Seven Balkans
Best for
Couples, Culture Seekers
Duration
18N/19D
Season
May–September
Difficulty
Easy
Vibe
Cultural, Heritage
A Tibro Journey
Seven countries by van across eighteen nights. Sofia and Ohrid's lake, Kotor's bay and Dubrovnik's walls, Mostar's bridge, the Plitvice lakes, and Bled to close.
Balkans Van Tour is a 18N/19D heritage & culture journey through Bulgaria + North Macedonia + Albania + Montenegro + Croatia + Bosnia + Slovenia. Highlights include Plitvice Lakes, Mostar bridge, Lake Bled.
Signature Moments
Three Mornings You'll Remember
No. 01
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes
No. 02
Mostar bridge
Mostar bridge
No. 03
Lake Bled
Lake Bled
No. 01
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes
No. 02
Mostar bridge
Mostar bridge
No. 03
Lake Bled
Lake Bled
Day by Day
18N/19D, in order
Day 1
Arrive in Sofia
12:30 HRS - Arrive in Sofia and be transferred to your hotel for check-in. 15:00 HRS - After settling in, the afternoon will be free at leisure, allowing you to explore the city on your own. You might want to enjoy lunch at a local café or restaurant, sampling traditional Bulgarian cuisine. As you wander through Sofia, take in the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. 19:00 HRS - In the evening, you can either dine at a recommended local restaurant or discover more culinary delights at your own pace. After a fulfilling day, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Sofia. Recommended Indian Restaurants – Taj Mahal Restaurant, Saffron Indian Restaurant, Kohinoor Indian Restaurant. Sofia is the capital of the Balkan nation of Bulgaria. It’s in the west of the country, below Vitosha Mountain. The city’s landmarks reflect more than 2,000 years of history, including Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Soviet occupation. Medieval Boyana Church has 13th-century frescoes. Built by the Romans in the 4th century, St. George Rotunda Church has medieval and Ottoman decoration dating to the 10th century.
Day 2
Guided City Tour of Sofia
10:00 HRS After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided city tour of Sofia. This fascinating exploration will take you through key historical and cultural landmarks, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the ancient ruins of Serdica. The tour is expected to last around three hours, giving you a comprehensive overview of the city’s rich heritage. 13:00 HRS - You'll break for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor some Bulgarian dishes. After lunch, you may have some free time to further explore or shop before the afternoon activities. 19:00 HRS - In the evening, dinner will be scheduled allowing you to relax and reflect on the day's experiences while enjoying a delicious meal. Afterward, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay in Sofia.
Day 3
Sofia to Skopje 3hr 40min 245 Km
10:00 HRS - Depart for Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The journey will take approximately five hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way. 15:00 HRS - You’ll arrive in Skopje where a guided city tour will await you. This tour will showcase the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, including notable landmarks like the Stone Bridge, the Old Bazaar, and the impressive Memorial House of Mother Teresa. After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Macedonian cuisine. 19:00 HRS - In the evening, dinner will be arranged, offering another chance to indulge in local flavors. After a fulfilling day of exploration, you’ll settle in for an overnight stay in Skopje. Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia. It is the country's political, cultural, economic, and academic centre. Skopje lies in the Skopje Basin. Scupi is attested for the first time in the second century AD as a city in Roman Dardania.
Day 4
Skopje to Ohrid Lake
10:00 HRS - Depart for the stunning Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings. The journey will take approximately five hours, offering beautiful views along the way. 15:00 HRS - You’re expected to arrive just in time for a relaxing boat ride on the lake, where you can take in the breathtaking scenery and learn about the area's rich history. After the boat ride, you’ll have the chance to enjoy lunch at a charming lakeside restaurant, sampling local dishes while soaking in the serene atmosphere. 19:00 HRS - In the evening, enjoy dinner providing another opportunity to savor the culinary delights of the region. After a day filled with exploration and relaxation, you’ll settle in for an overnight stay near Lake Ohrid. Lake Ohrid is one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, located on the border between North Macedonia and Albania. Known for its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, the lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to unique biodiversity, including many endemic species of fish and plants.
