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ToursEuropeThe BalkansThe Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages

The Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages Tours & Trips

39 The Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages trips. Tours from 11 tour companies. 75 reviews.

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39 Trips match your criteria (21 - 39 shown)

Best of Eastern Europe in 16 Days Tour
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Best of Eastern Europe in 16 Days Tour

By Rick Steves
preferred
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Experience the rich diversity of Eastern Europe
  • Explore the energetic cities of Kraków and Budapest to tradition-rich "back door" towns and villages across the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, and Slovenia

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks

What travelers are saying

"We purchased two backpacks from Rick Steves Europe. One of them arrived damaged and unusable. Their website says that you must contact them if you receive damaged merchandise. I have attempted to email them through their website and I have left 3 voicemails (nobody answers the phone, ever!) and nobody has contacted me back. At this point, it seems like I've been ripped off. Buyer beware. Extremely disappointed."

Trip dates & details
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16 days From$4,195
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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A Luxury Discovery of Croatia and Slovenia
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A Luxury Discovery of Croatia and Slovenia

By Jacada Travel
none
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Highlights

  • Private walking tour of Dubrovnik Old Town with visit to the city walls
  • Lauded by George Bernard Shaw as “Paradise on Earth"
  • Churches, monasteries, and museums ornamented with finely carved stone recall an eventful history and a vibrant artistic tradition
  • Enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the crystal clear blue Adriatic Sea.
  • Experience cultural-historical sites from a wholly new perspective.
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Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, 50 Plus, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks

What travelers are saying

"While the staff was unfailingly polite in their communications, I had significant concerns about my experience booking through this travel agency: The primary issue was the clear lack of first-hand destination knowledge among their team members. Despite marketing themselves as a luxury travel provider, the recommendations and arrangements felt more premium-tier at best. This became apparent through several missteps: They booked us into a subpar hotel in Entebbe that was well below the expected quality for the price point Our itinerary included an unnecessary layover in Zanzibar that wasted an entire day, when direct flights were available They scheduled us for an extremely challenging hike despite clear communication about moderate fitness levels, suggesting limited familiarity with the terrain Most disappointingly, when these issues were raised during and after the trip, the company acknowledged their mistakes but was unwilling to provide any meaningful compensation or refund. This stance felt particularly problematic given their admitted errors in judgment and planning. While individual elements of the trip were enjoyable (particularly Chameleon Lodge), I cannot recommend an agency that positions itself as a luxury provider while delivering mid-tier experiences and refusing to make things right when they fall short of expectations. The silver lining was their responsive and pleasant communication style, but politeness alone doesn't make up for fundamental service issues."

Trip dates & details
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12 days From$6,955
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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The Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages Reviews

All The Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages, expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about The Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages

Northern Greece, Albania & Macedonia: Ancient Lands of Alexander the Great
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Northern Greece, Albania & Macedonia: Ancient Lands of Alexander the Great

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)
none
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Explore the picturesque hillside city set along the shores of Lake Ohrid in the Republic of Macedonia
  • Visit the National History Museum
  • Visit the small village of Dhoksat
  • Visit a traditional Albanian village
  • Explore the stunning ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

Trip dates & details
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18 days From$4,795
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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St Petersburg to Rome by Rail
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St Petersburg to Rome by Rail

By Geckos Adventures
none
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Is there any better way to see europe than by rail? not only is it an environmentally-friendly and comfortable way to travel, you and your friends get to see the incredible scenery pass right outside your window.
  • Encounter the legacy of russian tsar peter the great while exploring the enigmatic streets that showcase the many palaces and museums of st petersburg
  • Enjoy a city escape and chase the romance at the uniquely landscaped tunnel of love – iconic for its awning trees made by nature and passing trains. it's believed that if a couple who are truly in love make a wish here then it will come true
  • Venice is like a dream – your chance to sip prosecco, drift down grand canals and dominate instagram with scenes of impossible romance
  • The cinque terre might just be the most epic stretch of coastline in the world, thanks to its rainbow of cute little cliff-side houses. look at them, smiling over the water like they were painted there!
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Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"FANTASTIC. Start to finish it is such a fantastic taste of Central America, all the destinations are interesting and you can do as much or as little as you choose."

