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Into the Balkans Tour
JOURNEY TO A DIFFERENT EUROPE
The private itinerary Into the Balkans is a cultural journey that will inspire with a diversity unparalleled in many other corners of the world.
Travel through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia, admiring the landscapes as they shift from mountainous to seaside to river-bound to cityscapes. Abounding in private tours and exclusive experiences, this luxury itinerary truly brings you in on the local stories, told by unique locals who showcase the best thing about the Balkans: its untamed but hospitable and kind spirit.
PROGRAM IN BRIEF
Highlights
Soak up the beauty of Slovenian Alps
Hike along Soča River & Visit Postojna Cave
Discover Istria & Visit Plitvice Lakes
Tour Split and cook in Trogir
Krka waterfalls and gourmet Šibenik
Island hopping in Dalmatia
Foodie tour of Brač Island
Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina
Art and culture of Dubrovnik region
Beauty of Montenegro
The highlights of Albania & Macedonia
Included basics
Private transfers throughout
English-speaking guides
English-speaking chauffeurs
Private transfers throughout
Entrance tickets to all attractions
Tastings and meals as per itinerary
24/7 phone support
Budget
The suggested itinerary starts at 3.000 Euro per person.
The final price of this custom tour depends on the group size, travel dates, final route and preferred level of comfort.
Contact us for custom itineraries or fill out our Trip request form.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE
Venture into the Balkans to experience six countries, six languages, multiple religions, innumerable cultures and ethnicities, and a shared history!
From astounding city hotels that put you within an arm’s reach of the main sights to atmospheric seaside properties and resplendent heritage establishments, the hotels are an important part of the narrative, allowing you to soak up the true vibe of each destination.
Hotel Intercontinental 5*, Ljubljana
Ljubljana’s five-star hotel combines modern interior and refined service with sweeping vistas and a central location, only 10 minutes from the historical core. The rooftop bar showcases the best views of Ljubljana, as does the next-door restaurant where the menu serves European specialties and the wine list boasts many Slovenian wines. The spa is a true highlight, featuring an indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, saunas, and loungers set to get the best of 18th-floor views.
Hotel Meneghetti 5*, Bale
Set amidst Merlot vineyards and olive groves in the picturesque Bale village, the beautiful Stancija Meneghetti delivers a fine experience of a traditional Istrian estate coupled with internationally acclaimed wines and divine culinary delicacies. The ultimate Wine & Dine experience is combined with an exceptional service which makes for an unforgettable stay.
Hotel Park 5*, Split
Split’s oldest hotel is a landmark in its own right. Built in 1921 and completely renewed in 2015, the pastel-hued interior features many Art Deco elements, from marble and wood to upholstered furniture. An outdoor pool is surrounded by lush gardens and the highlight of the spa the salt room. Situated directly on the Bačvice beach, ideal for a morning swim, Hotel Park is a short walk away from the main attractions such as the Diocletian’s Palace and the Marjan hill.
Hotel Lemongarden 5*, Sutivan
Hotel Lemongarden in Brač truly lives up to its name! Its three historic residences, built of the famed local stone and carefully restored, sit embraced by a thick garden of lemon trees, roses, bougainvillea, hibiscuses, and palms. The ambiance at Lemongarden oozes a calm, soothing vibe and inspires relaxation. This adult-only hotel boasts a year-round outdoor pool, as well as a private beach in a pine forest but also a patisserie, lounge bar, and beach bar.
Hotel Villa Dubrovnik 5*, Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik’s leading boutique hotel sits facing the old town harbor and Lokrum Island, showering you with dramatic vistas at every corner. The brutalist-style exterior conceals an airy and stylish interior of minimalist lines and elegant décor. Contemporary and spacious, all rooms boast mesmerizing sea views. Along with the stunning rooftop bar, the hotel features two restaurants, both with al fresco dining, and an a la carte breakfast. Enjoy the spa, the private beach, and stellar service.
