All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

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12 Days From

$2497

$1249

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

12 Days Starting in Sofia and ending in Athens

Visiting: Sofia, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Trebinje, Kotor, Ohrid, Skopje, Meteora, Delphi, Athens

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

BLA

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

0-0

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2497 $1249 Operator discount: -$1249 -50%

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Join on a discovery of the iconic cities and impressive highlights of the Balkans.

Get to discover Sofia, Skopje, Belgrade, Sarajevo and Tirana.

Roam the ever-popular and lively Croatian coast while craving the calming serenity and charm of Albania and Montenegro.

Chase Alexander the Great from Macedonia to Greece and uncover the mysteries of floating monasteries of Meteora.

Meet the Oracle of Delhi before climbing up to the Acropolis to get a panoramic view of a capital of ancient world, Athens.

Above all, touch shoulders with countless Balkan civilizations as you witness their beautiful interaction and create lifelong travel memories.

Highlights

  • Explore the essential highlights of 7 Balkan countries in 9 days.

  • Enjoy professional guided tours in Belgrade, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Ohrid, and Skopje.

  • Swim the Adriatic and walk around the impressive medieval fortresses of Dubrovnik and Kotor.

  • Uncover the stunning natural beauty of Ohrid Lake with an optional trip to the serene St. Naum Monastery.

  • Discover the floating monasteries of Meteora and the ancient home of the Oracle of Delphi.

  • Experience the vibrant city life in Thessaloniki and the historical richness of Athens.

  • Delve into history and greet the colorful Balkan cultures from one capital to another.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Sofia

Location: Sofia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vega - 4 Star

Welcome to Sofia! At the airport, keep an eye out for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. At the hotel around 7pm, have an informal welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travellers. After you get all the critical information about the tour, head out for our optional group dinner around 8:15pm and walk the streets of Sofia.

Day 2 : Sofia, Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Abba Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a substantial breakfast, hop on the bus and make your way to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. With stunning views over the Danube and Sava rivers by the mighty medieval Belgrade Fortress, head to the heart of the capitol. Starting off at the vibrant pretty shopping street, Knez Mihailova, filled with cafes, shops and charming sites, kick off the walking tour to discover the incredible landmarks Belgrade has in store and their marvellous histories.

Day 3 : Belgrade, Sarajevo

Location: Sarajevo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ibis Styles – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Next stop Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital, the city that has been through it all! It is where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split and where people of many nations and religions met, lived and warred. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. Though, still an oriental beauty with a unique twist, and a delight to discover on your walking tour in the old town. The city offers endless delicacies to taste, but the specialty is lamb.

Day 4 : Sarajevo, Mostar,Trebinje

Location: Mostar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Park – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, we drive for the amazing Adriatic shore, but first a stop at Mostar! As you arrive in this dreamland, walk through the Old Town of this Herzegovina pearl, see the iconic highlights Old Bridge – Stari Most, and the old caršija (market). Enjoy your lunch with an amazing view at one of the local venues, discover the old town and make sure to try the delicious Turkish coffee. In the afternoon, we ride to Trebinje for our overnight stay.

Day 5 : Trebinje, Dubrovnik, Trebinje

Location: Trebinje

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Park – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get ready for a long day at Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic"! With its well-preserved majestic walls encircling the whole town and its sea of terra-cotta roof tiles, giving life to the "King’s Landing", the whole town is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even the drive down to town from the mountain-side is a breakth-taking highlight in itself! We start off with a guided walking tour of the Old Town and marvel at the millennial history of this fairy-like town. Walk atop the mighty walls, discover cute narrow streets, taste delicious seafood or jump off into the crystal-blue waters. In the evening, we return to Trebinje for a good night's rest.

Day 6 : Trebinje, Kotor, Budva

Location: Kotor

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Park – 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Next stop Montenegro! Arrive in Kotor after a scenic drive an meet its calming natural beauty and characteristic architecture, a less-crowded version of Dubrovnik with its impressive medieval citadel. Following a walking tour of the old town with your expert local guide and some free time, make your way to the popular touristic hub of the region, Budva. Your guide will take you on a brief walking tour of the vibrant summer town with great food, impressive views and lively nightlife.

Day 7 : Budva, Tirana, Ohrid

Location: Ohrid

Accommodation Name: Hotel Sileks – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hit the road after breakfast, next stop Albania! A panoramic city tour of Tirana will introduce the best preserved and most beautiful samples of Albanian architecture, and drop us off at the town centre for some free time to discover the bustling Skenderbeg square. In the afternoon, continue towards Ohrid, Macedonia and check-in to your comfy hotel. You can rest up after a long day, or join the optional Balkan night with dinner.

Day 8 : Ohrid, Skopje

Location: Ohrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Panoramika – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start off the day with a guided city tour of Old Ohrid hosting hundreds of chapels and churches scattered all around. In the afternoon travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, for the night.

