Overview
Itinerary
Twisting cobblestone streets and burnt-orange rooftops reveal Dubrovnik, a city steeped in history and charm. Look out over the sparkling Adriatic Sea during your welcome dinner. Savor Mediterranean cuisine and new friendships. (D) Stay: Royal Ariston Hotel (2 Nights)
Dubrovnik's ancient streets share its history and timelessness with you during your tour. For the rest of the day, the city is yours to unfold personally because it's your choice! Perhaps you'll explore its famous city walls, still standing from the Middle Ages -OR- hop into a cable car for incredible views of the entire city from above. With the remainder of your day free, you do you – Croatia-style. (B)
It's “Dovidenja” to Croatia as you head to Montenegro. Set sail on a private boat for the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Visit the church before coasting through the breathtaking Kotor Bay towards the Old Town of Kotor (UNESCO). Your 18th-century hotel rises from the original city walls. With your free afternoon, explore this beautiful city on your own. Complete your day in a quiet corner of Old Town Kotor in a cozy family restaurant. (B/D) Stay: Cattaro Hotel (2 Nights)
Today, have fun exploring Kotor your way. Perhaps you'll go on an optional excursion to Njeguši, a quiet and peaceful village located on the slope of Mount Lovcen about 900 meters above sea level. Get a tasty local lesson on the tradition of prosciutto and homemade cheeses famously produced here – and, of course, sample these specialties. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the hidden corners of Kotor. (B)
Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Spend time in Mostar, home to the iconic arched Stari Most Bridge (UNESCO). Explore Mostar with your Tour Manager before lunching on your own at a traditional restaurant in the historic part of the city.
Continue on to Sarajevo – Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital city where East meets West – and your home for the next 3 nights. Reminiscent of a European Jerusalem, find an ever-evolving conglomeration of religious sects all living in harmony. Perhaps you'll take an evening stroll with your Tour Manager to get familiar with the area. (B) Stay: Colors Inn (3 Nights)
With a local expert, uncover the history of Sarajevo, the starting point of the first World War. Meander the storied roadways and take in its blend of religions and architectural styles. Free time means independent exploration of this historic city. Then, it's your choice! Uncover Sarajevo's past with a local siege survivor, spending time in the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum before visiting the bobsled track on Trebevic Olympic Mountain -OR- visit Gallery 11/07/95, which documents the city's 20th-century turmoil through photography.
Tonight, locals welcome you to their home-hosted dinner. Enjoy regional favorites such as klepe (meat dumplings) and burek (flaky filled pastries). Sip Bosnian coffee as a soundtrack of traditional folk music sets the tone of a truly memorable evening. (B/D)
Enjoy time on your own today. Consider an optional excursion to Lukomir Highland, hiking to a remote village and bond with locals over lunch. Or maybe embark on an optional tour of Tito's Bunker, exploring the former president's personal hideout. With the rest of your afternoon and evening at leisure, relax, reset, or explore even more. (B)
Wind through Bosnia into Croatia's northeast corner for a lunch that highlights authentic Bosnian cuisine. Travel off the beaten path toward the rural village of Karanac, nestled at the confluence of the Drava and Danube Rivers.
Tonight, your host delights you with dinner and folklore entertainment. (B/L/D) Stay: Family Hotel Baranjska Kuca, etno village (2 Nights)
This morning, immerse yourself in country life. Perhaps you'll join your hosts in preparing breakfast. A local guide shares Osijek's history of the Romans and Ottomans with you, before some free time to explore the town. Learn how wine is made in this region, enjoying a glass. Alongside locals, prepare traditional dishes and bread for dinner. (B/D)
This morning, say goodbye to the beautiful Baranja region and continue your journey to Zagreb – Croatia's fascinating capital city. A local guide introduces you to one of the most unique Croatian museums – the Museum of Naive Art. Enjoy some free time to explore it on your own. The evening is yours – perhaps join your Tour Manager for an evening stroll – and then take in Zagreb at night however you'd like. (B) Stay: Le Premier Boutique Hotel (2 Nights)
You have an entire day to soak up Zagreb at leisure! Explore its Old Town, medieval settlements, open squares, museums, or the Dolac Market. Perhaps you'll choose to take an optional tour to Croatia's Zagorje region, visiting the historic Kumrovec and Samobor, set in a picturesque countryside. (B)
It's off to northern Croatia. A local guide takes you past the forested landscapes of Plitvice Lakes National Park (UNESCO). Walk along the cascading lakes and the free-falling waterfalls. Cruise through a portion of the park by boat before enjoying some free time and lunch on your own.
