Meet the colourful cultures and people of the marvellous Balkans.
Adventure through the ‘Powder Keg’ of Europe in exquisite style over 12 days and 7 countries. Soak in the incredible natural beauty and unparalleled cultural diversity of the stunning Balkans. From the vibrant streets of Sofia and Belgrade to the serenity of Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania, while witnessing the gorgeous shift of the landscape. Connect with the authentic culture while discovering medieval ramparts, quaint villages and unforgettable highlights on the Best of Balkans.
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Best of Balkans
Meet the colourful cultures and people of the marvellous Balkans. Adventure through the ‘Powder Keg’ of Europe in exquisite style over 12 days and 7 countries. Soak in the incredible natural beauty and unparalleled cultural diversity of the stunning Balkans. From the vibrant streets of So...
Welcome to Bulgaria
Prepare for an intriguing adventure through the ‘powder keg of Europe’ over twelve days and seven countries. Upon arrival in Sofia, you will be transferred to your hotel by a Ciconia representative at the airport. At 19:00, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travelers and Tour Director. Greet the delicious Balkan cuisine starting with a Bulgarian twist at a group dinner. Always allow some room for the myriad of tasty desserts available.
Hotel
Hilton SofiaStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hilton Sofia
In the heart of Sofia and surrounded by South Park, Hilton Sofia offers modern accommodations, premium amenities and stunning views of Vitosha Mountain. Located in the city center, the hotel is only 25 minutes away from Sofia International Airport.
Meals
n/a
Optional Experiences
Group DinnerSightseeing Activities
Group Dinner ( Optional Activity ) Head off to Belgrade
Enjoy a filling breakfast at our hotel before we take a scenic drive passing hills and green forests to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. Presenting stunning views of the Sava and Danube rivers with the Belgrade Fortress in the background. After we check into our hotel, enjoy your personal leisure time to launch your own discovery. Sample the local cuisine in fine fashion at your hotel and roam the vibrant shopping streets.
Hotel
Hotel Metropol PalaceStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Metropol Palace
Metropol Palace is a stunning Luxury Collection Hotel in the very center of Belgrade with its park surroundings. The luxurious Limegrove Fitness & Spa Center encompasses a 25-meter long pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, relaxation area, steam bath, ice fountain and 6 treatment rooms.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Belgrade
Belgrade City Tour
The day is yours to soak in all the beauty Belgrade offers. Launch your adventure with a comprehensive guided tour of the city at the bustling shopping street Knez Mihailova. Roam the Belgrade Fortress overlooking a merge of Danube and Sava Rivers with feudal cannons in display – declared a Monument of Culture of Great Importance. Uncover the marvellous blend of medieval and modern through a myriad of impressive sites at the heart of the city. You will have plentiful personal leisure time in the afternoon to shop around, continue your cultural discovery and sip delicious cocktails at a contemporary local bar. Your dinner seat is reserved at our hotel's impressive restaurant.
Hotel
Hotel Metropol PalaceStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Metropol Palace
Metropol Palace is a stunning Luxury Collection Hotel in the very center of Belgrade with its park surroundings. The luxurious Limegrove Fitness & Spa Center encompasses a 25-meter long pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, relaxation area, steam bath, ice fountain and 6 treatment rooms.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Kalemegdan Belgrade Visit 
Belgrade Visit 
Belgrade Visit 
A Day in Sarajevo
Bidding farewell to the buzzing Belgrade, we embark on a journey through green forests to meet the multi-coloured fabric of Bosnia & Herzegovina at Sarajevo. Home to people of various religions, ethnic and cultural background, the diverse architectural and cultural landscape is reflected all around the town. Witnessing the start of World War 1, splitting of the Eastern and Western Roman Empire, and the devastating Yugoslav War in recent history; the marks of history are hidden around every corner. As your Travel Director and local expert guide you through the charming old town and the Bascarsija, learn all about the rich history of the country. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. Make sure to try traditional Turkish coffee for the best finish to your dinner.
