12 Day Albania, Montenegro, Croatia & Slovenia
From
$2299
Land Only
$3499*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
| Saturday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Rogner Hotel | Tirana | |
| Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora | Podgorica | |
| Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel | Dubrovnik | |
| Hotel Atrium | Split | |
| Hotel Mirjana & Rastoke | Slunj | |
| Eurostars uHotel Ljubljana | Ljubljana | |
Select a Date to Book
Select a Date to Book
Book By Oct 8, 2026 & Save!
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $750 | ||||||
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| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
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| $2299 | $3499* | |||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights New York-Tirana, Ljubljana-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - 10 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Tirana
- 2 nights Podgorica
- 2 nights Dubrovnik
- 1 night Split
- 1 night Plitvice Lakes
- 2 nights Ljubljana
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 15 meals: 10 breakfasts, 5 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Services of local guides in major cities
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- Tour the Bunk'Art 2 Museum and gain insight into Albania's history during the Cold War
- Visit Moraca Monastery, the largest medieval Orthodox monument in Montenegro in Kolasin
- Visit the King Nikola Museum in Cetinje, a former home of the last Montenegrin ruler, Nikola I Petrovic Njegoš
- View the spectacular Bay of Kotor fjord
- Tour Dubrovnik, Croatia's magical city on the Adriatic Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Marvel at the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a precious example of Roman architecture in Split
- Explore the magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park, a network of 16 terraced basins
- View the twin spires of the Cathedral of Zagreb
- Tour Ljubljana's Old Town, seeing the unique mixture of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture
- Enjoy the beautiful Alpine resort of Bled, exquisitely set amidst the Julian Alps
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked through Gate 1 Travel
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Is This Trip Right for You?
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Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Your visit of Kruje will take you back in time and give you a wonderful cultural experience. Kruje is best known as the hometown of Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero, and is where the Ottomans were successfully resisted for nearly 35 years until 1478. Visit of the Ethnographic museum, a walk though the old bazaar and a dinner in a local restaurant will complete the experience.
Approximate tour duration is 7 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jan 2027 - 31 Dec 2027 | $85.00 |
This evening, take a short drive from Dubrovnik through the Croatian countryside to a lovely homestead for dinner, where you will be welcomed with tasty starters, such as local cheeses and Dalmatian prosciutto. Take in the lush surroundings while savoring a traditional meal consisting of time-honored dishes, carefully prepared with fresh, local ingredients, paired with wine and brandy.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 3.5-4 hours
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2027 - 31 Dec 2027 | $65.00 |
Travel this evening to the beautiful village of Stobrec, just outside of Split. Here, savor a delicious three course meal at the family-run Epetium restaurant, while listening to live Dalmatian music. The restaurant has been serving Dalmatian culinary delights of this region for over 50 years.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2027 - 31 Dec 2027 | $69.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Albania - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Albania Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Slovenia - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovenia Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Croatia - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Croatia Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Montenegro - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Montenegro Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Albania - The Albanian Leke is the currency of Albania. It operates within a closed currency system, meaning it cannot be purchased or exchanged outside the country. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Croatia - The Euro is the currency of Croatia. |
| Montenegro - The Euro is the currency of Montenegro. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store's policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country's online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Albania - Shopping in Albania can offer some surprising deals. Goods can easily be found that are up to European standards of craftsmanship but at much lower prices. Shoes, silver and copper pieces, woodcarvings, needlework, Albanian cognac, and musical instruments are among the most sought after wares. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Croatia - For the best prices, seek out local markets offering a wide assortment of traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, ceramics, and woodcarvings. In stores, lavender sachets, fine Adriatic red coral, and crystal ware are popular items. Shops are generally open all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturdays. |
| Montenegro - Both boutiques and open markets abound in Montenegro. For local flavor, look for wine, jewelry, and paintings by regional artists. Fine clothing and accessories by Italian designers are also widely available. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Albania
