The Balkans Sailing Tours & Trip Packages

The Balkans Sailing Tours & Trips

175 The Balkans trips. Tours from 91 tour companies. 769 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

14 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Sailing
Croatia Sailing Adventure: Split to Dubrovnik
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Split

Highlights

  • What better way to see the historic towns, protected forests and stunning islands of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast than aboard a private yacht? All aboard for a week in paradise.
  • Explore beautiful Split, where tradition, modernity and a variety of European influences come together. A visit to the Diocletian’s Palace reveals some of the Adriatic Coast’s most important surviving Roman buildings.
  • Bliss out on Brac’s world famous Zlatni Rat beach, a spit of white sand jutting out into turquoise waters.
  • Opened to the public only in 1989, the island of Vis boasts coastal scenery and a military history just waiting to be discovered. Also, the local vugava wine is rather nice.
  • Stari Grad, Hvar’s Old Town, is quite literally one of the oldest towns in Europe, and a charming one at that. It provides a great base from which to explore the island.

Themes

Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
Croatia Sailing Adventure: Dubrovnik to Split
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Split

Highlights

  • What better way to see the historic towns, protected forests and stunning islands of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast than aboard a private yacht? All aboard for a week in paradise.
  • Set sail out of beautiful Dubrovnik. The World Heritage-listed walled city plays host to film crews every year.
  • Wander the length of car-free Lopud in the idyllic Elafiti Islands.
  • Discover the lush forests of Mljet, which are yet to be spoilt by mainstream tourism.
  • Visit Odysseus Cave where, according to legend, the king of Ithaca once found refuge after surviving a shipwreck.
Show more

Themes

Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
Sailing Croatia - Dubrovnik to Split
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Split

Highlights

  • Discover secluded islands and deserted beaches
  • Explore korčula - the birth place of marco polo
  • Wander the forested paradise of mljet national park
  • Connect with history at diocletian's palace in split
  • Enjoy the nightlife while meeting new friends

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Sailing Croatia - Split to Dubrovnik
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Split

Highlights

  • Connect with history at diocletian's palace in split
  • Discover secluded islands and deserted beaches
  • Explore korčula — the birthplace of marco polo
  • Wander the forested paradise of mljet national park
  • Sail into the ancient port of dubrovnik — "the pearl of the adriatic"

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Montenegro Sailing - Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Budva, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Montenegro

Highlights

  • Spend time exploring some of the area's nicest beaches
  • Enjoy the seaside nightlife in budva
  • Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of bigovo
  • Witness the impressive balkan landscapes

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro Sailing
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Budva, Croatia, Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Montenegro, Split

Highlights

  • Relax as you sail the picturesque dalmatian coast
  • Explore the region through beaches and charming coastal villages
  • Enjoy the nightlife of hvar and budva after a long day of lounging
  • Get endless photo opportunities throughout the region's mountainous and green landscapes
  • Snorkel the crystal-clear waters near the ancient fishing village of bigovo

Themes

Cultural, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together

  • Save favorite trips and itineraries
  • Get insider insights
  • Receive personalized recommendations
  • ... and much more
Join community
Montenegro & Croatia Sailing
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Budva, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Montenegro, Split

Highlights

  • See a different way of living in charming coastal fishing towns
  • Work on your tan as you relax on secluded beaches
  • Enjoy the colourful nightlife of hvar and budva
  • Sample locally-made wine and delicious homegrown flavours

Themes

Cultural, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Sailing Split - 8 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Dubrovnik, Split

Highlights

  • Split – Roam the medieval streets that lie within the walls of this ancient city
  • Dubrovnik – Discover a stunning city and the spectacular setting for 'Game of Thrones'
  • Korcula – Uncover this charming island your way and see the sights of Marco Polo's birthplace
  • Mljet Island – Explore the unforgettable natural beauty that lies within the national parks
  • Pakleni Islands – Swim in crystal clear waters and relax on the pristine beaches - a perfect place to relax
Show more

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"First time we (mom and daughter) have done a tour and first time with on the go tours. What a special trip we had doing the 13 day Casablanca to Essaouira Morocco tour (26 Nov - 6 Dec 2023). We started the first 8 days doing the totally Morocco tour and the last few days at our own pace with down time in Essaouira. Jamal our guide led the tour from start to finish and took us safely on a culture filled journey. His knowledge of the country, it’s history and people was informative and inspiring. Every request was “no problem” and delivered with a smile and happy demeanour. Everything in Morrocco was “no problem” and we felt safe and looked after. We were driven in a comfortable coach with enough stops along the way to not feel long by our competent driver Suleman. The hotels, Riad and Dar were extremely comfortable with exceptional service. We would not have had the same experience travelling on our own, we felt as though we truly experienced Morocco. Everything was a highlight for us and we will definitely book another on the go tour in the future. If you wanting to see true Morocco we would strongly recommend doing this tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Travelstride Gift Card
One card, thousands of extraordinary trips
Gifts Card

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip
Other trips you may like [sponsored]
Cycling Croatia's Dalmatian Coast
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Dubrovnik

Highlights

  • Spectacular coastal cycling routes
  • Explore the mainland and islands on two wheels
  • Discover the Unesco city of Dubrovnik

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

More
Kosovo, Albania & Macedonia Explorer
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Skopje, Tirana

Highlights

  • Explore the remote northern reaches of Albania and take one of the world’s best boat trips with a cruise through the mountainous corridors of Lake Koman
  • Experience daily life in the Valbona Valley with a stay at a local guesthouse. Clink glasses with the locals in the village and hike the rugged valley passes.
  • Sail across the blue waters of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest lakes. No wonder North Macedonia and Albania share this beautiful attraction – nobody would want to let it go.
  • Kososvo is rich in history and contrasts. Step back in time and learn about the infamous Battle of Kosovo on a day trip to the Field of Blackbirds, before embracing the modern culture thriving in Prishtina, Europe’s youngest capital.
  • Lose yourself in Tirana, the Albanian capital full of a revitalised urban energy, and partake in the local's favourite pastime: drinking coffee and people-watching.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
Balkans Rail Adventure
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Bar, Belgrade, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Kos, Kotor, Lake Bled, Ljubljana, Mavrovo, Montenegro, Mosta, Plitvice Lakes National park, Podgorica, Sarajevo, Skopje, Zagreb

Highlights

  • Visit seven countries of Former Yugoslavia in just 16 days
  • Experience a variety of scenic rail journeys
  • Discover contrasting landscapes and cities in this lesser visited region

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Train & Rail Journeys

What travelers are saying

"Great itinerary, great guide (Luis) and great group - would highly recommend!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Lake Bled

Highlights

  • Discover Triglav National Park and the Karavanke mountains
  • Embark on varied walks over mountains and through forests
  • Enjoy a free day to explore Lake Bled or historic Ljubljana
  • Stay at a traditional 19th-century Alpine pension

Themes

Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

More
Dubrovnik to Athens
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Athens, Berat, Dubrovnik, Kruja, Skopje, Tirana

Highlights

  • Admire the World Heritage-listed architecture of Dubrovnik and Montenegro’s Kotor, climbing along their ancient city walls.
  • Loose yourself in Tirana, Albania's colourful capital, and partake in the local's favourite pastime: drinking coffee and people-watching.
  • Sail across the blue waters of Lake Ohrid – one of Europe's oldest lakes. No wonder North Macedonia and Albania share this beautiful attraction; nobody would want to let it go!
  • Explore the endemic flora and fauna on an easy hike of Pelister: North Macedonia’s oldest national park.
  • Hike the slopes of Mt Olympus, the ancient seat of the 12 Greek gods. According to mythology Zeus unleashed his thunderbolts from one of Olympus' peaks.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
14 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Sailing

The Balkans Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
769  Reviews
See all The Balkans tour reviews
Excellent
566
Great
163
Average
24
Disappointing
2
Terrible
4
A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

stunning coastline

Excellent leader Alan. Great balance between towns and countryside. Difficult to find anything I would change, perhaps better hotel coffee. not having been before, D...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Wonderful trip

What a fab trip. Great weather, wonderful company, and the gorgeous Dalmatian coast. The ride exceeded our expectations, it was a little tougher than we expected, ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Amazing scenery & lots of laughs

We have recently returned from our first cycling holiday with Exodus and whilst I don't usually do reviews this time I felt compelled to write to say how impressed...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Breathtaking scenery and super smooth cycling!

It really was as described on the label - fabulously clear seas teeming with fish, gorgeous vistas of islands, vines and historic villages, with hidden gems of fre...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Just brilliant!

We had a wonderful time cycling the Dalmation Coast. The scenery was amazing, the group were all lovely, our tour leader Marijo was fantastic and the food was grea...

Write a Review

The Balkans Tour Selection Trips

  • There are several ways to tour the Balkans – overland, river cruises, and small-ship coastal cruises
  • The Balkans is a large and varied region that warrants multiple tours to see in depth
  • Greece and Croatia have the most highly developed tourist facilities in the region
  • Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia, and Bosnia-Hercegovina are among the lesser traveled Balkan states
  • English is not as commonly spoken in much of the Balkans as in other parts of Europe, arguing for taking guided tours with interpreters
  • Keep close watch on conditions in Istanbul, Turkey, an extraordinary destination recently beset by violence

Additional details

What Countries are Included in the Balkans

There is some disagreement over the exact countries that are included in the Balkans, but traditionally this region of Europe includes Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Slovenia. Additionally, parts of northern Greece and southern Turkey are also typically included as part of the Balkans.

What is Balkan Weather Like?

It honestly depends on the country. The Balkans cover over 250,000 square miles of Southeastern Europe with each of the countries having their own distinct landscape that dictates the weather.

However, the countries on the Adriatic Sea coast (Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania) have a typical Mediterranean climate on the coast and a cooler climate in the mountains. These countries are warmer throughout the year than Slovenia or Bulgaria which are landlocked and have more temperate climates.

An important thing to remember is that the Balkans have some of the roughest terrain in all of Europe. The Dinaric Alps, Carpathian Mountains, Balkan Mountains and other ridges stretch across this region causing the central Balkan countries to have a four-season climate. These mountains are also why the Balkans are a perfect time to visit during winter since many of the mountains receive heavy snowfall.

Who Will Enjoy the Balkans

Those wishing to get off the beaten path in Europe will enjoy visiting the Balkans. Since much of this region was under Communist rule and going through rebuilding, most of these countries are new to travelers. However, lesser known cities such as Skopje and Mostar are growing in popularity because of their uniqueness and smaller tourist scene than Western Europe.

History lovers will enjoy visiting the Balkans because of the unique cultural makeup of this region. The Venetian, Roman, Ottoman, and Hungarian Empires have all left their distinct influences on this region’s food, architecture, and cultural makeup. There are plenty of castles and old towns for any history enthusiast to get lost in.

Professional and amateur photographers will not be able to get enough of the Balkans. With towering mountains, aquamarine waters, and stunning cliff sides, the Balkans have some of the best untouched landscapes just waiting to be photographed.

The Balkans are also the ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. There are many Balkan tour itineraries specializing in hiking and biking through the mountains of the Balkans. Also, there are tours that combine both the landscape of the Balkans with the metropolitan areas, allowing you to see all sides of the Balkans.

Do I Need Different Currencies when Traveling the Balkans?

Yes, you will need different currencies for the Balkans. Each of the Balkan countries have their own national currency, except Montenegro and Slovenia who both use the Euro.

You can exchange money before you leave for each of the countries. However, all of the countries have ATMs that you can use, but be forewarned, your bank may charge an international fee. There are also offices in the major cities, train stations, and airports where you can exchange your money.

If you are looking to exchange money from countries that are not near each other, like Bulgaria and Croatia, you will not be able to change the currencies. Also there are a few currencies, like Albanian Lek, you won’t be able to exchange outside of the country.

What Languages are Spoken in the Balkans?

The people of the Balkans speak a few different languages. You will hear Greek, a version of the Romance languages, a combination of Russian and Polish, and Albanian. But, some of the countries do have a similar language.

If you are traveling through Serbia, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Macedonia, and Croatia you will find a common language. While some of the words may be different, the general language is very similar.

Balkan Tour Lengths

Most Balkan tours last between 8-18 days. The length of the tour depends on the theme and region of the Balkans you are visiting.

If you are focusing on just the food of the Balkans or the Western Balkans, than the tour will be around 10 days. If you wish to see all of the Balkans, you will need at least 15 days because the area is so large.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 175 trips to The Balkans and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!