Day 5
Ohrid to Tirana to Budva
09:30 HRS - Depart for Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. The journey will take approximately four and a half hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way. 14:00 HRS - You’re expected to arrive in Tirana, where a guided city tour will introduce you to key attractions such as Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the colourful buildings of the city center. After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, tasting traditional Albanian dishes. 19:00 HRS - Following your meal, you'll continue your journey, arriving in Budva where you will check into your hotel. After settling in, you can enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, experiencing the local Flavors of this beautiful coastal town. You'll then have a restful overnight stay in Budva, ready for more adventures the next day. Tirana, the capital of Albania, is known for its colourful Ottoman-, Fascist- and Soviet-era architecture. Pastel buildings surround the city's focal point, Skanderbeg Square, which is named for its equestrian statue of a national hero. On the square's north end is the modernist National History Museum, covering prehistoric times through Communist rule and the anti-Communist uprisings of the 1990s. Budva is a town in Montenegro on the Adriatic Sea. Part of the Budva Riviera, it's known for sandy beaches and nightlife. Stone walls built by the Venetians surround the narrow streets of the medieval old town (Stari Grad). This historic district is home to a seaside citadel and religious sites such as the Church of Santa Maria in Punta, established in the 9th century
Day 6
Budva – Kotor – Perast – Kotor – Budva
09:30 HRS - Depart for Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning fjord-like bay. 10:00 HRS - A guided walking tour will begin, featuring visits to the iconic St. Triphon Cathedral and the Maritime Museum, where you'll learn about the rich maritime history of the region. 11:30 HRS - You’ll embark on a scenic boat ride to Our Lady of the Rock Island, arriving by 12:00 HRS to explore the church and its museum, which showcases fascinating artifacts. 13:00 HRS - You’ll take another boat ride to the charming village of Perast, where a guided walk will immerse you in its historical significance. Afterward, at 14:30 HRS, you'll enjoy a boat ride back to Kotor, returning around 15:30 HRS. 19:00 HRS - Upon your return to Budva, you will have free time at leisure to explore or relax before dinner, which will be scheduled at a local restaurant. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, you’ll settle in for an overnight stay in Budva.
Day 7
Budva to Dubrovnik
09:00 HRS - After a delicious breakfast, you will check out and depart for the stunning city of Dubrovnik. The journey will take approximately two and a half hours, with an expected arrival around 11:30 HRS, when you’ll check into your hotel. 15:00 HRS - After settling in, you’ll have some free time to relax or explore the nearby area before a guided walking tour of Dubrovnik. This tour will take you through the historic Old Town, showcasing iconic sites such as the city walls, Rector's Palace, and the Stradun. After the tour, you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Croatian cuisine. 19:00 HRS - In the evening, dinner will be arranged, providing a perfect opportunity to experience Dubrovnik's vibrant dining scene. After a fulfilling day of exploration, you’ll return to your hotel for an overnight stay in this beautiful coastal city. Dubrovnik is a city in southern Croatia fronting the Adriatic Sea. It's known for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. Its well-preserved buildings range from baroque St. Blaise Church to Renaissance Sponza Palace and Gothic Rector’s Palace, now a history museum. Paved with limestone, the pedestrianized Stradun (or Placa) is lined with shops and restaurants.
Day 8
Cable Car Ride to Mt Srd
10:30 HRS - After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic cable car ride to Mount Srd, where you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. Spend some time soaking in the stunning vistas and capturing memorable photos before heading back down. 14:30 HRS - The rest of the day will be free at your leisure, giving you the opportunity to explore Dubrovnik on your own. You can wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, visit local shops, or relax at a café. For lunch, you might choose to try one of the many delightful eateries in the area, sampling local specialties. 19:00 HRS - In the evening, dinner will be arranged, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of Croatian cuisine. After a day of exploration and relaxation, you’ll return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Dubrovnik.
Day 9
Dubrovnik – Mostar - Sarajevo
09:30 HRS - Depart for Mostar, a picturesque city famous for its iconic bridge and rich history. 12:00 HRS - You’re expected to arrive where you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Town, exploring its charming cobblestone streets, traditional bazaars, and the stunning Stari Most (Old Bridge). After the tour, you can take some time for lunch at a local café, savoring traditional Bosnian dishes. 16:00 HRS - You’ll depart Mostar and head back to Dubrovnik, arriving around 17:00 HRS to check into your hotel. 19:00 HRS - After settling in, you’ll have some free time to unwind before dinner, which will be scheduled for around 19:00 HRS at a nearby restaurant. After a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights, you’ll enjoy an overnight stay in Sarajevo, ready for more adventures ahead. Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a compact city on the Miljacka River, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps. Its center has museums commemorating local history, including Sarajevo 1878–1918, which covers the 1914 assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, an event that sparked World War I. Landmarks of the old quarter, Baščaršija, include the Ottoman-era Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque.