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Slovenia
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Croatia
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Montenegro
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| Languages |
| Albania - Albanian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Croatia - Croatian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Montenegro - Montenegrin and Serbian are the local languages. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Albania - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Croatia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Montenegro - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Albania - Albania is a predominantly Muslim country, though Christians and Muslims coexist quite peacefully. Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Normal courtesies should be observed, and if you are offered coffee or sweets, it is polite to accept the offer. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Croatia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting and saying goodbye. Casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in theaters and public offices. |
| Montenegro - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Normal courtesies should be observed. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Montenegro - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and raw fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Albania - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and raw fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Albania |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year's Day, observed Mar 14: Summer Day Mar 22: Nevruz Day Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday Apr 13: Day of Easter Sunday (Orthodox) May 1: International Worker's Day May 27: Feast of the Sacrifice Sep 5: Mother Teresa Beatification Day Sep 7: Mother Teresa Beatification Day (Observed) Nov 28: Independence Day Nov 29: Liberation Day Dec 8: National Youth Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Holidays 2027 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Start of Ramadan* Mar 14: Summer Day Mar 22: Nevruz Day Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Day of Easter Sunday (Orthodox) May 1: International Workers Day May 17: Feast of the Sacrifice Sep 5: Mother Teresa Beautification Day Nov 28: Independence Day Nov 29: Liberation Day Dec 8: National Youth Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Please note that Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar, and exact dates depend on local sightings of the moon. Because of this, actual dates may vary from the dates given above. |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 5: Easter Sunday Apr 6: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 24: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 28: Easter Sunday Mar 29: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed Jun 8: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Croatia |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day Jun 4: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Jun 25: Independence Day Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 27: Corpus Christi May 30: Statehood Day Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Jun 25: Independence Day Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day |
| Holidays - Montenegro |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year's Day Holiday Jan 6: Orthodox Christmas Day Jan 7: Orthodox Christmas Holiday Apr 10: Orthodox Good Friday Apr 12: Orthodox Easter Sunday Apr 13: Orthodox Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 21: Independence Day May 22: Independence Day Holiday Jul 13: Sovereignty Day of Montenegro Jul 14: Sovereignty Day of Montenegro Holiday Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year's Day Holiday Jan 7: Orthodox Christmas Day Jan 8: Orthodox Christmas Holiday Apr 30: Orthodox Good Friday May 2: Orthodox Easter Sunday May 3: Orthodox Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 2: Labor Day Second Day May 21: Independence Day May 22: Independence Day Holiday Jul 13: Sovereignty Day of Montenegro Jul 14: Sovereignty Day of Montenegro Second Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager: US $10 per person per day Driver: US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
| Albania - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Slovenia - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Croatia - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Montenegro - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
OVERALL TOUR EXPERIENCE: Both the Tour Manager, Elvis, and our driver were excellent! Every check-in process went smoothly thanks to Elvis, and the hotel staffs. Outside of the Hotel Paris, our hotels were of high quality. We were not pleased to learn of extra fees charged by Lufthansa for seats. On one of our flights (Denver to Munich), the seat map that was used to select seats did not match the aircraft, resulting in us not getting the seat location that we requested. Overall, we are very appreciative of the efforts by Gate1 to provide a very enjoyable experience. HIGHLIGHTS: The Traditional Croatian dinner held at the family's farm was the highlight experience of the tour. The performers at the Slovenian meal, and the group hat dance were a lot of fun. Prior to entering the National Park in Croatia, we had lunch at a remote site. We enjoyed the hosts, and the meal. The evening we spent with our local guide in Tirana, Albania was very educational. The day spent in Kruje, Albania, was well done. Our tour guide led us through the museum; and we were entertained by a talented group of performers and dancers.
Benjamin K.
