This trip was exactly what I needed. After years of family holidays and work trips, doing something like this — just me, my wife, a car, and no daily schedule, felt like a throwback to how we used to travel.
The best part? We weren’t herded around or stuck waiting for a big group. We just got in the car and drove. Some days we were super active, other days we just wandered and sat in cafes.
Croatia’s charm is obvious, but Slovenia really caught us off guard. The nature is pristine, the towns feel like no less than a fairytale, and even the touristy places don’t feel overwhelming. Also, it’s worth saying the roads were great, parking wasn’t a nightmare, and the car rental process was straightforward. That stuff matters when you’re not 25 anymore.
If you want a bit of culture, nature, good food, and a proper break from the usual routine this is your tour. We’re already talking about doing another self-drive next year. Portugal, maybe?
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Set off on a 15-day adventure from Athens to Dubrovnik, traveling through Greece, Croatia, and Bosnia Herzegovina. Perfect for senior explorers, this trip features an easy activity level and covers classic destinations such as Sofia and Dubrovnik, alongside hidden gems. With hotel stays, transportation, and meals included, you can focus on the journey’s enriching experiences. The unique selling point is the comprehensive cross-country route, allowing travelers to savor the Balkans’ diversity in comfort and style.
AdventureWalking tours
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Athens, Timisoara, Be
Dubrovnik, Athens, Timisoara, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Kalabaka, Sandanski, Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Sighisoara
Good introductory tour to the Balkans. Need a bus-seat rotation plan to prevent some passengers from hogging the good seats. Choose buses that provide USB charging ports. Avoid less organised hotels where coffee and food runs out, such as in Hotel Marinela in SOFIA and Hotel Panorama in Veliko Tarnovo. Choose hotels that serve breakfast early, at least at 7:00AM, e.g. Panorama in Veliko Tarnovo serves breakfast only at 7:30AM and tour leaves at 8AM, not enough time. Choose hotels that provide express-laundry services as we do not have time to look for laundromats elsewhere. When arriving too early at a city to check-in at hotel, do not waste time unloading bags first, directly go on city tour then come back at check-in time. Maybe reduce a day from Bulgaria or Croatia and add at least a day more in Serbia, which is rich in history. If possible design a new tour to cover all Balkan states and add Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Albania.
City sightseeingWalking tours
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Athens, Zagreb, Timisoara, Belgr
Athens, Zagreb, Timisoara, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split, Opatija, Ljubljana, Kalabaka, Sandanski, Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Sighisoara
Journey from Sofia to Dubrovnik on this 11-day group sightseeing trip, perfectly suited for seniors who appreciate a leisurely travel pace. Traverse Bulgaria, Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia with visits to Belgrade, Sarajevo, and six other destinations. All hotels, transport, and meals are included, ensuring comfort throughout. What sets this tour apart is its diverse itinerary—offering mature travelers a unique chance to explore the history and culture of the Balkans with ease and expert guidance.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Sofia, Plovdiv, Velik
Dubrovnik, Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Sighisoara, Timisoara, Belgrade, Sarajevo
Uncover the storied capitals of the Balkans on this 13-day tour, beginning in Bucharest and culminating in vibrant Athens. Specially designed for seniors seeking a balance of adventure and comfort, this easy-paced trip guides you through highlights such as Sarajevo and an array of nine destinations across five fascinating countries. Enjoy seamless travel with included hotel accommodations, curated meals, and transportation, making exploration worry-free. The journey emphasizes cultural discovery at a comfortable tempo, making it an ideal getaway for those who appreciate both local flavor and leisure. The standout feature of this tour is its unique opportunity to experience the heart of the Balkan Peninsula's capitals, all while enjoying expert guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.
AdventureCity sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Athens, Bucharest, Kalabaka, Sig
Athens, Bucharest, Kalabaka, Sighisoara, Timisoara, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Tirana, Ohrid
Discover the best of the Balkans on this 10-day guided adventure tour, perfect for senior travelers who value comfort and cultural immersion. Starting in Zagreb and wrapping up in Athens, you'll explore iconic cities such as Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, and Kalabaka, traversing scenic landscapes in Greece and Croatia. The itinerary is thoughtfully paced, with easy walking activities and plenty of opportunities to soak in the region’s rich history. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, this tour offers a hassle-free way to experience the Balkans’ charm. Its unique selling point lies in the seamless journey it provides through several must-see cities, all while maintaining a leisurely pace tailored to mature explorers.
