Best of the Balkans

4.4/5 Based on 5 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor

Best of the Balkans

4.4/5 Based on 5 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Fully Guided Coach Group Scenic
Our Price From 1,597 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 205 Per Person
 Trip Length
9 Days
 Trip Starts
Dubrovnik
 Trip Finishes
Split
9 Day Best of the Balkans Itinerary (Costsaver)
Countries Explored: Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia Herzegovina
Our Price From 1,597 Per Person
 Trip Length
9 Days
 Trip Starts
Dubrovnik
 Trip Finishes
Split
9 Day Best of the Balkans Itinerary (Costsaver)
Countries Explored: Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia Herzegovina
Trip Style
Regional
Departures
Accommodation
3 - 4 Star
Max. Group Size
53
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
HCBH
Trip Style
Regional
Departures
Accommodation
3 - 4 Star
Max. Group Size
53
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
HCBH

Overview

Read 5 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Costsaver's 9 Day Best of the Balkans. Journey from medieval ruins to ancient Roman sights on this 9-day exploration of the Best of the Balkans, featuring the historic town centres of Dubrovnik and Split. You'll wander through multicultural cities, hear moving stories of war and discover the stunning architecture. Centuries of history will be revealed through the eyes of Local Specialists who share their secrets of the Balkans.
Read 5 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Costsaver's 9 Day Best of the Balkans. Journey from medieval ruins to ancient Roman sights on this 9-day exploration of the Best of the Balkans, featuring the historic town centres of Dubrovnik and Split. You'll wander through multicultural cities, hear moving stories of war and discover the stunning architecture. Centuries of history will be revealed through the eyes of Local Specialists who share their secrets of the Balkans.

Itinerary

Arrive in Dubrovnik where you'll get to see 'paradise on earth'- if George Bernard Shaw is to be believed. The famous playwright was a big fan of this medieval fortified city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. Over the next day you'll uncover the city's unique appeal, but first meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for an included dinner this evening and a glimpse into what lies ahead. (D) Stay: Villas Plat

Today we join a Local Specialist for a guided sightseeing tour of the iconic highlights in Dubrovnik. Admire the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the city walls. Stroll through elegant courtyards and along limestone streets, admiring the remnants of Dubrovnik's Golden Age.

Tonight, there's no better way to enjoy this shimmering coastline than embarking on an optional sunset dinner cruise to a secluded bay, with the illuminated city of Dubrovnik providing the perfect end to the evening. (B)

Journey through the spectacular scenery of Montenegro to the Old Town of Kotor, known as Stari Grad. Located beside a beautiful bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen, it's no surprise it's a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Travel Director will take you on an orientation around this historic town.

This evening enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B) Stay: Hotel Monte Casa Spa & Wellness

Small villages and broad plains line your route south into Bosnia-Herzegovina. Arrive later today in its capital Sarajevo, where a rich religious and multi-cultural heritage has earned it the nickname, the 'Jerusalem of Europe'. Warm Bosnian hospitality is on the menu tonight if you choose one of our two Optional Experiences. (B/D) Stay: Ibis Styles

Today, centuries of religious history are reflected in Sarajevo's beautiful synagogues, mosques, and Orthodox and Catholic churches as you'll discover when you join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour. You'll also visit the Old Town, view the largest mosque in the Balkans, and see the Eternal Flame and the Sarajevo Roses that are dotted across the city, standing as a stark reminder of the turmoil Sarajevo endured decades ago. Join a local family in their home for tasty traditional cuisine or enjoy a lively encounter in a favourite local restaurant with dinner and entertainment. (B)

Today you'll head to Mostar, joining a Local Specialist for an exploration of this historic multicultural city that witnessed an impressive resurrection after the Bosnian War. Part of its restoration can be seen in the traditional reconstruction of its medieval 'Stari Most', an Ottoman-style bridge. You'll delve into a tragic time not long ago when Catholic Croats, Muslim Bosniaks and Orthodox Serbs fought for supremacy amidst the colourful cobbled streets overlooking the Neretva River.