Day 9 : Skopje, Thessaloniki

Location: Skopje

Accommodation Name: Hotel ABC – 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Prepare to discover the beautiful Skopje with a guided sightseeing tour filled with stunning architecture, grand monuments and unique history. Pose with the famous statue of Alexander the Great or walk through the Macedonian Arc de Triumph. The city has countless landmarks and a vibrant street life with many cafes and bars around. In the afternoon cross the border heading towards the second largest Greek city, Thessaloniki, for the night.

Day 10 : Kalambaka, Meteora, Delphi

Location: Meteora

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hermes Hotel - 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Starting off the day with a panoramic Thessaloniki tour on the bus, depart for Kalambaka, the gateway to Meteora. Meteora is famous for its breath-taking scenery and ageless monasteries, almost suspended between the earth and sky. The town hosts one of the largest and steepest complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, literally named as “middle of the sky”. The World Heritage-listed site is out-of-this-world with its unique landscape of immense monolithic pillars and huge rounded boulders hosting monasteries on top, and one of the most visited locations in Greece. Each monastery has a central courtyard surrounded by chapels and living cells of monks, who have inhabited the region since the 11th century – for far less than the first inhabitants from 50,000 years ago. Later in the afternoon, hop on the bus for Delphi.

Day 11 : Delphi, Athens

Location: Delphi

Accommodation Name: Arion Hotel - 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Eat up at breakfast, you will be discovering Delphi and all its wonders. Built high atop the cliffs with spectacular scenery, the town made its name in ancient Greek mythology. Chosen as the centre of the earth, here is where the famous powerful Oracles of Delphi resided. UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi had a tremendous influence in the ancient world, uniting many city-states under the Hellenic spirit as displayed in rich monuments and ancient stories. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Athens. As you get your bearings and all the information you need about the capital from your guide, arrive at the hotel to freshen up. Prepare to cap off the amazing tour Greek-style; bring in the mezes, it’s time to do some Sirtaki!

Day 12 : Athens

Location: Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Have your final breakfast on us and start bidding farewells to your travel mates before checking out of the hotel (11:00). Time to start counting days for your next adventure with Travel Talk!

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 & 3 star hotels

  • Meals

    11 breakfasts

  • Transportation

    Air-conditioned coach or mini-bus

  • Airport Transfer(s)

    Arrival airport transfer from Sofia Airport to the hotel on day 1

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access ( where available )

What's Not Included

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to the sights and museums are not included.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included in the tour price.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

    Any services not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary are excluded.

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included.

  • Items of a personal nature

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional meals are not included.

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides travel in style and comfort on a private, air-conditioned coach or mini-bus, with an arrival airport transfer from Sofia Airport to your hotel on the first day.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will stay in comfort at 4-star hotels throughout your journey, including Novotel Sofia, Abba Hotel, Hotel Ibis Styles, and more, ensuring a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 11 breakfasts during your trip.

  • Will there be guided tours during the trip?

    Yes, the tour includes professional guided tours in cities such as Belgrade, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Ohrid, and Skopje, with services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

  • Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access is available where possible.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?

    No, entrance fees to the sights and museums are not included in the tour price.

  • What optional activities are available during the tour?

    Optional activities include a group dinner in Sofia, a Kravice Waterfalls visit, a Dubrovnik Boat Trip, a Balkan Night with Dinner, and a St. Naum Tour, among others.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Stephani Ferrari Dalto (Google Reviewer)  

I’m about to finish my...

18-Oct-2024

I’m about to finish my Essential Turkey trip with Travel Talk (October 12th- for 10 days) and had an amazing experience! Our guide Mustafa was fantastic. He took care of every little detail and made sure everyone in our group (42 people, a great mix of ages) was happy and well looked after. I traveled with my mom, and this trip was the perfect way to get a quick, but comprehensive, view of what Turkey has to offer. This was my second time with Travel Talk, and I would definitely choose them again for future adventures!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Wednesday

Nov 16, 2024 - Nov 27, 2024
$2906 $1453

Operator discount: -$1453

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 19, 2025
$2497 $1249

Operator discount: -$1249

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 22, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
$2497 $1249

Operator discount: -$1249

Saturday - Wednesday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025
$2497 $1249

Operator discount: -$1249

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 07, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

May 01, 2025 - May 12, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

May 03, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

May 10, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

May 15, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

May 22, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

May 29, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 11, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 16, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

Jun 12, 2025 - Jun 23, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

Jun 26, 2025 - Jul 07, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 16, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

Sep 25, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Thursday - Monday

Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Tuesday - Saturday

Dec 23, 2025 - Jan 03, 2026
$3198 $1599

Operator discount: -$1599

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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