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Travel Talk BlogBalkans 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.
Don’t forget to use the promo code FLASH5TT at checkout to get your 5% extra discount, adding up to 40% off!
Don’t forget to use the promo code FLASH5TT at checkout to get your 5% extra discount, adding up to 40% off!
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.
Don’t forget to use the promo code FLASH5TT at checkout to get your 5% extra discount, adding up to 40% off!
Our Balkans Trips
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.
HOTEL VEGA
Sofia
The hotel offers various facilities such as a restaurant, a fitness centre and a bar. Rooms are fitted with a coffee/tea maker and water Sofia Airport is 8 km away.
ABBA HOTEL
Belgrade
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
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
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 PARK
Budva
Situated just steps away from Slovenska beach in Budva. A special attraction is the unpredictable hotel garden in the shade of palms.
HOTEL SATO
Budva
An authentic Mediterranean village on the Adriatic coast in Montenegro. It is known for its sophisticated service, modern architecture design.
HOTEL AQUALINA
This hotel is 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 PANORAMIKA
Skopje
This hotel has much to offer, swimming pool, spa with sauna, steam bath and gym center.The property is located a 20-minute walk from Macedonia Square.
ABC HOTEL
Thessaloniki
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
Within walking distance of Athens’ top attractions such as the Acropolis, Plaka, this hotel is yet hidden away from the old town.
Balkans Sights Map
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.
Sarajevo
Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia, is a compact city on the Miljacka River, the center has museums commemorating local history
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.
Trebinje
Trebinje is a small sized city situated in the Trebišnjica river valley in south eastern Herzegovina, about 30 km by road from Dubrovnik.
Kotor
Montenegro’s chief coastal town, Kotor is a picturesque town where maritime history and Romanesque architecture are the moving forces.
Budva
Budva is a town in Montenegro and known for best nightlife on the Adriatic Sea, it's known for sandy beaches and nightlife
Shkodra
Shkodër or Shkodra is the fourth largest city in Albania and one of the oldest places in the Balkan peninsula.
Tirana
Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania.It is also culturel and economical, politically center of the country.
Ohrid
Ohrid is a large town in North Macedonia on the shore of Lake Ohrid and a UNESCO heritage site since 1980.
Skopje
Skopje is the capital and largest city of the North Macedonia and it lies in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula region.
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.
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.
Kalambaka
Kalabaka is a town and seat of the Municipality of Meteora in the Trikala regional unit, part of Thessaly in Greece.
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.
Sarajevo
Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia, is a compact city on the Miljacka River, the center has museums commemorating local history
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.
Trebinje
Trebinje is a small sized city situated in the Trebišnjica river valley in south eastern Herzegovina, about 30 km by road from Dubrovnik.
Kotor
Montenegro’s chief coastal town, Kotor is a picturesque town where maritime history and Romanesque architecture are the moving forces.
Budva
Budva is a town in Montenegro and known for best nightlife on the Adriatic Sea, it's known for sandy beaches and nightlife
Shkodra
Shkodër or Shkodra is the fourth largest city in Albania and one of the oldest places in the Balkan peninsula.
Tirana
Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania.It is also culturel and economical, politically center of the country.
Ohrid
Ohrid is a large town in North Macedonia on the shore of Lake Ohrid and a UNESCO heritage site since 1980.
Skopje
Skopje is the capital and largest city of the North Macedonia and it lies in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula region.
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.
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.
Kalambaka
Kalabaka is a town and seat of the Municipality of Meteora in the Trikala regional unit, part of Thessaly in Greece.
Balkan Travel Guide
In this part of the continent, winters are very cold and summers are hot and dry.
Best months to visit are May & June and September & October as the mild & pleasant weather will comfort your visit.
From July to September temperatures get remarkably high and this is the perfect weather if your itinerary includes coastal cities.
We closely monitor the latest travel updates to Balkan countries and follow the advice of the UK Foreign Office. For the latest travel advice from UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO),
please visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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.
Balkans are where many religions and ethnicities live in harmony.
While they are all neighbors, they all have surprisingly preserved their identity.
The cultural diversity in the region allows passengers to explore variant lifestyles, traditions, religious rituals, food, languages, and history as they continue with their tour.
You will not want to leave once you discover the charming small towns, welcoming people, and delicious & authentic food.
Balkan countries have an extraordinarily rich cuisine and food plays an important role in their culture as to them, having a meal together is the key to strong family ties.
They still support traditional agriculture with little to none pesticide and you will quickly find out how tasty and fresh all fruits and vegetables are.
As you try new dishes, you will discover the influence of the empires once ruled over this territory.
Burek, Ajvar, stuffed peppers, Pasulj and Goulash are the varieties you should try before you leave.
Coffee and alcoholic beverage rakija are widely drunk in this part of the world.
Every country to be visited offers unique traditional items and every city has its charming bazaar where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, charcuterie products and souvenirs.
As Balkan countries mainly have better rates compared to other European countries, get ready for a crazy shopping session!
Mostar Summer Fest: It’s a hip-hop, punk, electro music festival, held annually in Mostar, Bosnia.
If you are planning to travel around June, you can keep an eye on the dates to experience it!
INmusic festival: If you are a fan of open-air music festivals, make sure you visit Zagreb in June!
EXIT Festival: 2 times ‘Best Major Festival’ awarded EXIT music festival held in Serbia, welcomes music lovers from all around the world every summer.
Ohrid Summer Festival: One of the classics in Europe, the festival that brings together many categories of contemporary art, will celebrate its 60th birthday in 2021.