Hotel
Swissotel SarajevoStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Swissotel Sarajevo
Located in the city center, where hospitality is part of the nature of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Swissotel Sarajevo offers contemporary and modern designed rooms with stunning views, free Wi-Fi, state of the art Wellness and Spa facilities, as well as two restaurants.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Sarajevo Visit 
Sarajevo Visit 
Sarajevo Visit 
Sarajevo Visit Explore Mostar - Journey to Trebinje
Drive through lush fields and valleys towards the adorable village of Mostar. Famously known for the gorgeous stone bridge in the old town, a prime example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, designed by a student of the Great Ottoman architect, Sinan. Join your guide for a walking tour through the Stari Most and the old carsija (market), still presenting the authentic style of 15th century in its splendid architecture. Sample the delicious cuisine over lunch at one of the lovely venues and complete your discovery. In the afternoon, we depart for Trebinje, located by the border with Croatia. We arrive just in time for dinner at our hotel, where we will spend two nights.
Hotel
Hotel Central ParkStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Central Park
Hotel Central Park is located in the heart of charming Trebinje and has a terrace with a nice and cozy restaurant. The hotel was built in 1894, shortly after the arrival of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in the area, in the architectural style that dominated the second half of the 19th century.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Sightseeing of Stari Most 
Sightseeing of Mostar Head off to Dubrovnik
Ready your cameras and sunscreen as we head out to the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik. Crossing into Croatia with a short ride, soak in the unique sight of terra-cotta tiled roofs encircled by might medieval walls, preserved in incredible condition. Stop for an amazing view of the old town from the overlooking hills, and meet your local expert at the gates to launch your guided tour of Dubrovnik. Learn about the intriguing history of the once-great city state, thriving through its maritime connections and protected by its gigantic ramparts. As we cover the must-see highlights, relax at a breezy restaurant over a delicious seafood lunch. You will have personal leisure time in the afternoon for your preferred activities, whether strolling on the walls, taking an optional boat trip, discovering the quaint streets and pedestrian avenues, or taking a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea. We drive back to Trebinje for dinner at our hotel.
Hotel
Hotel Central ParkStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Central Park
Hotel Central Park is located in the heart of charming Trebinje and has a terrace with a nice and cozy restaurant. The hotel was built in 1894, shortly after the arrival of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in the area, in the architectural style that dominated the second half of the 19th century.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner Optional Experiences
Dubrovnik Boat Trip - €40Sightseeing Activities
Sightseeing of Dubrovnik Old Town 
Old City Dubrovnik 
Dubrovnik Scenic Ride to Shkodra
Our adventure continues to a less crowded, but just as impressive location. Driving along the skirts of mountains along the coast, we reach Kotor surrounded by monumental walls. Join a walking tour in the old town fortress with your expert local guide and Travel Director, wandering the labyrinthine narrow streets. Enjoy a refreshing lunch at a local restaurant and pace your adventure with personal leisure time in the afternoon. You can hike to the top of the incredible fortress for spectacular views over Kotor Bay or capture the prettiest pictures of the remarkable medieval village. Travel to one of the oldest cities in the Balkans as we cross into Albania, Shkodra, for dinner and a relaxing stay at our hotel.
Hotel
Grand Hotel EuropaStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Grand Hotel Europa
Grand Hotel Europa provides 50 rooms with a panoramic view of the mountain. Since 1998, it has been hosting guests in Shkoder. This venue offers 24-hour front desk assistance, laundry and a doctor on call as well as a night club, a sunbathing terrace and an indoor swimming pool.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Sightseeing of Kotor Old Town 
Kotor 
Next Up: Tirana and Ohrid
Starting our journey into Albanian culture, we embark on a walking tour of Shkodra witnessing the influence of Romans, Byzantine, Greek and Ottomans reflected in the town's fabric. Continue towards the centre of culture, religion, arts and entertainment, the charming capital of Tirana. With a panoramic city tour, savour the finest samples of Albanian architecture portraying the influence of various cultures. After a sightseeing tour of the popular sights and the bustling Skenderbeg Square, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Our journey resumes into Macedoni, Ohrid. Enjoy your dinner and a relaxing rest at the hotel.
Hotel
Hotel Unique Resort and SpaStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Unique Resort and Spa
Situated in Ohrid, 2.1 km from Cuba Libre Beach, Unique - Resort and SPA features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool & fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, room service and luggage storage for guests.
