Balkans Uncovered Luxury Tour
Balkans Uncovered Luxury Tour
Balkans Uncovered Luxury Tour
12 Days Starting and ending in Sofia
Visiting: Sofia, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Trebinje, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Shkodër, Tirana, Ohrid, Saint Naum, Skopje, Canyon Matka
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BU
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 20
Age range:
18-95
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a luxurious journey through the heart of the Balkans with our "Balkans Uncovered Luxury Tour." This meticulously crafted tour takes you across seven enchanting countries - Albania, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia - each with its unique heritage and breathtaking landscapes. From the spiritual serenity of St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral to the historic streets of Belgrade and the stunning beauty of Dubrovnik, known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic,' this tour is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders. Enjoy guided tours of Sofia, Sarajevo, Mostar, and Kotor, offering deep dives into the rich tapestry of Balkan history and culture. With luxurious accommodations in cities like Sofia, Belgrade, and Sarajevo, deluxe air-conditioned coach transportation, and exceptional authentic dining including 11 breakfasts and 10 dinners, this tour promises comfort and style. Highlights include a boat trip in Matka Lake, exploring the old town fortress of Kotor, and discovering the charm of Dubrovnik. This small group tour is perfect for those looking to explore the gardens, history, and archaeological ruins of the Balkans in the lap of luxury.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Sofia
Location: Sofia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Sofia
Prepare for an intriguing adventure through the ‘powder keg of Europe’ over twelve days and seven countries. Upon arrival in Sofia, you will be transferred to your hotel by a Ciconia representative at the airport. In the afternoon, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Greet the delicious Balkan cuisine starting with a Bulgarian twist at a group dinner. Always allow some room for the myriad of tasty desserts available.
Day 2 : Sofia - Belgrade
Location: Sofia, Belgrade
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Metropol Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a filling breakfast at our hotel before we take a scenic drive passing hills and green forests to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. Presenting stunning views of the Sava and Danube rivers with the Belgrade Fortress in the background. After we check into our hotel, enjoy your personal leisure time to launch your own discovery. Sample the local cuisine in fine fashion at your hotel and roam the vibrant shopping streets.
Day 3 : Belgrade
Location: Belgrade
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Metropol Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The day is yours to soak in all the beauty Belgrade offers. Launch your adventure with a comprehensive guided tour of the city at the bustling shopping street Knez Mihailova. Roam the Belgrade Fortress overlooking a merge of Danube and Sava Rivers with feudal cannons in display – declared a Monument of Culture of Great Importance. Uncover the marvellous blend of medieval and modern through a myriad of impressive sites at the heart of the city. You will have plentiful personal leisure time in the afternoon to shop around, continue your cultural discovery and sip delicious cocktails at a contemporary local bar. Your dinner seat is reserved at our hotel's impressive restaurant.
Day 4 : Belgrade - Sarajevo
Location: Belgrade, Sarajevo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Bidding farewell to the buzzing Belgrade, we embark on a journey through green forests to meet the multi-coloured fabric of Bosnia & Herzegovina at Sarajevo. Home to people of various religions, ethnic and cultural background, the diverse architectural and cultural landscape is reflected all around the town. Witnessing the start of World War 1, splitting of the Eastern and Western Roman Empire, and the devastating Yugoslav War in recent history; the marks of history are hidden around every corner. As your Travel Director and local expert guide you through the charming old town and the Bascarsija, learn all about the rich history of the country. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. Make sure to try traditional Turkish coffee for the best finish to your dinner.
Day 5 : Sarajevo - Mostar - Trebinje
Location: Sarajevo, Mostar, Trebinje
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Central Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive through lush fields and valleys towards the adorable village of Mostar. Famously known for the gorgeous stone bridge in the old town, a prime example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, designed by a student of the Great Ottoman architect, Sinan. Join your guide for a walking tour through the Stari Most and the old carsija (market), still presenting the authentic style of 15th century in its splendid architecture. Sample the delicious cuisine over lunch at one of the lovely venues and complete your discovery. In the afternoon, we depart for Trebinje, located by the border with Croatia. We arrive just in time for dinner at our hotel, where we will spend two nights.
