The Balkans Transformative Tours & Trip Packages

The Balkans Transformative Tours & Trips

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

11 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
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Transformative
Local Living Croatia – Southern Dalmatia
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
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
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Croatia, Dubrovnik, Kona

Highlights

  • Relax at a rustic farm villa with friendly croatian hosts
  • Sample local wines and olive oil
  • Cycle through the rural countryside
  • Cook traditional fare alongside a croatian family
  • Explore the walled city of dubrovnik

Themes

Education / Learning, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

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!"

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Croatia and the Balkans
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
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
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Belgrade, Budapest, Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Mosta, Sarajevo, Split

Highlights

  • Kayak to tiny islands in the crystal waters of the bay of kotor
  • Enjoy beach time in hvar
  • Explore the ancient roman palace of diocletian on a guided tour

Themes

Cultural, Transformative, Trekking & Expeditions

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
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Eastern Europe, Croatia & the Balkans
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
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
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auschwitz, Bath, Belgrade, Berlin, Budapest, Český Krumlov, Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Krakow, Montenegro, Mosta, Prague, Sarajevo, Split, Vienna, Warsaw

Highlights

  • Wander beautiful medieval cities
  • Opt for a soak in a thermal bath in budapest
  • Kayak the bay of kotor
  • Marvel at the ancient roman palace of diocletian in split

Themes

Cultural, Transformative

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
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Adriatic Cruise
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3.8/5 Great
18 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, Sibenik, Split

Highlights

  • Opportunity to see the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Mostar, Trogir and Dubrovnik impressive Cities
  • Experience the cruise to Sibenik
  • Explore Hvar, city which is one of the largest and oldest in Dalmatia
  • Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Sarajevo including the Parliament Buildings
  • Discover Frankfurt

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"I went on a Grand Tour of Italy with my husband and we had the trip of our lives. Senior Discovery Tours took care of everything so we just got to enjoy ourselves. Would highly reccomend!"

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Dalmatian Coast Walking & Hiking Tour
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4.8/5 Excellent
62 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Croatia, Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Hvar Island, Korcula Island, Split

Highlights

  • Explore the reborn Dalmatian Coast, gaining insight into Croatia's history and culture
  • Island-hop and swim in the sun-drenched Adriatic
  • Dubrovnik, an architectural masterpiece with an impressive fortified wall
  • Hike amid olive groves, undulating fields and jagged cliffs with sapphire sea views
  • Indulge in the freshest seafood and local cuisine

Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her husband were isolated. The rest of the group were offered wimpy masks. Nobody was offered Covid testing daily and masks were not required of the guests or staff. The guides kept repeating "not in the CDC guidelines." Our group of six decided that the Backroads response was inadequate so returned home mid-excursion. The hotel and food was excellent, but the provided bikes were inadequate. The front derailleurs were poorly adjusted, and most of the riders had the chains come off during the first ride. Hikes or bike rides were conducted in downpours. Disappointed for charging such a premium price."

Trip dates & details
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Dalmatian Coast Family Multisport Adventure Tour
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4.8/5 Excellent
62 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Dalmatian Coast, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Hvar Island, Korcula Island, Split

Highlights

  • Experience the reborn Dalmatian Coast by bike, foot and kayak
  • Learn about Croatia's fascinating history and culture
  • Island-hop along the sunny Adriatic and splash in hidden coves
  • Enjoy the freshest seafood and local cuisine
  • The exquisite World Heritage site of Dubrovnik awaits discovery

Themes

Cultural, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Family Friendly, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her husband were isolated. The rest of the group were offered wimpy masks. Nobody was offered Covid testing daily and masks were not required of the guests or staff. The guides kept repeating "not in the CDC guidelines." Our group of six decided that the Backroads response was inadequate so returned home mid-excursion. The hotel and food was excellent, but the provided bikes were inadequate. The front derailleurs were poorly adjusted, and most of the riders had the chains come off during the first ride. Hikes or bike rides were conducted in downpours. Disappointed for charging such a premium price."

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Milos, Sifnos, Serifos Hiking tour
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4.5/5 Excellent
37 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Milos, Venetian Lagoon

Highlights

  • Explore the “unknown” West Cyclades & traditional Cycladic island lifestyle
  • Visit Picturesque white washed villages and harbors
  • See inexhaustible variety of beautiful hiking trails
  • Enjoy Stunning beaches to swim and snorkel
  • See Archeological sites; catacombs, ancient theatre and cities
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Themes

Culinary & Wine, Hiking & Walking, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"(Translated by Google) Helpful and polite. I have no complaints . We had a great time in Bansko. Kids are always willing to help with anything. I highly recommend Oxygen Tours !!! (Original) Εξυπηρετικοί και ευγενικοί . Δεν έχω κανένα παράπονο . Περάσαμε τέλεια στο Μπανσκο. Τα παιδιά είναι πάντα πρόθυμα να βοηθήσουν σε οτιδήποτε προκύψει.Συνιστώ ανεπιφύλακτα Oxygen Tours !!!"

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Dubrovnik Croatia Photo Adventure Vacations
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5/5 Excellent
46 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Dubrovnik, Korcula Island

Highlights

  • Explore Dubrovnik, experience Principles of Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.
  • Explore Cavtat fascinating and cultured destination in itself is an amazing place to spend the day capturing yet another image of Croatia
  • See the Mostar Old Bridge and Old City are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Visit Dubrovnik to the great island of Korčula

Themes

Cultural, Transformative, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Bernardo, the guides, Jose (Argentina) and Carlos (Chile), and the driver, Gustavo, were a great combination. Not only did we see the spectacular beauty of Patagonia, we pushed into new aspects of photography. Simply the best."

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Cycling Croatia's Dalmatian Coast
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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."

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Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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Kosovo, Albania & Macedonia Explorer
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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."

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Balkans Rail Adventure
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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

Around the World, Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Train & Rail Journeys

What travelers are saying

"Lovely friendly and efficient staff Very knowledgeable and helpful"

Trip dates & details
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Discover the Balkans
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
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
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Croatia, Dalmatian Coast, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Montenegro, Mosta, Plitvice Lakes National park, Sarajevo, Split, Zagreb

Highlights

  • Visit the stunning plitvice lakes national park
  • Explore the ancient town of mostar and the stari most (old bridge)
  • Take a tour of the "tunnel of life" in sarajevo
  • Spend a couple days on the bay of kotor

Themes

Cultural

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
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Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia
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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
11 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Transformative

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

Wonderful way to see a beautiful country

This Croatian trip was a wonderful mix of unspoilt countryside, sparkling clear seas and historical walled towns and cities. It was also a good mix of fairly chall...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Cycling the Dalmation Coast

The Croatia coast line is an excellent place for cycling from the Istria peninsula up north all the way to the southern city of Dubrovnik. While this trip only cov...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Cycling

The brochure tells you about the scenery etc but until you get there whow! It's a trip you must do the scenery ,roads and great guide will bring you to places you...

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...

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...

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.

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On Travelstride you can find 176 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.

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