Hotel
Hotel Inex OlgicaStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Inex Olgica
Nestled on the shore of the Ohrid Lake, Inex Olgica offers the guests a comfortable & pleasant stay with its elegant interiors, private beach, an indoor swimming pool, a SPA & wellness center, spacious & air-conditioned rooms with lake or mountain view and a restaurant & bar.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Sightseeing of Tirana 
Shkodra Visit Explore Ohrid
Ohrid is home to the dazzling Ohrid Lake at the backdrop of a charming village ascending towards the hills, up to the marvellous castle – an immense site of UNESCO World Heritage. Join the optional experience of a calming boat trip on the Lake Ohrid, one of the deepest and oldest lakes of Europe, presenting splendid views of the village and monasteries along the coast. Disembark at the old town to launch your guided tour. Join your expert guide as we discover the hidden chapels, ancient crafts and all the stunning sights scattered along the narrow cobble-stone streets. We then depart for the gorgeous St. Naum Monastery complex and natural wonderland. Perched on the hills with astounding views of the lake, the incredibly well-preserved Eastern Orthodox monastery stood for more than a thousand years. After discovering the charming monastery, savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, surrounded by astounding nature, floating above natural pools maintained by the lake. Blessed with lakes, waterfalls and a beach to Lake Ohrid, we will enjoy our afternoon relaxing at St. Naum, never wanting to leave. We return to our hotel in Ohrid in time for dinner.
Hotel
Hotel Unique Resort and SpaStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Unique Resort and Spa
Situated in Ohrid, 2.1 km from Cuba Libre Beach, Unique - Resort and SPA features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool & fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, room service and luggage storage for guests.
Hotel
Hotel Inex OlgicaStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Hotel Inex Olgica
Nestled on the shore of the Ohrid Lake, Inex Olgica offers the guests a comfortable & pleasant stay with its elegant interiors, private beach, an indoor swimming pool, a SPA & wellness center, spacious & air-conditioned rooms with lake or mountain view and a restaurant & bar.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Ohrid Lake Visit 
St. Naum Monastery Visit Onward to Skopje
Following breakfast, we part with the marvellous Lake Ohrid and drive to the stunning Matka Canyon. Home to diverse endemic life, wonderful lakes, medieval monasteries, caves, valleys and trekking routes, the canyon offers a myriad of unique experiences. You can join an optional boat trip in Matka Lake, visiting the fascinating caves only accessible via water, and have lunch with spectacular views after trekking through the canyon on a nature adventure. In the afternoon we make our way to the Macedonian capital. With a scenic ride through lush fields, hills and mountains, we arrive in Skopje and check-in to our hotel late in the afternoon.
Hotel
Skopje Marriott HotelStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Skopje Marriott Hotel
Located in the heart of Macedonia Square, the hotel offers spectacular views over the Vardar River and Stone Bridge. During your stay, you will have access to 24 hour fitness room, indoor pool, SPA center and on-site restaurant.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Matka Canyon Visit Skopje
Enjoy a filling breakfast at our stylish hotel, it is time to join a guided tour with our local expert and follow the footsteps of Alexander the Great. Discover the immense cultural heritage with countless monuments and samples of fine architecture scattered all around the vibrant town. Personal leisure time in the afternoon, so you can dive deep into history and find every hidden landmark around town, and enjoy the vibrant main street hosting many local cafes, bars and restaurants. You may return to the hotel for dinner and a relaxing rest, or enjoy the town center.
Hotel
Skopje Marriott HotelStylish Hand-Picked Hotels
Skopje Marriott Hotel
Located in the heart of Macedonia Square, the hotel offers spectacular views over the Vardar River and Stone Bridge. During your stay, you will have access to 24 hour fitness room, indoor pool, SPA center and on-site restaurant.
Meals
Breakfast, DinnerSightseeing Activities
Skopje Walking Tour 
Skopje Walking Tour Goodbye
Our incredible Balkans adventure comes to an end following breakfast. Make sure to bid farewell to your newfound friends and exchange numbers before checking-out of the hotel (at 11:00). Complementary airport transfers are available all day, have a safe and smooth journey! Meals
BreakfastSERVICES
Ciconia Exclusive Tours include premium services such as 5-star accommodation, modern comfortable transportation, incredible sights & all entrance fees, breakfasts & most dinners, tips, porterage and more.
5 & 4 Star Hotels
Accommodation in comfortable and ideally located hotels.
Comfortable Transportation
Air-conditioned coach or minibus.
