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.

Spectacular Dracula castle near Brasov, Bran, Transylvania, Romania, Europe

Aerial view of the Old Town, Brasov, Transylvania, Romania

Sibiu, Romania. City Hall and Brukenthal palace in Transylvania.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria

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Best of Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria

12 days / 11 nights

Discover the Best of Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria on this mesmerizing journey through the Balkan's hidden gems, incredible flavors and historic sites.

Starting point

Belgrade

Finish point

Belgrade

Discover the Best of Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria on this mesmerizing journey through the Balkan's hidden gems, incredible flavors and historic sites.

Starting point

Belgrade

Finish point

Belgrade

Highlights

Discover the dynamic pulse of Belgrade
Step back in time at Romania’s majestic castles and UNESCO-listed cities
Relish the unique wine flavors of Serbia’s Fruška Gora and Romania’s Dealu Mare
Wander Bucharest’s blend of Belle Époque grandeur and medieval charm
Uncover the heritage and artful corners of Sofia
Experience warm hospitality and indulge in traditional Balkan cuisine

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, you will meet your guide for an introduction to the journey. Head out to explore the historic quarter of Skadarlija, known for its traditional eateries and charming ambiance and prepare for your night in Belgrade.

Gallery

Temple of Saint Sava with teal domes overlooking the Belgrade cityscape at dusk.

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

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

Accommodation

Overnight in Belgrade

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.

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.

Gallery

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

Belgrade Kalemegdan fortress with Victor Monument overlooking the Sava and Danube rivers.

Sunset over Belgrade with ships docked in the harbor along the riverbank.

Accommodation

Overnight in Belgrade

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.

Today, you’ll be exploring Vojvodina, where you’ll visit the well-preserved Krušedol Monastery and have the chance to purchase wine and rakija made by the resident monks. Your journey will take you to Sremski Karlovci, a cultural gem with a Baroque center and renowned wineries for a wine tasting and exploration of the town's rich history. Then, you’ll head to Novi Sad, the 2021 European Capital of Culture, and enjoy a sightseeing tour, including landmarks like the City Hall and Petrovaradin Fortress. In the evening, you’ll return to Belgrade.

Gallery

Novi Sad, Serbia June 11, 2019: Freedom Square (serbian: Trg slobode) is the main square in Novi Sad. The photo shows County government office (City house) and monument of Svetozar Miletic.

Novi Sad river panorama with bridge, city skyline, and sunset over the Danube River.

Petrovaradin Fortress overlooking bright blue water with small boats docked below.

Accommodation

Overnight in Belgrade

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.

Your day begins with a border crossing to Romania. Your first stop will be Timișoara, known as 'Little Vienna' for its architecture and multicultural influences. Explore Unirii Square, visit the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George, and discover Liberty Square and Victory Square. Afterwards, you’ll head to Sibiu, the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Here, you’ll check into the hotel and end your day exploring Sibiu's rich history, including the Brukenthal National Museum and iconic landmarks such as the Large Square, Council Tower, and Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity inspired by Hagia Sofia.

Gallery

View of city center in Timisoara on July 10, 2020, Romania. Timisoara is the 3rd largest city and popular tourist place.

Unirii Square Timisoara with beautiful colorful buildings

Accommodation

Overnight in Sibiu

Hotel Continental Forum in Sibiu overlooking historic city center and parking lot.

Hotel bedroom with blue bed, desk, and window with blue curtains in Sibiu.

Continental Forum Sibiu

Twin beds with white linens and orange throw in hotel room with green striped walls

Golden Tulip Ana Tower

Hotel building facade decorated with a giant red heart and ribbon near a brick wall in Sibu.

Hotel room with teal upholstered bed, patterned carpet, and wooden wardrobe, Sibu.

Art Hotel Sibu

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

After breakfast, your journey takes you to Sighișoara, a charming town in Transylvania with a rich history dating back to the 1100s. Here, you can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and notable landmarks such as the Clock Tower, and Vlad Dracula's birthplace. Afterwards, you’ll move on to Sinaia, the “Pearl of the Carpathians”, where you’ll spend the night.

Gallery

Fantastic sunset on Ocnei street neat to the Small Square in Sibiu

Cityscape of historical center of Sibiu town

Sibiu, Transylvania, Romania - landmark Liars' Bridge

Accommodation

Overnight in Sinaia

Balcony view of red geraniums overlooking white buildings and lush green mountains in Sinaia.

