11 days tour

Highlights Of Balkans Luxury Tour

Highlights Of Balkans Luxury Tour

This tour includes:

Accommodation

Accommodation in top-class, authentic, comfortable and ideally located hotels. - Knowing that your accommodation may separate a great holiday than a perfect one, we take ultimate care in choosing each location we host you. Only the truly exceptional in terms of comfort, character, amenities, location and service are suitable to our standards. With a range of premium hotels and authentic accommodation, each of our carefully-selected hotels provide comfortable and air-conditioned rooms, quality breakfasts, relaxing bars and lounges, and impeccable service by a professional and friendly team. - Please note that accommodation is based on twin/double occupancy, alternatively you may upgrade to a solo room for comfort and convenience. In rare cases of low availability at our preferred hotels, accommodation of similar standards will be used. - Hilton Sofia In the heart of Sofia and surrounded by South Park, Hilton Sofia offers modern accommodations, premium amenities and stunning views of Vitosha Mountain. Hilton Sofia is located in the city center and just over a mile from Sofia attractions including Alexander Newsky Cathedral and nine miles from UNESCO World Heritage Site Boyana Church. Sofia International Airport, just 25 minutes away. - Hotel Metropol Palace Metropol Palace is a stunning Luxury Collection Hotel in the very center of Belgrade with its park surroundings. With its exceptional accommodation and impeccable service, Metropol Palace offers you an unforgettable experience. The hotel features 198 beautifully appointed guest rooms and 38 suites including breath-taking Belgrade Suite and Presidential Suite. The various hotel venues - ballrooms, conference halls, fine dining restaurant, lobby, bar and park garden can accommodate all types of business and leisure events. The luxurious Limegrove Fitness & Spa Center encompasses a 25-meter long pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, relaxation area, steam bath, ice fountain and 6 treatment rooms. - Swissotel Sarajevo Located in the city center, where hospitality is part of the nature of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Swissotel Sarajevo offers contemporary and modern designed rooms with stunning views, free Wi-Fi, state of the art Wellness and Spa facilities, as well as two restaurants. All of the 218 comfortable rooms and suites of the Swissotel Sarajevo feature a flat-screen TV, coffee and tea making facilities, large windows with accompanying seating duvets, walk in shower and an electronic safe. Traditional Bosnian food, with a touch of international and oriental cuisine, is all served within The Fusion restaurant. - Central Park Hotel The hotel is located in a building that has a very interesting history and tradition. It was built in 1894, shortly after the Austro-Hungarian monarchy came to these spaces, in the architectural style that dominated in the second half of the 19th century. The authentic appearance of the building is preserved during its restoration. Hotel Central Park is a 4* hotel strategically situated in the heart of city Trebinje. - Grand Hotel Europa Grand Hotel Europa provides 50 rooms with a panoramic view of the mountain. Since 1998, it has been hosting guests in Shkoder. This venue offers 24-hour front desk assistance, laundry and a doctor on call as well as a night club, a sunbathing terrace and an indoor swimming pool. - Hotel Unique Resort and Spa Situated in Ohrid, 2.1 km from Cuba Libre Beach, Unique - Resort and SPA features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. With a bar, the property also has a garden, as well as water sports facilities. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and luggage storage for guests.

Hygieneprotocol

For any tour departing from February 1st, 2023, we wonโ€™t be requiring travelers to be vaccinated. However, we strongly recommend that all travelers and staff are vaccinated to protect other tour members as well as the communities visited. Some countries and airlines may still request travelers to be vaccinated, so please make sure to check travel and entry requirements thoroughly.

Transport

Transportation in deluxe air-conditioned coach or mini-bus throughout the journey. Complimentary private airport transfers on arrival and departure dates. - Whatever means of transport you take, every bit of your trip will be seamlessly organized and coordinated by our team for you to enjoy the comfort and convenience of Ciconiaโ€™s luxury. Our modern coaches are among the most efficient and comfortable in Europe, Middle-East and Africa featuring air-conditioning, comfortable seats, panoramic windows, secure storage and a sound system. Expert coach drivers ensure you arrive to your destination safely, seamlessly and on time through the best and picturesque routes.

Meals

10 Breakfasts, 9 Dinners

Guide

Local & Expert Travel Director throughout your trip. - The best way to really discover a culture is through people who live there. This is why weโ€™ve always built our tours with local and expert travel directors hosting unparalleled knowledge and insights on a destination as natives to the local culture. Our expert Travel Directors will ensure a seamless and comfortable journey while opening new doors hidden to independent travellers. They will serve as your ultimate guide giving the best insightful advice to support unforgettable moments turn into your life-long memories.