Day 10
Guided City Tour of Sarajevo
10:30 HRS - After enjoying a delicious breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Sarajevo, where you'll discover the rich history and vibrant culture of this captivating city. 15:00 HRS - The tour will conclude, leaving you the afternoon free to explore at your leisure. Take the time to visit local shops, savor traditional Bosnian cuisine for lunch, or simply wander through the picturesque streets. As the day winds down, you can enjoy dinner at one of the many charming restaurants before settling in for the night in Sarajevo. Overnight stay in Sarajevo.
Day 11
Sarajevo to Split 4 Hr 245 Km
09:00 HRS - Depart for Split, where the scenic journey promises to be as delightful as the destination itself. 14:00 HRS - You'll check into your hotel and have some time to refresh. 15:00 HRS - The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Take this opportunity to explore the stunning coastline, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a seaside café, or visit the historic sites that Split has to offer. As evening approaches, consider dining at one of the local restaurants to savor the flavors of Croatian cuisine before settling in for an overnight stay in Split.
Day 12
Split Tour
07:30 HRS - Prepare for an exciting day as you embark on a full-day sailing adventure to Hvar, departing from Split. Your journey begins with a scenic catamaran ride that takes you to Hvar, where you'll have time to explore the charming streets, enjoy a leisurely coffee, and savor delicious local cuisine for lunch. Once you've soaked in the island's atmosphere, prepare for an unforgettable sailing trip around the breathtaking Palenki Islands. As you glide through crystal-clear waters, take in the spectacular coastal views, secluded coves, and the rich marine life that thrives in this pristine environment. With plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, this sailing adventure is perfect for relaxation and exploration. After a day filled with picturesque landscapes and unforgettable experiences, you'll return to Hvar before catching the evening catamaran back to Split, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. You'll catch the return catamaran to Split at 19:45 HRS, arriving back by 20:30 HRS. After a day filled with adventure, enjoy dinner in Split before settling in for the night at your hotel.
Day 13
Split – Plitvice Lake National Park
10:00 HRS - Set off for the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, where stunning landscapes and cascading waterfalls await. 14:00 HRS - You'll arrive to check into your hotel, providing a perfect opportunity to refresh before diving into nature's wonders. 15:00 HRS - The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the park at your own pace. Wander along the scenic trails, admire the vibrant turquoise lakes, and perhaps enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery. As evening falls, savor a delightful dinner at your hotel, surrounded by the tranquility of the national park before settling in for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 14
Plitvice Lakes National Park
10:30 HRS - Embark on a full-day guided tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park, where you'll explore both the Lower and Upper Lakes. Your adventure includes a scenic electric boat ride across the shimmering waters and a sightseeing panoramic train that offers stunning views of the park’s breathtaking landscapes. As you journey through this UNESCO World Heritage site, your guide will share insights into the park's unique ecosystems and fascinating history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch during your tour, soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. After a day filled with exploration and wonder, return to your accommodations in the national park for dinner, reflecting on the incredible sights you've experienced before settling in for a restful overnight stay
Day 15
Plitvice Lakes National Park to Zagreb 2hr 150 Km
10:00 HRS - Depart for Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital. 12:30 HRS - You’ll check into your hotel and have a moment to unwind. 15:00 HRS - Set out on a guided city tour, where you'll discover the rich history and cultural highlights of Zagreb, including its charming squares, historic buildings, and bustling streets. Be sure to pause for a delightful lunch at a local café to fuel your exploration. After an engaging day of sightseeing, enjoy dinner at one of Zagreb’s many excellent restaurants, where you can sample traditional Croatian dishes. Afterward, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in this lively city. Zagreb, Croatia’s northwestern capital, is distinguished by its 18th- and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture. At its center, Upper Town is the site of the Gothic, twin-spired Zagreb Cathedral and 13th-century St. Mark’s Church, with a colorfully tiled roof. Nearby is pedestrian-friendly Tkalčićeva Street, lined with outdoor cafes. Lower Town has the main square, Ban Jelačić, plus shops, museums and parks
Day 16
Zagreb
10:00 HRS - After breakfast, embark on an orientation tour to Njivice, a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and picturesque scenery. This tour will allow you to soak in the beautiful landscapes and learn about the local culture. Be sure to enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the seaside cafés, savoring fresh local cuisine as you take in the view. After a day of exploration, return to Zagreb for dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can unwind and reflect on your day. Spend a relaxing evening before settling in for an overnight stay in Zagreb.