Trip dates & details
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28 days From$4,215
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Budapest to Rome by Rail
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Budapest to Rome by Rail

By Geckos Adventures
none
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Enjoy a jaw-droppingly scenic walk along the banks of the river danube in budapest. threaded with bridges and hemmed in by castles and historic city buildings, europe's second longest river is also one of its most beautiful
  • Escape to the country and visit lake balaton, where you can sail across emerald waters, try your hand windsurfing, or savour a (very) lazy afternoon wine tasting.
  • Eat your way through croatia’s mix of european cuisines in zagreb, with everything from fresh mediterranean seafood to italian-influenced antipasti and heavenly fried fritule doughnuts.
  • Escape city life on the chilled-out shores of lake bled in slovenia. visit a church on the tiny island in the centre of the lake and treat yourself to a slice of bled's famous cream cake
  • There's more to italy than pasta, romance and old statues (although those are pretty awesome). the cinque terre might just be the most epic stretch of coastline in the world

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"FANTASTIC. Start to finish it is such a fantastic taste of Central America, all the destinations are interesting and you can do as much or as little as you choose."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
16 days From$2,040
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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London to Venice by Rail
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London to Venice by Rail

By Geckos Adventures
none
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Contrast the booming city of paris with time to see the city's world famous sights - such as the eiffel tower and the louvre - without having to rush
  • The beating heart of modern germany, berlin is packed with history, arts and culture. the city's poignant memorials serve not just to recognise the past, but to educate new generations into the future
  • Soak up the royal history of krakow's wawel castle and step back in time with a stroll through its medieval main square
  • Immerse yourself in the history, architecture and bohemian vibes of the czech republic. soak up the smooth sounds of jazz at a low-lit bar in prague before stepping right into a fairytale of cesky krumlov
  • Escape to the country and visit lake balaton, where you can sail across emerald waters, try your hand windsurfing, or savour a (very) lazy afternoon wine tasting.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"FANTASTIC. Start to finish it is such a fantastic taste of Central America, all the destinations are interesting and you can do as much or as little as you choose."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
28 days From$3,724
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Custom Designed Trip
Lodging level
lodgingLevelName
Physical level
N/A

Highlights

  • Fully customized trip based on preferences
  • Matched with a local specialist
  • From $200 per person per day
From$200per person per day
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Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Berlin to Venice by Rail
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Berlin to Venice by Rail

By Geckos Adventures
none
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Travelling in a smaller group of like-minded people (friends!) mostly by trains (that is called a ‘responsible manner’) is the best way to move around europe
  • Now one of the world's most artistic and exciting cities, berlin has a complex history. and beer is cheaper than water here. go figure
  • Visit mauerpark in berlin, or otherwise called wall park. listen to some interesting stories of post war berlin
  • Krakow's wawel castle will blow your mind. walking through its medieval main square is like time travel
  • Find out why mariacki hejnal sounds like its cut in half. sample obwarzanki while doing that. what’s obwarzanki? well, find out in krakow!
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Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"FANTASTIC. Start to finish it is such a fantastic taste of Central America, all the destinations are interesting and you can do as much or as little as you choose."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
19 days From$2,172
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Friuli and Slovenia Magnifica Tour
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Friuli and Slovenia Magnifica Tour

By Tourissimo
none
Group Tour
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Smooth easy bike paths
  • Alps as the backdrop for most of the journey
  • Scenic, quiet roads without traffic
  • Outdoor activities: cycling, river rafting, and hiking
  • Premier hotels and historical palaces
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Themes

Cultural, Culinary & Wine, Family Friendly, Cycling & Biking, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"Great routes, guides, hotels and bikes!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
7 days From$4,695
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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The Balkans Local Immersion & Homestays Trips & Packages Reviews

G

Geoff

Oct 2015

Written on

Dinko Pervan was an excellent leader; he

Dinko Pervan was an excellent leader; he spoke knowledgeably and not too much :) I liked the format of the trip where we were given an introduction to a new locatio...

Tour:  Explore Croatia

R

Robert

Oct 2015

Written on

1. Excellent itinerary 2. Excellent logistics/transport to destinations 3.

1. Excellent itinerary 2. Excellent logistics/transport to destinations 3. Excellent trip guide

Tour:  Explore Croatia

H

Helen

Oct 2015

Written on

I like the Intrepid style of trip

I like the Intrepid style of trip where you are not organised all the time

Tour:  Explore Croatia

T

Tracey

Oct 2015

Written on

Love small group tours, the free time

Love small group tours, the free time and travelling on loca...

Tour:  Explore Croatia

P

Penelope

Oct 2015

Written on

The trip was actually split into two

The trip was actually split into two trips which made it difficult to develop a good rapport with the rest of the group & the tour leaders. We were just starting...

Tour:  Explore Croatia

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