Treasures of the Balkans - Small Group
Treasures of the Balkans - Small Group
Treasures of the Balkans - Small Group
15 Days Starting in Bucharest and ending in Belgrade
Visiting: Bucharest, Bran Castle, Brașov, Sinaia, Brasov, Veliko Tarnovo, Sofia, Arbanasi, Skopje, Tirana, Lake Ohrid, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Mostar, Sarajevo, Belgrade
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-96
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Explore the former Communist headquarters of Romania in Bucharest, see Bulgaria’s Roman ruins in Sofia and marvel at Bosnia’s Tunnel of Hope in Sarajevo. After exploring the medieval city of Bra?ov, take the mountain roads to the Transylvanian border and join a private visit of Bran Castle after hours - better known as Dracula’s haunted abode in Bram Stoker’s infamous novel, followed by private dinner. Delve into the myths and legends before adventuring onwards to Mostar, where a Local Expert guides you through the city’s iconic sights ahead of a Sarajevo Dine at Home experience. Sit down with a Sarajevan family for a feast of local delicacies, traditional Bosnian coffee and tales of local life before your adventure ends in Belgrade.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome To Bucharest
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation: InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest
Meals Included: Dinner, with Wine
Transfers depart Henri Coandă International Airport at 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00 for your hotel, which is one of the city's most sophisticated and prestigious landmarks. At 18:00, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for your Welcome Dinner, served with wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2 : Bucharest And Castles Of Transylvania
Location: Bucharest, Bran Castle, Brașov, Sinaia
Accommodation: Aro Palace Brasov.
Accommodation Name: Aro Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Join a Local Expert for sightseeing to view University Square and the former communist headquarters. Visit the immense Parliament Palace, one of the most impressive buildings in the world. This evening after the crowds have left enjoy a private visit to the iconic Bran Castle, said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. Learn about Queen Maria of Romania, the last inhabitant of the castle, visit the torture rooms and relive the tales of the infamous Count Dracula. Finish with a delicious private dinner in the recently renovated Queen Mary’s Tea House.
Day 3 : Brasov And Sinaia
Location: Brasov, Sinaia
Accommodation: Aro Palace Brasov.
Accommodation Name: Aro Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
With your Local Expert, walk around Town Hall Square, lined with beautiful red-roofed houses and dominated by the Black Church. Travel along the Prahova Valley to the elegant mountain resort of Sinaia to visit Peleș Castle. Led by a local historian, admire the lavish rooms filled with art, armour and tapestries. Return through the Carpathian Mountains to the charming medieval city of Brașov, founded in 1211 by the Teutonic Knights.
Day 4 : Veliko Tarnovo
Location: Veliko Tarnovo, Brasov
Accommodation: Hotel, Aro Palace Brasov.
Accommodation Name: Yantra Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the Danube into Bulgaria and continue to Veliko Tarnovo, the City of the Tsars, where houses cling to the cliffs of the River Yantra, making it one of the country's most beautiful towns. In the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Day 5 : To Sofia Relaxed Start
Location: Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi
Accommodation: InterContinental Sofia.
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Meet your Local Expert to climb up to the ruined Tsarevets Fortress, a reminder of the town's former imperial status. Enjoy the stunning views over the old Bulgarian capital and the Yantra Valley. Arbanasi is one of Bulgaria’s most beautiful villages and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The frescoed churches and fortified dwellings offer a unique insight into the former wealth and spiritual commitment of the settlement. Visit a traditional 17th century merchant's house and the Church of the Holy Nativity. Cross the Balkan Mountains to Bulgaria's modern day capital of Sofia. On arrival, sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you to St. Sofia Church, across the square from the golden domed St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the archaeological complex, dominated by the church of St. George Rotonda.
Day 6 : Sofia At Your Pace Relaxed Start
Location: Sofia
Accommodation: InterContinental Sofia.
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy the day at your leisure. Perhaps visit the Rila Monastery or enjoy a fascinating insight into the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria?
Day 7 : Skopje
Location: Sofia, Skopje
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bushi Resort & Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the border and continue to the North Macedonian capital of Skopje, an ultra-modern city juxtaposed by an ancient bazaar, where Turkish influences can still be seen and felt. Enjoy sightseeing with a Local Expert.
Day 8 : Lake Ohrid And Tirana
Location: Tirana, Skopje, Lake Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel, MAK Albania Tirana.
Accommodation Name: MAK Albania Hotel Tirana
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Making your way to the border, stop by the scenic Lake Ohrid for lunch. Cross into Albania and journey to Tirana, renowned for its friendly locals. Continue to the landmark Skanderbeg Square for an insider’s look at the Albanian capital.
Day 9 : Kotor And Dubrovnik
Location: Tirana, Dubrovnik, Kotor
Accommodation: Hotel, Kompas Dubrovnik.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Journey through the spectacular scenery of Montenegro to the Old Town of Kotor, known as Stari Grad. Located beside a beautiful bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen, its no surprise it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue over the Croatian border to the fortified port of Dubrovnik where you are at leisure to explore the Old Town, bustling with street artists, cafes and restaurants.At night, you may choose from a fine selection of restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening.
