are therefore planned as you go, so you can travel at your own pace, do more or less sightseeing that day, etc. Your guide knows the best restaurants in the area you will be exploring and will give you suggestions based on your preferences.

Do your tours include any insurance-related services?

No. We recommend you take medical insurance that would cover any possible health-related costs on this trip.

Waterfalls cascading over mossy rocks into turquoise pools in Plitvice National Park, Croatia, during autumn.

Coastal town nestled between steep mountains and a bay with a cruise ship in Montenegro.

Plitvice Lakes national park in Croatia beautiful Landscape

Cathedral and Blessed Virgin Mary monument in Zagreb. Croatia

Stone staircase in a narrow alley with bright pink bougainvillea and outdoor cafe seating in Hvar.

Stari Most bridge over emerald green river with historic stone buildings under blue sky in Mostar.

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12-Days Balkan Essentials

12 days / 11 nights

Explore the heart of the Balkans on a 12-day journey from Belgrade to Zagreb, along the Dalmatian coast and through lively regions full of culture and history.

Starting point

Belgrade

Finish point

Zagreb

Explore the heart of the Balkans on a 12-day journey from Belgrade to Zagreb, along the Dalmatian coast and through lively regions full of culture and history.

Starting point

Belgrade

Finish point

Zagreb

Highlights

Immerse yourself in vibrant Balkan cultures and captivating history
Explore stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming cities
Discover the diverse traditions and captivating stories of the Balkan region
Indulge in delicious local cuisine and savor unique culinary experiences
Experience warm hospitality and create lasting connections with locals
Visit iconic landmarks and uncover hidden gems off the beaten path

Itinerary of the trip

Upon arrival in Belgrade, transfer to your hotel in New Belgrade. After check-in, take some time to rest and prepare for your trip. In the evening, meet your guide for an introduction to the journey. Explore the historic quarter of Skadarlija, known for its traditional eateries and charming ambiance. Overnight in Belgrade.

Accommodation

Royal Inn hotel facade looking up at blue sky with clouds in Belgrade, Serbia

Royal Inn Beograd

Hotel bedroom with modern light fixture, patterned wall art, and large window with sheer curtains

Mercure Excelsior Beograd

Modern hotel building with glass facade next to older buildings and street trees.

Modern hotel room with blue sofa, king bed, dark wood desk, and fruit bowl.

Central Point Hotel Belgrade

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Wooden bridge leading to the stone gate entrance of Belgrade Kalemegdan Fortress under a clear blue sky.

Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade, Serbia, with fountains and blue sky.

Boats docked on the Danube River with Belgrade city skyline and church tower at sunset.

Today, you’ll uncover the history of Belgrade at the Museum of Yugoslav History and the magnificent Temple of Saint Sava. You’ll explore Slavija Square, Saint Mark's Church, and the Serbian National Parliament, as well as the famed Knez Mihailo Street, and the awe-inspiring Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress. The rest of the day is free for you to further explore the city. Overnight in Belgrade.

Accommodation

Royal Inn Beograd

Mercure Excelsior Beograd

Central Point Hotel Belgrade

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Stari Dvor Old Palace in Belgrade, Serbia, with manicured lawn and flower beds.

Belgrade Victor Monument overlooking the confluence of rivers from Kalemegdan Fortress.

Cobblestone street with outdoor cafe seating and benches in Belgrade Skadarlija quarter.

In the morning, you’ll say goodbye to Belgrade and head south to Oplenac, the final resting place of the Karađorđević royal family. You’ll listen to Serbia's fascinating history with a glass of wine in your hands as this region is often referred to as “Serbia’s Tuscany”. Visiting the mesmerizing wineries, you’ll get an authentic taste of Serbian wine-making heritage. After you’ve soaked up the history (and delicious wine), you’ll make your way on to Zlatibor Mountain for a leisurely stroll through the charming town center. Prepare a delightful dinner featuring Serbian cuisine at a traditional kafana and settle in for the night. Overnight in Zlatibor.

Accommodation

Modern white building next to pine forest and paved road under cloudy sky

Bedroom with large bed, wooden headboard, and framed botanical prints above.

Hotel Palisad

Mona Plaza hotel exterior with green roof sections and surrounding pine trees in Zlatibor.

Mona Plaza Zlatibor

Hotel Buket illuminated at night, surrounded by tall pine trees in a mountainous setting.

Twin hotel room with bright magenta beds, white linens, and modern recessed ceiling lighting in Buket Hotel Zlatibor.

Hotel Buket Zlatibor

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

White Orthodox church with green domes surrounded by lush green trees under a blue sky, Oplenac.

Mountain panorama of Zlatibor with rolling green hills, forests, and scattered houses under a blue sky.

