European Magic (4 Star Hotels)

European Magic (4 Star Hotels)

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18 Days From

$5585

$3072

European Magic (4 Star Hotels)

18 Days Starting in Berlin and ending in Athens

Visiting: Greece, Macedonia, Montenegro, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Albania, Czech Republic, Germany

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

CEUB4

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 42

Physical rating:

Low, Easy

Age range:

18-59

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $5585 $3072 Operator discount: -$2513 -45%

NB: Prices correct on 16-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an enthralling expedition through the heart of Europe with our thoughtfully curated 18-day Central Europe & Balkans tour. Immerse yourself in the captivating cultural mosaic of Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Regensburg, Munich, Athens, Thessaloniki, Delphi, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Trebinje, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Tirana, Ohrid, and Skopje, as you traverse a landscape steeped in history, adorned with architectural marvels, and alive with vibrant traditions. This meticulously planned Central Europe & Balkans tour assures a captivating journey through renowned cities, each revealing its distinctive allure.

Highlights

  • Embark on an extraordinary Central Europe & Balkans tour, meticulously crafted to offer an immersive journey through the continent’s most captivating cities. We ensure a seamless transition between cities, allowing you to absorb the unique essence of each destination without missing a single beat.

  • Be a part of a thoughtfully curated experience that invites you to explore many Central Europe & Balkan cities

  • The top-notch 4 star accommodations selected for each stop provide a comfortable and luxurious retreat.

  • Enjoy ample leisure time to explore local culture, hidden gems, and savor delectable regional cuisine in culture-laden destinations.

  • The journey to Berlin takes you through the remnants of the city’s hidden past, showcasing the contrast between historical landmarks and the contemporary spirit of the city.

  • With plenty of activities to choose from, this 18-day tour is the perfect way to experience the history and culture in Europe

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Berlin

Greetings to Berlin, the capital city of Germany, a beautiful city, considered as one of the greenest in Europe.

As you arrive, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby at 6pm.

Later on, you can get to know your fellow travellers in the optional group dinner.

You can then immerse yourself in the lively nocturnal atmosphere of Berlin at your own pace.





Accommodation

TBC

Included Activities

Welcome Meeting

Optional Activities

Group Dinner

Day 2: Berlin

Embark on a captivating morning exploration with a guided tour of Berlin, starting with a visit to the historic Reichstag building, which has housed the German Parliament since its construction in 1894.

Proceed to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol once emblematic of the city's division during the Cold War era.

Following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the gate has transformed into a powerful symbol of German unity, alongside the controversial Checkpoint Charlie.





As you traverse the city, cruise along the elegant Unter den Linden Boulevard and Kurfurstendamm, a renowned avenue that has long been one of Berlin's most iconic thoroughfares.

Pass by notable landmarks such as the German State Opera House and the Baroque Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral), a magnificent structure dating back to the 1700s.





In the early afternoon, immerse yourself in Berlin's hidden past with a dedicated tour, peeling back the layers of history to reveal remnants of the city's transformative journey.





Accommodation

TBC

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Berlin City Tour

Day 3: Berlin-Dresden-Prague

After a hearty breakfast, travel from Berlin to Dresden, renowned for its impressive artistic masterpieces and Baroque architectural wonders.

Although significant portions of this city fell victim to wartime destruction, meticulous restoration efforts have restored its former splendor, notably showcased in landmarks such as the Royal Palace and its museum housing treasures dating back to the 1720s.

Your guided walking tour will lead you to iconic sites such as the Zwinger Palace, the Semper Opera, and the unmistakable Dresden Frauenkirche, the Church of Our Lady, meticulously reconstructed from rubble.





As the day comes to a close, travel on to the diverse Prague and check in to your hotel.





Accommodation

TBC

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Dresden City Tour

Day 4: Prague

Embark on a captivating day in Prague with a guided walking tour leading you through the picturesque Lesser Town (Malá Strana), also known as the charming Little Quarter.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this historic area, characterized by ancient burgher houses and winding quaint side streets.

As you traverse the iconic Charles Bridge, Europe's venerable stone bridge, marvel at the breathtaking views that unfold before you, leading you to the heart of Prague's medieval center, the Old Town.





Delve into the medieval charm of Old Town as you explore its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Square.

Continue your journey into the Jewish Quarter, once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe, where you'll encounter the elegant white stucco St.

Nicholas Church, the renowned Astronomical Clock, and the historic Town Hall.





In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the hilltop Prague Castle complex, the former regal residence of Bohemian kings.

Discover the magnificence of St.

Vitus Cathedral, the hallowed space where kings were crowned, and be treated to spectacular vistas offering panoramic views of the entire city below.

This comprehensive exploration promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Prague's history, architecture, and cultural heritage.









Accommodation

TBC

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities







Prague City Tour

Prague Castle and St.