Modern hotel bedroom with white bedding, blue accent chair, and bright window light. Sinaia.

Indoor swimming pool with a stainless steel waterfall feature and large windows showing a misty outdoor scene.

Hotel Sinaia

Anda Hotel building with modern glass facade and balconies in a mountainous setting.

Hotel bedroom with tufted headboard, white bedding, and patterned rug near balcony doors.

Hotel Anda

Tudor-style building with outdoor cafe seating and closed umbrellas near forest trees.

Hotel Vila Economat

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

Today starts with a visit to the Peleș Castle, the 160-rooms-large royal family's summer residence nestled within the Carpathian Mountains. Afterwards, the tour continues to Brașov, a medieval city founded by the Teutonic Knights, with notable sites like the House of Council and Biserica Neagră (the Black Church). Then it’s time to head to Bran Castle, known as Dracula's Castle and former Romanian royal residence. Built in the 13th century, its gothic fortress evokes Bram Stoker's "Dracula" and the legend of Vlad the Impaler, the castle's presumed prisoner. As the day comes to an end, you’ll return to Sinaia for the night.

Gallery

Spectacular Dracula Castle near Brasov, Bran, Transylvania, Romania, on a rocky outcrop with green hills.

Aerial view of the old town Brasov Transylvania Romania with red tile roofs and central square.

Accommodation

Overnight in Sinaia

Hotel Sinaia

Hotel Anda

Hotel Vila Economat

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

As you’ll make your way towards Bucharest today, you will also be exploring the incredible gifts of the Carpathians. Today’s journey will take you through the expansive wine region of Dealu Mare, where you’ll have the chance to try the most prestigious wines produced in the Romanian Carpathians. After a delicious tasting, your day will conclude in Bucharest, Romania’s iconic capital.

Gallery

Grapevine leaves in a vineyard setting, Dealu Mare, Romania.

Man leading tour group through vineyard rows toward a stone building under cloudy sky

Accommodation

Overnight in Bucharest

Hotel Capitol building facade with ornate balconies under a blue sky in a city setting.

Hotel room with red carpet, large bed, and man looking out arched balcony window at city.

Hotel Capitol Bucharest

Hotel Leonardo Bucharest City Center

Mercure Hotel Bucharest City Center building with arched windows and large mural under blue sky.

Hotel room with white bedding, pink accents, desk, and city mural above the bed.

Mercure Bucharest City Center

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

After breakfast, you’ll head on a sightseeing tour of Bucharest, known as "Little Paris" for its Belle Époque buildings and blend of French, Byzantine, and communist architecture. You’ll start at Piața Unirii, overlooking the Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest building in the world, before heading inside for an included guided visit. After the detailed tour you'll venture to the medieval Old Town, exploring the Old Princely Court, Stavropoleos Monastery, Lipscani Street, and the National Museum of Romanian History. In the afternoon, you can explore the city at your own pace, enjoy dinner and Țuică, Romania's national plum drink, and immerse yourself in Bucharest's unique charm and energy.

Gallery

Parliament building or People's House in Bucharest city. Aerial view at sunset with blue sky

Bucharest Sunset. University Library by Night

Triumphal Arch with Romanian flag hanging through the archway under a blue sky.

Accommodation

Overnight in Bucharest

Hotel Capitol Bucharest

Hotel Leonardo Bucharest City Center

Mercure Bucharest City Center

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

In the morning, it’s time to head to Bulgaria. Your exploration will begin in Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, known for its winding streets, architectural masterpieces, and craftsmen's guild. Its prime attraction is the Tsarevets Fortress, an awe-inspiring creation of humanity. Afterwards, the day will take you to Arbanasi, an architectural reserve and open-air museum with 80 houses retaining original Ottoman design. You will get the chance to spend the night in a 17th century han, fully immersing yourself in the region’s history.

Gallery

Aerial sunrise view of Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo in a beautiful summer day, Bulgaria 2018

Stone house with tile roof and wooden fence along a cobblestone street in Arbanasi.

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria - August 2022: View with the Eastern Orthodox Ascension Cathedral located in the famous medieval fortress Tsarevets

Accommodation

Overnight in Arbanasi

Stone and white stucco hotel exterior with wooden balconies illuminated at dusk, Arbanaski Han.

Twin hotel room with wooden furniture, white bedding, and large window with sheer curtains

Hotel Arbanaski Han

Hotel Grand in Veliko Tarnovo nestled among green hills and traditional town buildings.

