Amazing Balkans & Central Europe (4 Star Hotels)

Amazing Balkans & Central Europe (4 Star Hotels)

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17 Days From

$5226

Amazing Balkans & Central Europe (4 Star Hotels)

17 Days Starting in Sofia, Bulgaria and ending in Vienna, Austria

Visiting: Sofia, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Tirana, Ohrid, Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Regensburg, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

CEUB2

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

0-0

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $5226

NB: Prices correct on 31-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 17-day journey through the Balkans and Central Europe, exploring the vibrant cultures and rich histories of seven countries. This tour offers a seamless travel experience, with comfortable stays in 4-star hotels and transportation via a private, air-conditioned coach. Begin your adventure in Sofia, Bulgaria, and traverse iconic cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, and Kotor, before flying to Berlin to continue your exploration of Central Europe. Discover the architectural wonders of Dresden, Prague, and Munich, and immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Salzburg and Vienna. With guided city tours, optional activities, and ample free time, this tour ensures a comprehensive exploration of each destination's unique charm. Enjoy 16 breakfasts, expert local guides, and an included flight from Skopje to Berlin, making this a truly enriching travel experience.

Highlights

  • Explore the essential highlights of 7 Balkan countries and Central Europe in 17 days.

  • Delve into history and greet the colorful Balkan cultures from one capital to another.

  • Experience seamless travel between iconic destinations such as Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Regensburg, Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna.

  • Discover the vibrant streets and historical landmarks of Belgrade, including the medieval Belgrade Fortress.

  • Walk through the Old Town of Mostar and see the iconic Old Bridge – Stari Most.

  • Marvel at the well-preserved walls and narrow streets of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Enjoy a guided tour of the hilltop Prague Castle complex and the iconic Charles Bridge.

  • Take a scenic drive along Vienna's Ringstrasse, visiting landmarks like the State Opera House and Schonbrunn Palace.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Sofia

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: Novotel Sofia - 4 Star

Welcome to Sofia! At the airport, keep an eye out for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. At the hotel around 7pm, have an informal welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travellers. After you get all the critical information about the tour, head out for our optional group dinner around 8:15pm and walk the streets of Sofia.

Day 2 : Sofia, Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Accommodation Name: Abba Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a substantial breakfast, hop on the bus and make your way to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. With stunning views over the Danube and Sava rivers by the mighty medieval Belgrade Fortress, head to the heart of the capitol. Starting off at the vibrant pretty shopping street, Knez Mihailova, filled with cafes, shops and charming sites, kick off the walking tour to discover the incredible landmarks Belgrade has in store and their marvellous histories.

Day 3 : Belgrade, Sarajevo

Location: Sarajevo

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ibis Styles – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Next stop Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital, the city that has been through it all! It is where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split and where people of many nations and religions met, lived and warred. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. Though, still an oriental beauty with a unique twist, and a delight to discover on your walking tour in the old town. The city offers endless delicacies to taste, but the specialty is lamb.

Day 4 : Sarajevo, Mostar,Trebinje

Location: Mostar

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Park – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, we drive for the amazing Adriatic shore, but first a stop at Mostar! As you arrive in this dreamland, walk through the Old Town of this Herzegovina pearl, see the iconic highlights Old Bridge – Stari Most, and the old caršija (market). Enjoy your lunch with an amazing view at one of the local venues, discover the old town and make sure to try the delicious Turkish coffee. In the afternoon, we ride to Trebinje for our overnight stay.

Day 5 : Trebinje, Dubrovnik, Trebinje

Location: Dubrovnik

Accommodation Name: Hotel Central Park – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get ready for a long day at Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic"! With its well-preserved majestic walls encircling the whole town and its sea of terra-cotta roof tiles, giving life to the "King’s Landing", the whole town is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even the drive down to town from the mountain-side is a breakth-taking highlight in itself! We start off with a guided walking tour of the Old Town and marvel at the millennial history of this fairy-like town. Walk atop the mighty walls, discover cute narrow streets, taste delicious seafood or jump off into the crystal-blue waters. In the evening, we return to Trebinje for a good night's rest.

Day 6 : Trebinje, Kotor, Shkoder

Location: Kotor

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Europa – 5 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Next stop Montenegro! Arrive in Kotor after a scenic drive an meet its calming natural beauty and characteristic architecture, a less-crowded version of Dubrovnik with its impressive medieval citadel. Following a walking tour of the old town with your expert local guide and some free time. Departure to Albania, which is our final destination for the day. Shkoder is one of the most authentic cities in Albania. Walking tour through the centre. Overnight in Shkoder.

