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Best of the Balkans

9 Day Balkans Tour of Croatia & Bosnia-Herzegovina

AARP Member Benefits
AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $205
From $1,598
WAS $1,775
Find this price
9 Days
3 Countries

Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina

6 Cities

Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva, Sarajevo, Mostar, Split

12 Meals

4 Dinners, 8 Breakfasts

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 45
Semi-Independent Trips by Costsaver

Costsaver

Costsaver trips are great if you are looking for a budget friendly, semi-independent vacation that is designed with just the basics in mind. Unlike classic tours, Costsaver includes just the essentials including 3-star accommodation (not always centrally located, but close to public transportation for easy access to the center of town), airconditioned motorcoach transportation, an expert Travel Director and Driver. With a basic orientation included in major cities, enjoy the freedom and flexibility to explore the destination at your own pace, or tailor your days on trip with Choice Optional Experiences unique to each itinerary and arranged by your Travel Director. 

View all CostSaver Tours

Step back in time on this 9-day journey through the Balkans, where medieval ruins meet ancient Roman wonders. Explore the enchanting old towns of Dubrovnik and Split, stroll through vibrant multicultural cities, and marvel at breathtaking architecture. Hear heartfelt tales of resilience and history from Local Guides who bring centuries of stories to life. The best of the Balkans is yours to discover—your way.

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15
Average group size
average 45
Semi-Independent Trips by
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Dubrovnik

Arrive in Dubrovnik where you'll get to see 'paradise on earth'- if George Bernard Shaw is to be believed. The famous playwright was a big fan of this medieval fortified city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. Over the next day you'll uncover the city's unique appeal, but first meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for an included dinner this evening and a glimpse into what lies ahead.

Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Welcome Meeting Meet your Travel Director at 17:30
Accommodation Villas Plat
Included Meals Dinner

Day 2

Dubrovnik Sightseeing and free time

Today, join a Local Guide for a sightseeing tour of the iconic highlights in Dubrovnik. Admire the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the city walls. Stroll through elegant courtyards and along limestone streets, admiring the remnants of Dubrovnik's Golden Age. Tonight, there's no better way to enjoy this shimmering coastline than embarking on an optional sunset dinner cruise to a secluded bay, with the illuminated city of Dubrovnik providing the perfect end to the evening.

Stradun Street in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Accommodation Villas Plat
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences Cruise and walking tour in Cavtat, Croatia
Panoramic Cavtat

Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbor on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisure...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Cruise and dinner in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Sunset Cruise And Dinner

Kick back on a sunset cruise that whisks you away along the dazzling Dalmatian coast to a secret bay, setting the stage for a night to remember. Th...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Pouring extra virgin olive oil into a glass bowl
Dinner at the Olive Mill

Head out from Dubrovnik for a quick trip to the quaint village of Orašac. Here, you'll step back in time at an ancient olive oil mill, uncovering t...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 3

Dubrovnik - Kotor - Budva

Journey through the spectacular scenery of Montenegro to the Old Town of Kotor, known as Stari Grad. Located beside a beautiful bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen, it's no surprise it's a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Travel Director will take you on an orientation around this historic town. This evening enjoy dinner at your hotel. 

Panoramic boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks island in Montenegro
Accommodation Hotel Monte Casa Budva
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences A view over Budva Beach in Budva, Montenegro
Happy Hour Cruise Along the Budva Riviera

We'll board our private launch in Budva for a relaxing and scenic cruise along the most popular Riviera of Montenegro. Two drinks are served along ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 4

Budva - Sarajevo

Small villages and broad plains line your route south into Bosnia-Herzegovina. Arrive later today in its capital Sarajevo, where a rich religious and multi-cultural heritage has earned it the nickname, the 'Jerusalem of Europe'. Warm Bosnian hospitality is on the menu tonight if you choose one of our two Choice Experiences.

Skyline of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Accommodation Ibis Styles Sarajevo
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Sarajevo Sightseeing

Today, centuries of religious history are reflected in Sarajevo's beautiful synagogues, mosques, and Orthodox and Catholic churches as you'll discover when you join a Local Guide for a guided walking tour. You'll also visit the Old Town, view the largest mosque in the Balkans, and see the Eternal Flame and the Sarajevo Roses that are dotted across the city, standing as a stark reminder of the turmoil Sarajevo endured decades ago. Join a local family in their home for tasty traditional cuisine or enjoy a lively encounter in a favorite local restaurant with dinner and entertainment.