You'll have time to explore the city on your own or perhaps join a Local Specialist for a visit to Blagaj, famous for its natural spring and one of the most mystical cultural and historical villages in the country. (B/D) Stay: Mostar

Sit back, relax and watch the stunning Adriatic coastline go by as you pass old fishing villages and modern resorts bound for Split, where modern façades reveal glimpses of an ancient Roman past.

On arrival in Split, a Local Specialist takes you behind the city walls to this harbour town's heart, the 4th-century Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, followed by a leisurely walking tour through the historic Old Town. See how Gothic, Roman and Renaissance structures merge seamlessly across the cityscape. Admire Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the 7th-century Cathedral of Saint Domnius as you explore its maze of narrow alleys.

You'll have an evening to discover the Dalmatian capital on your terms or join an Optional Experience in a traditional stone basement konoba for a Dalmatian dinner and live music. (B) Stay: Mondo

Today is free for you to explore Split as you choose. If you're after more sightseeing, you could choose to spend the rest of your day by joining an Optional Experience to one of the glittering Dalmatian islands. Or perhaps indulge in some of the local vintages which have justifiably earned the islands their reputation as a celebrated wine centre for centuries. (B/D)

You've explored medieval monuments, witnessed the revival of war-torn cities and relaxed on the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic. The allure of the Balkans will linger long after you've said goodbye to your travel companions. (B)

Arrive in Dubrovnik where you'll get to see 'paradise on earth'- if George Bernard Shaw is to be believed. The famous playwright was a big fan of this medieval fortified city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. Over the next day you'll uncover the city's unique appeal, but first meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for an included dinner this evening and a glimpse into what lies ahead. (D) Stay: Villas Plat

Today we join a Local Specialist for a guided sightseeing tour of the iconic highlights in Dubrovnik. Admire the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the city walls. Stroll through elegant courtyards and along limestone streets, admiring the remnants of Dubrovnik's Golden Age.

Tonight, there's no better way to enjoy this shimmering coastline than embarking on an optional sunset dinner cruise to a secluded bay, with the illuminated city of Dubrovnik providing the perfect end to the evening. (B)

Journey through the spectacular scenery of Montenegro to the Old Town of Kotor, known as Stari Grad. Located beside a beautiful bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen, it's no surprise it's a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Travel Director will take you on an orientation around this historic town.

This evening enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B) Stay: Hotel Monte Casa Spa & Wellness

Small villages and broad plains line your route south into Bosnia-Herzegovina. Arrive later today in its capital Sarajevo, where a rich religious and multi-cultural heritage has earned it the nickname, the 'Jerusalem of Europe'. Warm Bosnian hospitality is on the menu tonight if you choose one of our two Optional Experiences. (B/D) Stay: Ibis Styles

Today, centuries of religious history are reflected in Sarajevo's beautiful synagogues, mosques, and Orthodox and Catholic churches as you'll discover when you join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour. You'll also visit the Old Town, view the largest mosque in the Balkans, and see the Eternal Flame and the Sarajevo Roses that are dotted across the city, standing as a stark reminder of the turmoil Sarajevo endured decades ago. Join a local family in their home for tasty traditional cuisine or enjoy a lively encounter in a favourite local restaurant with dinner and entertainment. (B)

Today you'll head to Mostar, joining a Local Specialist for an exploration of this historic multicultural city that witnessed an impressive resurrection after the Bosnian War. Part of its restoration can be seen in the traditional reconstruction of its medieval 'Stari Most', an Ottoman-style bridge. You'll delve into a tragic time not long ago when Catholic Croats, Muslim Bosniaks and Orthodox Serbs fought for supremacy amidst the colourful cobbled streets overlooking the Neretva River.