This afternoon, an Impact Moment reveals how local women are sustaining their community through their crafts.
Tonight, an authentic “under the bell” dinner is yours to savor, complete with slow roasted lamb and vegetables. (B/D) Stay: Lyra Hotel
Today, cross into Slovenia, a country that has the word “love” in its name. Travel off the beaten path and discover Novo Mesto – a unique experience in one of the most beautiful Slovenian cities. Enjoy a scenic boat ride under the bridges in the Krka River before joining your local guide for a walking tour. Finish your visit with a Slovenian lunch in a local restaurant.
Later, arrive in Ljubljana's city center, your home for the next two nights. Acquaint yourself with this incredible city before having an evening of free time to explore it on your own. (B/L) Stay: Grand Plaza Hotel (2 Nights)
This morning, head to beautiful Lake Bled nestled under the Julian Alps. Board a Pletna Boat to the isle of Bled to discover the nature and natural scenery of Slovenia. Take a walk around the lake or relax in the beautiful scenery.
This evening, toast to the end of your adventure during a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, complete with folklore performances. (B/D)
Wish Slovenia goodbye as you depart for home. (B)
Arrive in Croatia's fascinating capital city, Zagreb. Get ready to discover this modern metropolis with its Old Town, medieval settlements, open squares, museums, and cobbled streets meant for strolling. Your day is free until tonight, when you gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D) Stay: Le Premier Boutique Hotel
This morning, join a local guide on a walking tour of Zagreb's highlights, from the main square to Upper Town. Enjoy some free time to explore and have lunch on your own before the journey continues to the northeast corner of Croatia. Travel off the beaten path toward the rural village of Karanac, nestled at the confluence of the Drava and Danube Rivers.
Tonight, meet your local hosts for a delightful dinner accompanied by folk entertainment. (B/D) Stay: Baranjska Kuca Hotel and Etno Restaurant (2 Nights)
Immerse yourself in country life this morning, perhaps joining your hosts in preparing breakfast. Then join your local guide in the nearby city of Osijek, learning about its Roman and Ottoman history. Take free time to have lunch and explore the city center on your own, marveling at the architecture, museums, historic buildings, city parks, and monuments.
This afternoon, find out how wine is made in this region – while enjoying a glass. Then, roll up your sleeves alongside locals to prepare traditional dishes and bread for dinner. (B/D)
This morning, continue to Sarajevo – Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital city, where East meets West, and your home for the next two nights. Reminiscent of a European Jerusalem, experience a city shaped by its rich history and the coexistence of various religious sects. Perhaps you'll join a guided stroll this evening to get acquainted with the area. (B/L) Stay: Hotel Colors Inn (2 Nights)
With a local expert, uncover the history of Sarajevo, the starting point of the First World War. Meander the storied roadways and take in its blend of religions and architectural styles. Free time means independent exploration of this historic city. During an Impact Moment, meet with a local siege survivor, who will uncover more of Sarajevo's past. Spend time in the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, the site of the “Tunnel of Hope” that connected the besieged city to the outside world. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Sarajevo on your own.