Day 7 : Shkoder, Tirana, Ohrid

Location: Tirana

Accommodation Name: Hotel Aqualina – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hit the road after breakfast! A panoramic city tour of Tirana will introduce the best preserved and most beautiful samples of Albanian architecture, and drop us off at the town centre for some free time to discover the bustling Skenderbeg square. In the afternoon, continue towards Ohrid, Macedonia and check-in to your comfy hotel. You can rest up after a long day, or join the optional Balkan night with dinner.

Day 8 : Ohrid, Skopje

Location: Ohrid

Accommodation Name: Hotel Next Door – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start off the day with a guided city tour of Old Ohrid hosting hundreds of chapels and churches scattered all around. In the afternoon travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, for the night.

Day 9 : Skopje, Berlin (By Flight)

Location: Berlin

Accommodation Name: TBC

Meals Included: Breakfast

Are you ready to say goodbye to the Balkans and fly to Berlin, A city pulsating with a dynamic blend of history, culture, and contemporary vibrancy. Later on, you can embrace the spirited energy of the city at your own pace.

Day 10 : Berlin

Location: Berlin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a captivating morning exploration with a guided tour of Berlin, starting with a visit to the historic Reichstag building, which has housed the German Parliament since its construction in 1894. Proceed to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol once emblematic of the city’s division during the Cold War era. Following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the gate has transformed into a powerful symbol of German unity, alongside the controversial Checkpoint Charlie.As you traverse the city, cruise along the elegant Unter den Linden Boulevard and Kurfurstendamm, a renowned avenue that has long been one of Berlin’s most iconic thoroughfares. Pass by notable landmarks such as the German State Opera House and the Baroque Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral), a magnificent structure dating back to the 1700s.In the early afternoon, immerse yourself in Berlin’s Hidden Past with a dedicated tour, peeling back the layers of history to reveal remnants of the city’s transformative journey.

Day 11 : Berlin-Dresden-Prague

Location: Dresden

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast, travel from Berlin to Dresden, renowned for its impressive artistic masterpieces and Baroque architectural wonders. Although significant portions of this city fell victim to wartime destruction, meticulous restoration efforts have restored its former splendor, notably showcased in landmarks such as the Royal Palace and its museum housing treasures dating back to the 1720s. Your guided walking tour will lead you to iconic sites such as the Zwinger Palace, the Semper Opera, and the unmistakable Dresden Frauenkirche, the Church of Our Lady, meticulously reconstructed from rubble.As the day comes to a close, travel on to Prague and check in at your hotel.

Day 12 : Prague

Location: Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a captivating day in Prague with a guided walking tour leading you through the picturesque Lesser Town (Malá Strana), also known as the charming Little Quarter. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this historic area, characterized by ancient burgher houses and winding quaint side streets. As you traverse the iconic Charles Bridge, Europe’s venerable stone bridge, marvel at the breathtaking views that unfold before you, leading you to the heart of Prague’s medieval center, the Old Town.Delve into the medieval charm of Old Town as you explore its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Square. Continue your journey into the Jewish Quarter, once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe, where you’ll encounter the elegant white stucco St. Nicholas Church, the renowned Astronomical Clock, and the historic Town Hall.In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the hilltop Prague Castle complex, the former regal residence of Bohemian kings. Discover the magnificence of St. Vitus Cathedral, the hallowed space where kings were crowned, and be treated to spectacular vistas offering panoramic views of the entire city below. This comprehensive exploration promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Prague’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

Day 13 : Prague-Regensburg-Munich

Location: Regensburg

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchecn Messe – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a picturesque morning journey from Prague to the charming city of Regensburg in Germany. Take your time to leisurely explore the enchanting delights of Regensburg, situated along the scenic Danube River. Renowned as one of Germany’s largest and impeccably preserved medieval cities, Regensburg holds the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Allow yourself to be captivated by the architectural marvels, including stunning churches and the one-of-a-kind medieval stone bridge that gracefully spans the majestic River Danube. Later on, ride to Munich and take a moment’s rest to fuel up for a full day in Munich packed with popular sights.

