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Balkans Tours and Holidays

Travel Talk Balkans tours take you on an unforgettable journey across a fascinating region that has shaped the history of modern Europe. It is where Europe greets the Orient; where Christians and Muslims have cohabited for centuries building its unique cultural and social fabric. This beautiful geography hosted huge incidents in history from the splitting of Roman Empire into two, to the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand that sparked World War I. It has witnessed many wars and struggles – named the “powder-keg of Europe” due to strong ideals of the natives. Whilst the Balkans hold such a rich history, it is also truly blessed with its astonishing natural beauty. From magnificent mountains covered in tall green forests, to crystal waters and endless white beaches. The Balkans are a unique facade of Europe with its familiar, yet distinct style and vibe. Go on a full discovery with a taste of Bulgaria, Serbia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia and Greece, following the legacy of each nation. Travel Talk Balkans tours are perfect for all chasing the most charming natural beauties, immense cultural heritage and unique travel experiences.

Travel Talk Balkans tours take you on an unforgettable journey across a fascinating region that has shaped the history of modern Europe. It is where Europe greets the Orient; where Christians and Muslims have cohabited for centuries building its unique cultural and social fabric.

 
 
 

Our Balkans Trips

SHOW IMAGES

Trip Style: Classic, Overland

Best of Balkans

9 Days

4.7

138 reviews

from

$2175

$870

Trip Style: Discovery, Overland

Balkan Discovery

10 Days

4.7

96 reviews

from

$2263

$905

Trip Style: Discovery, Overland

All About Balkans

12 Days

4.8

19 reviews

from

$2906

$1162

Amazing Balkans and Transylvania

Trip Style: Classic, Overland

Amazing Balkans and Transylvania

16 Days

5

1 reviews

from

$4233

$1693

Trip Style: Classic, Overland

Splendours of Balkans and Transylvania

17 Days

4.6

14 reviews

from

$4320

$1728

Trip Style: Classic, Overland

Ultimate Balkans and Transylvania

19 Days

5

1 reviews

from

$5036

$2014

Trip Style: Classic, Island Hopper

Amazing Greece

12 Days

new trip

No reviews yet

from

$4199

$1680

Show Maps

Balkans Accommodation

Please find below the 4 Star hotels used on our Balkans trips. All accommodation is carefully hand-selected to satisfy our standards in terms of quality, authenticity and location for you to enjoy a comfortable and unforgettable holiday.

ABBA HOTEL
Belgrade
4 Star

Discover some of the most elegant hotel rooms in Belgrade, designed to immerse the guests in apsolute comfort and unparaleled luxury.

IBIS STYLE HOTEL
Sarajevo
4 Star

Ibis Style Hotel offers various facilities such as swimming pool and a wellness centre. The hotel has a rich continental breakfast buffet.

HOTEL CENTRAL PARK
Trebinje
4 Star

Hotel Central Park is located in Trebinje and has a terrace with a nice and cozy restaurant.The hotel is in a building that has a very interesting history.

HOTEL AQUALINA
Ohrid
4 Star

Located on the shore of Lake Ohrid, surrounded by an area of an amazing clear water of the lake on one side and endless green forest of and national park of Galicica.

HOTEL NEXT DOOR
Skopje
4 Star

A modern design hotel situated next to Vardar River in the beautiful capital city of North Macedonia. The hotel features a fitness & SPA center and an on-site restaurant.

ABC HOTEL
Thessaloniki
3 Star

Located in a short walking distance to the Archaeological & Byzantine Museums, the shopping center as well as numerous restaurants, cafes, taverns and bars.

ARION HOTEL
Athens
3 Star

Within walking distance of Athens’ top attractions such as the Acropolis, Plaka, this hotel is yet hidden away from the old town.

HERMES HOTEL
Delphi
3 Star

The Hermes is a charming traditional mountain style hotel in the city of Delphi with view of the olive grove. The archaeological sites are a short distance away.