Vitus Cathedral Visit

Day 5: Prague-Regensburg-Munich

Embark on a picturesque morning journey from Prague to the charming city of Regensburg in Germany.

Take your time to leisurely explore the enchanting delights of Regensburg, situated along the scenic Danube River.

Renowned as one of Germany's largest and impeccably preserved medieval cities, Regensburg holds the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.





Allow yourself to be captivated by the architectural marvels, including stunning churches and the one-of-a-kind medieval stone bridge that gracefully spans the majestic River Danube.

Later on, we proceed towards the capital of Bavaria, Munich, and take a moment's rest to fuel up for a full day in Munich packed with popular sights.





Accommodation

TBC

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Regensburg City Tour

Day 6: Munich

We begin the day with an introductory stroll led by your group leader to discover key attractions like Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt.

Marvel at the iconic Marienplatz, the city's vibrant central square, adorned with historical landmarks and surrounded by picturesque architecture.

Explore the awe-inspiring Frauenkirche, a symbol of Munich's rich history and a testament to its resilience.

For the rest of the day, enjoy free time at your own pace, or choose to engage in the optional excursion to the enchanting Linderhof Palace, a fairytale creation commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II, and Oberammergau, renowned for its celebrated passion play.





At night, don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Bavarian beer in one of Munich's beer halls.





Accommodation

Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchen Messe - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Optional Activities

Linderhof & Oberammergau Tour

Included Activities

Munich City Tour

Day 7: Munich-Sofia (By Flight)

Are you ready to say goodbye to Munich and fly to Sofia, Bulgaria's capital city? Upon arrival enjoy some free time to explore the city's famous landmarks at your own leisure.





Accommodation

Novotel Sofia - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 8: Sofia-Belgrade

After a substantial breakfast, hop on the bus and make your way to the Serbian capital, Belgrade.

With stunning views over the Danube and Sava rivers by the mighty medieval Belgrade Fortress, head to the heart of the capitol.

Starting off at the vibrant pretty shopping street, Knez Mihailova, filled with cafes, shops and charming sites, kick off the walking tour to discover the incredible landmarks Belgrade has in store and their marvellous histories.





Accommodation

Abba Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Belgrade City Tour

Day 9: Belgrade-Sarajevo

Next stop Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital, the city that has been through it all! It is where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split and where people of many nations and religions met, lived and warred.

You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town.

Though, still an oriental beauty with a unique twist, and a delight to discover on your walking tour in the old town.

The city offers endless delicacies to taste, but the specialty is lamb.





Accommodation

Hotel Ibis Styles – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sarajevo City Tour

Entrance Fees

Catholic Church - EUR 1

Day 10: Sarajevo-Mostar-Trebinje

Today, we drive for the amazing Adriatic shore, but first a stop at Mostar! As you arrive in this dreamland, walk through the Old Town of this Herzegovina pearl, see the iconic highlights Old Bridge – Stari Most, and the old čaršija (market).

Enjoy your lunch with an amazing view at one of the local venues, discover the old town and make sure to try the delicious Turkish coffee.

In the afternoon, we ride to Trebinje for our overnight stay.





Accommodation

Hotel Central Park – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Mostar City Tour

Optional Activities

Kravice Waterfalls - EUR 30

Day 11: Trebinje-Dubrovnik-Trebinje

Get ready for a long day at Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic"! With its well-preserved majestic walls encircling the whole town and its sea of terra-cotta roof tiles, giving life to the "King's Landing", the whole town is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Even the drive down to town from the mountain-side is a breakth-taking highlight in itself! We start off with a guided walking tour of the Old Town and marvel at the millennial history of this fairy-like town.

Walk atop the mighty walls, discover cute narrow streets, taste delicious seafood or jump off into the crystal-blue waters.

In the evening, we return to Trebinje for a good night's rest.





Accommodation

Hotel Central Park – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Dubrovnik City Tour

Optional Activities

Dubrovnik Boat Trip - EUR 40

Entrance Fees

Dubronvnik City Walls - EUR 15

Day 12: Trebinje-Kotor-Shkodra

Next stop Montenegro! Arrive in Kotor after a scenic drive an meet its calming natural beauty and characteristic architecture, a less-crowded version of Dubrovnik with its impressive medieval citadel.

Following a walking tour of the old town with your expert local guide and some free time.

Departure to Albania, which is our final destination for the day.

Shkoder is one of the most authentic cities in Albania.

Walking tour through the centre.

Overnight in Shkoder.





Accommodation

Grand Hotel Europa – 5 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Kotor City Tour

Shkoder Walking Tour

Day 13: Shkodra-Tirana-Ohrid

Hit the road after breakfast! A panoramic city tour of Tirana will introduce the best preserved and most beautiful samples of Albanian architecture, and drop us off at the town centre for some free time to discover the bustling Skenderbeg square.