Day 14 : Munich

Location: Munich

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchen Messe – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

We begin the day with an introductory stroll led by your group leader to discover key attractions like Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt. Marvel at the iconic Marienplatz, the city’s vibrant central square, adorned with historical landmarks and surrounded by picturesque architecture. Explore the awe-inspiring Frauenkirche, a symbol of Munich’s rich history and a testament to its resilience. For the rest of the day, enjoy free time at your own pace, or choose to engage in the optional excursion to the enchanting Linderhof Palace, a fairytale creation commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II, and Oberammergau, renowned for its celebrated passion play.In the evening, roam the city freely and perhaps savor some traditional Bavarian beer in one of Munich’s famous beer halls.

Day 15 : Munich-Salzburg-Vienna

Location: Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a scenic journey from Munich to Salzburg, a captivating city cradled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps. Take a guided tour through the highlights of Salzburg and acquaint yourself with the city’s myriad attractions. Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where classical beauty converges with manicured landscapes. Venture to the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval stronghold perched majestically on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine panorama. Visit the awe-inspiring Salzburg Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Delve into the Mozart Residence, the former home of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, to gain insight into his life and musical genius. Later, we proceed towards Vienna.

Day 16 : Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a captivating sightseeing odyssey today, beginning with a scenic drive along the renowned Ringstrasse, where landmarks such as the Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, and Parliament grace your path. Stroll through the Hofburg courtyards, tracing the footsteps of history, until you reach the State Opera House. Marvel at the architectural magnificence that punctuates this iconic cityscape.Take a tour that unveils the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace, once the opulent summer abode of the Habsburg emperors. Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry as you traverse through the ornate halls and lush gardens of this imperial residence. You can also join our optional guided tour to Danube Tower and Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, an underground marvel nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Uncover the secrets of this centuries-old salt mine as you traverse its subterranean chambers.

Day 17 : Vienna

Location: Vienna

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, your unforgettable Central Europe tour comes to an end. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the magnificent Europe until next time!

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 Star Hotels

  • Meals

    16 Breakfasts

  • Transportation

    Air-conditioned coach or mini-bus.

  • Airport Transfer(s)

    Arrival airport transfer from Sofia Airport to the hotel on day 1.

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides liCenced by the Ministry of Tourism.

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Flifgt from Skopje to Berlin.

What's Not Included

  • Any flights not mentioned above

  • Travel Insurance

  • Meals not stated above

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Tips and gestures

  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Optional activities

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort on an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus, with an arrival airport transfer from Sofia Airport to the hotel on day 1, and a flight from Skopje to Berlin included.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at 4-star hotels throughout the tour, including Novotel Sofia, Abba Hotel, Hotel Ibis Styles, Hotel Central Park, Grand Hotel Europa, Hotel Aqualina, Hotel Next Door, and more, ensuring a relaxing and luxurious experience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 4-star hotels throughout the journey.

  • Are there any meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 16 breakfasts as part of the package.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour uses an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus for transportation between destinations.

  • Is there an airport transfer included in the tour?

    Yes, an arrival airport transfer from Sofia Airport to the hotel is included on day 1 of the tour.

  • Are there any flights included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a flight from Skopje to Berlin.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, the tour includes the services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

  • Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Yes, free Wi-Fi is available during the flight from Skopje to Berlin.

  • Are entrance fees to sights and museums included in the tour price?

    No, entrance fees to sights and museums are not included in the tour price and are considered exclusions.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities available during the tour, such as a group dinner in Sofia, a Dubrovnik boat trip, and a Balkan night with dinner in Ohrid, among others.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Stephani Ferrari Dalto (Google Reviewer)  

I’m about to finish my...

18-Oct-2024

I’m about to finish my Essential Turkey trip with Travel Talk (October 12th- for 10 days) and had an amazing experience! Our guide Mustafa was fantastic. He took care of every little detail and made sure everyone in our group (42 people, a great mix of ages) was happy and well looked after. I traveled with my mom, and this trip was the perfect way to get a quick, but comprehensive, view of what Turkey has to offer. This was my second time with Travel Talk, and I would definitely choose them again for future adventures!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Monday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 24, 2025
$5226

Saturday - Monday

May 10, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$5345

Saturday - Monday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 16, 2025
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Saturday - Monday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jul 07, 2025
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Saturday - Monday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 18, 2025
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Saturday - Monday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025
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Saturday - Monday

Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
$5904

Saturday - Monday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$5465

Saturday - Monday

Oct 25, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
$5465

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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