Hotel bedroom with twin beds, purple bedding, and illuminated bedside lamps near a window with dark curtains.

Yantra Grand Hotel

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

Today, you’re moving on to central Bulgaria. The first stop is the Open Air Ethnographic Museum Etar, showcasing 50 objects including houses, water-powered installations, and craftsmen's workshops, reflecting central Bulgaria's life and economy during the Bulgarian National Revival. Continuing south, you’ll witness the incredible Damascena Complex in the Valley of Roses before making your way to Plovdiv, one of Europe's oldest cities and a cultural melting pot. Here, you can find the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis from the 2nd century! The day will end in Kapana, Plovdiv’s creative hub before you settle in for the night.

Gallery

PLOVDIV, BULGARIA - JUNE 9 2017: Night photo of Walking street in city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Accommodation

Overnight in Plodiv

Twin beds with white linens in a modern hotel room featuring tree mural and accent lighting.

Hotel Grand Plovdiv

Holiday Inn hotel building exterior on a city street with cars driving by

Hotel room with green walls, wood accents, white bedding, and a window with sheer curtains.

Holiday Inn Plodiv

Hotel bedroom with large bed, dark headboard, bedside lamps, and city view artwork above.

Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills

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

Exploration of Sofia’s ambiance is on the schedule today. You’ll visit significant landmarks like the grand Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the colorful Church of Saint Nicholas the Miracle-Maker, the cultural cornerstone Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the 4th-century Church of Saint George. The sight of the iconic Sofia Synagogue will mesmerize you, and the tour of the city’s multicultural history will be complete with a stop by Largo, a Socialist Classicism architectural landmark. The afternoon will be spent at your own leisure.

Gallery

Cityscape of Sofia, Bulgaria on a sunny day. National Assembly building .

SOFIA, BULGARIA - JULY 3, 2016: Sunset view of National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria at sunset

Accommodation

Overnight in Sofia

Hotel Central building facade on city street with surrounding older buildings and bare tree.

Hotel room with large bed, fruit bowl on table, and window with dark curtains in Central Sofia.

Central Sofia Hotel

Yellow hotel building with clock tower corner in city setting, Sofia, Bulgaria.

Hotel room with brown bedding, red carpet, wood paneling, and two wicker chairs at a desk.

Hotel Coop Sofia

Four-star Hotel Abrazo building facade with modern brickwork and large windows against blue sky.

Hotel room with large bed, textured headboard, and flowers in foreground near a black tub.

Hotel Abrazo Sofia

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

Your Balkan adventure has come to an end. Depending on your departure time, take the day at leisure to explore the streets of Sofia, indulge in one last coffee or a delicious breakfast before making your way back home.

Gallery

Ancient stone church in Sofia, Bulgaria, framed by illuminated government buildings at dusk.

Historic building with striped facade and domes next to a tiered fountain in a park.

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 throughout the tour

Entrance Tickets and Experiences as per itinerary

Accommodation taxes and city taxes

Tour logistics and organization

VAT

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

Sunset river cruise

Wine tasting in Fruška Gora

Transfăgărășan Exploration

Dealu Mare wine tasting

Arbanasi open-air museum

Palace of the Parliament (Bucharest) Entrance Fee

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled journey that traverses the cultural and historical heart of the Balkans.

Often overlooked, the countries of Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria are a true haven for history buffs – from Serbia’s lively capital of Belgrade with its blend of modern vibrancy and historic soul to the Baroque beauty of Novi Sad and the serene sanctity of its monasteries, every step unveils a unique narrative.

Romania greets you with medieval fortresses and the legends of Transylvania, where echoes of Vlad the Impaler linger.

The romance of Romania extends into its wine routes and bustling Bucharest, blending old-world charm with an urban buzz.

Crossing into Bulgaria, a land where ancient heritage meets contemporary creativity, the picturesque towns like Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv beckon with their rich pasts and artistic communities, and Sofia, with its awe-inspiring cathedrals and diverse historical layers, rounds off this exceptional journey.

We have crafted this tour to ensure you have a stress-free experience. With expertly organized accommodations, guided tours brimming with local insights, and round-the-clock support, your only focus will be savoring each moment.

Join us for an adventure that unveils the forgotten gems of Europe, where memories are crafted through every taste, sight, and journey across these awe-inspiring lands.

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 · about 1 month 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.