The Balkans Tours - FAQ
- 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
Recent Travel Articles on the Balkans
Five Places To Visit In The Balkans
The Balkans is home to some beautiful landscapes and unique history. Add in the fact that it’s cheap and easily accessible, and it’s not difficult to see why everyone is raving about this place! Let...
7 Insta-worthy Locations in the Balkans
The Balkans has no shortage of beautiful scenery and sites to see! To help get you started, level up your Insta with these picture perfect locations in the Balkans! Here are 7 Insta-worthy locations you should ...
Where To Travel in 2022?
It’s no secret the past two years have been more than rocky for travel, and despite the bumpy start to 2022, we are manifesting those good vibes and good times for this year! Don’t know about you, b...
6 destinations to fall in love with this Valentine’s
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Best Time To Visit
Travel Advice
Visas
Culture
Eating and drinking
Shopping
Festivals and events
TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Time To Visit
In this part of the continent, winters are very cold and summers are hot and dry.
Best months to visit are May & June and September & October as the mild & pleasant weather will comfort your visit.
From July to September temperatures get remarkably high and this is the perfect weather if your itinerary includes coastal cities.
TRAVEL GUIDE
Travel Advice
We closely monitor the latest travel updates to Balkan countries and follow the advice of the UK Foreign Office. For the latest travel advice from UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO),
please visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
TRAVEL GUIDE
Visas
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.
TRAVEL GUIDE
Culture
Balkans are where many religions and ethnicities live in harmony.
While they are all neighbors, they all have surprisingly preserved their identity.
The cultural diversity in the region allows passengers to explore variant lifestyles, traditions, religious rituals, food, languages, and history as they continue with their tour.
You will not want to leave once you discover the charming small towns, welcoming people, and delicious & authentic food.
TRAVEL GUIDE
Eating and drinking
Balkan countries have an extraordinarily rich cuisine and food plays an important role in their culture as to them, having a meal together is the key to strong family ties.
They still support traditional agriculture with little to none pesticide and you will quickly find out how tasty and fresh all fruits and vegetables are.
As you try new dishes, you will discover the influence of the empires once ruled over this territory.
Burek, Ajvar, stuffed peppers, Pasulj and Goulash are the varieties you should try before you leave.
Coffee and alcoholic beverage rakija are widely drunk in this part of the world.
TRAVEL GUIDE
Shopping
Every country to be visited offers unique traditional items and every city has its charming bazaar where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, charcuterie products and souvenirs.
As Balkan countries mainly have better rates compared to other European countries, get ready for a crazy shopping session!
TRAVEL GUIDE
Festivals and events
Mostar Summer Fest: It’s a hip-hop, punk, electro music festival, held annually in Mostar, Bosnia.
If you are planning to travel around June, you can keep an eye on the dates to experience it!
INmusic festival: If you are a fan of open-air music festivals, make sure you visit Zagreb in June!
EXIT Festival: 2 times ‘Best Major Festival’ awarded EXIT music festival held in Serbia, welcomes music lovers from all around the world every summer.
Ohrid Summer Festival: One of the classics in Europe, the festival that brings together many categories of contemporary art, will celebrate its 60th birthday in 2021.
HIGHLIGHTS
Belgrade
HIGHLIGHTS
Sarajevo
HIGHLIGHTS
Mostar
HIGHLIGHTS
Trebinje
HIGHLIGHTS
Kotor
HIGHLIGHTS
Budva
HIGHLIGHTS
Shkodra
HIGHLIGHTS
Tirana
HIGHLIGHTS
Ohrid
HIGHLIGHTS
Skopje
HIGHLIGHTS
Sofia
HIGHLIGHTS
Thessaloniki
HIGHLIGHTS
Kalambaka
ACCOMMODATION
Sofia
HOTEL VEGA
ACCOMMODATION
Belgrade
ABBA HOTEL
ACCOMMODATION
Sarajevo
IBIS STYLE HOTEL
ACCOMMODATION
Trebinje
HOTEL CENTRAL PARK
ACCOMMODATION
Budva
HOTEL PARK
ACCOMMODATION
Budva
HOTEL SATO
ACCOMMODATION
HOTEL AQUALINA
ACCOMMODATION
Skopje
HOTEL PANORAMIKA
ACCOMMODATION
Thessaloniki
ABC HOTEL
ACCOMMODATION
Athens
ARION HOTEL
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 info@traveltalktours.com 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. info@traveltalktours.com 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 info@traveltalktours.com 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.
Articles
Five Places To Visit In The Balkans
Five Places To Visit In The Balkans
The Balkans is home to some beautiful landscapes and unique history. Add in the fact that it’s cheap and easily accessible, and it’s not difficult to see why everyone is raving about this place! Let...
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7 Insta-worthy Locations in the Balkans
7 Insta-worthy Locations in the Balkans
The Balkans has no shortage of beautiful scenery and sites to see! To help get you started, level up your Insta with these picture perfect locations in the Balkans! Here are 7 Insta-worthy locations you should ...
Articles
Where To Travel in 2022?
Where To Travel in 2022?
It’s no secret the past two years have been more than rocky for travel, and despite the bumpy start to 2022, we are manifesting those good vibes and good times for this year! Don’t know about you, b...
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6 destinations to fall in love with this Valentine’s
6 destinations to fall in love with this Valentine’s
If you’re anything like us, you’ve been in long love affair with travel for years. To celebrate our mutual one true love of travel this Valentine’s Day, what better way than to share the desti...
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