Day 10 : Dubrovnik Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Hotel, Kompas Dubrovnik.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert for a morning of exploring the stone-paved streets within the 16th century bastions. See Onofrio's Fountain and the Rector's Palace, the city walls and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries. The rest of the day is free for you to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings. Perhaps enjoy an Optional Experience to a stunning town on the Adriatic coast, Cavtat, where you can wander along the pine-forest paths beside the crystal-clear sea. Visit the workshop of Deša during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This important educational centre supports vulnerable communities and promotes local cultural heritage.
Day 11 : Dubrovnik, Paradise On Earth Relaxed Start
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Hotel, Kompas Dubrovnik.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend a day at leisure in the Pearl of the Adriatic. Sunbathe by the pool or stroll with friends along the ancient city walls. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to learn about olive oil traditions at an ancient mill, followed by a delightful home-cooked meal.
Day 12 : Mostar And Sarajevo
Location: Mostar, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik
Accommodation: Swissotel Sarajevo.
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Journey to Mostar. With your Local Expert, see the famous Stari Most, the Old Bridge, reconstructed after being almost completely destroyed during the war. Explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, stretching on both sides of the bridge and filled with shops selling traditional handicrafts. Continue your travels following the scenic route to Sarajevo for a unique and rewarding insight into the local way of life as you are invited into a Sarajevan family home for a dinner with drinks. Savour the authentic cuisine and traditional Bosnian coffee as you hear inspirational stories.
Day 13 : Sarajevo, City Of Culture
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation: Swissotel Sarajevo.
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Sarajevo with Insight Choice. Choose to meet an expert on the Bosnian War for a visit to Sarajevo’s astonishing Tunnel of Hope. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience for a nature walk to the spring of the Bosna River, a protected park just beyond the city, led by a conservation guide. The rest of the afternoon is for you to explore as you wish.
Day 14 : The Serbian Capital Of Belgrade Relaxed Start
Location: Belgrade, Sarajevo
Accommodation: Hotel, Radisson Collection Old Mill Belgrade.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Collection Hotel, Old Mill Belgrade
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Trace your way along the Drina River, that lies on the border of Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Take in beautiful landscapes of lush, green mountains that create magical forest canyons, winding your way through deep valleys as you make your way to Belgrade.
Day 15 : The Best Of Belgrade Relaxed Start
Location: Belgrade
Accommodation: Hotel, Radisson Collection Old Mill Belgrade.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Collection Hotel, Old Mill Belgrade
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert to see the best of Belgrade including Terazije Street, the national museum and national theatre in Republic Square, as well as a visit to the famous St. Sava Church. Finish your sightseeing at the Kalemegdan Fortress, situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before joining your fellow travellers for a Celebration Farewell Dinner this evening.
Day 16 : Farewell Belgrade
Location: Belgrade
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our journey through the Balkans has come to an end. All that’s left is to say a fond doviđenja as you bid your new friends farewell.
What's Included
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Meals
Includes 14 breakfasts, 8 dinners with wine.
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Accommodation
Stay in hand-picked hotels throughout the tour.
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Transport
Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned coach.
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Expert Guides
Local experts provide insightful, personalized tours.
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Unique Experiences
Enjoy a variety of experiences, such as a private dinner in Bran Castle, a visit to a local family in Sarajevo, and a nature walk to the spring of the Bosna River.
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Sightseeing
Includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historical landmarks, and cultural highlights across multiple countries.
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Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi in hotels and on the coach.
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Luggage Handling
Luggage handling services to your hotel rooms.
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Transfers
Scheduled airport transfers on arrival and departure days.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International flights to and from the start and end points of the tour are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered in the tour package.
Please refer to the itinerary for details. -
Optional Experiences
Costs for optional experiences available during the tour are not included and can be purchased during the tour.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar, room service, and other personal items are not included.
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Visa Fees
Any applicable visa fees are not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodations can be expected on this tour?
The tour includes stays in various types of accommodations, including hotels like the Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest, Aro Palace, Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia, MAK Albania Hotel Tirana, Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik, Swissotel Sarajevo, and Radisson Collection Hotel, Old Mill Belgrade.
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Is there any free time or leisure time included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes free time or leisure time, such as a day at leisure in Sofia and time to explore Dubrovnik on your own.
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Does the tour offer any experiences that advance UN Sustainable Development Goals?
Yes, the tour offers an experience that advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality, by visiting the workshop of Deša in Dubrovnik, an organisation that supports refugees, women victims of violence, and advocates for women's rights.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The ending location of the tour is Belgrade.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The starting location of the tour is Bucharest.
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What countries does the Treasures of the Balkans - Small Group tour visit?
The Treasures of the Balkans - Small Group tour visits Romania, Bulgaria, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, and Macedonia.
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Are there any castle visits included in the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary includes a private after-hours visit of Bran Castle, followed by dinner.
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Are there any activities related to the Bosnian War included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes activities related to the Bosnian War, such as meeting an expert of the Bosnian War for a visit to Sarajevo's Tunnel of Hope and hearing a first-hand account of when the city was under siege for 44 months.
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What are some of the cultural highlights of the tour?
Cultural highlights of the tour include experiencing authentic Bosnian coffee and its traditional ritual of coffee preparation, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Arbanasi, and enjoying a Dine-Around Evening in Dubrovnik.
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How many dinners with wine are included in the tour?
The tour includes 14 dinners with wine.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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