Day 6 : Trebinje - Dubrovnik - Trebinje
Location: Trebinje, Dubrovnik, Trebinje
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Central Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Ready your cameras and sunscreen as we head out to the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik. Crossing into Croatia with a short ride, soak in the unique sight of terra-cotta tiled roofs encircled by might medieval walls, preserved in incredible condition. Stop for an amazing view of the old town from the overlooking hills, and meet your local expert at the gates to launch your guided tour of Dubrovnik. Learn about the intriguing history of the once-great city state, thriving through its maritime connections and protected by its gigantic ramparts. As we cover the must-see highlights, relax at a breezy restaurant over a delicious seafood lunch. You will have personal leisure time in the afternoon for your preferred activities, whether strolling on the walls, taking an optional boat trip, discovering the quaint streets and pedestrian avenues, or taking a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea. We drive back to Trebinje for dinner at our hotel.
Day 7 : Trebinje - Kotor - Shkodra
Location: Trebinje, Kotor, Shkodër
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Europa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our adventure continues to a less crowded, but just as impressive location. Driving along the skirts of mountains along the coast, we reach Kotor surrounded by monumental walls. Join a walking tour in the old town fortress with your expert local guide and Travel Director, wandering the labyrinthine narrow streets. Enjoy a refreshing lunch at a local restaurant and pace your adventure with personal leisure time in the afternoon. You can hike to the top of the incredible fortress for spectacular views over Kotor Bay or capture the prettiest pictures of the remarkable medieval village. Travel to one of the oldest cities in the Balkans as we cross into Albania, Shkodra, for dinner and a relaxing stay at our hotel.
Day 8 : Shkodra - Tirana - Ohrid
Location: Shkodër, Tirana, Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Unique Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Starting our journey into Albanian culture, we embark on a walking tour of Shkodra witnessing the influence of Romans, Byzantine, Greek and Ottomans reflected in the town's fabric. Continue towards the centre of culture, religion, arts and entertainment, the charming capital of Tirana. With a panoramic city tour, savour the finest samples of Albanian architecture portraying the influence of various cultures. After a sightseeing tour of the popular sights and the bustling Skenderbeg Square, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Our journey resumes into Macedoni, Ohrid. Enjoy your dinner and a relaxing rest at the hotel.
Day 9 : Ohrid - St. Naum - Ohrid
Location: Ohrid, Saint Naum, Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Unique Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Ohrid is home to the dazzling Ohrid Lake at the backdrop of a charming village ascending towards the hills, up to the marvellous castle – an immense site of UNESCO World Heritage. Join the optional experience of a calming boat trip on the Lake Ohrid, one of the deepest and oldest lakes of Europe, presenting splendid views of the village and monasteries along the coast. Disembark at the old town to launch your guided tour. Join your expert guide as we discover the hidden chapels, ancient crafts and all the stunning sights scattered along the narrow cobble-stone streets. We then depart for the gorgeous St. Naum Monastery complex and natural wonderland. Perched on the hills with astounding views of the lake, the incredibly well-preserved Eastern Orthodox monastery stood for more than a thousand years. After discovering the charming monastery, savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, surrounded by astounding nature, floating above natural pools maintained by the lake. Blessed with lakes, waterfalls and a beach to Lake Ohrid, we will enjoy our afternoon relaxing at St. Naum, never wanting to leave. We return to our hotel in Ohrid in time for dinner.
Day 10 : Ohrid - Skopje
Location: Ohrid, Skopje
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Skopje
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Following breakfast, we part with the marvelous Lake Ohrid and drive to the stunning Matka Canyon. Home to diverse endemic life, wonderful lakes, medieval monasteries, caves, valleys and trekking routes, the canyon offers a myriad of unique experiences. You can join an optional boat trip in Matka Lake, visiting the fascinating caves only accessible via water, and have lunch with spectacular views after trekking through the canyon on a nature adventure. In the afternoon we make our way to the Macedonian capital. With a scenic ride through lush fields, hills and mountains, we arrive in Skopje and check-in to our hotel late in the afternoon.
Day 11 : Skopje - Matka Canyon - Sofia
Location: Skopje, Canyon Matka, Sofia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Sofia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a filling breakfast at our stylish hotel, it is time to join a guided tour with our local expert and follow the footsteps of Alexander the Great. Discover the immense cultural heritage with countless monuments and samples of fine architecture scattered all around the vibrant town. Later we drive through the beautiful Balkans landscape and arrive to Sofia. Embark on an adventure through the streets of Sofia with our expert local guide visiting a myriad of impressive sights such as National Library, Sofia University, The Parliament, and continue on to The St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the National Theatre and St. Sofia Church. Your guide will provide insightful commentary about the diverse history of Bulgaria and the communist era as you visit the houses of the Council of Ministers, presidency and the former communist party headquarters. In the evening, join a heart-warming farewell dinner with your fellow travelers, the perfect end to your discovery of the colorful Balkans.