You'll have time to explore the city on your own or perhaps join a Local Specialist for a visit to Blagaj, famous for its natural spring and one of the most mystical cultural and historical villages in the country. (B/D) Stay: Mostar

Sit back, relax and watch the stunning Adriatic coastline go by as you pass old fishing villages and modern resorts bound for Split, where modern façades reveal glimpses of an ancient Roman past.

On arrival in Split, a Local Specialist takes you behind the city walls to this harbour town's heart, the 4th-century Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, followed by a leisurely walking tour through the historic Old Town. See how Gothic, Roman and Renaissance structures merge seamlessly across the cityscape. Admire Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the 7th-century Cathedral of Saint Domnius as you explore its maze of narrow alleys.

You'll have an evening to discover the Dalmatian capital on your terms or join an Optional Experience in a traditional stone basement konoba for a Dalmatian dinner and live music. (B) Stay: Mondo

Today is free for you to explore Split as you choose. If you're after more sightseeing, you could choose to spend the rest of your day by joining an Optional Experience to one of the glittering Dalmatian islands. Or perhaps indulge in some of the local vintages which have justifiably earned the islands their reputation as a celebrated wine centre for centuries. (B/D)

You've explored medieval monuments, witnessed the revival of war-torn cities and relaxed on the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic. The allure of the Balkans will linger long after you've said goodbye to your travel companions. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Dubrovnik - Sightseeing tour with Local Guide includes a visit of the Old City. See the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries
  • Budva - Orientation around the Old Town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with your Travel Director
  • Sarajevo - Sightseeing with a Local Guide includes the Old Town
  • Mostar - See the iconic historic bridge, Stari Most, a symbol of unity and resilience, and visit the bustling Bazaar with your Local Guide
  • Split - With your Local Guide, see the grand Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Many meals and daily breakfasts included
  • City orientation tours
  • Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
  • Extensive variety of Choice Experiences (Additional Cost)
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

  • 4 Dinners (D)
  • 8 Breakfasts (B)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

  • Dubrovnik - Sightseeing tour with Local Guide includes a visit of the Old City. See the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries
  • Budva - Orientation around the Old Town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with your Travel Director
  • Sarajevo - Sightseeing with a Local Guide includes the Old Town
  • Mostar - See the iconic historic bridge, Stari Most, a symbol of unity and resilience, and visit the bustling Bazaar with your Local Guide
  • Split - With your Local Guide, see the grand Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Many meals and daily breakfasts included
  • City orientation tours
  • Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
  • Extensive variety of Choice Experiences (Additional Cost)
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

  • 4 Dinners (D)
  • 8 Breakfasts (B)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

Trip Reviews (5) Most Recent 'Best of the Balkans' Reviews

4.4
AVG. RATING 4.4 / 5
5 Reviews
5 Star
40%
4 Star
60%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
The Best of the Balkans   1 , NSW, Australia, Oct 2023
The title says it all!! The Best of the Balkans was thoroughly enjoyed! The coach and driver were professional and comfortable. The hotels were clean, comfortable and all staff welcoming and professional. The tour director, Jasmina, was the most amazing knowledgeable, helpful caring and genuine tour director I have ever met on all the tours that I have ...read more been on. She did have a few challenging moments that she handled professionally and with kindness. She is ! in a million!!!

I must add that some of the food that was served including breakfast and dinner, in the hotels were a little missing the target. There was a few gluten free passengers on my trip and there was little in the way of desserts, only fruit and more fruit and mostly only bread was offered at breakfast time. Maybe a small amount of cereal and pastry or sweet cake would of been a welcomed change .

