Accommodation

ATENAS : PRESIDENT or NOVOTEL ATHENES or SKYLARK KALAMBACA : AMALIA KALAMBACA or KOSTA FAMISSI or PIRIN PARK HOTEL SANDANSKY : INTERHOTEL SANDANSKI or ASTORIA GRAND or IMPERIAL VELIKO TARNOVO : BOLYARSKI MERIDIAN or PANORAMA or GURKO BUCAREST : MERCURE BUCAREST CITY CENTER or MERCURE BINDERBUBI SIGHISOARA or TIMISOARA BELGRADO : NOBEL PALACE or IBIS STYLES SARAJEVO or NOVOTEL SARAJEVO BRISTOL DUBROVNIK : LERO or ROYAL NEPTUN or DUBROVNIK PALACE SPLIT : SALONA PALACE or MONDO or AMPHORA OPATIJA : BRISTOL or GRAND ADRIATIC or ASTORIA LIUBLIANA : M HOTEL or BB LJUBLJANA PARK or LUGANO TORRETTA VENECIA : DELFINO or ELITE We know how important hotels are on your trip. The hotels have been selected taking into consideration quality, price and location. They are located in the cities we visit, most of them not in the city center but all of them with easy access to public transportation nearby. Our accommodation is not based on luxury hotels. Please keep in mind that standards, bed sizes and room dimensions can vary between hotels of the same class in different locations. All rooms are equipped with private bathroom and TV. Some of them also offer a mini-bar, safe box, and hair dryer. Many hotels, mainly in North Europe, do not have air conditioning or local legislation establishes limited dates of use.

Others

City tour in: ATHENS, SOFIA, PLOVDIV, BUCHAREST, BELGRADE, Sarajevo, DUBROVNIK, SPLIT, LIUBLIANA, VENICE Ticket admission: Monastery at Meteoras, Monastery , Sofia Cathedral , Roman Amphitheater, The Ancient Botica and The Armenian House in Plovdiv , Thracian Tomb Replica in Kazalnak , Church of the Nativity in Arbanassi , Basarbovski Monastery , Bran Fortress , Church of Biertan , Castle of Hunedoara , Museum of Yugoslavia in Belgrade , Sirmium Imperial Palace in Stremska Mitrovica , Franciscan Monastery and Cathedra in Dubrovnik; , Diocletian´s Palace in Split , Plitvice Lakes National Park including boat or train tours in Plitvice , Postjona Caves , Murano glasswork in Venice

Guide

English speaking tour in: ATHENS, SOFIA, PLOVDIV, BUCHAREST, BELGRADE, Sarajevo, DUBROVNIK, SPLIT, LIUBLIANA, VENICE Please note also that your tour guide might be changed once or several times during the tour. On some tours, according to the number of passengers, the service may be provided in bilingual (usually in English and Spanish), either accompanied by two tour leaders, one for each language, or a single tour leader for smaller groups explaining in both languages.

Transport

Includes arrival transfer Evening transfer: Plaka neighborhood in Athens

Insurance

Basic travel insurance included.

Meals

Breakfast buffet 1 Lunch Included in: Etar 10 dinner included in: SANDANSKY, PLOVDIV, BUCHAREST, SIGHISOARA, Sarajevo, DUBROVNIK, DUBROVNIK, SPLIT, OPATIJA, LIUBLIANA

Not included:

Flights

Flights are not included.

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Optional

DINNER AND FOLK SHOW IN ATHENS (2 HRS)(60 EUR) We will depart on the bus with our guide to the lively Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis. We will have a taste of the typical local cuisine in one of its famous taverns and watch a dance performance from different regions of this country. -Bus tour with our guide. -Dinner-tasting with performance.. 15 number of people required. GONDOLA RIDE IN VENICE (20MIN)(40 EUR) A gondola ride along the Canals of Venice is on the wish list of every traveller who visits “the city of the water streets”. For any mythomaniacs, a gondola ride in Venice is nothing but a romantic dream coming true . There is only one Venice, and the gondola ride is the unique opportunity to get to know the city from the right perspective, the water line. So, get ready for an unforgettable ride in the narrow canals of a city that has existed for more than 1,200 years . This boat, the gondola, is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic images of Venice and one of the most recognisable icons in the world. In the past it was the symbol of elegance and extravagance, why almost every king in Europe wanted gondolas in the lakes and canals of their palaces. For our gondola excursion, we have chosen a special route that runs along part of the Canal Grande , the most elegant avenue in the city. But we will also enter the small c anals , of which many are only accessible by boat. In these narrow straits, we will get the best opportunity to see the gondolier, in his traditional uniform, demonstrate his skills to navigate the vessel around sharp corners and under beautiful bridges. To make the excursion perfect, our procession of gondolas will be accompanied by musicians who with their traditional songs will create the soundtrack for your visit to Venice. -Excursion accompanied by an Europamundo guide until the starting point of the cruise. -Gondolas reserved in advance to avoid waiting time -20 minutes canal cruise in shared gondola up to 5 persons in each gondola -Gondola ride accompanied by two musicians in separate vessel. 15 number of people required. SAILING AROUND THE VENICE LAGOON (2HRS)(40 EUR) We sail towards the north of the lagoon passing by the island of San Michele where there is a monumental cemetery and then by the island of MURANO. We continue sailing until we reach the islands of BURANO and TORCELLO, the northernmost islands of the lagoon. Sailing along the eastern side of the lagoon we pass the island of SAN FRANCESCO DEL DESERTO and the long peninsula of Punta Sabbioni, the Venetians´ beach. We will be able to admire the Mose plan, the last masterpiece of high engineering technology, which helps Venice during the phenomenon of high tides and separates the Adriatic Sea and the inner lagoon of Venice. We continue to the canal where the Lido of Venice is located, famous for its prestigious Hotel Excelsior and above all where the Palazzo del Cinema is located, where every year the Venice Film Festival takes place. We enter the canal in the south of Venice admiring the 2 famous islands: ISOLA DEGLI ARMENI and SAN SERVOLO also called the island of the madmen. We will pass through the Finance canal where you can admire the famous HOTEL CIPRIANI and we will end the navigation entering again in the Bacino of San Marco. -Private panoramic boat -Explanation with local guide. -A refreshing drink and a snack. NOTE: Occasionally due to low winter visibility, this excursion on the Venice lagoon will not be operational.. 25 number of people required.

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Day 1 Day 1: Athens
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Athens

Welcome to your tour with Europamundo! We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. In the afternoon, you’ll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.
Day 2 Day 2: Athens
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Athens

We´ll embark on a city tour of Athens with a local guide, visiting landmarks such as the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the National Library, and the bustling squares of the city center. We´ll also explore the newer neighborhoods that developed after the 2004 Olympic Games. The tour will conclude at the Acropolis (admission not included). In the evening, we´ll provide a transfer to the historical neighborhood of Plaka, renowned for its charming Greek tavernas and opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich folklore of this country.
Day 3 Day 3: Athens, Kamena Vourla, Kalabaka
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Athens, Kamena Vourla, Kalabaka

We’ll depart early in the morning towards northern Greece, stopping at Kamena Vourla, a charming seaside tourist hub surrounded by stunning landscapes. We´ll then proceed north, stopping at the Thermopylae Mountain Pass, the historic site of the famous battle. Next, we´ll visit Kastraki, a picturesque village with beautiful views of the entire valley, where you´ll have free time for lunch. Afterward, we´ll explore the Meteora, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to one of its renowned monasteries is included. Dinner will be provided in Kalabaka.
Day 4 Day 4: Kalabaka, Thessaloniki, Melnik, Sandansky
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Kalabaka, Thessaloniki, Melnik, Sandansky

We’ll journey through northern Greece, taking in the beautiful mountain scenery as we head towards the Aegean Sea. Our first stop will be in Thessaloniki, where we’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch in Greece’s second-largest city. Afterward, we’ll continue into Bulgaria, crossing the border into the region of Bulgarian Macedonia. Here, we’ll visit Melnik, a picturesque museum town nestled among stunning landscapes and renowned for its wine production. We’ll conclude our day in Sandanski, a charming spa town known as the birthplace of Spartacus where we’ll stay for the night. Dinner will be included.
Day 5 Day 5: Sandansky, Rila, Sofia
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Sandansky, Rila, Sofia

We’ll visit the stunning Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fortress-like appearance and beautiful forest surroundings. We’ll then continue to Sofia, arriving by late morning. After lunch, we’ll take a guided tour of Bulgaria’s capital, where we’ll see the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Russian Church, the Mosque, and the city´s squares and avenues, showcasing Stalinist architecture. You’ll have free time afterward to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 6 Day 6: Sofia, Bachkovo, Plovdiv
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Sofia, Bachkovo, Plovdiv

In the morning, we’ll head to Bachkovo Monastery, Bulgaria’s second most significant monastery, established in the eleventh century. With its three churches, this monastery offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. We’ll then proceed to Plovdiv, where lunch is included before going on a tour of this city, one of the oldest in Europe. Our tour includes admission to the Roman Amphitheatre, the Old Pharmacy, and the Armenian House.
Day 7 Day 7: Plovdiv, Kazanlak, Shipka, Etar, Arbanassi, Veliko Tarnovo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Plovdiv, Kazanlak, Shipka, Etar, Arbanassi, Veliko Tarnovo

Today’s journey will take us through the stunning landscapes of the Balkan Mountains. In the Rose Valley, we’ll visit Kazanlak, where admission is included to see the replica of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll also learn about the local production of rose-based products. Amidst the mountains, we’ll stop at the Shipka Memorial Church, a memorial to the Russo-Turkish War. We’ll then explore Etara, a charming village and ethnographic museum. After lunch (included), we’ll travel to Arbanasi, an ancient trading city known for its fortress-like houses, where we’ll visit the Nativity Church (admission included). Our day will end in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s former capital, renowned for its picturesque medieval center beside its canyon. Note: Occasionally, the visit to Arbanasi may take place on Sunday morning.
Day 8 Day 8: Veliko Tarnovo, Basarbovo, Bucharest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Veliko Tarnovo, Basarbovo, Bucharest

We’ll travel to Romania, stopping along the way to visit the Basarbovski Monastery, a pilgrimage site carved into the rock. We’ll then cross the border and the Danube, arriving in Bucharest around 1:00 p.m. Lunch will be included. In the afternoon, we’ll take a panoramic tour of the city, exploring the historic center and the impressive Palace of Parliament. You’ll have free time afterward to explore on your own.
Day 9 Day 9: Bucharest, Sinaia, Bran, Sighisoara
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Bucharest, Sinaia, Bran, Sighisoara

Today’s journey offers stunning scenery as we travel to Transylvania, crossing the Carpathian Mountains and lush forests. In Sinaia, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through the gardens of the Peles and Pelisor Castles. Our next stop will be the 14th-century Bran Fortress, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle (tickets included). After some time for lunch, we’ll continue to Sighisoara, a picturesque walled medieval city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a special dinner at Count Dracula’s restaurant, located in the house where Vlad the Impaler was born.
Day 10 Day 10: Sighisoara, Biertan, Sibiu, Hunedoara, Timisoara
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Sighisoara, Biertan, Sibiu, Hunedoara, Timisoara

In Transylvania, there are many fortified churches in areas that were historically inhabited by people of German origin. Some of these churches are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and we’ll visit one in Biertan (tickets included). Afterward, we’ll head to Sibiu, an important economic and cultural center that once served as the capital of Transylvania. Here, we’ll have time to stroll through the lively narrow streets and squares and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the impressive Hunedoara Castle (tickets included), considered the most beautiful castle in Romania. We’ll then continue to Timisoara, where you’ll have time to explore the city´s elegant central squares.
Day 11 Day 11: Timisoara, Belgrade
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Timisoara, Belgrade

We’ll depart for Serbia, crossing the border and traveling for about 3 hours before reaching Belgrade. In this lively capital, situated at the confluence of the Danube and the Sava, we’ll enjoy a panoramic city tour and explore the bustling city center, see the parliament, and stroll through Kalemegdan Fortress. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Yugoslavia, where Tito´s Mausoleum is located. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 12 Day 12: Belgrade, Sremska Mitrovica, Zvornik, Sarajevo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Belgrade, Sremska Mitrovica, Zvornik, Sarajevo

We’ll begin our journey through the scenic Vojvodina region, with our first stop in Sremska Mitrovica, a city with a delightful historic center on the shores of the Sava River. This city was once a key location in the Roman Empire and served as the capital of the province of Pannonia. Admission is included to the grounds of the Imperial Palace of Sirmium, where we’ll learn about the city’s rich history. We’ll then head towards Bosnia, stopping in Zvornik, one of the oldest cities in Bosnia, located on a river that forms the border with Serbia. This area evokes memories of the Bosnian war, during which the predominantly Muslim population was displaced, and Serbian refugees settled here. Its location is near the village of Srebrenica, known for the tragic massacre. There will be time for lunch and a walk. We’ll continue our route through beautiful landscapes to Sarajevo, arriving in the evening. In the historic center, you’ll have the chance to explore the charming bazaar, an old Ottoman market renowned for its architecture, oriental ambiance, and traditional shops. Dinner will be included.
Day 13 Day 13: Sarajevo, Mostar, Kravica, Dubrovnik
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Sarajevo, Mostar, Kravica, Dubrovnik

In the morning, we’ll enjoy a guided sightseeing tour in Sarajevo, a captivating city known as the "Jerusalem of Europe" due to its coexistence of several religions. Mosques, churches, and synagogues showcase its rich religious diversity. We’ll explore the old town´s strong Ottoman influence, highlighted by a magnificent mosque over 500 years old and a beautiful fountain. After our visit, we’ll continue through an area of stunning beauty to Mostar, with its enchanting historic center and iconic stone bridge that separates the Orthodox, Muslim, and Catholic communities. You’ll have time for lunch and a stroll through the city. We’ll then proceed to Croatia, where border procedures may take a while. We’ll arrive in Dubrovnik at the end of the day. Dinner will be included.
Day 14 Day 14: Dubrovnik
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Dubrovnik

