Duration: 12 Days
The secrets of Balkan travel are revealed on this jam-packed eastern Europe 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. Day 1
Welcome to Zagreb
Embark on an epic discovery of the Balkans. Croatia's capital city of Zagreb is your springboard to a fascinating journey through what was once a troubled region and is today 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 a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive.
Day 2
Explore Historic Zagreb
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.
Day 3
Journey to Sarajevo
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.
Day 4
Uncover Sarajevo’s Secrets
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. 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.
Day 5
Along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
We 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. Meet a traditional coppersmith artisan on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, before continuing to the ancient city of Dubrovnik. This evening, consider joining a private sunset cruise with dinner, enjoying the best views of this enchanting city from the water.
Day 6
Discover Picturesque Dubrovnik Connect with Locals
Stroll through the limestone streets of this stunning medieval city, joining a Small Group Sightseeing walking tour of the main sights of Dubrovnik 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 travel to a traditional tavern overlooking the Dubrovnik Hills and meet the Knez family for a wonderful Be My Guest experience. You’ll Connect With Locals as you dine on Dubrovnik specialties and feel fully immersed in your hosts’ warm Croatian hospitality.
Day 7
A Day in Montenegro
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 dine at our hotel.
Day 8
Onwards to Split Dive Into Culture
We pass old fishing villages and modern resorts, arriving in the vibrant city of Split. Enjoy a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist featuring the historic inner city. Dive Into Culture and admire the façades of Diocletian's Palace, which today forms half of the Old Town of Split. See the city’s Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral. Spend the evening on your own, or join an Optional Experience to savor traditional Dalmatian flavors.
Day 9
Split Your Way
Indulge in a full free day to discover Split on your terms. Ascend the bell tower for magnificent views of the sprawling terracotta roofs that edge onto the Adriatic or consider a full-day Optional Experience to one of the Dalmatian islands.
Day 10
Admire Trogir’s Architecture and on to Plitvice
This morning, we visit the walled island of Trogir with a Local Specialist. The stone town is a boon for lovers of art and Renaissance, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. We leave the coast and journey to the forested National Park of Plitvice, where we will dine tonight at our hotel.
Day 11
Return to Zagreb Make Travel Matter
The tranquil turquoise, emerald and grey waters of Plitvice's multitude of lakes and waterfalls are explored today on an unforgettable walking tour with a Local Specialist. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll connect with the exquisite beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder, admiring the cascade of spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear waters reflecting green, grey and blue against the lush landscape. You’ll walk along the wooden pathways suspended over these mesmerizing natural landscapes, absorbing the irresistible beauty of as many as 16 upper and lower lakes and caves that are all magically connected by waterfalls. Enchanted by the experience, you’ll return to Zagreb for a final Farewell Dinner together, reminiscing over an unforgettable Balkan exploration.
Day 12
Farewell Zagreb
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
- 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
- 5 Dinner (D)
- Dubrovnik: Gain a deep appreciation for Croatian hospitality as you meet the Knez family for a heart-warming Be My Guest experience in their tavern overlooking the Dubrovnik Hills.
- Split: See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.
- Zagreb: Spend the day discovering the diverse cultures and traditions of Zagreb.
- Zagreb: Take in the scenic landscapes of Zagreb.
- 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.
- Dubrovnik: Explore the Pearl of the Adriatic with your Local Specialist during a sightseeing walk in a small group. Walk the stone-paved streets of the Old Town to see Onofrio's Fountain, Rector's Palace and the medieval city walls.
- Kotor: Take in the stunning surroundings of the Bay of Kotor.
- Split: Discover the rich history of Split on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist.
- Trogir: Enjoy the Renaissance art and the Romanesque architecture on the island of Trogir.
- Mostar: Mostar Coppersmith Workshop: Meet Denis, one of the last traditional coppersmith artisans in Mostar. Learn about the techniques required to design elaborated copper jewelery and appreciate the importance of this traditional craft during a lively demonstration. This experience advances UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- 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.