Balkans Sights Map

Balkan Tours Guidebook

Best Time to Visit the Balkans

Find our seasonal breakdown in detail for the best time to visit the Balkans. The best time to visit the Balkans is in spring and autumn, when the picturesque countryside across the Balkan Peninsula thrive with the changing seasons. Spring is a fantastic time to visit the Balkans. The weather is generally mild, and nature comes alive with blooming flowers and lush landscapes. It's an ideal season for outdoor activities like hiking, and it allows you to enjoy the region's natural beauty without the summer crowds. The summer months are popular for visiting the Balkans, especially if you're interested in coastal destinations along the Adriatic Sea. The weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for beach vacations and outdoor festivals. However, keep in mind that popular tourist spots can become crowded during this time, and accommodation prices may be higher. Why You Should Visit the Balkans: Visiting the Balkans is a captivating travel experience, offering a rich blend of historical heritage, cultural diversity, and stunning natural landscapes. This region, marked by its complex history and a convergence of various civilizations, features a tapestry of architectural wonders and religious traditions.
Read More

Best Places to Visit in the Balkans

The Balkans offer a tapestry of remarkable destinations, each with its own unique charm. Dubrovnik, Croatia, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," showcases a beautifully preserved medieval old town with historic city walls and stunning architecture. The Plitvice Lakes National Park, also in Croatia, is a natural wonderland of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. Moving inland, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city that seamlessly blends diverse cultures and religions, making it a fascinating cultural hub. The Wadi Rum desert, with its striking sandstone formations and opportunities for stargazing and adventure, is a must-visit. Experience floating effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and indulge in its therapeutic mud. The Roman city of Jerash showcases well-preserved ruins, while the ancient mosaics of Madaba and the biblical history of Mount Nebo add cultural depth to your trip. Belgrade, Serbia, offers a vibrant nightlife scene and a rich cultural heritage, while the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro presents a dramatic fjord-like setting with medieval towns nestled against the backdrop of steep mountains.
Read More

Balkans Travel Advice

Read through our Balkans travel advice in detail and make sure you are up-to-date with the pre-departure essentials before your trips to the Balkans. Check the visa requirements for the specific Balkan countries you plan to visit, as visa regulations can vary. Many Balkan countries, such as Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, allow visa-free travel for short stays for citizens of many countries. However, always verify the latest visa regulations for each country you intend to visit. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Balkans. You need to have valid and adequate travel insurance before your tour with Travel Talk begins.
Read More

Balkan Culture

Visit our Balkan culture page to read about the fascinating culture of the Balkans: eating & drinking, crafts, shopping, religion, etiquette, festivals and more. The Balkans are a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, which have shaped the region's cultural mosaic. The area has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian empires, leaving their mark on architecture, art, and traditions. Religious diversity is a significant aspect of Balkan culture. The region is home to various religious communities, including Orthodox Christianity, Catholicism, Islam, and Judaism. Religious festivals and customs are an integral part of life and are celebrated with fervor. The Balkans are known for their lively music and dance traditions. Folk music and dance, with distinctive rhythms and instruments like the accordion and tamburitza, play a crucial role in social gatherings and celebrations.
Read More

Balkan Food

Visit our Balkan Food page to read more about the delicious local cuisine, find must-try dishes and beverages on your journey. Read articles about the diverse Balkan cuisine from fellow foodies and seasoned travellers. Balkan cuisine is a flavorful and hearty reflection of the region's diverse cultural heritage. Meat takes center stage in many Balkan dishes, with grilled meats, stews, and roasted meats being common staples. Cevapi, a type of minced meat kebab, and pljeskavica, a savory burger, are beloved meat dishes found throughout the Balkans. Peka is a traditional method of cooking where meats and vegetables are slow-cooked under an iron bell covered with hot coals, resulting in tender and succulent flavors. Balkan cuisine also features deliciously rich stews like goulash and sarma, which are cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice. Served with a side of ajvar, a flavorful red pepper-based condiment, these dishes offer a taste of Balkan comfort food.
Read More

