Balkan Adventure
Visit seven countries on this adventure-filled Balkan trip, where you’ll venture deep into the Carpathian Mountains, walk in the mythical footsteps of Count Dracula at Bran Castle in Transylvania and revel in the beauty, history and traditions of the Balkan nations.
- 03 May 2026 – 16 May 2026
from $5,535 pp twin share * - 10 May 2026 – 23 May 2026
from $6,150 pp twin share * - 17 May 2026 – 30 May 2026
from $5,602.50 pp twin share * - 24 May 2026 – 06 Jun 2026
from $6,225 pp twin share * - 07 Jun 2026 – 20 Jun 2026
from $6,250 pp twin share * - 28 Jun 2026 – 11 Jul 2026
from $5,125.50 pp twin share * - 12 Jul 2026 – 25 Jul 2026
from $5,750 pp twin share * - 26 Jul 2026 – 08 Aug 2026
from $5,750 pp twin share * - 30 Aug 2026 – 12 Sep 2026
from $5,795 pp twin share * - 06 Sep 2026 – 19 Sep 2026
from $6,125 pp twin share * - 13 Sep 2026 – 26 Sep 2026
from $6,125 pp twin share * - 20 Sep 2026 – 03 Oct 2026
from $6,125 pp twin share * - 27 Sep 2026 – 10 Oct 2026
from $5,512.50 pp twin share * - 04 Oct 2026 – 17 Oct 2026
from $6,275 pp twin share * - 11 Apr 2027 – 24 Apr 2027
from $5,895 pp twin share * - 18 Apr 2027 – 01 May 2027
from $5,895 pp twin share * - 25 Apr 2027 – 08 May 2027
from $5,925 pp twin share * - 02 May 2027 – 15 May 2027
from $5,925 pp twin share * - 09 May 2027 – 22 May 2027
from $5,925 pp twin share * - 16 May 2027 – 29 May 2027
from $5,925 pp twin share * - 23 May 2027 – 05 Jun 2027
from $5,975 pp twin share * - 06 Jun 2027 – 19 Jun 2027
from $5,975 pp twin share * - 20 Jun 2027 – 03 Jul 2027
from $5,975 pp twin share * - 04 Jul 2027 – 17 Jul 2027
from $6,050 pp twin share * - 18 Jul 2027 – 31 Jul 2027
from $6,050 pp twin share * - 01 Aug 2027 – 14 Aug 2027
from $6,050 pp twin share * - 15 Aug 2027 – 28 Aug 2027
from $5,975 pp twin share * - 29 Aug 2027 – 11 Sep 2027
from $6,095 pp twin share * - 05 Sep 2027 – 18 Sep 2027
from $6,425 pp twin share * - 12 Sep 2027 – 25 Sep 2027
from $6,425 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Welcome to Bucharest:
You’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Paris when you explore the Belle-Époque atmosphere of Romania’s capital, Bucharest. Your first day will be free to explore the city your way, admiring the elegant boulevards that once hosted high society and an Old City filled with cobbled streets, Baroque architecture and vintage cafes. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner. Why not toast to new friends to set the tone for your memorable journey? - Day 2 – Journey to Transylvania and Braov:
A full day of sightseeing stretches ahead, beginning in Bucharest where you’ll join a Local Specialist to delve into the city’s tumultuous history. See the immense Palace of the Parliament, one of the lasting legacies left behind by dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu, whose extravagant tastes culminated in the world’s second-largest administrative building in stark contrast to the poverty of his people. Venture deep into the Carpathian Mountains to Sinaia and view Peleş Castle, the summer retreat of Romania’s first king. Then, continue to Braşov and check in to your hotel in Poiana Braşov ski resort. Enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine for dinner at your hotel against the backdrop of panoramic mountain views. - Day 3 – Dracula’s Castle and More in Braşov Dive into Culture:
The highlight of the day is this morning’s visit to Bran Castle, the legendary home of Dracula. Dive Into Culture with a Local Specialist and learn about its history as the favourite royal residence of Queen Maria of Romania. Although the connection between the castle and Bram Stoker’s famous literary figure is tentative at best, its imposing walls, towering spires and secret passageways may convince you otherwise. Next, we journey to the medieval streets of Braşov. The city once stood at the crossroads of trade routes linking the Ottoman Empire and western Europe, forging a melting pot of influences that can be seen to this day. Join a Local Specialist who will reveal the city’s trading history and Saxon roots as you walk around Town Hall Square and see the Black Church, so named following the damage caused by the Great Fire of 1689. Your evening is free to indulge in some of the local Transylvanian favourites or consider joining your travel companions for an optional dinner. - Day 4 – Continue to Medieval Veliko Târnovo:
Head south, through ancient villages and tranquil landscapes across the Danube River into Bulgaria. Your journey ends in Veliko Târnovo, the ‘City of the Tsars’ and former capital of the Bulgarian Empire. Relax after your scenic drive and join your travel companions for dinner at your hotel. After dinner, resist the urge to retire early and take a stroll through the Old City admiring the Renaissance gems that line its winding streets. - Day 5 – Onwards to Historic Sofia Stays with Stories:
The fairy-tale facades of Veliko Târnovo reveal medieval history at every turn and your Local Specialist will share the rich history and culture of this former imperial capital. At the heart of the city is Tsarevets Fortress, which you’ll have an opportunity to visit during your sightseeing tour. Continue to Arbanasi, known for its Bulgarian National Revival architecture and spiritual heritage, then visit the Church of Holy Nativity before travelling on to Sofia. This evening, you may wish to join one of two Optional Experiences, either a lively Bulgarian folk evening or an evening of live music. - Day 6 – Sofia Your Way:
