11-Nights Balkan Delight from $3,173

Trafalgar

OFFER ID 1478047

Balkan Delight
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.


Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 5 Dinner (D)
Be My Guest
  • Dubrovnik: Travel to the Konavle area to gain a deep appreciation for Croatian hospitality as you to enjoy a Be My Guest experience at a local winery.
Dive Into Culture
  • Split: See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century.
Iconic Experience
  • 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.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
  • Mostar: Meet Denis, one of the last traditional coppersmith artisans in Mostar. Learn about the techniques required to design elaborate copper jewelery and appreciate the importance of this traditional craft during a lively demonstration. Your experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 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. This experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 14 & 15: Life Below Water & Life on Land.
Must-see Highlights
  • : Explore Zagreb, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Split, Trogir, and Plitvice National Park
  • : 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
Whats Included
  • : 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
  • : On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Whats Included
  • 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
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.


11 nights from $3,173 per person

Itinerary

Trafalgar Tours: Balkan Delight

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.
Accommodations: Zonar Zagreb
Meals: Welcome Reception

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 Jelacic 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.
Accommodations: Zonar Zagreb
Meals: Breakfast

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.
Accommodations: Novotel Bristol
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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 Latin Bridge 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.
Accommodations: Novotel Bristol
Meals: Breakfast

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.
Accommodations: Lero
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - Discover Picturesque Dubrovnik
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 Winery Botaro 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.
Accommodations: Lero
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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.
Accommodations: Lero
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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.
Accommodations: Corner
Meals: Breakfast

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.
Accommodations: Corner
Meals: Breakfast

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.
Accommodations: Palcich
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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.
Accommodations: Zonar Zagreb
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12 - Farewell Zagreb
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast.
Meals: Breakfast

Featured Destinations
Zagreb
Sarajevo
Dubrovnik
Kotor
Split
Plitvice National Park

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges
08/03/2024 - 08/14/2024
from $3,173 per person *
09/14/2024 - 09/25/2024
from $3,650 per person *
09/21/2024 - 10/02/2024
from $3,285 per person *
10/05/2024 - 10/16/2024
from $3,263 per person *


* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
Prices Start At
from $3,173 per person
Length
11 Nights
Air City
Call for airfares from your city.
Vacation Rating
Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.
Remarks
Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID
1478047

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Rio Grande Travel Centers, Inc.

6500 Holly Ave. NE Suite A-2
Albuquerque, NM 87113
USA

(505) 292-7044
(877) 768-7913