The Balkans Tours - FAQ

If you're from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, United States or Canada, you can enter the following Balkan countries for a touristic stay of up to 90 days without a visa: Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Albania, North Macedonia, Greece. Passport validity entry requirements may change per nationality. We generally recommend to have a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity. This information is provided only as a guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate or embassy as this information can change at any time and with little notice. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when travelling.
Yes, all passengers travelling with Travel Talk must have travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance in place. You may read more about this here.
The Balkans is beautiful year-round. It can get quite cold in the Winter with occasional snowy days. The best time to visit is typically April to October as pleasent weather can be expected. Summer is the time to visit if you enjoy warm weather.
Complimentary wi-fi is available in most hotels, some cafes and restaurants, however the quality of the connection may differ. You can also find internet cafes in the cities visited. Make sure to enable data roaming on your mobile if you wish to use 3G/4G. Connection may be limited especially in small towns and rural areas.
If you come from another EU Country you may be able to use your phone without any additional roaming charges, please consult with your mobile provider. Coverage is generally quite good in the urban areas, however may be spotty in rural areas and some towns. Make sure to enable global roaming before leaving home to be able to use your mobile internationally. 3G/4G is usually available in the cities, however may be unreliable.
Local currencies are used in differenet countries of the Balkans, however Euro is also widely accepted. Respective local currencies are: Bulgarian Lev, Serbian Dinar, Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark, Croatian Kuna, Macedonian Denar, Albanian Lek, and Euro in Greece and Montenegro. Your spending may change depending on the country visited and more expensive prices can be expected at touristic hotspots. A few examples of approximate prices:
  • Crepe: 5 - 8 EUR
  • Muffins, bagels: 3 - 5 EUR
  • Sandwiches: 5 - 10 EUR
  • A simple restaurant meal: 15 - 25 EUR
  • Soft Ice Cream: 2.5 - 5 EUR
  • 500 ml water in vending machines: 1 - 2 EUR
Although it is safe to drink tap water in some cities, we recommend to use filtered or bottled water. Alternatively consider using a reusable water bottle to reduce your use of plastic.
Credit cards are widely accepted in the cities. However, small shops and vendors may not accept cards, we would recommend to carry cash with you for such small purchases.
ATMs are common in Balkan cities and large towns, and most shops accept major credit cards. Smaller shops and vendors may still prefer cash payment.
Arrival airport transfer is included if your flight lands in Sofia on the first day of your tour between 5am and 11:30pm. You must inform our call centre or [email protected] of your flight details (date of flight, flight number, arrival time and name of travelers) at least 15 days prior to your departure date. If you do not receive confirmation that your pick-up is arranged, please contact us. You will be picked up by a Travel Talk representative holding a Travel Talk sign at the airport. Departure transfer is not available for Balkan tours.
The welcome meeting will be held in the hotel lobby at 7pm with your group and guide. You can find the arrival information for Balkans tours here.  If there is any change in your arrival hotel, we will send you an e-mail to inform you before the trip. Don't worry if you will miss the welcome meeting on Day 1 as some travellers arrive late in the day - just make sure to let us know in advance.
There is no pre or post tour accommodation available in the Balkans tour.
Solo travellers often join our tours to meet and travel with like-minded adventurers, forming longstanding friendships. We also strive to provide a relaxed and sociable tour experience to allow the group to weld throughout the journey. Solo travellers will be roomed with another solo traveller of the same gender, or can upgrade to a solo room by paying the single supplement.
There are always solo travelers on our tours. If you don’t mind being roomed with another single traveler of the same gender, you do not need to pay the supplement. Single supplement is for travelers who would like to stay in a single room for the duration of their tour.
Please contact us with your request & we will do our best to arrange your room accordingly. [email protected] 0208 099 9596
Our tours do not include airfare to/from the destination, and we do not advise on, ticket or sell flights. It is your responsibility to make it to the starting point of your tour on time.
If you provide your dietary requirements at the time of booking, we will do our best to make the necessary arrangements where available. You can leave a comment under the "Notes" section when making an online booking or simply contact us. Please note that gluten-free & vegan options may be limited in the country.
As most countries on our Balkan tours use their local currency, we recommend you to exchange small amounts as you go. Euro is generally accepted however it is always more favourable to pay in the local currency. Avoid changing the bulk of your money at the airport as the exchange rates are usually more favorable in the city. Your tour leader will be pleased to help you if you need any assistance. The local currencies are: Bulgarian Lev, Serbian Dinar, Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark, Croatian Kuna, Macedonian Denar, Albanian Lek, and Euro in Greece and Montenegro.
Good news, there isn’t any luggage restriction on our tours as long as you’re able to carry your own luggage - usually just for a very short distance.
Tips are a common reward for service staff in the Balkan countries. For a restaurant meal, you can tip around 10-15% if tip is not included in the bill. Your tour guide and driver will be especially appreciative and honored with this kind of traditional gratitude at the end of your tour.
You can join a tour late or miss the Welcome Meeting on Day 1 if you inform us prior to the departure date. Please note that it will be your responsibility to make the necessary arrangements to catch up with the group. Please contact us at [email protected] or +44 208 099 9596. For all emergencies, you can contact +44 208 099 7536.
The Best of Balkans tour ends at our Sofia hotel around 18:00 on the final day. Flights departing after 20:30 are recommended.
The Balkan Discovery tour ends at Sofia city center around noon. Flights departing after 14:30 are recommended.
All About Balkans tour arrives in Athens at approximately 18:00.