Day 17
Zagreb to Ljubljana 2hr 143 Km
10:00 HRS, depart for Ljubljana, the enchanting capital of Slovenia. 12:00 HRS - You'll arrive where you'll check into your hotel and have a moment to refresh. 15:00 HRS - Set off on a guided city tour, where you'll explore Ljubljana's charming streets, iconic bridges, and beautiful architecture, including the famous Dragon Bridge and the picturesque old town. Don’t forget to stop for a delightful lunch at a local eatery, sampling some traditional Slovenian dishes. After an engaging day of sightseeing, enjoy dinner at one of Ljubljana’s vibrant restaurants, savoring the local flavors before retiring for a restful overnight stay in this captivating city. Ljubljana is Slovenia's capital and largest city. It's known for its university population and green spaces, including expansive Tivoli Park. The curving Ljubljanica River, lined in outdoor cafes, divides the city's old town from its commercial hub. Ljubljana has many museums, including the National Museum of Slovenia, displaying historic exhibitions, and the Museum of Modern Art, home to 20th-century Slovene paintings and sculptures.
Day 18
Ljubljana – Mt. Vogel – Lake Bled - Ljubljana
10:00 HRS - Depart for a visit to Mt. Vogel, a stunning mountain offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 11:30 HRS - Board the cable car that will take you to the summit, where you can soak in the panoramic vistas. After enjoying the mountain's beauty, return to the valley in time for a delightful lunch at a local café. 15:00 HRS - Embark on a guided walking tour of Lake Bled, where you’ll explore its picturesque shores and iconic island. Be sure to take in the stunning scenery and learn about the area’s rich history. After a day filled with exploration and natural beauty, enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant before settling in for the night in Ljubljana.
Day 19
Departure
04:00 HRS - Depart for the airport, marking the beginning of your journey home. As you make your way, reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you've created during your travels. Ensure you have all your belongings ready for a smooth check-in, and take a moment to enjoy the early morning atmosphere before boarding your flight. Safe travels! ***END OF TOUR***
Where You'll Stay
Hotels Designed for You
Your Tibro designer will curate properties to match your dates, group size and tier preference. Speak to us for the current short-list.
Honestly
Things most travel sites won't tell you.
On-the-ground details your designer wishes every guest knew before they landed.
Things to Look Out For
A nod can mean no
In Bulgaria a shake of the head often means yes and a nod can mean no. The gesture is genuinely reversed. It catches every visitor out; when it matters, ask for a spoken 'da' (yes) or 'ne' (no) rather than trusting the head movement, and watch for it across the wider Balkans too.
Borders by the hour
A Balkan van tour crosses a frontier almost every other day, and not all of these countries are in the EU or Schengen. Keep your passport on you, not in the hold, and expect the odd queue at the Croatian and Bosnian crossings. Currencies change too: euros, leva, dinars and konvertibilna marka in one trip.
Plitvice at opening
Plitvice Lakes in Croatia is the set-piece of this route, and it fills by mid-morning. Be at the gate when it opens, walk the lower lakes first while the boardwalks are still empty, and the famous turquoise pools photograph best in soft early light before the sun is overhead.
- №1
A nod can mean no
In Bulgaria a shake of the head often means yes and a nod can mean no. The gesture is genuinely reversed. It catches every visitor out; when it matters, ask for a spoken 'da' (yes) or 'ne' (no) rather than trusting the head movement, and watch for it across the wider Balkans too.
- №2
Borders by the hour
A Balkan van tour crosses a frontier almost every other day, and not all of these countries are in the EU or Schengen. Keep your passport on you, not in the hold, and expect the odd queue at the Croatian and Bosnian crossings. Currencies change too: euros, leva, dinars and konvertibilna marka in one trip.
- №3
Plitvice at opening
Plitvice Lakes in Croatia is the set-piece of this route, and it fills by mid-morning. Be at the gate when it opens, walk the lower lakes first while the boardwalks are still empty, and the famous turquoise pools photograph best in soft early light before the sun is overhead.
The Details
What's Included
Not Included
- 5% Government Service Tax is applicable additional on total invoice.
- 5% / 20% Tax Collected at Source ( TCS ) - claimable
- Airfare and Airport Taxes
Plan Your Timing
When to Go
The Balkans are best driven from May to September. Warm, dry, the Adriatic coast and lake towns open, the mountain roads clear of snow. June and September are the sweet spot, hot but not the July-August peak when the coast crowds and prices climb. April and October are cooler shoulder months, lovely inland. November through March is cold, wet and snowbound on the higher passes.
Your Memoir
Here's how you'll remember it.
Vol. 1, A Tibro memoir, printed on archival paper, shipped after you return.
What Now
Let's design your
Bulgaria + North Macedonia + Albania + Montenegro + Croatia + Bosnia + Slovenia.
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Tell us your dates and preferences. A Tibro travel designer will respond within 24 hours.