Aman Resort 5*, Sveti Stefan
Aman Sveti Stefan luxury resort in Montenegro is the most photographed destination in Montenegro. It is easy to understand why: a fortified island village connects to Villa Miločer on the mainland by a narrow bridge. Dating back to the 15th century, Sveti Stefan boasts restored stone villas, roofs over 600-years-old, cobbled alleyways, and shared courtyards. The hotel warrants unprecedented privacy and is a holiday experience in its own right.
Hotel Plaza 5*, Tirana
In the heart of Tirana downtown, Hotel Plaza is minutes away from the most famous sights, the Skenderbeg Square, Clock Tower, and the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet. The hotel is set inside an imposing building of 23 floors, offering spacious rooms with contemporary décor and a neutral color palette. Power your Tirana wanderings with delicacies prepared at the three gourmet outlets, exercise in the 24-hour gym or rejuvenate in the Oblivion spa.
Park Hotel & Spa 5*, Skopje
You might not think of relaxing by the water in the landlocked Skopje, but Park Hotel & Spa sits on the banks of the river Vardar. Along with fantastic views from the hotel rooms, spa, and restaurant, the hotel also has a sun terrace where you can relax and work on your tan. The contemporary layout of the interior includes funky details like brick walls and pops of color. Surrounded by the greenery of the city park, the hotel sits one kilometer from Skopje city center.
Stringing many unique experiences into one itinerary featuring six countries, the true highlight here is the diversity you will encounter day by day as you travel in the Balkan region.
Day 1
Travel to Slovenia
Welcome to Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia! Meet your private chauffeur at the Ljubljana International Airport to transfer to InterContinental Ljubljana, a five-star hotel with a cetral location Start your holiday in Slovenia by relaxing in the spa or taking in the views from the hotel’s rooftop bar. Then join a private guide for a tour of Ljubljana’s historic center. Explore the Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, romantic bridges, and soak up its fabulous street culture and youthful spirit. Enjoy the evening on your own.
Day 2
Soak up the beauty of Slovenian Alps
Explore the alpine jewels of Slovenia with your local guide. Enjoy a private tour of Lake Bled and take a traditional pletna boat over to Slovenia’s only natural island in the center of the lake. Next, admire the lake from the vantage point of Bled Castle, perched high on a cliff. After a traditional lunch, head to Lake Bohinj, stroll in nature, visit Vogel Ski center and then take the cable car to the Vogel panoramic spot mesmerizing view views of the Julian Alps.
Day 3
Hike along Soča River
With your private chauffeur/guide, explore Soča Valley, centered on Soča River that runs from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea. Hike and trek the trails in the scenic region of Kobarid, boasting mountain peaks, waterfalls and greenery. Ponder the WWI and WWII coming across many battlefields, including the one of the 1917 Battle of Caporetto which inspired Ernest Hemingway to pen A Farewell to Arms. Travel to Ljubljana in the afternoon hours and enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.
Day 4
Visit Postojna Cave
Traveling to Croatia, stop to visit Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world, and Postojna, one of the largest caves in Europe. Marvel at the medieval castle walls carved into a 123-meters-tall rock, then hop on a train in Postojna to explore the string of caves, adorned in huge stalactites and stalagmites. After lunch on your own, continue the drive to Istria, Croatia’s largest peninsula. Arrive in Bale, a small town nestled on hillslopes and settle into the beautiful Stancija Meneghetti.
Day 5
Discover Istria
Explore Istria on a full-day, private guided tour. In Rovinj, admire the colorful medieval labyrinth that is its center; in Pula, marvel at the fantastic Roman heritage, like the Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. After lunch, hop on a ferry over to Veliki Brijun, the main island of the Brijuni archipelago and National Park. Threading in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth and Elizabeth Taylor, enjoy the wonderful botanical gardens, ancient Roman settlements, and over 200 dinosaur footprints!
Day 6
Visit Plitvice Lakes
As you travel to Split, enjoy the transformation of landscapes from the Istrian rolling hills into the craggy shores of the Adriatic, backed by mighty mountains. Along the way, stop to explore one of Croatia’s most famous natural spots, the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Stroll the wooden pathways of this UNESCO site and take in the splendid views of its cascading lakes, pristine nature, and cool waterfalls. In Split, check into the hotel Park 5*, then enjoy the evening on your own.