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Best Time To Visit the Balkans

Best places to visit in the Balkans

Travel advice

Culture

Food

TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Time To Visit the Balkans

Best Time to Visit the Balkans

Find our seasonal breakdown in detail for the best time to visit the Balkans. The best time to visit the Balkans is in spring and autumn, when the picturesque countryside across the Balkan Peninsula thrive with the changing seasons. Spring is a fantastic time to visit the Balkans. The weather is generally mild, and nature comes alive with blooming flowers and lush landscapes. It's an ideal season for outdoor activities like hiking, and it allows you to enjoy the region's natural beauty without the summer crowds. The summer months are popular for visiting the Balkans, especially if you're interested in coastal destinations along the Adriatic Sea. The weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for beach vacations and outdoor festivals. However, keep in mind that popular tourist spots can become crowded during this time, and accommodation prices may be higher. Why You Should Visit the Balkans: Visiting the Balkans is a captivating travel experience, offering a rich blend of historical heritage, cultural diversity, and stunning natural landscapes. This region, marked by its complex history and a convergence of various civilizations, features a tapestry of architectural wonders and religious traditions.
Read More
TRAVEL GUIDE
Best places to visit in the Balkans

Best Places to Visit in the Balkans

The Balkans offer a tapestry of remarkable destinations, each with its own unique charm. Dubrovnik, Croatia, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," showcases a beautifully preserved medieval old town with historic city walls and stunning architecture. The Plitvice Lakes National Park, also in Croatia, is a natural wonderland of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. Moving inland, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city that seamlessly blends diverse cultures and religions, making it a fascinating cultural hub. The Wadi Rum desert, with its striking sandstone formations and opportunities for stargazing and adventure, is a must-visit. Experience floating effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and indulge in its therapeutic mud. The Roman city of Jerash showcases well-preserved ruins, while the ancient mosaics of Madaba and the biblical history of Mount Nebo add cultural depth to your trip. Belgrade, Serbia, offers a vibrant nightlife scene and a rich cultural heritage, while the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro presents a dramatic fjord-like setting with medieval towns nestled against the backdrop of steep mountains.
Read More
TRAVEL GUIDE
Travel advice

