Great European Tour (4 Star Hotels)
Great European Tour (4 Star Hotels)
Great European Tour (4 Star Hotels)
25 Days Starting in Budapest, Hungary and ending in Sofia, Bulgaria
Visiting: Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Regensburg, Prague, Bucharest, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, Plovdiv, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Tirana, Ohrid, Skopje, Sofia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CEUTB1
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 30
Age range:
0-0
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on the Great European Tour, a 25-day cultural journey through Eastern, Central Europe, and the Balkans, staying in luxurious 4-star hotels. This meticulously crafted adventure takes you through captivating cities like Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Belgrade, and Sarajevo, offering a seamless transition between destinations. Explore the fairy-tale allure of Prague, the cultural richness of Budapest, and the imperial grandeur of Vienna, with visits to iconic landmarks such as Schonbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy ample leisure time to discover local culture, hidden gems, and savor regional cuisine. The tour includes 24 breakfasts, air-conditioned transportation, and the expertise of experienced local guides. With a flight from Prague to Bucharest and complimentary hotel Wi-Fi, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Europe's history and culture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Budapest
Location: Budapest
Accommodation Name: Hotel City Inn or Novotel Budapest City - 4 Star
Greetings to Budapest, the capital city of Hungary! Nestled on both banks of the majestic Danube River, this enchanting city seamlessly blends a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural splendor. As you arrive, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby at 6pm. Later on, you can get to know your fellow travellers in the optional group dinner. Or, immerse yourself in the lively nocturnal atmosphere of Budapest at your own pace. Embark on an evening filled with exploration, delving into the city's vibrant nightlife, and savoring the delights of authentic Hungarian cuisine.
Day 2 : Budapest
Location: Budapest
Accommodation Name: Hotel City Inn or Novotel Budapest City - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, embark on your morning exploration in Pest, where you'll have the opportunity to marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Parliament, Royal Palace, Heroes' Square, St Stephen's Basilica and the historic Great Market Hall. Ascend Castle Hill to witness the historic Matthias Coronation Church dating back to the 13th century. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from Fisherman's Bastion. In the afternoon, partake in the Budapest Opera House & Great Dohany Synagogue experience. Great Dohany Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe. You can roam the grounds, observe the Holocaust Tree of Life Memorial, and gain insights into the Hungarian Holocaust. In the evening, you might consider selecting the optional Danube Cruise, which includes a delightful dinner experience.
Day 3 : Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a multifaceted journey today as you traverse through three cities: Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna. Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the quaint streets of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, discovering its charm and distinctive character. Your exploration continues as you make your way to Vienna, the capital of Austria, a city steeped in imperial grandeur and artistic richness. At your own leisure, marvel at the architectural splendor and historical significance of Vienna's sites. If you are travelling in December, experience the magical ambiance of the Christmas markets at night. Or, indulge your senses with local delicacies, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, and peruse through a plethora of unique gifts.
Day 4 : Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a captivating sightseeing odyssey today, beginning with a scenic drive along the renowned Ringstrasse, where landmarks such as the Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, and Parliament grace your path. Stroll through the Hofburg courtyards, tracing the footsteps of history, until you reach the State Opera House. Marvel at the architectural magnificence that punctuates this iconic cityscape. Take a tour that unveils the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace, once the opulent summer abode of the Habsburg emperors. Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry as you traverse through the ornate halls and lush gardens of this imperial residence. You can also join our optional guided tour to Danube Tower and Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, an underground marvel nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Uncover the secrets of this centuries-old salt mine as you traverse its subterranean chambers.
Day 5 : Vienna, Salzburg, Munich
Location: Salzburg
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchen Messe - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a scenic journey from Vienna to Salzburg, a captivating city cradled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps. Take a guided tour through the highlights of Salzburg and acquaint yourself with the city's myriad attractions. Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where classical beauty converges with manicured landscapes. Venture to the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval stronghold perched majestically on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine panorama. Visit the awe-inspiring Salzburg Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Delve into the Mozart Residence, the former home of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, to gain insight into his life and musical genius. Later, we proceed towards the capital of Bavaria, Munich.
Day 6 : Munich
Location: Munich
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchecn Messe - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
We begin the day with an introductory stroll led by your group leader to discover key attractions like Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt. Marvel at the iconic Marienplatz, the city's vibrant central square, adorned with historical landmarks and surrounded by picturesque architecture. Explore the awe-inspiring Frauenkirche, a symbol of Munich's rich history and a testament to its resilience. For the rest of the day, enjoy free time at your own pace, or choose to engage in the optional excursion to the enchanting Linderhof Palace, a fairytale creation commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II, and Oberammergau, renowned for its celebrated passion play. At night, don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Bavarian beer in one of Munich's beer halls.