Day 7
Tour Split and cook in Trogir
Take a private walking tour of Split and roam the Diocletian’s Palace, one of the best-preserved Roman royal residences on the planet and Split’s lived-in historic center. Then travel to Trogir, another UNESCO gem. Following a private tour of the walled medieval center, meet Tatjana, one of Croatia’s favorite home chefs. Cook up a feast of Dalmatian specialties in her 13th-century palace home before returning to Split for an evening at leisure.
Day 8
Krka waterfalls and gourmet Šibenik
Travel from Split to explore Dalmatia. Start with a walking tour of Krka River National Park. Follow the winding wooden trails across emerald pools, admire majestic waterfalls, and visit the ethno village by the largest waterfall Skradinski Buk. Then continue to Šibenik and marvel at its UNESCO-listed Renaissance Cathedral of St. James. Afterwards, take a seat at Pelegrini restaurant and embark on a praised Michelin-star dining experience of seven wine-paired courses.
Day 9
Island hopping in Dalmatia
Board a private motorboat for the quintessential Adriatic experience – island hopping! Start with Croatia’s furthest-flung island of Vis and enjoy its spectacular coves, like Stiniva where narrow access conceals the expansive pebble beach backed by vertical cliffs. Next head to the Pakleni archipelago, sprawled before the town of Hvar on Hvar Island – your last stop, and Croatia’s most hyped destination. Arrive on Brač island and settle in the atmospheric five-star hotel Lemongarden.
Day 10
Foodie tour of Brač Island
After a relaxing morning, head out to explore the food and wine traditions of Brač. Pass the highest positioned vineyards in Croatia, and descend to the town of Bol, famous for its iconic Zlatni Rat beach. Tour the Stina winery, set in building from 1903, and taste their red Plavac Mali and white Pošip. Then continue to the charming Dračevica village to the winery Senjković. Taste their potent reds and enjoy a homemade dinner perfectly paired to wines.
Day 11
Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina
En route to Dubrovnik, venture into the neighboring country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In Međugorje, explore one of Europe’s best-known pilgrimage sites where the Virgin Mary has allegedly been making appearances since 1981. In Mostar, admire the exquisite Ottoman architecture, highlighted by the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge over Neretva River. Upon arrival to Dubrovnik, check into the town’s most splendid hotel Villa Dubrovnik 5* and relax.
Day 12
Tour Dubrovnik
Join your private guide and discover the timeless beauty that lies wrapped by medieval walls forming the Old Town of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and one of Croatia’s hotspots. Stroll down Stradun, shop in one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies, and discover fountains, markets, and narrow alleyways where locals still reside. After the tour, spend the rest of the day exploring the pearl of the Adriatic on your own.
Day 13
Art and culture of Dubrovnik region
Relax until the afternoon when you will set out to explore Dubrovnik Riviera and the countryside. Stroll down the palm-tree lined waterfront of Cavtat and admire its breezy seaside and chilled air. Visit the home of Vlaho Bukovac, one of Croatia’s renowned modern painters. Continue to the green valley of Konavle, and in Gruda village explore the centuries-old tradition of silk making. Then venture high up in the hills for fantastic views and a homemade lunch at a family estate.
Day 14
Travel to Montenegro
Head to Montenegro, but in style: hop on a private motorboat for the most spectacular transfer from Croatia to Sveti Stefan. Admire the dramatic snowcapped backdrop of Montenegro’s littoral and stop to swim and snorkel in secret coves along the way. Arrive at Aman Sveti Stefan Resort, a landmark in its own right: the hotel is a fortified village that dates back to the 15th century. Settle in and enjoy the serenity of Aman resort for the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 15
Explore Boka bay
Enjoy a private tour of the Boka Bay, claimed by UNESCO to be one of the most beautiful bays in the world for its towering limestone mountains that rise directly from the sparkling sea. Stop in the tiny seafarer town of Perast and take a boat over to the island of Our Lady of the Rock, built by fishermen. Then stroll in Kotor, another UNESCO site, where Venetian touches adorn the twisting narrow alleyways wrapped in a ribbon of medieval walls. In the evening, relax in Sveti Stefan.
