Aerial view of Dubrovnik, Croatia overlooking the sea and the city.

Balkan Bliss

30 September - 12 October 2023

Discover the best of the Balkans this Autumn while exploring Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Slovenia.

13 days
4 countries
11 destinations

TRAVEL 
ACCOMMODATION

12 nights at considered,
quality hotels

MEALS

12 breakfasts
1 lunch
4 dinners

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate level of walking is necessary

Trip Map & Highlights

  • Ascend a cable car to get the best views over Dubrovnik

  • Explore Montenegro on an included day trip

  • See the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) in Mostar

  • Taste local wine in a typical Hvar village

  • Wander through the ruins of Diocletian’s palace in Split

  • Visit the UNESCO protected Plitvice Natural Parks

  • Relax on an included pletna boat ride to Bled Island

  • Journey into the Julian Alps in Slovenia

  • Marvel at the stalagmites and stalactites in Postojna Cave

  • Get local insight with an included orientation of all cities with a Local Insider

SOME OF THE BEST BITS

Itinerary

Aerial view of Dubrovnik, Croatia overlooking the sea and the city.

Arrive to our Dubrovnik hotel at leisure today, or take advantage of one or our two scheduled transfers from Dubrovnik airport. 

Our adventure officially kicks off at 4pm with a brief welcome at our hotel, followed by a spectacular dinner cruise around the city walls of Dubrovnik – the Pearl of the Adriatic. As the sun sets, we toast to the many fabulous friends and memories to be made throughout our journey.*

Accommodation: Royal Hotel Ariston

Inclusions: Group based airport transfers at set times, Welcome Evening with Dinner

*Sunset cruise is weather dependent. In the case of high wind or rain this will be replaced with dinner at a local restaurant.

Cable car ride going up Srd Hill in Dubrovnik.

This morning we meet up with a Dubrovnik local for a guided walk through the walls of this medieval city. Our Local Insider uncovers the history of the once very powerful and wealthy Ragusa Republic, pinpoints Game of Thrones filming locations, perfect photo opportunities, and of course the best places to eat and drink. After our stroll we journey up Srd Hill on the picturesque cable car to one of the finest viewpoints over the city. Take the afternoon to explore at leisure, perhaps walk along the top of the walls where more striking photo opportunities await, or relax at our seaside resort. 

Accommodation: Royal Hotel Ariston

Inclusions: Breakfast, sightseeing and cable car ride in Dubrovnik with a Local Insider

View of the mountains, sea and city of Montenegro.

Tick another country off your list with an included day trip to Montenegro. We cross the border and take a tranquil boat cruise to the walled city of Kotor with our Local Insider.

Accommodation: Royal Hotel Ariston

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, sightseeing and boat ride in Montenegro with a Local Insider

Stari Most (Old Bridge) over the Neretva River in Mostar.

The visual delights continue to impress as we journey north along the Dalmatian coast before entering Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our Local Insider meets us on arrival to Mostar to unveil this cultural melting pot of Ottoman and Christian architecture. Together, we’ll mosey across the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), gazing into the Neretva River below, before taking some time to explore on our own. This evening, consider joining us for an optional feast of delicious local specialties while admiring the city by night. 

Accommodation: Hotel Mepas

Inclusions: Breakfast, sightseeing in Mostar with a Local Insider

Optional Extras: Mostar by Night

Sunset view of Amfora Hvar Hotel

We venture back to Croatia today, passing through the Neretva Riviera, its vineyards and myriad of agricultural fields. Just when you thought the scenery couldn’t get any more beautiful, we embark on a short ferry crossing to the Island of Hvar, with a magical backdrop of mountains meeting the sea. A delightful Lunch with Locals awaits, with produce from the island served amidst spectacular scenery.

Accommodation: Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch with Locals

Backstreets of Hvar town.

It’s all about island life this morning. We take a short stroll to the heart of Hvar town with our Local Insider, explore the backstreets, discover great places to eat and see the arsenal and cathedral. This afternoon, perhaps take a walk up to the fortress, or join our Optional Extra chasing the lavender trail and indulging in a light bite with wine tasting.

Accommodation: Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort

Inclusions: Breakfast, sightseeing of Hvar town with a Local Insider

Optional Extas: Hvar Explorer 

Sunset view of Split.

Farewell Hvar as we set sail for Split – the largest city on the Adriatic coast. Our Local Insider will tell stories of the Roman Emperor Diocletian and his palace, which hosts some of the most complete Roman ruins anywhere in the world. Tonight, why not join us for a lively night with local food and entertainment at a traditional restaurant? 

Accommodation: Hotel Corner Split

Inclusions: Breakfast, Sightseeing in Split with a Local Insider, Entry to Diocletian’s Palace

Optional Extras: Konoba Experience

Aerial view of Plitvice National Park.

Plitvice is in our sights today, but not before a brief stop off in the coastal town of Trogir - often referred to as Little Venice. Our Local Insider takes us on a brief orientation of this tiny island, which is connected by bridges to the mainland. We then head to the breathtaking Plitvice National Park, soaking up the natural beauty and tranquillity as we walk alongside cascading waterfalls, pristine turquoise lakes and an abundance of fish, birds and wildlife.

Accommodation: Hotel Jezero

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, sightseeing in Trogir, and entry and sightseeing in Plitvice National Park with a Local Insider

Aerial view of Lake Bled.

Heading further north, we cross the border into Slovenia and the majestic lakeside town of Bled. Take the afternoon to stroll around the lake, or perhaps indulge in a delicious Kremschnitte, which became famous in the area at our very hotel.

This evening, choose to relax at our waterfront hotel or opt to join us for dinner during our visit to a nearby village. 

Accommodation: Hotel Park - Sava Hotels & Resorts

 Inclusions: Breakfast

Optional Extras: Traditional Slovenian Evening

Pletna boats on Lake Bled.

Start the day with a traditional pletna ride to the magical Bled Island. Take some time to visit the island’s quaint church and hear the legend of its bell or simply take in the peaceful surrounds. 

The rest of the day is free in this picturesque haven – relax with a stroll around the lake, take a dip or simply sit waterside and take in the serenity. With the incredible views from Mt Vogel at our doorstep, you may opt to take a cable car ride into the Julian Alps, stopping by Slovenia’s largest glacial lake – Lake Bohinj – on the way. 

Accommodation: Hotel Park - Sava Hotels & Resorts

 Inclusions: Breakfast, Pletna Boat and Bled Island visit

Optional Extras: Julian Alps Escape

Our first stop this morning is the magnificent 24 kilometre long Postojna Cave. We board a small mining train to admire the captivating cave formations with stalactites and stalagmites, before a short walk to get up close to these natural marvels. 

Then it’s on to the majestic capital Ljubljana, where our Local Insider will share the legends and sights of the city on our scenic stroll.

This evening, take some time at leisure to dine at one of the many riverside restaurants. 

Accommodation: Exe Lev

 Inclusions: Breakfast, Postojna Cave visit, Ljubljana sightseeing with a Local Insider

Aerial view of Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral and the Dolac Markets

Wave goodbye to Slovenia as we set our sights on the Croatian capital – Zagreb. A walk through the centre with our Local Insider will reveal the Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, the Dolac Markets and more. This afternoon, take some time to further immerse yourself in this colourful city, or unwind before our final evening, where we will toast the many friends and experiences we’ve had throughout our blissful Balkan adventure.

Accommodation: The Westin Zagreb

 Inclusions: Breakfast, Zagreb sightseeing with a Local Insider, Farewell Evening

Zagreb Art Pavillion.

Bid farewell to the Balkans and new friends, as our tour ends after breakfast this morning.

Complimentary airport transfers are available to arrive at the airport at 7:30am and 11am.

CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

Optional Extras

  • Stari Most

    Mostar by Night

    Enjoy a feast of traditional Bosnian cuisine, including the famous national dish – ćevapi. There’ll be entertainment, good company, and mesmerising views of Mostar’s most well known icon – the Stari Most.

  • View of Hvar

    Hvar Explorer

    See more of magical Hvar on the scenic route to one of Europe’s oldest towns – Stari Grad. We’ll meander through the narrow streets and alleyways, before a light lunch with wine tasting in a nearby village.

  • Dalmatian Konoba Experience

    Dalmatian Konoba Experience


    Indulge in a typical Dalmatian night out with local specialties and entertainment in a traditional stone Konoba.

  • Traditional Slovenian Evening in Radovljica

    Traditional Slovenian Evening

    Learn the craft of Slovenian gingerbread hearts on our visit to the small medieval town of Radovljica. We’ll introduce you to tasty Slovenian dishes in a picturesque setting with local entertainment.

  • Julian Alps Slovenia

    Julian Alps Escape

    Admire the breathtaking scenery of Lake Bohinj, before venturing up Mount Vogel. This ski resort is one of Slovenia’s largest and most popular panoramic vistas of the Julian Alps.

Lake Bled, Slovenia in Autumn.

Escape the summer heat and the tourist crowds

TRAVEL IN THE OFF-SEASON

September and October are some of the best months to visit the Balkans. Experience a mix of pleasantly warm and cool days. With lesser crowds, you’ll get to explore the region at a quieter time, and enjoy the beautiful, technicolour autumn leaves as you stroll through the old cities, countryside, and coastal attractions.

Explore the world in comfort and style

TRIP INCLUSIONS

Travel Experts & Local Guides

Our Travel Experts have a minimum of ten years’ experience that will help bring your travel dreams to life. Together with our Local Insiders, they will introduce you to a wide range of cultural insights, traditions, hotspots, hidden gems, and more. They’ll be there throughout your time with us for any questions, suggestions, or recommendations.

Quality Accommodation

Considered accommodations selected for their quality, amenities, comfort and location.

Luxury Coach

Modern, comfortable, climate controlled coaches with a professional driver. On board charging facilities, Wi-Fi and WC are available.

Complimentary Airport Transfers

Complimentary group airport transfers at the beginning and end of your trip.

Audio Headsets

Provided throughout the journey to improve your sightseeing experience. Feel free to roam around and take pictures while never missing a moment of our Local Insider’s fascinating commentary.

Essentials Included

Tour costs include city and service taxes; porterage and baggage handling fees; gratuities for chambermaids; and gratuities for restaurant and bar staff where a meal is included.

Meals

12 breakfasts
1 lunch
4 dinners

The Kalejo Difference

ESCAPE THE ORDINARY
High Quality Inclusions Icon

Only valuable experiences

We don't just include things like included meals or activities to make our brochures look good. Every element of our trips is carefully considered to provide the perfect balance of must-sees and time at leisure. If we don't 100% believe in it, we don't include it.

More free time to explore

Being able to have time to explore on your own is an important part of travel. Our itineraries are designed so you have more free time in the evenings to dine at that small local restaurant, stroll through the cobblestone streets, or simply relax at the hotel.

How much does it cost?

Adult (Twin Share)

Share a room with your travel companion

€3150 pp

Adult (Single Room)

Enjoy having a room
all to yourself

€4140 pp

Child (Twin Share)

Ages 6-16. Share a room with another adult or child.

€2830 pp

Triple share available upon request.

Book with confidence

Reserve your spot calendar icon

Reserve your spot with
a €250 deposit per person

Pay the remaining trip cost 30 days after you put down your deposit.

COVID-19 Guarantee Tick Icon

COVID-19 Guarantee

Get a travel credit or a full refund in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Once you have decided to take your next adventure with Kalejo, reserve your place using the booking link on the relevant trip page. You will be asked to confirm your place with a €250 deposit per person at the time of booking. Full payment is required within the following 60 days. Full payment can also be made at the time of booking.

  • Twin share accommodation (unless a single room upgrade is purchased), porterage, a Travel Expert, sightseeing experiences, Vox headsets, some entrance fees, and English speaking Local Insiders as per each itinerary outline. We also cover gratuities for hotel chambermaids, porters, restaurant and bar staff where an included meal takes place.

    For more details on inclusions, please email us at hello@kalejotravel.com

  • Airfares, passport and visa fees, travel insurance, tips/gratuities to Travel Expert, Local Insiders, and coach drivers, laundry, phone calls, minibar, beverages and meals not detailed in the itinerary, Optional Extras, and all items of a personal nature.

  • Kalejo offers a number of Optional Extras to enhance your holiday once it begins. Optional Extras allow you to explore the destinations, sights and people in as much depth as possible, while also allowing you to enjoy the company of the group. You may choose to take part in these at an additional cost, or take some time at leisure. 

    Optional Extras often have the benefit of skipping lines, saving time, and getting you off the beaten track. They also include transport, tipping (if a meal takes place), and the service of your Travel Expert or Local Insider.

    Due to seasonal changes and availability, Optional Extras may change for each itinerary. As such, your Travel Expert will only offer these for purchase once the tour begins.

  • If your trip gets postponed or you can't travel due to any COVID-19 restrictions (Government imposed hotspots), we will offer flexible options on your booking that include travel credit for future use on any tour in any destination.

    In addition, if affected by COVID-19 restrictions, you will not forfeit your non-refundable deposit, it will be converted to travel credit for use on any future tours, in any destination valid through to, and including the 2024 season.

    Alternatively, if you decide that future travel is not for you, we will offer a refund of the trip cost, minus your non-refundable deposit.