Join a Local Specialist for an in-depth sightseeing tour of Bulgaria’s modern-day capital including views of the golden-domed St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Sofia Church. Settle in to the relaxed atmosphere and take a stroll along its elegant boulevards or sit in a park and people-watch. You could choose instead to join an Optional Experience to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, founded by the hermit St. Ivan of Rila in the 10th century. - Day 7 – Journey to Macedonian Skopje:
Cross the Macedonian border today, bound for Skopje, the capital, a religious crossroads, and a vibrant medieval trading centre. See the Ottoman Empire’s legacy in the mosques and bazaars as you join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour this afternoon. - Day 8 – Off to Albania and Tirana:
Leaving North Macedonia behind, head to the Albanian capital of Tirana where, on arrival, you’ll join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour. Delve into how the city has emerged from decades of communist rule into a vibrant, trendy tourism centre – one where dour grey city blocks have been transformed into a kaleidoscope of colourful façades. You’ll view such highlights as the Palace of Culture, the National Library and the Clock Tower before enjoying dinner at your hotel. - Day 9 – Journey to Budva:
Travel to Budva next where your Travel Director will provide an orientation before you have the rest of the day to explore ‘Montenegro’s Miami’ on your own. Head to Stari Grad (the Old Town) surrounded by 15th-century ramparts to explore its labyrinthine lanes and small squares where you could choose to sit back and watch the world go by. - Day 10 – Visit Kotor, Venture to Mostar and Sarajevo:
After an orientation in Kotor, join a Local Specialist in Mostar for a guided tour through colourful cobbled streets. Head to Sarajevo next where you’ll delve into the rich religious and multicultural heritage that has earned it the nickname, the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’. Tonight you’ll enjoy dinner at your hotel. - Day 11 – Discover Sarajevo Connect with Locals:
Join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of Sarajevo, which will reveal centuries of religious history reflected in its beautiful synagogues, mosques and Orthodox and Catholic churches. Visit the War Tunnel, an underground tunnel of hope that was built in 1993 during the Siege of Sarajevo, allowing war supplies and humanitarian aid to reach the city at the height of the Bosnian War. Meet third-generation coppersmiths Adnan and Kenan, who are preserving Bosnia’s Ottoman-era metalwork tradition on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where you can discover traditional shops, lively cafes and the poignant Sarajevo Roses. Local flavours and stories are on the menu tonight as you meet your host on your Be My Guest experience. - Day 12 – On the Road to Belgrade:
Travel through lush forests, pastures and the Bosnian Mountains into Serbia – a scenic day of driving that will end in Belgrade. The ‘White City’ has a long history which you’ll have an opportunity to discover tomorrow. - Day 13 – Explore Riverside Belgrade:
Your Local Specialist will share the sights and sounds of Belgrade from an insider’s perspective this morning. Delve into its Celtic, Roman, Serbian, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history, then visit Kalemegdan Fortress, the symbol of the Serbian capital perched perfectly on a ridge overlooking the confluence of two great rivers. Discover how each of these empires has had a hand in rebuilding the fortress over the past 16 centuries. This evening, we reunite one final time for a rousing Farewell Dinner to reminisce over our shared travel experience. - Day 14 – Farewell Belgrade:
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.
Highlights
- Venture deep into the Carpathian Mountains.
- Walk in the mythical footsteps of Count Dracula at Bran Castle.
- Revel in the beauty, history, and traditions of the Balkan nations.
Visit seven countries on this adventure-filled Balkan trip, where you’ll venture deep into the Carpathian Mountains, walk in the mythical footsteps of Count Dracula at Bran Castle in Transylvania and revel in the beauty, history and traditions of the Balkan nations.
Inclusions
- 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.
- Must-see sightseeing.
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing.
FAQs
- Ana Bradul
- Astoria Grand
- Eurostars Queen of Montenegro
- Hilton Garden Inn Tirana
- Mercure Bucharest Unirii
- Mövenpick Sarajevo
- Radisson RED Belgrade
- Solun Hotel & Spa
- Yantra Grand
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 14 days and 13 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 03 May 2026 and 16 Oct 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: Trafalgar ToursFine Print
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