Tonight, locals welcome you to their home for dinner. Enjoy regional favorites such as klepe (meat dumplings) and burek (flaky filled pastries). Sip Bosnian coffee as a soundtrack of traditional folk music sets the tone for a truly memorable evening. (B/D)
This morning, on your way to Croatia, spend time in Mostar, home to the iconic arched Stari Most Bridge (UNESCO). Explore Mostar on a guided walk before lunching on your own in the historic part of the city.
This afternoon, be greeted by views of the Adriatic Sea when you arrive in Dubrovnik. (B) Stay: Royal Ariston Hotel (2 Nights)
Dubrovnik's ancient streets share their history and timeless appeal during a tour of the city. Then, let the city continue to reveal itself to you because it's your choice! Take a harbor cruise for magnificent views of Dubrovnik's medieval city walls and visit Lokrum Island -OR- get a bird's-eye view of the city by cable car, riding up to Srd Hill, a breathtaking vantage point to look over the Old Town below and the Adriatic Sea. With the remainder of your day free, you do you – Croatia-style. (B)
It's “Dovidenja” to Croatia as you head to Montenegro. Set sail on a private boat for the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Visit the church before coasting through the breathtaking Kotor Bay towards the Old Town of Kotor (UNESCO). Complete your visit to Kotor with a locally guided tour before you settle in your hotel located within the historic walls of Kotor town. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Cattaro (2 Nights)
Today, have fun exploring Kotor your way. Perhaps you'll go on an optional excursion to Njeguši, a quiet and peaceful village located on the slope of Mount Lovcen about 900 meters above sea level. Soak in the views from a cable car and get a tasty local lesson on the traditions of prosciutto and homemade cheeses famously produced here – and, of course, sample these specialties. Learn more about Montenegrin history while visiting the royal town of Cetinje. Upon return, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the hidden corners of Kotor. (B)
Cross another border today and arrive in Albania! Get to know Shkodër, one of the most historic cities in the country. Admire mosques and churches on a guided stroll along the main pedestrian street and try some of the local cuisine.
Continue your travel day on your way to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. Explore its history and architecture on a locally guided tour while learning more about Albania's intriguing past. Visit a former top-secret nuclear bunker, now a museum dedicated to the victims of one of most controlling communist regimes in Europe. (B) Stay: Hotel Rogner (2 Nights)
Today, explore Tirana as you wish. Perhaps you'll decide to join an optional excursion to the coastal ancient city of Durrës, where the Roman Amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian stands as the city's most prominent attraction. Join a local guide to see the historic city's ruins, and later, get an introduction to the viticulture in the region while enjoying a wine tasting paired with local specialties at a prominent winery. No matter how you fill your day, experience the best of the local cuisine and a show of rich folk traditions during dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
Soak in the beauty of the countryside with its winding roads and stretches of green on your way to Gjirokastra in southern Albania. Perhaps one of the steepest cities in the world, explore its unique architecture and glorious history. After having some free time in this fascinating town join your local guide on a tour of Gjirokastra's dominant castle on the hill. Cross into Greece, your last border on this travel journey. Arrive in Kalambaka in the late afternoon in time to freshen up for dinner at the hotel. (B/D) Stay: Divani Meteora Hotel
This morning, explore Metéora. Visit one of the remote monasteries situated in a unique landscape, where limestone rock “towers” extend nearly 900 feet into the air. Over 600 years ago, Byzantine monks built their monastic community perched atop these rocks.
Later, learn how Byzantine icons are created by visiting an icon-painting workshop in Kalambaka. Watch some of the process at this atelier, where icons are made using traditional methods. Spend some time on your own in this enchanting town before continuing your journey to Athens. (B) Stay: NYX Esperia Palace Hotel (2 Nights)
Later this morning explore the sights of Athens on a locally-guided walking tour. From Syntagma Square and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, wander through the streets, soaking in the essence of this iconic city and savoring its charm and energy. Visit the new Acropolis Museum, considered one of the most important museums in the world, to trace the story of the ancient city. Located within a short walking distance of the Acropolis, the museum houses archeological treasures from the Acropolis and offers wonderful views on the ancient site.
