Balkans Escape

Good evening, travellers! Hope you're ready for an exciting ride across the beautiful Balkans. Today, you'll exchange hellos with your Trip Manager (and your new crew too!). To celebrate, we'll feast on a delicious welcome dinner and watch the sun set over this historical city. (D) Stay: Ibis Budapest City South Hotel (or similar)

This morning we'll hop onto the coach for a guided tour to explore to what this city has on offer. You'll see Heroes Square, Fisherman's Bastion, as well as the famed chain bridge & the stunning parliament building, before we depart for our next city.

After a morning full of awesome ancient architecture, we'll be ready to arrive in Ljubljana. You've got a free evening on your hands. So roam around the city, grab a bite to eat, and rest up for the all the Alpine scenery that awaits us tomorrow. (B) Stay: Ibis Styles Ljubljana Centre (or similar)

Ljubljana, you've been lovely. But we'll be back in a while. Because today, something even more exciting is on the agenda. You've probably seen pictures of Lake Bled, but nothing will prepare you for the real thing. With its fairytale medieval castle reaching out of an islet, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Julian Alps and the turquoise waters of the lake itself, it really is like something out of a Disney movie. Satisfied your soul soaking in all that natural beauty? Now satisfy your hungry tummies with some lunch at this quaint Medieval town. It's been a long but pleasing day.

Tonight, you can choose to join a traditional Slovenian evening. We're talking: a traditional dancing show paired with a spread of authentic dishes. A feast for your mind and tastebuds alike! (B)

Next up is something altogether drop dead gorgeous.... A strong introduction to Croatia is on the cards today with cascading teal forest pools at Plitvice Lakes. Why this place is not famous world over as one of the prettiest places in Europe, we have no idea. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Big House Plitvika Jezera (or similar)

Morning, explorers! Fill up on your included breakfast. It's time to hit the road again… Zadar is the perfect mix of history and modern flair. Explore ancient Roman ruins, chill by the Sea Organ where waves make music, and grab a bite at one of the city's cool cafes. Whether you're soaking in the culture or diving into the local scene, there's always something exciting around the corner in this laid-back Croatian gem.

Welcome to the sea-side heaven of Split. With the oh-so-inviting aquamarine waters on our side, we'll check into our stay. You've got some time to explore this beautiful city. And then, you can choose to join us for some dinner at a traditional Dalmatian tavern. (B) Stay: Hotel Split Inn (or similar)

Split it's been fantastic, but we have to leave for other Croatian gems further down the coast. Ston is a charming town on the Dalmatian coast, famous for its impressive medieval walls and ancient salt pans. It's the perfect spot to explore history, sample fresh seafood, and take in the scenic surroundings. A great place to unwind and enjoy the slow pace before heading to your next adventure. The drive along the Dalmatian coastline to Dubrovnik is a sightseeing must do all on its own.

On arrival in the city you'll be greeted by limestone walls; an Old Town filled with quintessentially Croatian cafes and plenty of clubs; and a mountain meets sea situation will see you falling in love within seconds. (B) Stay: Akademis Akademia (or similar)

The city of Dubrovnik is so much more than just a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Game of Thrones location - not that either of those claims to fame are even mildly mediocre.

After you've been guided around the city with intricate detail with our local guide you'll be armed with the knowledge to pick out a waterside rock bar where you can swim and indulge 'til your heart's content. Tonight over an optional dinner with the crew, spirits will no doubt be high! (B)

That's a wrap! Our love affair with the Balkans has sadly come to an end! But perhaps we can get the squad back together for a reunion trip? (B)