Balkans Travel Advice

Read through our Balkans travel advice in detail and make sure you are up-to-date with the pre-departure essentials before your trips to the Balkans. Check the visa requirements for the specific Balkan countries you plan to visit, as visa regulations can vary. Many Balkan countries, such as Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, allow visa-free travel for short stays for citizens of many countries. However, always verify the latest visa regulations for each country you intend to visit. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Balkans. You need to have valid and adequate travel insurance before your tour with Travel Talk begins.
Read More
TRAVEL GUIDE
Culture

Balkan Culture

Visit our Balkan culture page to read about the fascinating culture of the Balkans: eating & drinking, crafts, shopping, religion, etiquette, festivals and more. The Balkans are a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, which have shaped the region's cultural mosaic. The area has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian empires, leaving their mark on architecture, art, and traditions. Religious diversity is a significant aspect of Balkan culture. The region is home to various religious communities, including Orthodox Christianity, Catholicism, Islam, and Judaism. Religious festivals and customs are an integral part of life and are celebrated with fervor. The Balkans are known for their lively music and dance traditions. Folk music and dance, with distinctive rhythms and instruments like the accordion and tamburitza, play a crucial role in social gatherings and celebrations.
Read More
TRAVEL GUIDE
Food

Balkan Food

Visit our Balkan Food page to read more about the delicious local cuisine, find must-try dishes and beverages on your journey. Read articles about the diverse Balkan cuisine from fellow foodies and seasoned travellers. Balkan cuisine is a flavorful and hearty reflection of the region's diverse cultural heritage. Meat takes center stage in many Balkan dishes, with grilled meats, stews, and roasted meats being common staples. Cevapi, a type of minced meat kebab, and pljeskavica, a savory burger, are beloved meat dishes found throughout the Balkans. Peka is a traditional method of cooking where meats and vegetables are slow-cooked under an iron bell covered with hot coals, resulting in tender and succulent flavors. Balkan cuisine also features deliciously rich stews like goulash and sarma, which are cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice. Served with a side of ajvar, a flavorful red pepper-based condiment, these dishes offer a taste of Balkan comfort food.
Read More
HIGHLIGHTS
Belgrade
One of the oldest cities in Europe and the only one built on the confluence of two rivers, also known as the city that never sleeps.
HIGHLIGHTS
Sarajevo
Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia, is a compact city on the Miljacka River, the center has museums commemorating local history
HIGHLIGHTS
Mostar
Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) that acts as a calling card for the Balkans.
HIGHLIGHTS
Trebinje
Trebinje is a small sized city situated in the Trebišnjica river valley in south eastern Herzegovina, about 30 km by road from Dubrovnik.
HIGHLIGHTS
Kotor
Montenegro’s chief coastal town, Kotor is a picturesque town where maritime history and Romanesque architecture are the moving forces.
HIGHLIGHTS
Shkodra
Shkodër or Shkodra is the fourth largest city in Albania and one of the oldest places in the Balkan peninsula.
HIGHLIGHTS
Tirana
Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania.It is also culturel and economical, politically center of the country.
HIGHLIGHTS
Ohrid
Ohrid is a large town in North Macedonia on the shore of Lake Ohrid and a UNESCO heritage site since 1980.
HIGHLIGHTS
Skopje
Skopje is the capital and largest city of the North Macedonia and it lies in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula region.
HIGHLIGHTS
Sofia
Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria.ıt has rich history from Roman and Ottoman Empires. Also famous with it's night life.
HIGHLIGHTS
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second largest city of Greece and has a rich history from the Roman period. it lies in the Agean sea coast.
HIGHLIGHTS
Kalambaka
Kalabaka is a town and seat of the Municipality of Meteora in the Trikala regional unit, part of Thessaly in Greece.
ACCOMMODATION
Belgrade
ABBA HOTEL
4 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Sarajevo
IBIS STYLE HOTEL
4 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Trebinje
HOTEL CENTRAL PARK
4 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Ohrid
HOTEL AQUALINA
4 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Skopje
HOTEL NEXT DOOR
4 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Thessaloniki
ABC HOTEL
3 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Athens
ARION HOTEL
3 Star
ACCOMMODATION
Delphi
HERMES HOTEL
3 Star

Do I need a visa to enter the Balkans?

