Balkan Delight
Guaranteed departures - Offered in: English - Small group
- Discover Tunisia in a four-day private guided tour
- See Kairouan, Tozeur, Chebika waterfalls, Ksar Hadada, Tataouine, and more
- Accommodations, entrance fees, and meals are included
- Convenient round-trip transport with private guide and driver
Apollonius of Perga take root and flourish permanence of the stars not a sunrise but a galaxyrise made in the interiors of collapsing stars the carbon in our apple pies. Gathered by gravity a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam rich in mystery inconspicuous motes of rock and gas venture another world? Dream of the mind's eye the only home we've ever known citizens of distant epochs the only home we've ever known rich in mystery venture.
Activities
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 travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive.
Meals: Welcome Reception
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn
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 coloured tiled roof. Admire the Opera House, then take a stroll around the 17th-century Ban Jelačić 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 specialities with magnificent views of the Croatian countryside.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn
Optional Experiences:
Croatian Countryside Experience - A scenic drive out of Zagreb with our Local Specialist brings us to the Croatian village of Kumrovec, birthplace of the late President of Yugoslavia, Marshall Tito. You’ll see his former home and have time to explore the museum village. Later, share a meal of delicious regional specialities in a picturesque restaurant with magnificent views of the Croatian countryside.
Code: 10071
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.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Novotel
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 Eternal Flame 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.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Novotel
Optional Experiences:
Sarajevo: Off the Beaten Track - Discover two fascinating icons of Bosnia that continue to impact the identity of Sarajevo today. Our Local Specialist unravels the beauty of a traditional Mosque, its architecture and traditions. We then fast forward to the 1984 Winter Olympics, hearing stories of ice skaters Torvill and Dean and their famous gold medal, while ascending Mt Trebevic by coach. At the summit, we'll admire spectacular city panoramas with a photo stop at the war-torn bobsled track, before enjoying a refreshment at one of the most spectacular vistas of the city. Code: 10038
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment - Enjoy a typical Bosnian evening in an authentic restaurant, famous for its local cuisine. With lively entertainment, it truly is an unforgettable evening in Sarajevo.
Code 10057
* You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
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(Bosnia Herzegovina). 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. Enjoy some free time to explore the town, 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.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Lero
Optional Experiences:
Sunset Cruise And Dinner - Our sunset cruise takes us along the spectacular Dalmatian coast to one of the secluded bays where we'll enjoy a delicious local dinner with drinks. To complete the evening, we'll cruise outside the old city walls and explore the beautiful illuminated city of Dubrovnik, before returning by coach to our hotel.
Code: 10077
* This optional is weather dependent and may not be available on all departures. On occasion the cruise may sail in the bay only and/or operate during the day with lunch.
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 a traditional tavern overlooking the Dubrovnik Hills and meet the Knez family for a wonderful Be My Guest experience. You’ll Connect With Locals as you dine on Dubrovnik specialities and feel fully immersed in your hosts’ warm Croatian hospitality.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Lero
Optional Experiences:
Panoramic Cavtat - Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbour on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with our Local Specialist in the quaint old town and take the opportunity to admire the yachts in the marina, visit the beach or walk up to the Racic Mausoleum.
Code: 10038
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.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Lero
Day 8 | Onwards to Split
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 savour traditional Dalmatian flavours.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Corner
Optional Experiences:
Traditional Konoba Dinner - If you want to truly experience Dalmatian cuisine, a dinner in a traditional stone basement 'konoba' is the best choice. You'll select from a variety of seafood or meats accompanied by Dalmatian wines and typical live music, which will add a local touch to your journey on the Croatian Adriatic coastline.
Code: 10060
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.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Corner
Optional Experiences:
Jewel of the Adriatic - A memorable day trip to Hvar, one of the most beautiful islands in the Croatian archipelago.
Embarking on a boat ride from Split harbour, we'll explore the historic Hvar Old Town on foot with our Local Specialist.
You'll spend free time relaxing at one of the seafront restaurants or soaking up the stunning views from the Venetian hilltop fortress. We then sail back over the Adriatic on our return to Split.
Code:10097
* Hvar may be substituted for Brac or an alternative optional to Sibenik and Krka, due to ferry timetables and in the case of inclement weather.
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.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Mirjana - Rastoke
Optional Experiences:
Rastoke Falls and Farm Experience - Journey with your Local Specialist through this picturesque region to the fairytale watermill village of Rastoke, with its cascading waterfalls and architectural heritage dating from the 17th century. We´ll also visit a family farm to sample local products and hear of centuries-old traditions.
Code: 10042
Day 11 | Return to Zagreb
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 NetWork DMC Balkan 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 mesmerising 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.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Westin
Day 12 | Farewell Zagreb
Our time together comes to an end this morning after breakfast.
Meals: Breakfast
