Explore Balkans with depth and sophistication through over 500 experienced traveler tours. In-depth cultural immersion, authentic local experiences, and thoughtfully designed itineraries rated by more than 3,600 experienced travelers.
Duration
1 day35 days
Departures
Tour Types
Countries
Activities
Physical Rating
Accommodations
Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
I had done one trip previously – Amalfi coast hiking, fall 2023 – with EXPLORE. I was so impressed I asked my excellent guide, Pete, what else he would recommend knowing my abilities and interests. He immediately recommended the Slovenia trip, and it actually was on my list of places to visit. He had apparently set the trip up about seven years ago and was very familiar with it.
I have been in 50 countries to date - some several times- and Slovenia is now in my top five and I am already planning my return for next May.
We had a lovely small group, being the first of these hikes of the season, hailing from Canada, Spain, Australia, and the UK.
The accommodation, staff, management, and food at Art Hotel Kristal were A+ – and I especially loved and took advantage of the options of the sauna and cold plunge, Ayurvedic massages with the wonderful Bhatri, chocolate tasting with the owner, Alenka, and a fantastic wine tasting with her son, Jan. I went home with a lovely assortment of chocolates and also a wonderful bottle of wine that I will try to hold onto for a few years until it is optimal to drink.
The hikes were not difficult at all, but I found that I did feel like I got a good amount of exercise by the end of the day. I spent my free day doing a mountain bike ride. The whole area around Lake Bohinj is stunning and there are so many activities that one can partake in, as well as really yummy local restaurants close by the hotel. I loved that the hotel offered a pre-fixe three course menu for hotel guests for only €25 on the nights that were not included with the hike. An incredible bargain given the quality of the food, as with almost all of the food we had in Slovenia, it was locally sourced and delicious. I am not typically a meat eater, but I had the venison twice – locally sourced, and wild – and it was by far the best I have ever had.
I would definitely stay at this hotel when I return to the area. I would strongly encourage others to spend some time in Ljubljana – either before or after the trip. A beautiful city a two hour bus ride awaythat is just the right size and full of so much to offer. Next time I am going to see a lot more of this country – it is half the size of Switzerland, but the variety of the terrain and ecosystems is quite impressive. Also, to be noted is that English is widely spoken and children start in grade 3, learning this second language. The Slovenians couldn’t have been nicer and more helpful everywhere I went. What can I say?? Get yourself to Slovenia before it is overrun: safe, clean, and green – a beautiful country of farmers, foragers, wine makers, and beekeepers. Also note that they have some fantastic fly fishing there as well as mountain and road biking – very cycling friendly. After all, it is the country of Pogacar.
Trekking and HikingWaterfalls
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj, La
Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj, Lake Bled, Brod, Julian Alps, Mostnica Gorge
Step into Turkey’s rich tapestry of history on the Aegean Trooper Tour, a five-day journey that begins in Gallipoli and ends in Istanbul. Delve into the moving stories of the Gallipoli Battlefields, then trace the footsteps of ancient civilizations through Troy, Pergamum, and the world-renowned ruins of Ephesus. Marvel at the natural wonder of Pamukkale’s travertine pools before returning to Istanbul’s vibrant embrace. This city sightseeing tour package is perfect for travelers who crave both historical depth and striking landscapes, with the unique advantage of exploring multiple UNESCO sites in a single, expertly guided itinerary.
This was an amazing trip. The Dalmatian Coast of Croatia is spectacular. The islands we visited were beautiful especially when explored by bike. We highly recommend this trip.
We’re both in our 60s and loved the concept of seeing iconic cities in one tour. Highlights for us were Cape Town and Agra, very well organized with knowledgeable guides. The early morning flights and long transfers were tiring, and there wasn’t much time to unpack before moving again. That said, we met lovely people and learned so much. We just wish we had more time in Singapore. They handled logistics impressively for such a big tour. Would recommend for flexible, energetic travelers.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort, Tent
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Dubai, Cairo, Toronto
Beijing, Dubai, Cairo, Toronto, Athens, Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Singapore, New Delhi
I referred to this tour company for a last minute service and Anthony was unbelievable helpful and informative. He attended to my needs in a very timely manner and was very professional the entire time. overall a 10/10 experience. Someone give Anthony a raise!
The trip was wonderful! We were impressed by the way the trip was planned. Great hotels and service by the representatives we dealt with. Our transportation vehicles and drivers were all very nice and had prompt pickups. Very thorough explanations of how things will work when we arrived in Athens.
Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro were beyond beautiful! Crystal-clear waters, charming old towns, and delicious seafood—this was one of our best trips yet.
Adriatic Cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sp
Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Opatija
We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We just returned from our trip and are more than highly pleased and satisfied of our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels and transfers and tour guides went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning another trip next year and will be using these guys.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