Others

Unique itineraries with must-see sights, hidden gems & authentic experiences. Entrance fees to all cultural, historical and natural sites on tour. Seamless baggage handling, delivered to your room at every hotel. Tips at the hotels and restaurants, all taxes and porterage fees. Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi (where available). - Ciconia is a specialist tour operator, focusing all efforts on 6 marvellous destinations. This expertise brings unparalleled advantages not only in terms of price, but all aspects of service quality. Closely controlling all operations in these destinations allows us to completely familiarize with a country and its culture, and discover all the nuances to make your tour an absolutely unique experience. This insight is then reflected to our toursโ€™ concept, quality and price for your enjoyment.

Not included:

Others

Any flights not stated in the itinerary Travel insurance Meals not stated in the itinerary Items of a personal nature Visa fees Optional activities Other services not stated in the itinerary

Optional

Other activities and services not mentioned in the itinerary.

Insurance

Personal Travel Insurance is not included.

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Highlights Of Balkans Luxury Tour

  • Day 1 Day 1: Sofia
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Sofia

      Prepare for an intriguing adventure through the โ€˜powder keg of Europeโ€™ over twelve days and seven countries. Upon arrival in Sofia, you will be transferred to your hotel by a Ciconia representative at the airport. In the afternoon, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Greet the delicious Balkan cuisine starting with a Bulgarian twist at a group dinner. Always allow some room for the myriad of tasty desserts available.   


      Hotel: Hilton Sofia 5*  

      Optional Experiences: Group Dinner  

      Meals: No

  • Day 2 Day 2: Sofia - Belgrade
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Sofia - Belgrade

      Enjoy a filling breakfast at our hotel before embarking on an adventure through the streets of Sofia with our expert local guide visiting a myriad of impressive sights such as National Library, Sofia University, The Parliament, and continue on to The St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the National Theatre and St. Sofia Church. Your guide will provide insightful commentary about the diverse history of Bulgaria and the communist era as you visit the houses of the Council of Ministers, presidency and the former communist party headquarters. Take a scenic drive passing hills and green forests, arrive in the Serbian capital, Belgrade. Presenting stunning views of the Sava and Danube rivers with the Belgrade Fortress in the background. After we check into our hotel, enjoy your personal leisure time to launch your own discovery. Sample the local cuisine in fine fashion at your hotel and roam the vibrant shopping streets.   

      Hotel: Hotel Metropol Palace 5*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Sofia Guided Tour

  • Day 3 Day 3: Belgrade
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Belgrade

      The day is yours to soak in all the beauty Belgrade offers. Launch your adventure with a comprehensive guided tour of the city at the bustling shopping street Knez Mihailova. Roam the Belgrade Fortress overlooking a merge of Danube and Sava Rivers with feudal cannons in display โ€“ declared a Monument of Culture of Great Importance. Uncover the marvellous blend of medieval and modern through a myriad of impressive sites at the heart of the city. You will have plentiful personal leisure time in the afternoon to shop around, continue your cultural discovery and sip delicious cocktails at a contemporary local bar. Your dinner seat is reserved at our hotelโ€™s impressive restaurant.   

      Hotel: Hotel Metropol Palace 5*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Belgrade Guided Tour

  • Day 4 Day 4: Belgrade - Sarajevo
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Belgrade - Sarajevo

      Bidding farewell to the buzzing Belgrade, we embark on a journey through green forests to meet the multi-coloured fabric of Bosnia & Herzegovina at Sarajevo. Home to people of various religions, ethnic and cultural background, the diverse architectural and cultural landscape is reflected all around the town. Witnessing the start of World War 1, splitting of the Eastern and Western Roman Empire, and the devastating Yugoslav War in recent history; the marks of history are hidden around every corner. As your Travel Director and local expert guide you through the charming old town and the Bascarsija, learn all about the rich history of the country. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. Make sure to try traditional Turkish coffee for the best finish to your dinner.   


      Hotel: Swissotel Sarajevo 5*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Sarajevo Guided Tour

  • Day 5 Day 5: Sarajevo - Mostar - Trebinje
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Sarajevo - Mostar - Trebinje

      Drive through lush fields and valleys towards the adorable village of Mostar. Famously known for the gorgeous stone bridge in the old town, a prime example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, designed by a student of the Great Ottoman architect, Sinan. Join your guide for a walking tour through the Stari Most and the old carsija (market), still presenting the authentic style of 15th century in its splendid architecture. Sample the delicious cuisine over lunch at one of the lovely venues and complete your discovery. In the afternoon, we depart for Trebinje, located by the border with Croatia. We arrive just in time for dinner at our hotel, where we will spend two nights.   


      Hotel: Central Park Hotel 4*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Mostar Guided Tour

  • Day 6 Day 6: Trebinje - Dubrovnik - Trebinje
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Trebinje - Dubrovnik - Trebinje

      Ready your cameras and sunscreen as we head out to the โ€˜Pearl of the Adriaticโ€™, Dubrovnik. Crossing into Croatia with a short ride, 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, and meet your local expert at the gates to launch your guided tour of Dubrovnik. Learn about the intriguing history of the once-great city state, thriving through its maritime connections and protected by its gigantic ramparts. As we cover the must-see highlights, relax at a breezy restaurant over a delicious seafood lunch. You will have personal leisure time in the afternoon for your preferred activities, whether 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. We drive back to Trebinje for dinner at our hotel.   


      Hotel: Central Park Hotel 4*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Dubrovnik Guided Tour  

      Optional Experiences: Dubrovnik Boat Trip

  • Day 7 Day 7: Trebinje - Kotor - Shkodra
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Trebinje - Kotor - Shkodra

      Our adventure continues to a less crowded, but just as impressive location. Driving along the skirts of mountains along the coast, we reach Kotor surrounded by monumental walls. Join a walking tour in the old town fortress with your expert local guide and Travel Director, wandering the labyrinthine narrow streets. Enjoy a refreshing lunch at a local restaurant and pace your adventure with personal leisure time in the afternoon. You can hike to the top of the incredible fortress for spectacular views over Kotor Bay or capture the prettiest pictures of the remarkable medieval village. Travel to one of the oldest cities in the Balkans as we cross into Albania, Shkodra, for dinner and a relaxing stay at our hotel.   


      Hotel: Grand Hotel Europa 5*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Kotor Guided Tour

  • Day 8 Day 8: Shkodra - Tirana - Ohrid
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Shkodra - Tirana - Ohrid

      Starting our journey into Albanian culture, we embark on a walking tour of Shkodra witnessing the influence of Romans, Byzantine, Greek and Ottomans reflected in the townโ€™s fabric. Continue towards the centre of culture, religion, arts and entertainment, the charming capital of Tirana. With a panoramic city tour, savour the finest samples of Albanian architecture portraying the influence of various cultures. After a sightseeing tour of the popular sights and the bustling Skenderbeg Square, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Our journey resumes into Macedoni, Ohrid. Enjoy your dinner and a relaxing rest at the hotel, or you can join the exciting optional experience Balkan Night over dinner and familiarise with the local culture.   

      Hotel: Hotel Unique Resort and Spa 4+*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Shkodra and Tirana City Tours  


  • Day 9 Day 9: Ohrid - St. Naum - Ohrid
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Ohrid - St. Naum - Ohrid

      Ohrid is home to the dazzling Ohrid Lake at the backdrop of a charming village ascending towards the hills, up to the marvellous castle โ€“ an immense site of UNESCO World Heritage. Join the optional experience of a calming boat trip on the Lake Ohrid, one of the deepest and oldest lakes of Europe, presenting splendid views of the village and monasteries along the coast. Disembark at the old town to launch your guided tour. Join your expert guide as we discover the hidden chapels, ancient crafts and all the stunning sights scattered along the narrow cobble-stone streets. We then depart for the gorgeous St. Naum Monastery complex and 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, savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, surrounded by astounding nature, floating above natural pools maintained by the lake. Blessed with lakes, waterfalls and a beach to Lake Ohrid, we will enjoy our afternoon relaxing at St. Naum, never wanting to leave. We return to our hotel in Ohrid in time for dinner and a refreshing rest.   


      Hotel: Hotel Unique Resort and Spa 4+*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Ohrid Guided Tour, St. Naum Monastery Visit

  • Day 10 Day 10: Ohrid - Skopje
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Ohrid - Skopje

      Following breakfast, we part with the marvellous Lake Ohrid and drive to the Macedonian capital. With a scenic ride through lush fields, hills and mountains, we arrive in Skopje and check-in to our hotel around noon. Join a guided tour with our local expert and follow 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. Personal leisure time in the afternoon, so you can dive deep into history and find every hidden landmark around town, and enjoy the vibrant main street hosting many local cafes, bars and restaurants. You may return to the hotel for dinner and a relaxing rest, or enjoy the town centre.   

      Hotel: Skopje Marriott Hotel 5*  

      Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

      Key Highlights: Skopje City Tour

  • Day 11 Day 11: Skopje
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Skopje

      Our incredible Balkans adventure comes to an end following breakfast. Make sure to bid farewell to your newfound friends and exchange numbers before checking-out of the hotel (at 11:00). Complementary airport transfers are available all day, have a safe and smooth journey!   


      Meals: Breakfast

+8
Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Average

There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if youโ€™re not sure this applies to you.

Age range

Age range

Min: 18 / Max: 95

Age range allowed for this experience.

Select a country to define if the visa is required