The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Athens on your own before joining your fellow travelers for dinner and to toast to the end of your journey. (B/D)
Your tour ends today. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore Mostar to witness a blend of Middle East and European influences.
- Impact Moment: At a Serbian community center, meet the local women who sustain their community through their crafts.
- Experience Plitvice Lakes National Park (UNESCO) by foot and by boat.
- Lake Bled is a photographer's dream with its stunning views.
- Climb aboard a private boat to Our Lady of the Rocks and the coastal Kotor.
- Get to know the locals by preparing regional specialties and baking bread in Karanac.
- See why Mediterranean cuisine is world-famous in Dubrovnik.
- In Sarajevo, join a local family in their home for a meal of regional dishes.
- Expertly crafted itineraries
- 4-star+ accommodation
- Skilled and engaging tour managers
- Expert local guides with insider knowledge
- Attraction entrance fees
- Many meals full of local flavour
- Unparalleled sightseeing
- Enriching cultural experiences
- Comfortable on-tour transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel baggage handling
- Plus, access to Wi-Fi hotspots on tour
- This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
- Private, chauffeur service is included for all air-inclusive tour bookings. This personalised service is included within a 40km radius from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Darwin, Cairns and Hobart airport gateways. Service is available between 41-70 kms for a small fee.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Impact Moment: Uncover Sarajevo's wartime history with a siege survivor.
- Discover Gjirokastra's Old Town, bazaar and castle.
- Visit a traditional icon-painting workshop in Kalambaka.
- Take a private boat to explore Our Lady of the Rocks Island and breathtaking Boka Bay.
- Explore the historic and architectural evolution of Tirana.
- Come to know Metéora and visit one of its Byzantine monasteries, built over 600 years ago.
- Enjoy traditional Albanian food and folk entertainment in the capital city, Tirana.
- Get to know locals and participate in preparing local specialties and bread in Karanac.
- Experience Bosnian hospitality and regional dishes, joining a local family for a meal in a Sarajevo home.
- Expertly crafted itineraries
- 4-star+ accommodation
- Skilled and engaging tour managers
- Expert local guides with insider knowledge
- Attraction entrance fees
- Many meals full of local flavour
- Unparalleled sightseeing
- Enriching cultural experiences
- Comfortable on-tour transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel baggage handling
- Plus, access to Wi-Fi hotspots on tour
- This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
- Private, chauffeur service is included for all air-inclusive tour bookings. This personalised service is included within a 40km radius from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Darwin, Cairns and Hobart airport gateways. Service is available between 41-70 kms for a small fee.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Trip Optionals These optional activities can be pre-booked & included in your trip price.
- Location: Sarajevo.
- Explore a different way of life and spend the day in an authentic Bosnian village. It all starts with a scenic drive through the highlands of Bosnia, where you can gaze out the window and admire sprawling greenery and soaring peaks. Then, strap on your hiking shoes because the rest of the journey to the remote village takes place on foot. After working up your appetite during a light hiking trip, enjoy lunch in a traditional Bosnian villager’s home. Spend some more time connecting with the locals before you set out once more to explore a picturesque canyon tucked among the mountain ranges. Conclude your day with a return hiking trip and a relaxing drive back to your hotel. Duration approximately 8 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 8 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. To participate in this option, guests should be in good physical condition. A short 30-minute hike is involved. Dress to be outside with comfortable shoes and layers.
- Location: Sarajevo.
- Spend your morning touring the nuclear bunker of former Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito. Nicknamed “Tito’s Bunker,” this underground military command center was built to protect the Yugoslavian president and up to 350 members of his inner circle. During your tour, you can explore historical relics and meander through a wide collection of rooms, from residential areas to places dedicated to strategic planning. Uncover this underground fortress, once a secret to the world. Duration approximately 3.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 8 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
- Location: Pawtucket, RI.