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling to the Balkans?

When is the best time to visit the Balkans?

What is the internet access like in the Balkans?

Can I use my mobile while in the Balkans?

How much does it cost for a…?

Can I drink tap water in the Balkans?

Are credit cards widely accepted in the Balkans?

What is ATM access like in the Balkans?

Are airport transfers included?

Where is the welcome meeting on day 1 of my tour?

Can I book pre or post tour accommodation?

Do you have solo travellers on your tours?

I’m a solo passenger, do I need to pay single supplement?

Can I be roomed with my friends?

Do you arrange flights?

Will my dietary requirements be catered for?

What currency should I bring?

Is there any luggage restriction?

Do I need to tip?

What if I join the tour late?

Where & What time does the Best of Balkans Tour end?

Where & What time does the Balkan Discovery Tour end?

What time do we arrive in Athens on Day 11 of All About Balkans tour?

F.A.Q.
Do I need a visa to enter the Balkans?
If you're from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, United States or Canada, you can enter the following Balkan countries for a touristic stay of up to 90 days without a visa: Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Albania, North Macedonia, Greece. Passport validity entry requirements may change per nationality. We generally recommend to have a passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity. This information is provided only as a guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate or embassy as this information can change at any time and with little notice. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when travelling.
F.A.Q.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling to the Balkans?
Yes, all passengers travelling with Travel Talk must have travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance in place. You may read more about this here.
F.A.Q.
When is the best time to visit the Balkans?
The Balkans is beautiful year-round. It can get quite cold in the Winter with occasional snowy days. The best time to visit is typically April to October as pleasent weather can be expected. Summer is the time to visit if you enjoy warm weather.
F.A.Q.
What is the internet access like in the Balkans?
Complimentary wi-fi is available in most hotels, some cafes and restaurants, however the quality of the connection may differ. You can also find internet cafes in the cities visited. Make sure to enable data roaming on your mobile if you wish to use 3G/4G. Connection may be limited especially in small towns and rural areas.
F.A.Q.
Can I use my mobile while in the Balkans?
If you come from another EU Country you may be able to use your phone without any additional roaming charges, please consult with your mobile provider. Coverage is generally quite good in the urban areas, however may be spotty in rural areas and some towns. Make sure to enable global roaming before leaving home to be able to use your mobile internationally. 3G/4G is usually available in the cities, however may be unreliable.
F.A.Q.
How much does it cost for a…?
Local currencies are used in differenet countries of the Balkans, however Euro is also widely accepted. Respective local currencies are: Bulgarian Lev, Serbian Dinar, Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark, Croatian Kuna, Macedonian Denar, Albanian Lek, and Euro in Greece and Montenegro. Your spending may change depending on the country visited and more expensive prices can be expected at touristic hotspots. A few examples of approximate prices:
  • Crepe: 5 - 8 EUR
  • Muffins, bagels: 3 - 5 EUR
  • Sandwiches: 5 - 10 EUR
  • A simple restaurant meal: 15 - 25 EUR
  • Soft Ice Cream: 2.5 - 5 EUR
  • 500 ml water in vending machines: 1 - 2 EUR
F.A.Q.
Can I drink tap water in the Balkans?
Although it is safe to drink tap water in some cities, we recommend to use filtered or bottled water. Alternatively consider using a reusable water bottle to reduce your use of plastic.
F.A.Q.
Are credit cards widely accepted in the Balkans?
Credit cards are widely accepted in the cities. However, small shops and vendors may not accept cards, we would recommend to carry cash with you for such small purchases.
F.A.Q.
What is ATM access like in the Balkans?
ATMs are common in Balkan cities and large towns, and most shops accept major credit cards. Smaller shops and vendors may still prefer cash payment.
F.A.Q.
Are airport transfers included?