AdventureCity sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Athens, Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrov
Athens, Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Tirana, Ohrid, Kalabaka
From Belgrade’s historic avenues to Zagreb’s elegant streets, the 13-day 'Jewels of Serbia and the Balkans, Ending in Zagreb' tour invites you to discover the heart of the Balkans at an easy pace. Tailored for seniors, this guided group trip includes hotel accommodation, transport, and meals, ensuring a worry-free experience. Explore both major cities and hidden gems, with expert guides illuminating each site. The unique selling point is the seamless journey across borders, offering a rich tapestry of cultures in one thoughtfully designed tour package.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Zagreb, Belgrade, Opatija, Ljubl
Zagreb, Belgrade, Opatija, Ljubljana, Novi Sad, Nis, Kraljevo, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split
Embark on a 14-day tour through Greece, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Starting in Athens, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Delphi, Meteora, and Gjirokaster, and explore the ancient ruins, monasteries, and medieval towns. Discover the city of Berat, Drilon National Park, and the St. Naum monastery by Lake Ohrid. Continue through Prizren, Gjakove, and Decan Monastery, then visit Montenegro’s Kotor and Budva. Visit Mostar’s Stari Most Bridge and Sarajevo’s historic landmarks before finishing in Dubrovnik or Split.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo on this 8-day tour, starting in Dubrovnik and continuing to Mostar to explore the UNESCO-listed Stari Most and Blagaj Monastery. In Sarajevo, uncover the city’s medieval roots and the remnants of the Yugoslav War. Visit the charming Kotor in Montenegro and Budva's beautiful beaches, followed by a journey to Shkoder in Albania to explore its ancient castles. In Kosovo, experience the Monastery of Decani and the historic town of Prizren. Conclude the tour in Tirana, exploring vibrant markets, historical sites, and the impactful BUNK'ART museum.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Uncover Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo on this 5-day tour, starting in Dubrovnik and travelling to Kotor, Budva, and the Montenegrin Riviera. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor and explore its maze-like old town, before heading to Budva to experience its blend of modern and historic architecture. Journey to Albania's top slow-food agrotourism farm, then explore the cultural capital of Kosovo, Prizren, with its medieval streets and filigree craftsmanship. In Albania, discover Kruje’s historical significance, followed by a tour of Tirana’s culinary delights, vibrant markets, and fascinating museums. Finally, explore the Venetian-influenced architecture of Shkoder and visit Rozafa Castle, before returning to Dubrovnik.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an 8-day tour starting in Tirana, with guided sightseeing and a visit to the BUNKART museum. Travel to Kruje, symbolising Albanian resistance, before crossing into Prizren, Kosovo’s cultural capital, to discover its medieval streets, stunning mosques, and panoramic views. Continue to Gjakove, Decani, and the Rahovec Valley, where traditional bazaars, a UNESCO monastery, and the region’s famed vineyards await. Visit a premier slow-food farm before heading to Shkoder, with its ancient castle. Journey to Montenegro, stopping at Sveti Stefan and Budva, before exploring Kotor's UNESCO-listed old town. Discover Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge and Sarajevo’s rich history. Finally, cross into Croatia, concluding the adventure with a hotel drop-off in either Dubrovnik or Split.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Begin in the romantic canals of Venice, explore Slovenia’s coastal gems like Piran and Koper, and discover Croatia’s stunning Istrian Peninsula. Marvel at the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, stroll through the ancient streets of Split and Trogir, and uncover the rich history of Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” With guided tours, free time for personal exploration, and unforgettable moments at every turn, this tour offers the perfect balance of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Venice, Opatija, Pore
Dubrovnik, Venice, Opatija, Porec, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split
Experience an unforgettable 8-day small-group journey through Croatia’s most iconic destinations with a personalized travel experience. From the vibrant streets of Zagreb to the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park and the ancient coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik, this tour perfectly balances guided exploration and free time, allowing you to uncover the beauty and charm of Croatia at your own pace
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers