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Best of the Balkans

  • Duration
    18 days
  • Tour Type
    Group Tour
  • Tour Style
    Classic Flex
  • Price From
    £5,190pp
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Discover the captivating Balkans, where rugged mountains, turquoise lakes and ancient cities meet the sun-drenched shores of the Adriatic. From the historic streets of Sarajevo and Mostar, journey through Montenegro, Dubrovnik and beyond, uncovering fascinating history, timeless traditions and spectacular scenery along the way.

Savour delicious local flavours, meet the people who call this diverse region home and explore landscapes that stretch from dramatic mountains to sparkling coastlines. From cultural treasures to unforgettable moments, discover the many wonders of the Balkans.

  • Included Meals
    Breakfasts: 17 , Lunches: 5 , Dinners: 12
  • Flights
    International flights and current taxes
  • Accommodation
    17 nights in 3+/4 star accommodation
  • Group Tour
    Max Group Size: 28
  • Physical Rating 1Learn More
    X A reasonable level of fitness is required. Expect to be on your feet for most of the day walking around sights, often including steps and getting on and off coaches, trains, or boats. Occasional longer walks may be included. Physical requirements vary by tour. Please read the Detailed Tour Itinerary on the tour page to ensure it's the right fit for you. Learn More
    Walking, some steps and time on your feet

Tour Highlights

Our Best of the Balkans tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine.

Tour Experiences

Truffle Hunting in Istria

Venture into Istria’s fragrant woodlands with expert hunters and their specially trained dogs, searching for prized truffles hidden beneath the forest floor. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local specialities.

Taste Bosnian Coffee in Mostar

Step into a traditional Turkish coffee house in Mostar and experience the cherished ritual of Bosnian coffee. Savour its rich aroma while learning about the customs and traditions that surround this beloved daily ritual.

Wine-Paired Dinner at a Montenegrin Winery

Explore the atmospheric cellars of a renowned Montenegrin winery, uncovering the traditions and techniques behind its celebrated wines. Then sit down to a memorable wine-paired dinner featuring regional specialities.

Tour Itinerary

This adventure is ideal for travellers who want to see the very best bits of this incredibly diverse region. We have designed the tour to make the most of the time available to showcase the key highlights and cities of the Balkans.

  • Day 1
    Fly to Zagreb
    Day 1: Fly to Zagreb

    Arrive in Zagreb, Croatia's vibrant capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

    • Dinner
  • Day 2
    Discover Zagreb
    Day 2: Discover Zagreb

    Begin your Balkan adventure with a tour of Zagreb. Explore the historic Upper Town, elegant squares and cultural landmarks while discovering the fascinating story of Croatia's capital. Enjoy Flex time to explore independently before experiencing Croatian traditions with a lively folklore show and interactive workshop.

    • Breakfast
  • Day 3
    Plitvice Lakes
    Day 3: Plitvice Lakes

    Leave Zagreb behind and travel to spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander among its turquoise lakes, lush forests and cascading waterfalls, discovering one of Croatia's most beautiful natural landscapes. After lunch, continue into Bosnia & Herzegovina and the town of Bihać.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 4
    Jajce
    Day 4:  Jajce

    Journey towards Sarajevo, stopping in the historic town of Jajce. Discover its medieval heritage and spectacular waterfall before continuing through the Bosnian countryside. Arrive in Bosnia & Herzegovina’s capital, Sarajevo, and enjoy dinner.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 5
    Explore Sarajevo
    Day 5: Explore Sarajevo

    Explore Sarajevo on a tour, discovering its fascinating blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and modern influences. Visit the Tunnel of Hope, a powerful symbol of the city’s resilience during the Siege of Sarajevo, before continuing to Mostar.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 6
    Mostar & Bosnian Coffee
    Day 6: Mostar & Bosnian Coffee

    Discover the enchanting city of Mostar, centred around its iconic Old Bridge. Explore the historic streets, visit a traditional mosque and step inside a Turkish house to gain an insight into traditional Bosnian life. Later, experience one of the country's most cherished rituals with a traditional Bosnian coffee tasting in an authentic Turkish coffee house. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Mostar at your own pace.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 7
    Discover Trebinje
    Day 7: Discover Trebinje

    Leave Bosnia & Herzegovina behind and travel towards Montenegro. Stop in the charming town of Trebinje before continuing to the Adriatic coast and the beautiful resort town of Budva.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 8
    Budva & Montenegrin Wine Experience
    Day 8: Budva & Montenegrin Wine Experience

    Discover Budva on a tour of its atmospheric medieval Old Town, ancient walls and beautiful Adriatic setting. Later, visit a renowned winery, explore its cellars and enjoy a wine-paired dinner as you discover the traditions behind Montenegro's celebrated wines.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 9
    Lake Skadar Cruise
    Day 9: Lake Skadar Cruise

    Today, immerse yourself in the spectacular natural beauty of Lake Skadar National Park, home to the largest lake in the Balkans. Cruise across the tranquil waters, surrounded by dramatic mountains, wetlands and abundant birdlife. Return to Budva for an evening at leisure.