- You can now include pre-paid tipping into your guided tour purchase. You pay for your tipping up front, we handle the rest, and you can cross one more thing off your “To Do” list. No more running to an ATM at the last minute on tour, or carrying around cash you won’t spend. Transportation is not included Prepaid gratuities are only available to guests departing from Australia & New Zealand. This covers tips for the Tour Manager, driver(s), and local guides including optional tours. Airport transfer and extension gratuities are not included in this amount
- Location: Zagreb.
- Depart Zagreb and head into the beautiful Croatian countryside of Zagorje known for its picturesque, gentle hills full of green forests, vineyards and cultivated fields. Begin by visiting historic Kumrovec, the birthplace of Josip Broz Tito, lifetime president of the former Yugoslavia. A visit to the ethno village there is like stepping back in time as you stroll the small houses of the beautiful “Old Village.” Continue on to the delightful little town of Samobor, well-known as a foodie favorite. After a short tour, enjoy lunch in a local restaurant which ends with the famous Samoborske-Kremsnite, a Croatian delicacy of cake with custard cream. You will also sample Bermet, the aromatic, sweet and bitter wine made according to a centuries old secret recipe that is perhaps the most authentic Croatian drink. Duration approximately 6 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 12 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
- Location: Kotor.
- Travel up the winding road from Kotor towards Mount Lovcen, taking in magnificent views of the Bay of Kotor (the Boka) and mountains along the way. Stop in Njegusi, a quiet and peaceful village located on the slope of Mount Lovcen, about 900 meters above sea level. Learn about the tradition of prosciutto and homemade cheeses famously produced here and sample these specialties. Then continue through the mountain range until reaching the Adriatic coastline, with photo stops along the way including views of Sveti Stefan (Saint Stephen’s Island), once an islet fishing village, now luxury resort. Throughout the day, you can imagine yourself in scenes from the Bond film, Casino Royale, as you venture through Montenegro. Duration approximately 4 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
- Location: Pawtucket, RI.
- You can now include pre-paid tipping into your guided tour purchase. You pay for your tipping up front, we handle the rest, and you can cross one more thing off your “To Do” list. No more running to an ATM at the last minute on tour, or carrying around cash you won’t spend. Transportation is not included Prepaid gratuities are only available to guests departing from Australia & New Zealand. This covers tips for the Tour Manager, driver(s), and local guides including optional tours. Airport transfer and extension gratuities are not included in this amount
- Location: Budva.
- This excursion is an opportunity to explore more of the diversity and beauty of the small, stunning country of Montenegro. The day begins as you join your guide on a drive from Kotor to the cable car station. Take in breathtaking views over ancient Kotor and Boka Bay as the cable car whisks you to Lovcen Mountain (1749m) in just 11 minutes. Next, head to the mountain village of Njeguši to visit an old smokehouse, sampling the smoked ham and cheese made on site. Finally, arrive in the old royal capital of Cetinje and learn about the rich history of Montenegro on a visit to King Nikola’s Palace. After some free time in Cetinje, return to Kotor this afternoon. Duration approximately 6 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 6 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
- Location: Tirana.
- Travel from Tirana to Durrës, located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Explore this ancient city, with its 2,500 years of recorded history, on a walking tour. See the city hall, the ruins of a Byzantine forum, Byzantine walls, Roman baths, a Roman amphitheater, a Venetian tower, and an archaeological museum. There’s so much to discover in this scenic city. Afterward, travel to Abaia Winery and tour the vineyard and Communist-era bunkers, which are now used for wine production and aging. Learn about viticulture and wine production in this beautiful region of Albania, and enjoy a wine tasting paired with a lunch of traditional Albanian food. Duration approximately 5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 6 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Brochure
Collette Explorations (2024-25)
Brochure
Collette Explorations (2025-26)
Availability
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in USA. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Collette. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Collette. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
