Great European Tour (4 Star Hotels)
Great European Tour (4 Star Hotels)
$7008
Great European Tour (4 Star Hotels)
25 Days Starting in Budapest and ending in Sofia
Visiting: Serbia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Montenegro, Romania, Austria, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CEUTB1
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 42
Age range:
18-59
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an enchanting and immersive 25-day journey through the heart of Europe with our meticulously crafted Central & Eastern Europe & Balkans tour. This captivating adventure invites you to delve into the rich cultural tapestry of some of the continent’s most iconic cities, including Budapest, Vienna, Prague, Bucharest, Sibiu, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Ohrid, Skopje, and Sofia. Explore the cultural hubs of Belgrade and Sarajevo, and bask in the coastal allure of Dubrovnik and Kotor. Venturing into the Balkans, you’ll be captivated by the cultural diversity of Tirana and Shkoder in Albania, the serene shores of Lake Ohrid, and the dynamic cityscape of Skopje. Join us as we traverse the captivating landscapes, uncover hidden gems, and immerse ourselves in the cultural tapestry that defines Central & Eastern Europe and the Balkans.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Budapest
Greetings to Budapest, the capital city of Hungary! Nestled on both banks of the majestic Danube River, this enchanting city seamlessly blends a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural splendor.
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.
Or, immerse yourself in the lively nocturnal atmosphere of Budapest at your own pace.
Embark on an evening filled with exploration, delving into the city's vibrant nightlife, and savoring the delights of authentic Hungarian cuisine.
Accommodation
Hotel City Inn or Novotel Budapest City - 4 Star
Included Activities
Welcome Meeting
Optional Activities
Group Dinner
Day 2: Budapest
After breakfast, embark on your morning exploration in Pest, where you'll have the opportunity to marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Parliament, Royal Palace, Heroes' Square, St Stephen's Basilica and the historic Great Market Hall.
Ascend Castle Hill to witness the historic Matthias Coronation Church dating back to the 13th century.
Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from Fisherman's Bastion.
In the afternoon, partake in the Budapest Opera House & Great Dohany Synagogue experience.
Great Dohany Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe.
You can roam the grounds, observe the Holocaust Tree of Life Memorial, and gain insights into the Hungarian Holocaust.
In the evening, you might consider selecting the optional Danube Cruise, which includes a delightful dinner experience.
Accommodation
Hotel City Inn or Novotel Budapest City - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Budapest City Tour
Optional Activities
Danube River Cruise at Night - €25
St.
Andrea City Visit - €30
Day 3: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna
Embark on a multifaceted journey today as you traverse through three cities: Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna.
Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the quaint streets of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, discovering its charm and distinctive character.
Your exploration continues as you make your way to Vienna, the capital of Austria, a city steeped in imperial grandeur and artistic richness.
At your own leisure, marvel at the architectural splendor and historical significance of Vienna's sites.
If you are travelling in December, experience the magical ambiance of the Christmas markets at night.
Or, indulge your senses with local delicacies, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, and peruse through a plethora of unique gifts.
Accommodation
Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Vienna City Tour
Day 4: Vienna
Embark on a captivating sightseeing odyssey today, beginning with a scenic drive along the renowned Ringstrasse, where landmarks such as the Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, and Parliament grace your path.
Stroll through the Hofburg courtyards, tracing the footsteps of history, until you reach the State Opera House.
Marvel at the architectural magnificence that punctuates this iconic cityscape.
Take a tour that unveils the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace, once the opulent summer abode of the Habsburg emperors.
Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry as you traverse through the ornate halls and lush gardens of this imperial residence.
You can also join our optional guided tour to Danube Tower and Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, an underground marvel nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps.
Uncover the secrets of this centuries-old salt mine as you traverse its subterranean chambers.
Accommodation
Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Optional Activities
Danube Tower - €30
Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine - €40
Day 5: Vienna, Salzburg, Munich
Embark on a scenic journey from Vienna to Salzburg, a captivating city cradled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps.
Take a guided tour through the highlights of Salzburg and acquaint yourself with the city's myriad attractions.
Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where classical beauty converges with manicured landscapes.
Venture to the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval stronghold perched majestically on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine panorama.
Visit the awe-inspiring Salzburg Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture.
Delve into the Mozart Residence, the former home of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, to gain insight into his life and musical genius.
Later, we proceed towards the capital of Bavaria, Munich.
Accommodation
Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchen Messe - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Salzburg 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 Munchecn Messe - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Optional Activities
Linderhof & Oberammergau Tour
Included Activities
Munich City Tour
Day 7: Munich, Regensburg, Prague
Embark on a picturesque morning journey from Munich 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, ride to Prague and take a moment's rest to fuel up for a full day in Prague packed with popular sights.
Accommodation
TBC
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Regensburg City Tour
Day 8: 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 9: Prague - Bucharest (By Flight)
Are you ready to say goodbye to Hungary and fly to Bucharest, Romania's capital city.
Upon arrival enjoy some free time to explore the city's famous landmarks at your own leisure.
Accommodation
Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Day 10: Bucharest City Tour
After a hefty breakfast at the hotel, it's time to launch our discovery of the fascinating Romanian capital, Bucharest.
Follow your guide as we visit unmissable landmarks of the city starting with the Revolution Square, Arc of Triumph and Romania Athenaem.
Learn about the unique culture and vast history of the city as we continue to the famous Opera House, National Military Club, Dimitrie Gusti National Village and the Palace of Parliament, each building presents a different perspective to the Romanian culture and an artwork in itself.
After some personal leisure time for you to explore this gorgeous city on your own terms, return to the hotel following a long day of discovery.
