Europe
Balkan Journey
Journey through the Balkans for those who love stories hidden in old towns and centuries of living tradition across Southeast Europe.
Journey through the Balkans for those who love stories hidden in old towns and centuries of living tradition across Southeast Europe.
Tour Dates
Optional Tours
Inclusions
- Led by an Access Expert
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 4-star to 5-star hotel accommodations
- Private transportation for the entire trip
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Entrance fees to all listed attractions
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
Exclusions
- Round-trip international airfare
- Visa fees and processing (if required)
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
- Taxes
- Gratuities
Day 1: Manila
Your Balkan adventure begins. Sit back and enjoy the in-flight entertainment, meals, and amenities as you journey from Manila to Venice.
Day 2: Venice
Welcome to Venice! Upon arrival, meet your guide for a seamless transfer to your hotel. Rest and refresh after your long flight, with the rest of the day at leisure to settle in.
Day 3: Venice – Ljubljana
Glide through Venice aboard a vaporetto (water taxi) to San Marco and explore landmarks that have shaped history: St. Mark’s Basilica, St. Mark’s Square, and the Bridge of Sighs. Visit a glass factory to witness the artistry of Venetian glass-blowing before some free time to wander the island’s narrow lanes. In the afternoon, drive to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital, and settle in for the night.
Day 4: Ljubljana – Bled – Postojna Cave – Ljubljana
A postcard-perfect day awaits. Begin at Lake Bled, surrounded by the Julian Alps, where emerald waters and a cliffside castle create one of Europe’s most iconic scenes. Take a boat ride to the island and ring the church bell for luck. Then, venture underground to the vast Postojna Cave and ride the electric train through a world of stalactites and wonder. Return to Ljubljana for the night.
Day 5: Ljubljana – Plitvice
After breakfast, explore Ljubljana’s Old Town: the Dragon Bridge, the Triple Bridge, and the hilltop castle overlooking red rooftops and the Ljubljanica River. Then cross into Croatia and journey toward Plitvice, where nature’s artistry awaits.
Day 06: Plitvice – Split
Wander through Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure of cascading lakes and forested trails. Wooden walkways lead you over turquoise waters and through misty falls, an experience that feels almost dreamlike. Afterward, continue to the coastal city of Split.
Day 07: Split – Hvar – Split
Take a scenic ferry to the island of Hvar, where lavender fields, stone streets, and sparkling bays await. Visit the fortress above town for panoramic views before returning to Split. Explore Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient Roman complex now alive with cafés, shops, and stone alleyways.
Day 08: Split – Medjugorje – Mostar
Cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina for a spiritual visit to Medjugorje, known for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Spend quiet moments at St. James Church before continuing to Mostar. Dinner and overnight in this historic city.
Day 09: Mostar – Dubrovnik
Wander through Mostar’s Old Town, where East meets West. Cross the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), explore cobbled alleys lined with market stalls, and climb the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque’s minaret for views that stretch across the Neretva River. Journey onward to Dubrovnik.
Day 10: Dubrovnik
Explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a walled city of marble streets and red-tiled roofs overlooking the sea. Visit Onofrio’s Fountain, the Rector’s Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery — home to one of the world’s oldest pharmacies. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the city’s coastline, cafés, or shops at leisure.
Day 11: Dubrovnik – Kotor – Budva
Cross into Montenegro and visit the medieval town of Kotor, known for its well-preserved old streets and sea views framed by mountains. Continue to Budva, a charming seaside town that combines ancient heritage with coastal energy. Dinner and overnight in Budva.
Day 12: Budva – Shkoder – Tirana
Head south to Albania, stopping in Shkoder—one of the oldest cities in the Balkans—for lunch and a glimpse of its Venetian influence. Continue to Tirana and take a guided tour of the capital’s colorful architecture and vibrant squares. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower before ending the day with dinner and rest.
Day 13: Tirana – Ohrid – Skopje
Cross into North Macedonia and explore the lakeside town of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its serene beauty and ancient churches. Afterward, continue to Skopje for an overnight stay.
Day 14: Skopje – Belgrade
Begin the morning in Skopje, visiting the Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and the Fortress Kale. Then, journey to Belgrade, Serbia’s dynamic capital, where the Danube and Sava rivers meet.
Day 15: Belgrade
Experience Belgrade’s spirit today. Visit Kalemegdan Fortress and the Victory Monument, stroll through Knez Mihailova Street, and see New Belgrade’s architectural contrasts. As evening falls, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your Balkan adventure.
Day 16: Belgrade – Manila
Enjoy breakfast and free time before your airport transfer. Bid farewell to Europe’s most diverse region as you fly back home.
Day 17: Manila
Home sweet home! Arrive in Manila after a memorable and enjoyable Balkan journey.
Important Notes to Remember*
- No reservations or blockings have been made at this stage.
- Rates and hotel availability are subject to change until confirmation, especially during peak travel periods.
- Participation numbers will not affect the commencement of the trip. Should the minimum requirement for the Access Journeys not be met, our upcoming trip will proceed with the current number of participants. Access Travel will do its best to upgrade travelers to a private tour. However, rates for the private tour are not guaranteed to be the same as the original trip rates.
- Each experience is suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and seniors. The single supplement rate applies for solo travelers.
- Extension of your stay is possible if you wish to enjoy more.
- If a visa is needed for any reason, we can help you process and arrange it.
- Card payments are subject to service fees.