Today, the journey will take you across the border to Bosnia, to the ethno village Drvengrad (Wooden-Town), a village constructed from natural materials by a film director Emir Kusturica and has hosted celebrities such as Monica Bellucci and Johnny Depp. Moving on, you’ll visit another one of his creations: Andrićgrad (Stone-Town), a town named after a Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andrić. Today’s exploration will conclude in Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Overnight in Sarajevo.

Accommodation

Colors Inn Sarajevo

Hotel room with double bed, desk, TV, and blue patterned carpet in Old Town Sarajevo.

Hotel Old Town Sarajevo

Twin beds with white linens, bedside lamps, and red curtains in a Movenpick hotel room in Sarajevo.

Movenpick Hotel Sarajevo

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Andrićgrad ethno-village cultural center with statue in Visegrad, Republic of Srpska.

Stone arch bridge over river with town and green hills in background, Visegrad.

Old stone bridge over the green river Drina in Višegrad, with town and hills in background.

After a delicious burek for breakfast, you’ll head on to explore Bosnia’s capital. From Vječna Vatra (Eternal Flame) memorial commemorating WWII liberation to Catholic, Orthodox and Islamic cultural influences depicted across the city, you will get to the heart of this diverse country. Not to mention the culinary delights you’ll encounter in Baščaršija, home to the world-renowned ćevapi! The day’s adventures will culminate in a delicious baklava for dessert, and after that you'll have the rest of the afternoon to explore the city and its vibrant coffee culture at your own pace. Overnight in Sarajevo.

Accommodation

Hotel Old Town Sarajevo

Colors Inn Sarajevo

Movenpick Hotel Sarajevo

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Latin Bridge in Sarajevo - Bosnia and Herzegovina

Traditional copper pot and cup of coffee in tavern in Sarajevo

Sarajevo street market stalls displaying ornate metalwork and coffee sets on cobblestones.

It’s time to say goodbye to Sarajevo and head to Mostar. One of the most picturesque destinations in the Balkans, the town’s UNESCO-protected Old Bridge will undoubtedly take your breath away and provide the perfect backdrop to a delicious lunch. You’ll continue to the hilltop Hercegovačka Gračanica Temple above Trebinje, where you can explore the monastery complex and enjoy panoramic views over the town and the Trebišnjica River, before heading back down to Trebinje to visit the Arslanagića Bridge and Poet’s Square and settling in for the night.

Accommodation

Hotel room with twin beds, white linens, red accents, and sheer window curtains.

Central Park

Modern hotel building with balconies, large tree, and outdoor cafe seating in Trebinje.

Twin beds with white linens in a modern hotel room next to a glass shower stall.

Hotel Sesto Senso Trebinje

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Mostar Stari Most bridge over turquoise river with mosque and green mountains in background.

Stone buildings with slate roofs along a small river in Mostar old town at sunset.

In the morning, you’ll have one last chance to explore Trebinje’s vibrant market scene. Afterwards, you’ll move on to Montenegro and its famed Bay of Kotor, stopping in Perast and visiting Our Lady of the Rocks island. Here, you’ll head on a walking tour, discover UNESCO-listed sites, and still have plenty of free time to explore the old town. The day will end in Dubrovnik, checking in at the hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening, take a stroll along Stradun and indulge in a delightful dinner in the romantic atmosphere of the city. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Accommodation

Hotel room with striped bedspread, view of coastal town, and historic artwork above headboard

Hotel Lapad

Hotel Lero building exterior with modern facade and blue sky overhead

Hotel room with made bed, desk, and window view of coastal town and sea

Resort swimming pool with lounge chairs, blue cocktails, and modern white hotel building.

Hotel Lero

Resort with orange-roofed buildings, pool, and water slide overlooking the sea and bridge in Dubrovnik.

Hotel room with balcony view of the sea and mountains at Valamar Tirena hotel Dubrovnik

Hotel Valamar Tirena Dubrovnik

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Stone bell tower overlooking Kotor Bay with steep green mountains and town below.

View from walls of Kotor showing stone bell tower overlooking red-roofed town and blue bay with mountains.

Bay of Kotor panorama with cruise ship, coastal town, and steep green mountains under blue sky.

Best known for being a shooting location for the iconic Game of Thrones series, this “Pearl of the Adriatic” has many hidden streets for you to explore. You’ll get to explore its bustling streets, including Stradun (the main street), and several squares, as well as head up to the City Walls to marvel at Dubrovnik from above. Its picturesque port is another highlight, but nothing beats a sunset cruise on the Karaka, a replica of a traditional wooden galleon. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Accommodation

Hotel Lapad

Hotel Lero

Hotel Valamar Tirena Dubrovnik

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Stone walkway on Walls of Dubrovnik overlooking blue Adriatic Sea with sailboat.

Fort walls of Dubrovnik with stone bridge overlooking harbor and boats under a blue sky.

Narrow Dubrovnik street with stone walls, hanging lanterns, and laundry drying between buildings.

Today marks the exploration of the Dalmatian Coast, straight through the vineyards of Pelešac Peninsula and the city of Ston with its delicious oysters and picturesque walls. Your final destination for the day will be Split, the epitome of preserved history. You’ll get to wander the streets of Diocletian’s Palace and stroll along the Riva promenade before settling in for the night. Overnight in Split.

Accommodation

Hotel room with two beds, white linens, rolled towels, and striped wallpaper

Hotel Globo building facade with parked cars and small trees in the foreground.

Globo Split

Hotel Marul

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Coastal town with red-roofed buildings, stone walls, and turquoise water nestled between green mountains.

Street in Split historical center, Croatia. Beautiful square of the old town of Split in Croatia. Old stone street of Split historic city, Dalmatia, Croatia

Today, you’re in for an adventurous exploration of the stunning Hvar island. It will begin with a high-speed catamaran that will get you to the island’s shore, where you’ll have ample opportunity to marvel at its Venetian architecture. There will be time to walk its cobblestone streets, indulge in Mediterranean cuisine and visit the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Benedictine Convent and Pakleni Islands before returning to Split in the evening. Overnight in Split.

Accommodation

Globo Split

Hotel Marul

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Boats moored in turquoise harbor water before Hvar island town and steep green hills.

Stone staircase in narrow alley with bright pink bougainvillea and outdoor cafe seating in Hvar.

Boats anchored in turquoise water near a stone church with a bell tower on Hvar island.

It’s time to venture inland, making your way to the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park and its 16 connected lakes. Aside from the national park being a UNESCO World Heritage, it is a completely unique experience. You will have the opportunity to explore both the upper and lower lakes, enjoy a delicious lunch in the middle of this natural paradise. After you’ve taken in the views, you’ll make your way to Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. Overnight in Zagreb.

Accommodation

Blue trams and pedestrians in a busy city square with historic buildings, Zagreb.

Hotel bedroom with large bed, television, and dark purple curtains near window

Hotel Dubrovnik Zagreb

DoubleTree by Hilton hotel exterior at dusk with traffic motion blur in Zagreb.

Modern hotel room with large windows showing a city skyline at dusk.

DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb

Hotel International building with glass facade, buses parked outside on a sunny day.

Hotel bedroom with large white bed, dark desk, blue chair, and sheer curtains over window.

International by Maistra City Vibes Zagreb

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Plitvice waterfalls cascading over mossy travertine barriers into clear turquoise pools under a blue sky.

Boardwalk walking around Plitvice Lakes on a rainy day with waterfalls and turquoise water.

Plitvice, Croatia - Beautiful waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes (Plitvička jezera) in Plitvice National Park on a bright summer day with blue sky and clouds and green foliage and turquise water

After breakfast and check-out, your Balkan adventure will be nearing the end. You’ll still have some time to head on a sightseeing tour and visit the medieval Kaptol and the famed Ban Josip Jelačić’s monument before waving this beautiful country goodbye.

Gallery

Modern tram on a street of Zagreb, Croatia

Croatian National Theater in Zagreb with vibrant rose bushes in the foreground under a blue sky.

Equestrian statue in Zagreb main square before ornate historic yellow and white buildings.

FREE ITINERARY

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What’s included in the price?

Guided

Airport arrival transfer

Confortable transportation as per the itinerary

11 nights 3*/4* accommodation with breakfast

Professional English-speaking tour guidance

Entrance Tickets and Experiences as per itinerary

Accommodation taxes and city taxes

Tour logistics and organization

VAT

Visit to the city’s oldest tavern and traditional breakfast drinks

Sunset river cruise

Šumarija Royal Wines Experience

Zlatibor Gourmet Dinner

Hercegovačka Gračanica Temple Entrance Fee

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

Discover the Balkans on an exceptional journey blending rich history, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking scenery across Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia.

From Serbia’s lively capital to the royal history of Oplenac, rolling vineyards and the grand Temple of Saint Sava to Bosnia’s culinary delights, delicious ćevapi and burek, and the stunning UNESCO-listed Old Bridge of Mostar, every corner of this tour will show you a different side of the Balkans.

Bosnia and Herzegovina beckons with its intricate history and breathtaking landmarks and the shimmering Bay of Kotor and its medieval wonders offer an awe-inspiring shift in pace.

Once you reach Dubrovnik, Croatia’s jewel on the Adriatic coast, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore its maze-like streets, marvel at the well-preserved medieval architecture, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere.