Most Dinners
11 Breakfasts, 10 Dinners
Travel Director
Expert Travel Director & Local Guides
Journey Highlights
Unique itineraries with all must-see sights, more inclusions. Find more details below and in the itinerary.
All Entrance Fees To All Sights
Entrance fees to all cultural, historical and natural sites on tour.
Private Airport Transfer
Complimentary private airport transfers on arrival and departure dates.
Baggage Handling
Seamless baggage handling, delivered to your room at every hotel.
All Tips, Taxes And Porterage Charges
Tips at the hotels and restaurants, all taxes and porterage fees.
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
HOTELS
Knowing that your accommodation may separate a great holiday from a perfect one, we take ultimate care whilst hand-picking each location we host you. Only the truly exceptional in terms of comfort, character, amenities, location and service are suitable to our standards. (Hotels are subject to change depending on the group size.)
Hilton Sofia
In the heart of Sofia and surrounded by South Park, Hilton Sofia offers modern accommodations, premium amenities and stunning views of Vitosha Mountain. Located in the city center, the hotel is only 25 minutes away from Sofia International Airport.
Hotel Metropol Palace
Metropol Palace is a stunning Luxury Collection Hotel in the very center of Belgrade with its park surroundings. The luxurious Limegrove Fitness & Spa Center encompasses a 25-meter long pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, relaxation area, steam bath, ice fountain and 6 treatment rooms.
Swissotel Sarajevo
Located in the city center, where hospitality is part of the nature of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Swissotel Sarajevo offers contemporary and modern designed rooms with stunning views, free Wi-Fi, state of the art Wellness and Spa facilities, as well as two restaurants.
Hotel Central Park
Hotel Central Park is located in the heart of charming Trebinje and has a terrace with a nice and cozy restaurant. The hotel was built in 1894, shortly after the arrival of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in the area, in the architectural style that dominated the second half of the 19th century.
Grand Hotel Europa
Grand Hotel Europa provides 50 rooms with a panoramic view of the mountain. Since 1998, it has been hosting guests in Shkoder. This venue offers 24-hour front desk assistance, laundry and a doctor on call as well as a night club, a sunbathing terrace and an indoor swimming pool.
Hotel Unique Resort and Spa
Situated in Ohrid, 2.1 km from Cuba Libre Beach, Unique - Resort and SPA features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool & fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, room service and luggage storage for guests.
Hotel Inex Olgica
Nestled on the shore of the Ohrid Lake, Inex Olgica offers the guests a comfortable & pleasant stay with its elegant interiors, private beach, an indoor swimming pool, a SPA & wellness center, spacious & air-conditioned rooms with lake or mountain view and a restaurant & bar.
Skopje Marriott Hotel
Located in the heart of Macedonia Square, the hotel offers spectacular views over the Vardar River and Stone Bridge. During your stay, you will have access to 24 hour fitness room, indoor pool, SPA center and on-site restaurant.
DATES AND RATES
TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2866YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$4872TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2866YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$4872TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$3191YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$4786TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989TWIN ROOM
Share with your travel companion
$2660YOUR OWN SINGLE ROOM
Enjoy a room just for you
$3989HIGHLIGHTS
Embrace the unique culture of each sight visited from Belgrade to Sarajevo, Mostar, Tirana and Skopje, whilst soaking in the gorgeous nature. Discover the incredible medieval towns of Dubrovnik and Kotor, as well as wonderful hidden gems along the path.
Belgrade
Belgrade
Belgrade is the capital and largest city of the southeast European country of Serbia.
Budva
Budva
Budva is a town in Montenegro and known for best nightlife on the Adriatic Sea.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik
This complex is one of the most beautiful and strongest fortified systems in Europe, but the lively streets show that there is more! Party in a 13th Century fortress anyone?
Kotor
Kotor
Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro and well-known for its World heritage medieval structures.
Mostar
Mostar
Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and known for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge).
Ohrid
Ohrid
Ohrid is a large town in Macedonia on the shore of Lake Ohrid and a UNESCO heritage site since 1980.
Sarajevo
Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its main cultural, economic centre.
Tirana
Tirana
Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania.It is also culturel and economical center of the country.
Trebinje
Trebinje
Trebinje is the southernmost city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and 28 km far from Dubrovnik.