    • Breakfast
  • Day 10
    Bay of Kotor
    Day 10: Bay of Kotor

    Travel along Montenegro's breathtaking Adriatic coast to Kotor, a UNESCO-listed medieval town surrounded by dramatic mountains. Explore its historic streets before boarding a boat across the Bay of Kotor. Visit the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks before continuing towards Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 11
    Explore Dubrovnik
    Day 11: Explore Dubrovnik

    Enjoy a tour of Dubrovnik, discovering its ancient streets and historic landmarks, enclosed by impressive medieval walls. This afternoon, enjoy Flex time to explore at your own pace. Wander along the limestone streets, explore the city walls or relax at a waterside café overlooking the Adriatic.

    • Breakfast
  • Day 12
    Neretva Valley
    Day 12:  Neretva Valley

    Leave Dubrovnik and journey into the lush Neretva Valley. Visit the Neretva Agro-Ethno Park and enjoy a traditional welcome drink before boarding a local boat. Cruise through the valley's tranquil canals and waterways towards Lake Kuti, surrounded by unspoiled landscapes. Enjoy lunch featuring local specialities before continuing to Split.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 13
    Split & Dalmatian Cooking Workshop
    Day 13: Split & Dalmatian Cooking Workshop

    Discover Split on a tour of its remarkable historic centre and Roman heritage, including the extraordinary legacy of Diocletian's Palace. Later, get hands-on with Dalmatian cuisine during a cooking workshop. Harvest fresh ingredients from the botanical gardens, learn traditional techniques and prepare authentic local dishes before sitting down to enjoy your creations together, accompanied by regional specialities and wine.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 14
    Croatian Flavours & Zadar
    Day 14: Croatian Flavours & Zadar

    Travel north along the Dalmatian coast, stopping for a tasting of locally produced cured meats, cheeses and wines while discovering traditional Croatian food and hospitality. Continue to Zadar for a tour of its historic centre, where Roman, Venetian and modern influences meet.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 15
    Zadar & Opatija
    Day 15: Zadar & Opatija

    Continue north to the elegant seaside resort of Opatija, once a favoured retreat of European aristocracy. Enjoy time at leisure before discovering its grand villas, gardens and beautiful waterfront promenade on a guided tour.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 16
    Truffle Hunting & Istrian Distillery
    Day 16: Truffle Hunting & Istrian Distillery

    Venture into the heart of the Istrian Peninsula, beginning with a visit to the charming hilltop artists' village of Grožnjan. Continue into the countryside for a truffle-hunting experience, discovering one of Istria's most prized culinary treasures before enjoying a lunch of local specialities. Later, visit a distillery in Buzet to discover the traditions behind regional spirits and sample local creations before returning to Opatija.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 17
    Ljubljana
    Day 17: Ljubljana

    Leave the Adriatic behind and travel to Ljubljana, Slovenia's picturesque capital. Enjoy an orientation tour through its charming Old Town, taking in the riverside atmosphere and distinctive architecture. After free time for lunch, continue to Zagreb. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner and celebrate an unforgettable journey through the Balkans.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 18
    Depart Zagreb
    Day 18: Depart Zagreb

    Transfer to Zagreb Airport for your onward flight, taking with you memories of spectacular landscapes, fascinating history and vibrant cultures.

    • Breakfast

Our tours feature hand-picked properties selected for their comfort, modern amenities and convenient location for sightseeing. We occasionally include a stay in a guesthouse or lodge where we feel the character of the property will enhance your tour, or to allow access to a more unique and memorable location. Here is a taster of the type of hotels you will be staying in on your tour.