Accommodation
Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Bucharest City Tour
Entrance Fees
National Village Museum - EUR 6
Day 11: Bucharest – Sinaia – Bran - Brasov
Today's the day we set course for the fascinating region of Transylvania.
Drive through misty forests of lush green towards our first stop at Peles Castle in Sinaia, a beautiful neo-renaissance castle in the Carpathian mountains (Please note that it is not possible to visit inside of the castle).
Just as we start to warm up to this unique atmosphere, goosebumps creep in.
.
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Prepare for the legendary Bran Castle, also known as the Castle of Count Dracula! This iconic sight is where legend and reality blend together to create the timeless stories of the vampires.
Continue deep into Transylvania to Brasov, a fascinating town surrounded by medieval Saxon walls and embellished with gothic & baroque architecture.
Starting with the cobble-stone Piaţa Sfatului (Council Square), visit famous landmarks as the Black Church and Muresenilor House Museum before checking into our hotel.
Accommodation
Hotel Ambient – 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Visit to Peles Castle
Visit to Count Dracula Castle
Brasov Sightseeing
Entrance Fees
Dracula Castle Bran - EUR 8.
5
Day 12: Brasov – Sighisoara – Targu Mures – Cluj Napoca
Ready to follow the footsteps of Count Dracula? Our journey continues to Sighisoara after making a stop at the Clock Tower.
Soak in marvellous views of Sighisoara Citadel, the Dominican Monastery, The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), and Dracula's House while listening to your guide about the colourful background of the town.
Our next stop will be the unofficial capital of the Transylvania region, Cluj-Napoca! Tag along your tour leader for a sightseeing tour of the colourful town, visiting the Union Square, St.
Mihail Church and Matthias Corvinus Monument.
Then make way to our 4-star hotel following a long day of discovery with spare time to scroll through your photo reel.
Accommodation
Hotel River Park – 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Sighisoara Sightseeing
Cluj-Napoca Sightseeing
Day 13: Cluj Napoca - Salina Turda – Hunedeoara – Sibiu
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the salt mines of Turda.
This fascinating geologic wonder first produced salt for the region in antique times and has been active since the 11th century! Continuing to Hunedeoara Castle, also known as the Corvin Castle, learn all about the vibrant history of the Transylvanian citadel from your guide.
Our next stop will be the fairytale-like town of Sibiu.
Relax at our comfortable 4-star hotel following a day filled with cultural adventure or start exploring Sibiu as you wish.
Accommodation
Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Visit to Salina Turda (Salt Mine)
Hunedeoara Sightseeing
Entrance Fees
Salina Turda - EUR 10
Corvin Castle - EUR 8
Day 14: Sibiu – Bucharest
We start our day with a walking tour of charming Sibiu.
Presenting marvellous samples of Germanic architecture, Sibiu's legacy dates back to Saxxon settlers from the 12th century.
Tag along your tour leader to view landmarks such as Brukenthal Palace, Piata Mare (city square), Lutheran Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul.
In the afternoon, we will be heading back to Bucharest for our overnight stay.
Accommodation
Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Sibiu Sightseeing
Optional Activities
Group Dinner
Day 15: Bucharest - Plovdiv
It's time to bid farewell to Romania as we embark our ride for Veliko Tarnavo, the City of the Tsars.
The historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire displays the unique Bulgarian architecture from the medieval age.
Uncover the vast history and gems including Tsareverts Fortress and the Holy Forty Martyrs Church before moving on to Plovdiv.
Accommodation
Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills – 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Veliko Tarnavo Sightseeing
Entrance Fees
Tsarevets Fortress - EUR 5
Day 16: Plovdiv - Sofia
Fill up at breakfast at the hotel as we prepare for a city tour of beautiful Plovdiv.
Launching our tour at Old Plovdiv in Nebet Hill, visit the Balabanov and Georgi Mavridi House, witness the impressive St.
Konstantin Church and Elena Church, and proceed to Roman Amphitheatre of Philippopolis and Stadium - some of the best-preserved samples of Roman architecture in the world.
Then we continue to visit the Citadel Door, Castle Streets and St.
Nedelya Church.
Having explored the marvels of Plovdiv, we embark for Sofia! Upon arrival, discover the Bulgarian capital on a panoramic city tour covering all the unmissable sights of the city and learn about its rooted history.
Accommodation
Novotel Sofia – 4 Star or similar
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Plovdiv City Tour
Sofia Panoramic Tour
Day 17: 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 18: 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 19: 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 20: 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 21: 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 22: 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 23: 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 24: Skopje-Sofia
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, leave for Sofia, where you can explore the shopping streets and the nightlife as you wish.
Accommodation
Novotel Sofia – 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Skopje City Tour
Day 25: Sofia
Today, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, your unforgettable Central, Eastern Europe & Balkans tour comes to an end.
Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the magnificent Europe until next time!
Meals Included
Breakfast
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 Star Hotels
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Transportation
Air-conditioned coach or mini-bus
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Meals
24 Breakfasts
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Tour Guiding
Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licenced by the Ministry of Tourism
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Wifi
Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access (where available)
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Flights
Flight from Prague to Bucharest.
What's Not Included
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Any flights not mentioned above
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Travel Insurance
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Meals not stated above
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Items of a personal nature
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Tips and gestures
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Entrance fees to the sights and museums
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Optional activities
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Other services not stated in the itinerary
Add Ons
Local Payment: £0
Check out our Q&As
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
No passenger under the age of 18
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No
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What is the maximum group size?
Average group size is around 12-42 people
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Are flights included in this tour?
Flight from Prague to Bucharest.
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
Yes
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
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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.
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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.
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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
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 20 years
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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.
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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.
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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.