Arrival airport transfer is included if your flight lands in Sofia on the first day of your tour between 5am and 11:30pm. You must inform our call centre or [email protected] of your flight details (date of flight, flight number, arrival time and name of travelers) at least 15 days prior to your departure date. If you do not receive confirmation that your pick-up is arranged, please contact us. You will be picked up by a Travel Talk representative holding a Travel Talk sign at the airport. Departure transfer is not available for Balkan tours.
F.A.Q.
Where is the welcome meeting on day 1 of my tour?
The welcome meeting will be held in the hotel lobby at 7pm with your group and guide. You can find the arrival information for Balkans tours here.  If there is any change in your arrival hotel, we will send you an e-mail to inform you before the trip. Don't worry if you will miss the welcome meeting on Day 1 as some travellers arrive late in the day - just make sure to let us know in advance.
F.A.Q.
Can I book pre or post tour accommodation?
There is no pre or post tour accommodation available in the Balkans tour.
F.A.Q.
Do you have solo travellers on your tours?
Solo travellers often join our tours to meet and travel with like-minded adventurers, forming longstanding friendships. We also strive to provide a relaxed and sociable tour experience to allow the group to weld throughout the journey. Solo travellers will be roomed with another solo traveller of the same gender, or can upgrade to a solo room by paying the single supplement.
F.A.Q.
I’m a solo passenger, do I need to pay single supplement?
There are always solo travelers on our tours. If you don’t mind being roomed with another single traveler of the same gender, you do not need to pay the supplement. Single supplement is for travelers who would like to stay in a single room for the duration of their tour.
F.A.Q.
Can I be roomed with my friends?
Please contact us with your request & we will do our best to arrange your room accordingly. [email protected] 0208 099 9596
F.A.Q.
Do you arrange flights?
Our tours do not include airfare to/from the destination, and we do not advise on, ticket or sell flights. It is your responsibility to make it to the starting point of your tour on time.
F.A.Q.
Will my dietary requirements be catered for?
If you provide your dietary requirements at the time of booking, we will do our best to make the necessary arrangements where available. You can leave a comment under the "Notes" section when making an online booking or simply contact us. Please note that gluten-free & vegan options may be limited in the country.
F.A.Q.
What currency should I bring?
As most countries on our Balkan tours use their local currency, we recommend you to exchange small amounts as you go. Euro is generally accepted however it is always more favourable to pay in the local currency. Avoid changing the bulk of your money at the airport as the exchange rates are usually more favorable in the city. Your tour leader will be pleased to help you if you need any assistance. The local currencies are: Bulgarian Lev, Serbian Dinar, Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark, Croatian Kuna, Macedonian Denar, Albanian Lek, and Euro in Greece and Montenegro.
F.A.Q.
Is there any luggage restriction?
Good news, there isn’t any luggage restriction on our tours as long as you’re able to carry your own luggage - usually just for a very short distance.
F.A.Q.
Do I need to tip?
Tips are a common reward for service staff in the Balkan countries. For a restaurant meal, you can tip around 10-15% if tip is not included in the bill. Your tour guide and driver will be especially appreciative and honored with this kind of traditional gratitude at the end of your tour.
F.A.Q.
What if I join the tour late?
You can join a tour late or miss the Welcome Meeting on Day 1 if you inform us prior to the departure date. Please note that it will be your responsibility to make the necessary arrangements to catch up with the group. Please contact us at [email protected] or +44 208 099 9596. For all emergencies, you can contact +44 208 099 7536.
F.A.Q.
Where & What time does the Best of Balkans Tour end?
The Best of Balkans tour ends at our Sofia hotel around 18:00 on the final day. Flights departing after 20:30 are recommended.
F.A.Q.
Where & What time does the Balkan Discovery Tour end?
The Balkan Discovery tour ends at Sofia city center around noon. Flights departing after 14:30 are recommended.
F.A.Q.
What time do we arrive in Athens on Day 11 of All About Balkans tour?
All About Balkans tour arrives in Athens at approximately 18:00.
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