- : Explore Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, and Plitvice National Park with a Local Specialist
- : 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
- : 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
Start Date: 2024-04-27
End Date: 2024-05-08
twin
Adult Price: $6078
Child Price: $5508
twinShare
Adult Price: $6078
Child Price: $4040
triple
Adult Price: $5946
Child Price: $5376
single
Adult Price: $8925
Start Date: 2024-05-11
End Date: 2024-05-22
twin
Adult Price: $6078
Child Price: $5508
twinShare
Adult Price: $6078
triple
Adult Price: $5946
Child Price: $5376
single
Adult Price: $8925
Start Date: 2024-05-25
End Date: 2024-06-05
twin
Adult Price: $6265
Child Price: $5695
twinShare
Adult Price: $6265
triple
Adult Price: $6133
Child Price: $5563
single
Adult Price: $9146
Start Date: 2024-06-01
End Date: 2024-06-12
twin
Adult Price: $6265
Child Price: $5695
twinShare
Adult Price: $6265
triple
Adult Price: $6133
Child Price: $5563
single
Adult Price: $9146
Start Date: 2024-06-08
End Date: 2024-06-19
twin
Adult Price: $6375
Child Price: $5805
twinShare
Adult Price: $6375
triple
Adult Price: $6243
Child Price: $5673
single
Adult Price: $9523
Start Date: 2024-06-22
End Date: 2024-07-03
twin
Adult Price: $6375
Child Price: $5805
twinShare
Adult Price: $6375
triple
Adult Price: $6243
Child Price: $5673
single
Adult Price: $9523
Start Date: 2024-07-06
End Date: 2024-07-17
twin
Adult Price: $6545
Child Price: $5975
twinShare
Adult Price: $6545
triple
Adult Price: $6413
Child Price: $5843
single
Adult Price: $9724
Start Date: 2024-07-20
End Date: 2024-07-31
twin
Adult Price: $6545
Child Price: $5975
twinShare
Adult Price: $6545
triple
Adult Price: $6413
Child Price: $5843
single
Adult Price: $9724
Start Date: 2024-08-03
End Date: 2024-08-14
twin
Adult Price: $6545
Child Price: $5975
twinShare
Adult Price: $6545
triple
Adult Price: $6413
Child Price: $5843
single
Adult Price: $9724
Start Date: 2024-08-17
End Date: 2024-08-28
twin
Adult Price: $6435
Child Price: $5865
twinShare
Adult Price: $6435
triple
Adult Price: $6303
Child Price: $5733
single
Adult Price: $9594
Start Date: 2024-08-24
End Date: 2024-09-04
twin
Adult Price: $6435
Child Price: $5865
twinShare
Adult Price: $6435
triple
Adult Price: $6303
Child Price: $5733
single
Adult Price: $9594
Start Date: 2024-08-31
End Date: 2024-09-11
twin
Adult Price: $6435
Child Price: $5865
twinShare
Adult Price: $6435
triple
Adult Price: $6303
Child Price: $5733
single
Adult Price: $9594
Start Date: 2024-09-07
End Date: 2024-09-18
twin
Adult Price: $6435
Child Price: $5865
twinShare
Adult Price: $6435
triple
Adult Price: $6303
Child Price: $5733
single
Adult Price: $9594
Start Date: 2024-09-14
End Date: 2024-09-25
twin
Adult Price: $6435
Child Price: $5865
twinShare
Adult Price: $6435
triple
Adult Price: $6303
Child Price: $5733
single
Adult Price: $9594
Start Date: 2024-09-21
End Date: 2024-10-02
twin
Adult Price: $6265
Child Price: $5695
twinShare
Adult Price: $6265
triple
Adult Price: $6133
Child Price: $5563
single
Adult Price: $9393
Start Date: 2024-10-05
End Date: 2024-10-16
twin
Adult Price: $6045
Child Price: $5475
twinShare
Adult Price: $6045
triple
Adult Price: $5913
Child Price: $5343
single
Adult Price: $8886