Day 7 : Munich, Regensburg, Prague
Location: Regensburg
Accommodation Name: TBC
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a picturesque morning journey from Munich to the charming city of Regensburg in Germany. Take your time to leisurely explore the enchanting delights of Regensburg, situated along the scenic Danube River. Renowned as one of Germany's largest and impeccably preserved medieval cities, Regensburg holds the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allow yourself to be captivated by the architectural marvels, including stunning churches and the one-of-a-kind medieval stone bridge that gracefully spans the majestic River Danube. Later on, ride to Prague and take a moment's rest to fuel up for a full day in Prague packed with popular sights.
Day 8 : Prague
Location: Prague
Accommodation Name: TBC
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a captivating day in Prague with a guided walking tour leading you through the picturesque Lesser Town (Malá Strana), also known as the charming Little Quarter. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this historic area, characterized by ancient burgher houses and winding quaint side streets. As you traverse the iconic Charles Bridge, Europe's venerable stone bridge, marvel at the breathtaking views that unfold before you, leading you to the heart of Prague's medieval center, the Old Town. Delve into the medieval charm of Old Town as you explore its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Square. Continue your journey into the Jewish Quarter, once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe, where you'll encounter the elegant white stucco St. Nicholas Church, the renowned Astronomical Clock, and the historic Town Hall. In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the hilltop Prague Castle complex, the former regal residence of Bohemian kings. Discover the magnificence of St. Vitus Cathedral, the hallowed space where kings were crowned, and be treated to spectacular vistas offering panoramic views of the entire city below. This comprehensive exploration promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Prague's history, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Day 9 : Prague - Bucharest (By Flight)
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Are you ready to say goodbye to Hungary and fly to Bucharest, Romania’s capital city. Upon arrival enjoy some free time to explore the city’s famous landmarks at your own leisure.
Day 10 : Bucharest City Tour
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a hefty breakfast at the hotel, it's time to launch our discovery of the fascinating Romanian capital, Bucharest. Follow your guide as we visit unmissable landmarks of the city starting with the Revolution Square, Arc of Triumph and Romania Athenaem. Learn about the unique culture and vast history of the city as we continue to the famous Opera House, National Military Club, Dimitrie Gusti National Village and the Palace of Parliament, each building presents a different perspective to the Romanian culture and an artwork in itself. After some personal leisure time for you to explore this gorgeous city on your own terms, return to the hotel following a long day of discovery.
Day 11 : Bucharest – Sinaia – Bran - Brasov
Location: Brasov
Accommodation Name: Hotel Ambient – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's the day we set course for the fascinating region of Transylvania. Drive through misty forests of lush green towards our first stop at Peles Castle in Sinaia, a beautiful neo-renaissance castle in the Carpathian mountains (Please note that it is not possible to visit inside of the castle). Just as we start to warm up to this unique atmosphere, goosebumps creep in... Prepare for the legendary Bran Castle, also known as the Castle of Count Dracula! This iconic sight is where legend and reality blend together to create the timeless stories of the vampires. Continue deep into Transylvania to Brasov, a fascinating town surrounded by medieval Saxon walls and embellished with gothic & baroque architecture. Starting with the cobble-stone Piata Sfatului (Council Square), visit famous landmarks as the Black Church and Muresenilor House Museum before checking into our hotel.
Day 12 : Brasov – Sighisoara – Targu Mures – Cluj Napoca
Location: Cluj-Napoca
Accommodation Name: Hotel River Park – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready to follow the footsteps of Count Dracula? Our journey continues to Sighisoara after making a stop at the Clock Tower. Soak in marvellous views of Sighisoara Citadel, the Dominican Monastery, The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), and Dracula's House while listening to your guide about the colourful background of the town. Our next stop will be the unofficial capital of the Transylvania region, Cluj-Napoca! Tag along your tour leader for a sightseeing tour of the colourful town, visiting the Union Square, St. Mihail Church and Matthias Corvinus Monument. Then make way to our 4-star hotel following a long day of discovery with spare time to scroll through your photo reel.
Day 13 : Cluj Napoca - Salina Turda – Hunedeoara – Sibiu
Location: Sibiu
Accommodation Name: Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the salt mines of Turda. This fascinating geologic wonder first produced salt for the region in antique times and has been active since the 11th century! Continuing to Hunedeoara Castle, also known as the Corvin Castle, learn all about the vibrant history of the Transylvanian citadel from your guide. Our next stop will be the fairytale-like town of Sibiu. Relax at our comfortable 4-star hotel following a day filled with cultural adventure or start exploring Sibiu as you wish.
