Balkans Tours
The Balkans
Discover the Balkans
Set out on an enriching journey through the Balkans, a captivating region where centuries of history, diverse cultures, and striking landscapes come together to create exceptional travel experience. Situated in southeastern Europe, the Balkans encompass the countries surrounding the Balkan Peninsula — a broad, triangular landmass framed by the Adriatic, Aegean, and Mediterranean seas and defined by rugged mountain ranges and scenic waterways. From Dubrovnik’s well-preserved medieval walls to the turquoise lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice National Park, the region presents an extraordinary variety of sights and experiences. Wander through Sarajevo’s atmospheric old town, cruise the sparkling Adriatic coastline, or uncover lesser-known treasures in North Macedonia — every stop reveals a new layer of the Balkans’ enduring appeal.
Delight in enriching experiences that create more meaningful memories
Personalise your journey to suit your interests
Exceptional stays are all part of the experience
Savour tantalising local flavours and the region's celebrated cuisine on your holiday
Experience APT's renowned reputation for delivering outstanding customer care and expert guidance
The Balkans Your Way
River Cruise
Explore the Balkans aboard a European river cruise, where storybook towns and scenic villages line the waterways. Travel in refined comfort aboard APT’s next-generation luxury river ships, APT Solara and APT Ostara, and experience the region’s spectacular scenery and cultural heritage from a unique perspective.
Land Tours
APT’s Balkans journeys can be enhanced with immersive land touring, perfectly complementing a luxury river cruise. Venture into Romania’s Transylvania region, where dense forests, medieval fortresses, and centuries-old legends create a landscape steeped in mystery and history.
What's On Board
With a host of alluring features, our brand-new, ultra-modern river ships, APT Solara, APT Ostara and APT Alara offer unmatched opulence and style while travelling along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.
Whether enjoying a cocktail up on the Sun Deck or retreating to your spacious, light-filled suite, there is so much to discover on board.
Designed by the globally acclaimed Hecker Guthrie team, our brand-new vessels seamlessly blend contemporary elegance with timeless allure, drawing inspiration from Europe's waterways, seasons, and locales.
Our ships utilise the most advanced environmentally friendly technology currently available, earning Green Award Gold status. We champion sustainable best practices by eliminating single-use plastics and offering thoughtfully designed menus that help minimise food waste.
A high crew-to-guest ratio ensures impeccable onboard service, while every suite category features indulgent in-suite dining. Your ship also has a dedicated Cruise Director, superb onboard entertainment and a wellness host.
Tour Highlights
Embrace New Cultures
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, discover the fascinating history and culture of Sarajevo, a city where East meets West. Visit the iconic Latin Bridge, the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and explore the old bazaar, where traditional crafts and goods are still made and sold. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee, prepared and served with a ritual that reflects the region’s warm hospitality.
Be awed by Plitvice Lakes National Park
The natural beauty of the Balkans is on full display at Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, where a series of cascading lakes and waterfalls create a breathtaking landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe, offering walking trails that allow you to explore its pristine environment. The park’s vibrant colours, from the deep greens of the forests to the turquoise waters of the lakes, make it a photographer’s paradise and a nature lover’s dream.
Explore Kotor
Travel further into the heart of the Balkans and you’ll find the charming town of Kotor in Montenegro. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, Kotor’s old town is a maze of medieval streets, ancient churches, and picturesque squares. Climb the steep path to the fortress for panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor, often considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world. The blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes Kotor a must-visit destination on any Balkans tour.
Discover Lake Ohrid
Another highlight of the Balkans is Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The town of Ohrid, perched on the shores of the lake, is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the Church of St. John at Kaneo, which overlooks the lake from a cliff. Explore the town’s rich history, which dates back to antiquity, and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains.
Discover the Balkans with APT
Whether you’re exploring ancient Roman ruins, walking through medieval cities, or discovering the vibrant cultures of the Balkans, APT Balkans Tours ensure that you experience the very best of this remarkable region. Our small group tours provide an intimate and personalised experience, allowing you to connect with fellow travellers and immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the Balkans.
Ready To Experience The Balkans?
As you travel through the Balkans’ diverse landscapes and cultures, APT Balkans Tours deliver moments of discovery at every turn. From walking Dubrovnik’s ancient ramparts to admiring the cascading lakes of Plitvice National Park, each experience is thoughtfully curated to highlight the region’s finest sights. Uncover Sarajevo’s layered history, sail the Adriatic coastline, or connect with everyday life in North Macedonia — all guided by APT’s expert team. Now more accessible than ever, the Balkans remain refreshingly authentic, offering medieval heritage, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Visit before the region’s hidden-gem status disappears and see why the Balkans are emerging as one of Europe’s most rewarding destinations.
When is the best time of the year to visit the Balkans?
Travel through the Balkans with APT and discover a region rich in UNESCO-listed landmarks, historic towns, and breathtaking landscapes. From the cascading beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park to centuries-old city walls and vibrant old quarters, the Balkan Peninsula offers an inspiring mix of nature and culture.
Whether you’re admiring Lake Ohrid’s tranquil waters, strolling Kotor’s cobbled streets, or exploring the rugged Balkan Mountains, each destination reveals stories shaped by time. APT’s carefully designed tours combine warm local hospitality, smaller group experiences, and flexible itineraries, allowing you to explore at a comfortable pace.
The Balkans can be visited year-round, with each season showcasing unique scenery, traditions, and regional flavours.
Balkan Tours - Frequently Asked Questions