Welcome to Sofia, the laidback capital city of Bulgaria, where your extraordinary 11-day adventure through the ‘powder keg of Europe’, across seven countries, begins. On arrival at Sofia Airport (SOF), you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, join your fellow travellers and tour director for a meet and greet. Tonight, why not join an optional group dinner and share delicious Balkan cuisine – with a Bulgarian twist – followed by a myriad of tasty desserts? (Surcharges apply).

Accommodation: Hilton Sofia

Optional Activity:

• Group dinner (from EUR25 per person).

After a filling breakfast, embark on an adventure through the streets of Sofia, visiting impressive landmarks, such as the SS. Cyril and Methodius National Library, Sofia University, and the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria parliament building. You will also be given the opportunity to see the St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and Saint Sofia Church. Hear insightful commentary about the diverse history of Bulgaria and the communist era throughout your tour, before visiting the Council of Ministers building, the presidency, and the former communist party headquarters.

Later, take a scenic drive to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. After check-in at your hotel, enjoy time at leisure, perhaps roaming the vibrant shopping streets before sampling the local cuisine during dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Metropol Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Belgrade

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

The day is yours to soak in all the beauty Belgrade offers. Kickstart your sightseeing experience with a guided tour of the city, featuring the bustling shopping street Knez Mihailova. Then, roam the Belgrade Fortress, overlooking the merging of the Danube and Sava rivers, before uncovering a marvelous blend of medieval and modern architecture in the heart of the city.

With time at leisure, you’ll have ample opportunity to shop around, continue your cultural discovery and sip delicious cocktails at one of the many floating river clubs. Tonight, dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel.

Accommodation: Metropol Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Belgrade

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Bid farewell to buzzing Belgrade as you journey through green forests to meet the multi-colored fabric of Bosnia and Herzegovina at Sarajevo. Witnessing the start of World War I, the splitting of the Eastern and Western Roman Empire, and the devastating Yugoslav War, the marks of history are hidden around every corner in this intruiging city. As you are led through the charming old town and the Baščaršija bazaar, prepare to learn all about the rich heritage of the country. Tonight, make sure to try traditional Turkish coffee for the best finish to your dinner.

Accommodation: Swissotel Sarajevo

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning, transfer to the adorable village of Mostar – famously known for the gorgeous Stari Most (Mostar Bridge), a rebuilt 16th-century structure and a prime example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans. Join your guide for a walking tour over the Stari Most and through the old čaršija (market), which still features the authentic style of the 15th century in its splendid architecture. Be sure to sample the delicious cuisine over lunch at one of the many fantastic eateries located in the area (own expense). In the afternoon, depart for Trebinje, where dinner is enjoyed at your hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel Central Park
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Ready your cameras (and sunscreen) as you head out to the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik. Crossing into Croatia, 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 before meeting your local expert at the gates to begin your guided city tour. Learn about the intriguing history of the once-great city-state, thriving through its maritime connections and protected by its gigantic ramparts. After you cover the must-see highlights, you will have personal leisure time in the afternoon for your preferred activities, whether it be 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. After, return to Trebinje and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel Central Park

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional Activity:

• Dubrovnik boat trip (from EUR125 per person. Minimum of 10 passengers required).

Follow the mountains along the coast today enroute to Kotor. Here, join a walking tour of St. John’s Fortress and Old Town, wandering the labyrinthine narrow streets. With an afternoon at leisure, choose to hike to the top of the incredible fortress for spectacular views over the Bay of Kotor or capture the prettiest pictures of the remarkable medieval village. Afterwards, you will travel to one of the oldest cities in the Balkans – Shkoder, Albania – for dinner and a relaxing stay.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Europa

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Start your journey into Albanian culture as you embark on a walking tour of Shkodër, witnessing the influence of Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans reflected in the town’s fabric. Then, venture towards the centre of culture, religion, arts and entertainment, the charming capital of Tirana. On a panoramic city tour, savour the finest samples of Albanian architecture, portraying the influence of various cultures. Following a sightseeing tour of the popular sights and the bustling Skanderbeg Square, your journey continues into Ohrid, North Macedonia. Enjoy dinner before time at leisure, or join an exciting optional Balkan Night Show dinner to familiarise yourself with the local culture.

Accommodation: Hotel Unique Resort & Spa

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional Activity:

• Balkan Night Show dinner (from EUR40 per person).

Today, head to Ohrid’s old town for a guided tour to discover the hidden chapels and stunning sights scattered along the narrow cobblestone streets. Then, depart for the gorgeous Monastery of St. Naum, a 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, enjoy an afternoon of relaxation before returning to Ohrid for dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Unique Resort & Spa

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Following breakfast, part with the stunning Lake Ohrid and drive to the Macedonian capital, Skopje. Following a scenic ride through lush fields, hills and mountains, arrive in Skopje and check in to your hotel before joining a guided tour of the city, following in 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. Enjoy time at leisure to dive deep into history and find every hidden landmark, or stroll down the vibrant main street hosting many local cafés, bars and restaurants.

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Skopje

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Your incredible Balkans adventure comes to an end following breakfast. Make sure to bid farewell to your fellow travellers and newfound friends before taking your transfer to Skopje International Airport (SKP) for your return flight home.

Meals: Breakfast