Day 14 : Sibiu – Bucharest
Location: Sibiu
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
We start our day with a walking tour of charming Sibiu. Presenting marvellous samples of Germanic architecture, Sibiu's legacy dates back to Saxxon settlers from the 12th century. Tag along your tour leader to view landmarks such as Brukenthal Palace, Piata Mare (city square), Lutheran Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. In the afternoon, we will be heading back to Bucharest for our overnight stay.
Day 15 : Bucharest - Plovdiv
Location: Plovdiv
Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time to bid farewell to Romania as we embark our ride for Veliko Tarnavo, the City of the Tsars. The historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire displays the unique Bulgarian architecture from the medieval age. Uncover the vast history and gems including Tsareverts Fortress and the Holy Forty Martyrs Church before moving on to Plovdiv.
Day 16 : Plovdiv - Sofia
Location: Plovdiv
Accommodation Name: Novotel Sofia – 4 Star or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fill up at breakfast at the hotel as we prepare for a city tour of beautiful Plovdiv. Launching our tour at Old Plovdiv in Nebet Hill, visit the Balabanov and Georgi Mavridi House, witness the impressive St. Konstantin Church and Elena Church, and proceed to Roman Amphitheatre of Philippopolis and Stadium - some of the best-preserved samples of Roman architecture in the world. Then we continue to visit the Citadel Door, Castle Streets and St. Nedelya Church. Having explored the marvels of Plovdiv, we embark for Sofia! Upon arrival, discover the Bulgarian capital on a panoramic city tour covering all the unmissable sights of the city and learn about its rooted history.
Day 17 : Sofia, Belgrade
Location: Belgrade
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 18 : Belgrade-Sarajevo
Location: Sarajevo
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 19 : Sarajevo-Mostar-Trebinje
Location: Mostar
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 20 : Trebinje-Dubrovnik-Trebinje
Location: Dubrovnik
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 21 : Trebinje-Kotor-Shkodra
Location: Kotor
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Europa – 5 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. Departure to Albania, which is our final destination for the day. Shkoder is one of the most authentic cities in Albania. Walking tour through the centre. Overnight in Shkoder.
Day 22 : Shkodra-Tirana-Ohrid
Location: Tirana
Accommodation Name: Hotel Aqualina – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hit the road after breakfast! 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 23 : Ohrid-St.Naum-Skopje
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation Name: Hotel Next Door – 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 24 : Skopje-Sofia
Location: Skopje
Accommodation Name: Novotel Sofia – 4 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, leave for Sofia, where you can explore the shopping streets and the nightlife as you wish.
Day 25 : Sofia
Location: Sofia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, your unforgettable Central, Eastern Europe & Balkans tour comes to an end. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the magnificent Europe until next time!
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 Star Hotels are provided throughout the tour.
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Meals
24 Breakfasts are included in the tour package.
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Transportation
Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus.
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Tour Guiding
Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism are included.
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Flights
A flight from Prague to Bucharest is included in the tour.
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Wifi
Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access is available where possible.
What's Not Included
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Any flights not mentioned above
Flights other than the one from Prague to Bucharest are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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Meals not stated above
Meals other than the 24 breakfasts are not included.
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Items of a personal nature
Personal expenses are not covered in the tour package.
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Tips and gestures
Tips and gestures are not included and are at the discretion of the traveler.
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Entrance fees to the sights and museums
Entrance fees to sights and museums are not included unless specified.
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Optional activities
Optional activities are not included and may incur additional costs.
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Other services not stated in the itinerary
Any services not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
Add Ons
Local Payment: £0
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with air-conditioned coaches or mini-buses, ensuring a seamless transition between cities. Enjoy a flight from Prague to Bucharest, enhancing your journey across Eastern and Central Europe.
Accommodation
Experience top-notch 4-star accommodations throughout your journey, providing a comfortable and luxurious retreat at each stop, including renowned hotels like NH City Budapest, Best Western Plus, and Hotel Mercure Unirii.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides accommodation in 4-star hotels throughout the journey.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 24 breakfasts as part of the package.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus for transportation between destinations.
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Is there a flight included in the tour itinerary?
Yes, there is a flight included from Prague to Bucharest as part of the tour.
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Will there be a tour guide during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes the services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.
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Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access is available where possible during the tour.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?
Entrance fees to sights and museums are not included in the tour price and are considered exclusions.
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What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities include a Danube River Cruise at Night, Schonbrunn Palace tour, and a Medieval Dinner Show in Prague, among others.
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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.
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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.
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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
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 20 years
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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.
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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.
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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.