The places we visited were amazing and if time had permitted, a longer stay would of been welcomed. Thank you to Tracey for all of your help booking this amazing trip for me!!
Interesting tour 4 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2019
Very interesting to hear all about the past and recent history in this region. All the local guides were very interesting and informative except for the one in Montenegro who was below par. This is a fast paced tour with some early morning starts. The scenery was wonderful in Croatia. The hotels although good were outside of the main city so if this ...read more is a problem then you would be better off with the higher priced Trafalgar tour. I mainly did this tour as it went to Medjorgje and many of the others don’t. The tour guide Jasmina and driver Dramir were both excellent.
Wonderful holiday   12 , New Zealand, Oct 2017
It was a very good holiday. We had sunshine and temperatures in the 20s every day except the first. The autumn colours were amazing and most of the places less crowded. We were in Zagreb for Independence Day celebrations and saw lots we wouldn't normally like the guards changing in traditional costume. Three passed us on horses.There were 47 people ...read more on the coach and they were all really nice people, our guide and driver were the best I have experienced any where. Our guide told us it had been the perfect tour. Once I got over the early starts I enjoyed every minute!
Wonderful trip to the Balkans 4 , WA, Australia, Sep 2017
Very informative tour, and well priced. Our tour director was exceptional. Thank you Yvonne for your assistance in booking our trip.
Great tour although we had VERY Hot weather 3 , VIC, Australia, Jul 2015
We had a great tour although we had VERY Hot weather. We realised it was summer but travelling from Melbourne's 8c to high 30c to 40c was a bit of a shock. Trafalgar were again very good and our Tour leader Gasper was excellent. Arrived back home Fri 7th Aug after spending time in UK with family. We are pleased all went well.
Play Youtube Video

Brochure

Costsaver Worldwide (2025-26) Brochure

Costsaver Worldwide (2025-26)

When it comes to travel, one size never fits all. And with Costsaver, it doesn’t have to. We take care of your tour essentials, then you choose from over 1000+ Choice Experiences to make it your own. And while we’re at it, together we’ll leave a positive impact on the places, people and wildlife we encounter along the way.

Brochure

Costsaver Worldwide (2025-26) Brochure

Costsaver Worldwide (2025-26)

When it comes to travel, one size never fits all. And with Costsaver, it doesn’t have to. We take care of your tour essentials, then you choose from over 1000+ Choice Experiences to make it your own. And while we’re at it, together we’ll leave a positive impact on the places, people and wildlife we encounter along the way.