  • Nights 2
    Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
    Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
    The Sheraton Zagreb occupies a central position, within walking distance of Zagreb’s main square and historic Upper Town. Its 306 rooms are spacious and traditionally styled, with comfortable Sheraton beds, ensuite bathrooms, Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making facilities. After sightseeing, there is an indoor pool, sauna and fitness centre, as well as a spa and relaxation area.
    • Swiming Pool
    • Bar
  • Night 1
    Swiss Hotel Plus
    Swiss Hotel Plus
    Just five minutes from the centre of Biha? and close to the River Una, Swiss Hotel Plus is a small, modern property with 27 rooms. Accommodation includes air conditioning, Wi-Fi, smart TVs and kitchen facilities, while some rooms have balconies or terraces. The hotel also offers a spacious outdoor parking area and a 24-hour reception.
  • Night 1
    Hotel Colors Inn
    Hotel Colors Inn
    A short walk from Sarajevo’s historic centre, Hotel Colors Inn offers modern accommodation in a convenient city location. Its 25-square-metre standard rooms have air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, minibars, tea and coffee-making facilities and Wi-Fi, while larger superior rooms provide additional space. The hotel also has a 24-hour reception and free parking.
  • Nights 2
    Buna Hotel
    Buna Hotel
    On the banks of the Buna River, just a short drive from Mostar, Hotel Buna provides a peaceful setting surrounded by greenery. Its 40 deluxe rooms and three suites are comfortably furnished with ensuite bathrooms, minibars, safes and Wi-Fi. The property also has riverside gardens, a terrace and outdoor areas where guests can relax.
  • Nights 3
    Avala Resort
    Avala Resort
    Right beside Budva’s Old Town and the Adriatic, Avala Resort has one of the town’s most convenient locations. Rooms are contemporary in style and include balconies or terraces, with many offering views towards the sea or Old Town. Guests have access to indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a jacuzzi, private beach and spa facilities.
    • Swiming Pool
    • Restaurant
    • Bar
  • Nights 2
    Valamar Hotel
    Valamar Hotel
    Set on the Babin Kuk peninsula, Valamar is surrounded by Mediterranean greenery and close to the sea. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms and Wi-Fi, while a swimming pool, beach access and wellness areas included.
    • Swiming Pool
  • Nights 2
    Marvie Hotel & Health
    Marvie Hotel & Health
    Close to the Adriatic coast and around 20 minutes’ walk from Split’s historic centre, Marvie Hotel & Health combines modern accommodation with extensive wellness facilities. Rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making facilities, while many have balconies or sea views. There is also an indoor pool, seasonal rooftop pool, sauna and fitness centre.
    • Swiming Pool
    • Restaurant
    • Elevator
    • Bar
  • Night 1
    Hotel Kolovare
    Hotel Kolovare
    Overlooking the Adriatic, Hotel Kolovare is around a 15-minute walk from Zadar’s historic Old Town and close to Kolovare Beach. The rooms have a simple, modern design and include private bathrooms, air conditioning, minibars, safes and Wi-Fi, with balconies providing outdoor space. An outdoor swimming pool offers somewhere to relax between sightseeing.
    • Swiming Pool
    • Restaurant
    • Elevator
    • Bar
  • Nights 2
    Grand Hotel Opatijska Cviteja Villa Royal
    Grand Hotel Opatijska Cviteja Villa Royal
    On Opatija’s seafront, the Grand Hotel 4 Opatijska Cvijeta is close to the town’s waterfront promenade and gardens. Rooms are comfortably furnished with modern amenities and Wi-Fi, while the hotel has an indoor heated pool, outdoor infinity pool, spa, saunas and fitness centre. Accommodation may also be provided at the adjoining Villa Royal, subject to availability.
    • Swiming Pool
    • Restaurant
    • Elevator
    • Bar
+ -
Best of the Balkans map

Places Visited: Zagreb (2N) - Bihać (1N) - Sarajevo (1N) - Mostar (2N) - Budva (3N) - Dubrovnik (2N) - Split (2N) - Zadar (1N) - Opatija (2N) - Zagreb (1N)

Tour Dates & Prices

If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book. Read our Price Match Promise

Your Tour Includes

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Booking Options

Dedicated Solo departures are available on selected dates for this tour.
These solos-only departures feature smaller group sizes of up to 18, along with free airport lounge access.

Depart UK
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There are no dedicated Solo departures for this year. You can enjoy any of our tours with no Single Supplement on our Happy to Share option or explore the solo departures in other years.

The same great Wendy Wu tour - just with an extra level of comfort. Enjoy relaxed 5-star city hotels, unique properties, and overnight cruises, each selected to deliver an elevated experience. See Upgraded Tour Hotels above for more details.

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