In the afternoon, continue towards Ohrid, Macedonia and check-in to your comfy hotel.

You can rest up after a long day, or join the optional Balkan night with dinner.





Accommodation

Hotel Aqualina – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Panoramic Tour of Tirana

Ohrid Walking Tour

Optional Activities

Balkan Night With Dinner - EUR 35

Day 14: Ohrid-St.Naum-Skopje

Start off the day with a guided city tour of Old Ohrid hosting hundreds of chapels and churches scattered all around.

In the afternoon travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, for the night.





Accommodation

Hotel Next Door – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Ohrid City Tour

Optional Activities

St.

Naum Tour - EUR 20

Day 15: Skopje-Thessaloniki

Prepare to discover the beautiful Skopje with a guided sightseeing tour filled with stunning architecture, grand monuments and unique history.

Pose with the famous statue of Alexander the Great or walk through the Macedonian Arc de Triumph.

The city has countless landmarks and a vibrant street life with many cafes and bars around.

In the afternoon cross the border heading towards the second largest Greek city, Thessaloniki.

In the evening, join the panoramic bus tour to discover the hidden gems of the city.





Accommodation

Hotel ABC – 3 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Skopje City Tour

Thessaloniki Panoramic Tour

Day 16: Thessaloniki - Kalambaka-Delphi

After breakfast, we depart for Kalambaka, the gateway to Meteora.

Meteora is famous for its breath-taking scenery and ageless monasteries, almost suspended between the earth and sky.

The town hosts one of the largest and steepest complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, literally named as “middle of the sky”.

The World Heritage-listed site is out-of-this-world with its unique landscape of immense monolithic pillars and huge rounded boulders hosting monasteries on top, and one of the most visited locations in Greece.

Each monastery has a central courtyard surrounded by chapels and living cells of monks, who have inhabited the region since the 11th century – for far less than the first inhabitants from 50,000 years ago.

Later in the afternoon, hop on the bus for Delphi.





Accommodation

Hermes Hotel - 3 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Meteora Tour

Day 17: Delphi - Athens

Eat up at breakfast, you will be discovering Delphi and all its wonders.

Built high atop the cliffs with spectacular scenery, the town made its name in ancient Greek mythology.

Chosen as the centre of the earth, here is where the famous powerful Oracles of Delphi resided.

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi had a tremendous influence in the ancient world, uniting many city-states under the Hellenic spirit as displayed in rich monuments and ancient stories.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Athens.

As you get your bearings and all the information you need about the capital from your guide, arrive at the hotel to freshen up.

Prepare to cap off the amazing tour Greek-style; bring in the mezes, it's time to do some Sirtaki!



Accommodation

Arion Hotel - 3 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Delphi Tour

Day 18: Athens

Have your final breakfast on us and start bidding farewells to your travel mates before checking out of the hotel (11:00).

Time to start counting days for your next adventure with Travel Talk!



Meals Included

Breakfast

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 Star Hotels

  • Meals

    17 Breakfasts

  • Transportation

    Air-conditioned coach or mini-bus

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

  • Orientation Walks

    Organized orientation walks at the towns visited

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Flight from Munich to Sofia.

  • Flight from Munich to Sofia.

What's Not Included

  • Any flights not mentioned above

  • Travel Insurance

  • Meals not stated above

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Tips and gestures

  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Optional activities

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Check out our Q&As

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    Flight from Munich to Sofia

  • What is the maximum group size?

    Average group size is around 12-42 people

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    No passenger under the age of 18

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

Scarlett Lily  

One of the best holidays I’ve had

25-Feb-2021

We went on a tour of the Balkans and it was above our expectations. Bojan was the best tour leader gave us so much information about the places we were visiting but also a great laugh! The tour ran so smoothly and was the perfect way to see the area in a little amount of time. It was one of the best holidays I have been on, I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to book another tour with travel talk. They are great value for money!

Trustpilot
James Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed the exotic Morocco...

29-Oct-2023

Just completed the exotic Morocco tour with our excellent guide Abdul! He was one of the best tour guides I have met, he brought so much energy and knowledge on the tour and could not imagine doing the tour without him. The tour itself was so diverse, seeing so many different landscapes. It has been one of the best trips I have done. Would highly recommend!

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 29, 2024 - Oct 16, 2024
$5824 $3203

Operator discount: -$2621

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 16, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
$5585 $3072

Operator discount: -$2513

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 27, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

May 18, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 16, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

Jul 20, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
$5744 $3159

Operator discount: -$2585

Sunday - Wednesday

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$6090 $3350

Operator discount: -$2741

Sunday - Wednesday

Sep 21, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$5824 $3203

Operator discount: -$2621

Sunday - Wednesday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$5824 $3203

Operator discount: -$2621

Sunday - Wednesday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$5824 $3203

Operator discount: -$2621

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.