Day 12 : Sofia
Location: Sofia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our incredible Balkans adventure comes to an end following breakfast. Make sure to bid farewell to your newfound friends and exchange numbers before checking-out of the hotel (at 11:00). Complementary airport transfers are available all day, have a safe and smooth journey!
What's Included
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Meals
As detailed in itinerary.
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Fully Guided
Yes.
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5 Star Characteristic Hotels
Accommodation in authentic, comfortable and ideally located premium hotels.
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Luxury Transportation
Deluxe air-conditioned coach.
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Exceptional Authentic Dining
11 Breakfasts, 10 Dinners.
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Travel Director
Expert Travel Director & Local Guides.
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Journey Highlights
Unique itineraries with all must-see sights, more inclusions. Find more details below and in the itinerary.
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All Entrance Fees To All Sights
Entrance fees to all cultural, historical and natural sites on tour.
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Private Airport Transfer
Complimentary private airport transfers on arrival and departure dates.
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Baggage Handling
Seamless baggage handling, delivered to your room at every hotel.
What's Not Included
Not Included.
Add Ons
Local Payment: £0
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with deluxe air-conditioned coach transportation throughout your tour. Enjoy the scenic drives across the Balkans, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey from one destination to the next.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious and ideally located hotels throughout your journey, including the Hilton Sofia, Hotel Metropol Palace, Swissotel Sarajevo, and more, offering a blend of comfort, authentic local charm, and premium amenities.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries will the tour visit?
The tour will visit Albania, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia.
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Highlights of the tour include St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, National Library, Sofia University, St. Naum Monastery complex, and a boat trip in Matka Lake.
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What type of transportation will be used during the tour?
Travel in style with deluxe air-conditioned coach transportation throughout your tour.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect?
Stay in luxurious and ideally located hotels throughout your journey, including the Hilton Sofia, Hotel Metropol Palace, Swissotel Sarajevo, and more.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, meals as detailed in the itinerary are included.
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Is insurance included in the tour package?
No, insurance is not included.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The tour starts in Sofia.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The tour ends in Sofia.
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What are the dietary options available?
Specific dietary types are not detailed in the provided information.
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Can I arrange accommodation before or after my tour?
Pre and post-tour accommodation is available on most of our tours with our improved rates, depending on the availability. You can add pre or post accommodation during the booking process online
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Do I need to get a visa in advance or can I get it on arrival at the destination?
You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your trip. Please consult your travel agent or the relevant consulate in advance to determine if or which visas are required and how to obtain them. Failure to obtain all necessary visas could result in your rejection to enter the destination, and could result in considerable expenses and inconvenience. More information about visas is also available on the pre-departure files of each tour.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Most of our guests are seasoned travellers with years of experience, looking to discover a culture in exquisite style. They are passionate to explore new things, connect with the local fabric and spend quality time on a comfortable adventure. The majority of our guests are from the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, Canada and Europe.
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What are the optional experiences?
Optional experiences are activities that you can do on your own or are provided by third parties. These activities are not part of the itinerary or tour price, but suggested to you as popular attractions at your destination.
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How am I protected when booking a tour with Ciconia?
We are a member of ABTA, Association of British Travel Agents, Travel Talk Adventures Membership number Y600X. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. ABTA also offers you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract. The scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It is a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you for cost. We also reflect our customer-oriented values to our policies, assisting all our guests to our utmost ability in case of changes. Our website is secured via 128-bit encryption, safeguarding your holiday is important to us.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are always solo travellers on our tours. If you don’t mind staying with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay the single supplement. The single supplement is for guests who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of their tour. You can arrange a single room when booking online or by contacting us. Please note this option is not always available for certain tours.
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What does the tour price include?
Ciconia tours generally cover top quality accommodation and premium transportation, all breakfasts and most dinners, services of expert Travel Director and local guides at some sites, all entrance fees to all sites on tour, airport transfers, and all taxes, tips and porterage fees.
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Low Deposit
Ciconia Exclusive Journeys requires a minimum deposit of 125 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of ciconia exclusive journeys charges.
Up to 100 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.