Market in the Old Town, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Accommodation Ibis Styles Sarajevo
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences A Local Specialist gives us a personal insight into the Sarajevo Tunnel of Hope
Tunnel of Hope

Step back into the turbulent 1990s, to a time when Sarajevo stood resilient under siege. Your Local Guide will give you their personal insight into...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
East Meets West

Discover the best of Sarajevo on a visit to Sarajevo’s iconic City Hall, an impressive Austro-Hungarian building that suffered major damage during ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Visit a home hosted evening in Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Sarajevo Home Hosted Evening

Dive into the heart of Sarajevo's culture with an unforgettable evening. You're not just going out to eat; you're stepping into a local's home, wel...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Traditional dinner with entertainment in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment

Celebrate with your travel companions during a memorable night in Sarajevo. Head to a renowned local restaurant known for its authentic Bosnian cui...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 6

Sarajevo - Mostar

Today, you’ll head to Mostar, joining a Local Guide for an exploration of this historic multicultural city that witnessed an impressive resurrection after the Bosnian War. Part of its restoration can be seen in the traditional reconstruction of its medieval 'Stari Most', an Ottoman-style bridge. You'll delve into a tragic time not long ago when Catholic Croats, Muslim Bosniaks and Orthodox Serbs fought for supremacy amidst the colorful cobbled streets overlooking the Neretva River. You’ll have time to explore the city on your own or perhaps join a Local Guide for a visit to Blagaj, famous for its natural spring and one of the most mystical cultural and historical villages in the country.

Mostar Bridge in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Accommodation Hotel Mostar
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences Visit Blagaj in Mostar, Croatia
Mystical Blagaj

Head off with your Local Guide to explore the stunning Old Tsar vineyards and fruit-laden valleys on your way to Blagaj. This town isn't just known...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 7

Mostar - Split

Sit back, relax and watch the stunning Adriatic coastline go by as you pass old fishing villages and modern resorts bound for Split, where modern façades reveal glimpses of an ancient Roman past. On arrival in Split, a Local Guide takes you behind the city walls to this harbor town's heart, the 4th-century Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, followed by a leisurely walking tour through the historic Old Town. See how Gothic, Roman and Renaissance structures merge seamlessly across the cityscape. Admire Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the 7th-century Cathedral of Saint Domnius as you explore its maze of narrow alleys. You'll have an evening to discover the Dalmatian capital on your terms or join a Choice Experience in a traditional stone basement konoba for a Dalmatian dinner and live music.

Bell Tower of Diocletians Palace, Split, Croatia
Accommodation Hotel Mondo Split
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences Konoba dinner in Split, Croatia
Traditional Konoba Dinner

Dive into the heart of it with an authentic taste of Dalmatian life. Dinner in a cozy stone 'konoba' is where it's at - the ultimate spot to savor ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

Split Your Way

Today is free for you to explore Split as you choose.  If you’re after more sightseeing, you could choose to spend the rest of your day by joining a Choice Experience to one of the glittering Dalmatian islands. Or perhaps indulge in some of the local vintages which have justifiably earned the islands their reputation as a celebrated wine center for centuries.

Boats in Harbor, Split, Croatia
Accommodation Hotel Mondo Split
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences Enjoy a boat trip to Hvar with a tour, Croatia
Jewel of the Adriatic

Hop on board for a day trip to Hvar, the jewel of the Croatian islands. Kick things off with a scenic boat ride from Split, then hit the charming s...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 9

Depart Split

You've explored medieval monuments, witnessed the revival of war-torn cities and relaxed on the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic. The allure of the Balkans will linger long after you've said goodbye to your travel companions. 

Street and houses in Split, Croatia
Included Meals Breakfast

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Special Departure

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About this trip

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Many meals and daily breakfasts included
City orientation tours
Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
Extensive variety of Choice Experiences
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Panoramic Cavtat

Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbor on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisure...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Sunset Cruise And Dinner

Kick back on a sunset cruise that whisks you away along the dazzling Dalmatian coast to a secret bay, setting the stage for a night to remember. Th...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Dinner at the Olive Mill

Head out from Dubrovnik for a quick trip to the quaint village of Orašac. Here, you'll step back in time at an ancient olive oil mill, uncovering t...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Happy Hour Cruise Along the Budva Riviera

We'll board our private launch in Budva for a relaxing and scenic cruise along the most popular Riviera of Montenegro. Two drinks are served along ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Tunnel of Hope

Step back into the turbulent 1990s, to a time when Sarajevo stood resilient under siege. Your Local Guide will give you their personal insight into...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
East Meets West

Discover the best of Sarajevo on a visit to Sarajevo’s iconic City Hall, an impressive Austro-Hungarian building that suffered major damage during ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Sarajevo Home Hosted Evening

Dive into the heart of Sarajevo's culture with an unforgettable evening. You're not just going out to eat; you're stepping into a local's home, wel...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Entertainment

Celebrate with your travel companions during a memorable night in Sarajevo. Head to a renowned local restaurant known for its authentic Bosnian cui...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Mystical Blagaj

Head off with your Local Guide to explore the stunning Old Tsar vineyards and fruit-laden valleys on your way to Blagaj. This town isn't just known...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Traditional Konoba Dinner

Dive into the heart of it with an authentic taste of Dalmatian life. Dinner in a cozy stone 'konoba' is where it's at - the ultimate spot to savor ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Jewel of the Adriatic

Hop on board for a day trip to Hvar, the jewel of the Croatian islands. Kick things off with a scenic boat ride from Split, then hit the charming s...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro

  • Official Language(s) used across Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro: Croatian is the official of Croatia; Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian are the official languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Montenegrin is the official language of Montenegro.
  • Currency used in Balkans: The Croatian Kuna (HRK) is used in Croatia, the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM) is used in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Euro (€) is used in Montenegro.
  • Capital Cites: Zagreb (Croatia), Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and Podgorica (Montenegro)
  • Time Zone(s) in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro: Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Croatia has a diverse climate, with three main regions: coastal, inland, and mountainous. The coastal regions, including cities like Dubrovnik and Split, have a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and mild winters averaging around 10°C (50°F). Inland areas, such as Zagreb, have a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. The mountainous regions, like the Dinaric Alps, experience colder and harsher winters with heavy snowfall, making them ideal for winter sports. Rainfall is generally higher along the coast and decreases inland, with the wettest months being October and November.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a diverse climate due to its varied geography. In the northern regions, the climate is continental with hot summers and cold winters, experiencing occasional snowfall. In the southern areas, the climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The central regions have a mixture of these two climates. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant throughout the country. Rainfall patterns vary, with more precipitation in the mountainous areas and less in the lowlands.

Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate along its coastline, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The interior regions have a more continental climate, characterized by colder winters and warmer summers. Coastal areas experience long, sunny days, making them popular destinations for beachgoers. The mountainous regions, including the Dinaric Alps, see heavy snowfall during winter, offering opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Montenegro's diverse geography contributes to varying microclimates, providing a mix of coastal relaxation and alpine adventure.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Review date: Saturday, September 30, 2023
Service
The booking experience was generally good. There were times that the web site was not as clear as I would like it to navigate. I had to fill in certain information more than once to complete the entries.
Vacation
The tour itself was well organized and the tour director sis an excellent job during the entire trip. The local guides were mostly good. But they could focus more on some of the more popular points of interest, rather than just the ole towns or main squares of each of the cities that we visited. For example, I think I missed the Diocletian's Palace in Split and also wished I could see the Olympic site in Sarajavo. We also skipped the Montenagro optional trip due to unforeseen circumstance.
Carl Grundman Jr
Review date: Tuesday, September 26, 2023
Service
The itinerary was good, what I didn't pay enough attention to is that if you did not choose the added excursion you missed a lot. Three of the stops were so far out of town there would be nothing to do without paying for the excursion. By design?
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are sorry to hear about your disappointing experience and will be sure to share your feedback with the tour operator for additional review and improvement.
Thursday, September 28, 2023
Vacation
The description of the tour, although accurate, was misleading. The one night stays are really designed for the the traveler to purchase the additional excursions. Without paying the additional fees you would be stuck almost 30 minutes from town. Most to rooms were adequate but the room and location in Split was terrible.
Gloria Reid
Review date: Monday, June 19, 2023
Service
Prompt, friendly service.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you so much! We appreciate you as well.
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Vacation
Lots to see and do. Amazing variety.
Louis Evangelista
Review date: Wednesday, June 19, 2019
Service
Kaitlin Fitzpatrick was attentive and responsive.
Vacation
Saw everything and did everything advertised and optional activities made trip more enjoyable and informative.
David Comfort
Review date: Monday, June 10, 2019
Service
Michelle Gumringer is the best. She takes care of everything for us, and goes out of her way to ensure that we get all the discounts we are entitled too.
Vacation
The Best of the Balkans was one of the bst trips we have taken with GET. The scenery and the history of the area was spectacular. the trip gives one a better appreciation of what we experience in the USA. We would recommend this trip to everyone who loves beautiful scenery, wonderful people and history.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, May 27, 2019
Service
Needed more stops along the way for photographs. As we were driving along on the Tour bus it would have been nice for the tour director to point out points of interest.
Vacation
From my experience traveling the world, The Tour Director makes the trip. I was a bit disappointed with our Tour guide. She used the word "perfect" at the end of her remarks about 500 times ... it drove me crazy.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are sorry to hear about your experience. We appreciate your suggestions and you taking the time to share your comments. We will share them with our team in hopes that improvements can be made.
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Phyllis Schlesinger
Review date: Monday, October 15, 2018
Service
From the time I booked the trip to my travels everything was handled correctly.
Vacation
Good value for the money.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, October 15, 2018
Service
This was my fourth trip with GET. I really enjoyed the vacation. Everything was well planned.
Vacation
The tour was very exciting and our tour guide and driver were very professional and fun.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, September 23, 2018
Service
Daniel Pelletier make it very easy to buy, he always explaine the trip, make his recommendatios. We are going next year and I already have two friends thar will gomwith us ans will boo with GET
Response from Grand European Travel:
That is fantastic to hear! Thank you for your business and for recommending us to your friends.
Monday, September 24, 2018
Vacation
Beautifu. Hotels were fine and clean, food delicious, good service
Mario Magana
Review date: Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Service
Croatia was a beautiful country and Trafalgar/ Costsaver was a good option on price with almost same level of expertise travels from Trafalgar. I was afraid on this lower cost option but on reality it was acceptable level on tour.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. The Costsaver product is an excellent and affordable way to see the beautiful sights of Croatia and other cities in Europe. We are so happy you enjoyed yourself.
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Vacation
Good price and same level of Tour from Trafalgar. Croatia was a beautiful hidden country with great cities like Split. And Dubrovnik is a jewel city that compete with other Europe cities.
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