Day 16
Travel to Albania
Meet your chauffeur in the morning to travel to Tirana, the capital of Albania. Along the way, explore the rich culinary culture of Albania. Just after crossing the border, enjoy a special slow-food lunch at Mrrizi Zanave, an acclaimed local restaurant. Then continue to Kallmeti Winery and sample Albania’s Dionysian drops. In Tirana, get settled at the The Plaza Tirana hotel located in the very center of the town.
Day 17
The highlights of Albania
Discover Tirana in a private tour; wander the main plaza Skanderbeg Square, spot the famed 1830 Mosque of Et`hem Bey and the Opera House, and reach “the forbidden town” where villas of the communist leaders stand next to trendy boutiques. Enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at the Uka Farm Winery outside of Tirana. Then roam Kruja “the city of history”. Visit its Castle and Skenderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero. Enjoy some time on your own at the old bazaar.
Day 18
Travel to N. Macedonia
Traveling to Skopje, visit the stunning Ohrid Lake and the petite town of Ohrid, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Ohrid boasts a church for every day of the year – there are 365 of them! Drive along the scenic lakeshores to reach the Eastern Orthodox Monastery of Saint Naumis, established way back in 905. Take in its tranquil air, then relax over a coffee or lunch in the charming restaurant with tables on rafts over water. In Skopje, settle in the Park Hotel & Spa.
Day 19
Tour Skopje
Meet up with your guide for a private walking tour of Skopje, N. Macedonia’s capital and political, economic, cultural, and academic center. Contrast the Ottoman-era old town to the brutalist facades erected after the devastating earthquake of 1963, to the newly constructed neoclassical streak along the river Vardar – quite an architectural experience! Then head out to the boutique Kamnik winery to taste international and authentic sorts. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch, before heading to your hotel.
SOUNDS INTERESTING?
Balkans is the last part of Europe still holding on its authenticity and its unique charm. Not developed as the rest of the continent, the adventurous traveler is rewarded with unique blend of genuine smiles and tastes found nowhere else in Europe. The sample program is just a suggestion but we can organize a journey to remember in all of the countries of the region: from Romania and Albania to Greece and Slovenia.
BEFORE YOU GO
Itinerary Creation
The program presented offers a great opportunity to thoroughly discover the Balkans and its highlights. Begin with Slovenia, a country of striking natural wonders, such as the Bled Lake. Off to Croatia, to explore all the best it has to offer, before heading deep into the heart of Bosnia. End with traveling to fascinating and still off-the-radar Northern Macedonia and Albania. The itinerary is fully adjustable to your preferences and specific interests, and can include any combination of countries.
When to Travel
Most of the locations and experiences featured in the itinerary are available for visit year-round. However, please note that some of the hotels, restaurants, and attractions may be closed during winter and off-season months. Consider visiting from late May through mid-October to really benefit from that pleasant weather, especially when visiting mountainous Slovenia and Bosnia. The Dalmatian Coast, and the Boka Bay featured in this itinerary have generally mild Mediterranean climate.
Payments
50% deposit payment is due upon booking of this program. After we have received the payment, you will be sent an official confirmation to your mail. Balance payment is due one month prior to arrival. We accept wire transfer and major credit cards through our secure payment gateway (Visa, Amex, Mastercard). In case of significant changes after finalizing the trip, there will be a 250€ surcharge. For more information on Payments, visit our Terms and Conditions page.
Travel Agents
Secret Dalmatia’s team of travel designers is dedicated to creating custom-made itineraries that perfectly suit your clients’ interests. Providing exclusive experiences with our close-knit network of fascinating locals, experienced chauffeurs, and skippers, we aspire to provide unforgettable journeys in Croatia, and beyond. We remain at your clients’ disposal 24/7 over phone as your company representative, securing your relationship with your clients and making sure they are taken care of at all times.