And the Plitvice National Park? Talk about a natural wonder! It’s the only place in the world where you can witness 16 interconnected lakes, each flowing from one to the other with cascading waterfalls around every corner.

With our help and local expertise, your journey will be completely stress-free and you will be able to completely immerse yourself in the beauty before you. From booking charming accommodations to managing logistics, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

This enchanting journey promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable experience of the Balkan region.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, airport transfers are not included. However, we will be happy to arrange them for you, upon request and for an additional fee, from any airport regardless of its location.

No, our tours do not include plane tickets, and we also do not advise on them. However, we can help you choose the airport closest to the starting location of your tour or arrange a shuttle from/to the airport for an additional fee

Of course, just let us know upon booking so we can make timely arrangements.

Solo travelers who want to meet and travel with like-minded people often join us on our tours, except the private ones. Our mission is to provide you with a relaxed and sociable tour experience that allows the group to grow closer throughout the journey. Solo travelers will be roomed with another solo traveler of the same gender or can upgrade to a solo room for an additional fee.

If you provide your dietary requirements when booking your tour, we will make the necessary arrangements to the best of our ability. But please understand that vegan & gluten-free options are not as widely available in this area, especially in the more rural Balkans.

All the countries on our Balkan Tours, except Slovenia, use their local currency. We recommend you exchange small amounts of money as you go in the cities since the exchange rates are much more favorable than at the airports. Your tour leader will be happy to assist you.

The currencies in the countries on our way are:

Serbian Dinar,
Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark,
Macedonian Denar,
Albanian Lek,
Euro in Slovenia and Croatia.

On scheduled tours, you are limited to taking 1 suitcase and 1 smaller bag for personal items per person.

On private tours, there are no luggage restrictions, as long as you communicate that in advance and can carry it for a short distance.

If you inform us before the departure date, you can join our tour later on, but it is your responsibility to catch up with us.

Ratings & Reviews

+26

CN Kok

Verified customer · 3 months ago

The whole tour was planned and organised excellently. Urska and Yuki were ever ready to attend to our queries and concerns and addressed them. All destinations visited were accompanied by guided tours, done by locals. Hotels and breakfasts were overall good. Our driver, Dube, has been tirelessly taking us to every destinations and whenever time permits, he showed us extra places that were off plan. Shared our experience with family and friends back home. They are interested and we strongly recommended to them. The only 4 stars would be the hotel in Mostar. While still very good, it would be the low of all the hotels in the tour.

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Арина Проценко

Verified customer · 8 months ago

Thank you Balkan Tours for organizing the trip! We had a good time and special thanks to our tour guide Theodor who took a good care of us and introduced to Balkan culture. Well done and cheers🥂 Best, Aryna & Sami

Mussels and scallops in sauce served outdoors with bread, wine glasses, and bottled water.

View over lush green valley with fields and distant hills, foreground with red flowers.

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Glass of white wine overlooking rolling vineyards and distant hills on a sunny day.

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walaimas tapasanan

Verified customer · 9 months ago

We booked a 15-day private Balkan journey with Balkan Tours. Throughout the trip, we had wonderful experience, excellent itinerary planning, very helpful driver, very nice hotels and very professional services beyond our expectation.

Stone clock tower and outdoor cafe dining in a square beneath steep, rocky mountains.

Cobblestone path leading to Stari Most bridge with green mountains in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Gallery corner with numerous framed paintings and religious art hanging on white walls.

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Sabrina Cassia

Verified customer

Our experience with Balkan Tours was fantastic! We were 12 people, and with our driver Platin, we did a tour through Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia, and Croatia! Everything went well, excellent hotels, and a fascinating itinerary! Thank you, Sabrina.

Group posing on cobblestones near Stari Most bridge at dusk in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Group posing before Sveti Stefan island resort with stone buildings and terracotta roofs

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Woman standing by illuminated #Sarajevo sign in front of historic building at night

Donna Duggan

Verified customer · 29 days ago

We had the most wonderful 10 days with our guide Tine exploring Slovenia and Croatia. Although I am sure it is also incredible in the summer, we were thrilled that we chose winter as we got to explore in the beautiful snow and with low human traffic - just magnificent. Tine was an endless fountain of knowledge, kind, careful driver and a great human being all around. Thank you Tine and Balkan Tours, we loved every minute!

Denise May

Verified customer · 4 months ago

After completing the Grand Balkans Trip I can highly recommend this company for the quick response to communication, efficient detail and documentation. High standard of accommodation, Vân and organization. Our guide/driver Ana was excellent and certainly added a lot of enjoyment to our trip with her professionalism, sense of humor and knowledge.