We’ll enjoy a panoramic tour of Dubrovnik with a local guide in the morning. We will undoubtedly be in one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, perched on a cliff, surrounded by walls and kissed by the Adriatic Sea. Its intact historic center is a jewel of world architectural heritage. We’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a stunning view of the city from a scenic viewpoint along the road. The tour includes tickets to the Franciscan Monastery, home to the oldest pharmacy in Europe, and the Assumption Cathedral. We’ll also take a boat trip to Lokrum, a small island just 15 minutes away that is home to the ruins of an eleventh-century Benedictine monastery, a popular setting for the series Game of Thrones. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore at your leisure before returning to the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner will be included.Note: On some occasions, accommodation may be in Cavtat, a coastal town near Dubrovnik. From November to March, there is no boat service to Lokrum, so we will not visit the island during these months.
Day 15 Day 15: Dubrovnik, Ston, Split
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Dubrovnik, Ston, Split

We’ll set off in the morning, traveling along the stunning Croatian coastline, which features breathtaking seascapes and islands. Our first stop will be in Ston, a picturesque town boasting one of the longest walls in the world. As we continue through beautiful landscapes, we’ll cross the impressive Pelješac Bridge over the sea. We’ll arrive in Split at midday and enjoy a tour with a local guide, including admission to Diocletian’s Palace. We’ll explore this vast Roman palace, with its labyrinthine streets and stunning sea views. Dinner will be included.
Day 16 Day 16: Split, Plitvice, Opatija
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Split, Plitvice, Opatija

We’ll travel to the interior region of Croatia, passing through beautiful hilly landscapes until we arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll be able to admire its lakes and waterfalls, walk along the scenic trails, or take a boat ride on the lakes´ waters. Tickets are included for either a boat ride or a train ride. After lunch, we’ll head back to the coast, traveling north. Upon reaching Opatija, you´ll have dinner (included) and settle into your accommodation in this charming resort town known for its great atmosphere.Note: Occasionally, due to weather conditions or high numbers of tourists, it may not be possible or advisable to use the train or boat in Plitvice.
Day 17 Day 17: Opatija, Postoina, Bled, Liubliana
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Opatija, Postoina, Bled, Liubliana

Today we’ll travel to Slovenia. Our first stop will be Postojna Cave, one of the world’s largest caves, which we will partially tour by train. Next, we’ll head to Bled, a picturesque postcard-perfect town on the shore of Lake Bled. We’ll go on a boat trip to reach its island, where the monastery’s bell tower stands out at the foot of the medieval castle. Our journey will continue to Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, where we’ll take a guided tour to learn more about this little Central European capital city. Dinner will be included.
Day 18 Day 18: Liubliana, Venice
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Liubliana, Venice

Enjoy free time in the morning in Ljubljana, where you can explore the charming center of this little capital. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the Adriatic Sea and cross the border into Italy. We’ll arrive in Venice in the evening and stay in the Mestre district.
Day 19 Day 19: Venice
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Venice

In the morning, we’ll provide a boat transfer to Venice, a city built on over 100 islands connected by more than 400 bridges. The boat will drop us off at the St. Mark´s area. We’ll go on a walking tour with a local guide through the city of canals (included). Afterwards, you´ll have free time to explore on your own. In the afternoon, you can enjoy an optional gondola ride along the canals.
Day 20 Day 20: Venice
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: Venice

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.

+17

20 days tour

Balkan Extravaganza

This tour includes:

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Itinerary of your trip Balkan Extravaganza

Day 1: Athens

Day 2: Athens

Day 3: Athens, Kamena Vourla, Kalabaka

Day 4: Kalabaka, Thessaloniki, Melnik, Sandansky

Day 5: Sandansky, Rila, Sofia

Day 6: Sofia, Bachkovo, Plovdiv

Day 7: Plovdiv, Kazanlak, Shipka, Etar, Arbanassi, Veliko Tarnovo

Day 8: Veliko Tarnovo, Basarbovo, Bucharest

Day 9: Bucharest, Sinaia, Bran, Sighisoara

Day 10: Sighisoara, Biertan, Sibiu, Hunedoara, Timisoara

Day 11: Timisoara, Belgrade

Day 12: Belgrade, Sremska Mitrovica, Zvornik, Sarajevo

Day 13: Sarajevo, Mostar, Kravica, Dubrovnik

Day 14: Dubrovnik

Day 15: Dubrovnik, Ston, Split

Day 16: Split, Plitvice, Opatija

Day 17: Opatija, Postoina, Bled, Liubliana

Day 18: Liubliana, Venice

Day 19: Venice

Day 20: Venice

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