Availability USD USD

Last Minute Deal
Sunday 27 Apr 2025
Monday 05 May 2025
Status
From: $1,825 $1,642
Save $183 Inquire
Sunday 11 May 2025
Monday 19 May 2025
Status
From: $1,850
  N/A
Sunday 18 May 2025
Monday 26 May 2025
Status
From: $1,850
  N/A
Last Minute Deal
Sunday 25 May 2025
Monday 02 Jun 2025
Status
From: $1,850 $1,665
Save $185 Inquire
Sunday 08 Jun 2025
Monday 16 Jun 2025
Status
From: $1,875
  N/A
Sunday 22 Jun 2025
Monday 30 Jun 2025
Status
From: $1,925
  N/A
Today's Deal
Sunday 06 Jul 2025
Monday 14 Jul 2025
Status
From: $2,025 $1,822
Save $203 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 20 Jul 2025
Monday 28 Jul 2025
Status
From: $2,025 $1,822
Save $203 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 03 Aug 2025
Monday 11 Aug 2025
Status
From: $2,025 $1,822
Save $203 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 17 Aug 2025
Monday 25 Aug 2025
Status
From: $2,050 $1,845
Save $205 Inquire
September On Sale
Sunday 31 Aug 2025
Monday 08 Sep 2025
Status
From: $1,895 $1,705
Save $190 Inquire
September On Sale
Sunday 07 Sep 2025
Monday 15 Sep 2025
Status
From: $1,895 $1,705
Save $190 Inquire
Sunday 21 Sep 2025
Monday 29 Sep 2025
Status
From: $1,850
  Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 05 Oct 2025
Monday 13 Oct 2025
Status
From: $1,850 $1,665
Save $185 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 19 Oct 2025
Monday 27 Oct 2025
Status
From: $1,775 $1,597
Save $178 Inquire
Last Minute Deal
Sunday 27 Apr 2025
Monday 05 May 2025
Status
From: $2,275 $2,092
Save $183 Inquire
Sunday 11 May 2025
Monday 19 May 2025
Status
From: $2,310
  N/A
Sunday 18 May 2025
Monday 26 May 2025
Status
From: $2,310
  N/A
Last Minute Deal
Sunday 25 May 2025
Monday 02 Jun 2025
Status
From: $2,310 $2,125
Save $185 Inquire
Sunday 08 Jun 2025
Monday 16 Jun 2025
Status
From: $2,355
  N/A
Sunday 22 Jun 2025
Monday 30 Jun 2025
Status
From: $2,445
  N/A
Today's Deal
Sunday 06 Jul 2025
Monday 14 Jul 2025
Status
From: $2,565 $2,362
Save $203 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 20 Jul 2025
Monday 28 Jul 2025
Status
From: $2,585 $2,382
Save $203 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 03 Aug 2025
Monday 11 Aug 2025
Status
From: $2,595 $2,392
Save $203 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 17 Aug 2025
Monday 25 Aug 2025
Status
From: $2,620 $2,415
Save $205 Inquire
September On Sale
Sunday 31 Aug 2025
Monday 08 Sep 2025
Status
From: $2,415 $2,225
Save $190 Inquire
September On Sale
Sunday 07 Sep 2025
Monday 15 Sep 2025
Status
From: $2,415 $2,225
Save $190 Inquire
Sunday 21 Sep 2025
Monday 29 Sep 2025
Status
From: $2,320
  Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 05 Oct 2025
Monday 13 Oct 2025
Status
From: $2,310 $2,125
Save $185 Inquire
Today's Deal
Sunday 19 Oct 2025
Monday 27 Oct 2025
Status
From: $2,235 $2,057
Save $178 Inquire
Sunday 03 May 2026
Monday 11 May 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 17 May 2026
Monday 25 May 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 31 May 2026
Monday 08 Jun 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 14 Jun 2026
Monday 22 Jun 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 28 Jun 2026
Monday 06 Jul 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 12 Jul 2026
Monday 20 Jul 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 26 Jul 2026
Monday 03 Aug 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 09 Aug 2026
Monday 17 Aug 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 23 Aug 2026
Monday 31 Aug 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 06 Sep 2026
Monday 14 Sep 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 20 Sep 2026
Monday 28 Sep 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 27 Sep 2026
Monday 05 Oct 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 11 Oct 2026
Monday 19 Oct 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 25 Oct 2026
Monday 02 Nov 2026
Status
From: $1,895
  Inquire
Sunday 03 May 2026
Monday 11 May 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 17 May 2026
Monday 25 May 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 31 May 2026
Monday 08 Jun 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 14 Jun 2026
Monday 22 Jun 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 28 Jun 2026
Monday 06 Jul 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 12 Jul 2026
Monday 20 Jul 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 26 Jul 2026
Monday 03 Aug 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 09 Aug 2026
Monday 17 Aug 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 23 Aug 2026
Monday 31 Aug 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 06 Sep 2026
Monday 14 Sep 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 20 Sep 2026
Monday 28 Sep 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 27 Sep 2026
Monday 05 Oct 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 11 Oct 2026
Monday 19 Oct 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Sunday 25 Oct 2026
Monday 02 Nov 2026
Status
From: $2,375
  Inquire
Show more dates...
Note
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. T&C’s apply.
Note
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 Costsaver. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Costsaver. 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.

Similar Tours

10 Day Imperial Highlights (Costsaver)

10 Days Munich Munich

Operated By: Costsaver

From 1,721
Save 308
10 Day Italian Scene (Winter) (Costsaver)

10 Days Rome Rome

Operated By: Costsaver

From 2,050
10 Day London to Rome Highlights (Costsaver)

10 Days London Rome

Operated By: Costsaver

From 1,976
Save 379
10 Day Greek Island Explorer (Costsaver)

10 Days Athens Athens

Operated By: Costsaver

From 2,812
Save 410

Cities