Just wanted to submit kudos for our Balkans Tour Manager, Damir. His knowledge, respect, and passion for the history and varied cultures of the region were outstanding. Often, I fall asleep on the bus, but I found Damir's history lessons, cultural explanations, and personal stories to be so engaging that I stayed wide awake and engaged, despite the jet lag. Additionally, he ran a tight ship which kept us punctual and maximized our independent time. He also created a lot of additional fun moments, which made the group bond in a way that I haven't experienced on other tours. Damir was the epitome of professionalism and turned this vacation into one of my all-time favorites!
Angela K.
Just want to personally commend Damir, our amazing, funny, and super knowledgeable guide who made our Croatia trip over the top, and the best Gate One experience by far! Looking forward to our next adventure to Dubai!
Pedro S.
One of my favorite Gate1 Vacations. Nikolina, the guide was the best we've ever had and the same for the driver, Egor, and the coach was so new, clean and comfortable. The hotels, food, optional tours, and local guides were all wonderful. We met so many nice people on the tour that will become lifetime friends Thank you for everything.
Carla O.
I just want to add a special thanks to our tour director, Jelena, who was outstanding. She provided a detailed and professional overview for each of the four nations we visited, and in the case of Serbia, her own nation, she provided an invaluable perspective of what it was like to grow up during a horrible civil war and watch her nation re-emerge as a nation state in the years that followed. Her management of the tour was flawless; she had a great personality. Gate 1 is very fortunate to have her as a tour director.
Michael H.
The 14-day Croatia, Bosnia & Slovenia with Venice tour was my third trip with Gate 1. Even though this was a Classic tour with more than twice the number of travelers than my previous Discovery Tours, everything ran smoothly and the group dynamics were fantastic. Our Tour Manager, Josip, was excellent. His knowledge, organizational skills and humor were top notch. He was very attentive to individual needs and questions. The amazing clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, the water falls and spectacular Fall colors in the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and the Postonja Cave are only a few of the highlights. Definitely worth revisiting in other seasons!
Constance M.
Our tour manager Edo was truly outstanding. Everything about our tour was orchestrated in a most professional way, yet his wonderful personality created a perfect atmosphere for learning and enjoyment. Edo is extremely knowledgeable about the Balkans and all the places we visited and explained everything so well. His patience and kindness were evident as he interacted with all 41 of us. Having Edo as our tour manager truly made the trip a fantastic experience it was.
William G.
I've been on several Gate 1 trips. This one rates at the very top of all. We had only 20 in the group and it was amazing how we all got along and became dear friends. But the icing on the cake was our trip manager, Dusan! He is so knowledgeable about the area, and so customer oriented. He has great communication skills, and is just the nicest, happiest and caring tour manager I've ever had. He represents Gate 1 beautifully. So much so that my sister is planning a trip to Romania next spring because Dusan will be the tour manager. The optional tours were great as usual. The accommodations were always very easily accessible (not miles away like with some tour companies) and all the meals were great.
Evelyn P.
Aside from being extremely knowledgeable and informative about all the sites that were visited on this tour, Tour Guide Damir provided an extra element to ensure that each traveler had an outstanding experience. Whether it was his concern for and attention to ailing travelers, providing recommendations and suggestions for free time activities, or in my case celebrating a birthday, his attention to detail and his pleasant demeanor was much appreciated and added that special touch to this trip. He is an outstanding tour manager.
Laura A.
Just want to let you know that our Tour Manager, Damjan, was excellent. He was friendly, very professional, and knew so much about the history of the places he took us to. He is a credit to Gate 1 Travel.
Patrick F.
We completed the survey but wanted to add our thoughts about the tour program. Most every answer was excellent - it was a memorable and well-managed trip. They say the best party was the host and our "host" - Milos - was an excellent tour director. He was amazing, his knowledge was remarkable, his personality engaging and his ability to make each guest feel special and included was exceptional. He treated us as family and offered personal experiences to enrich our tours. He was always respectful, took time to listen and allowed us, as a group, to decide options. We owe Milos so much as he made each day special and memorable. And I must mention that our driver Željko, he was the most responsible and congenial driver we have ever had the privilege to share a motor coach with. Great guy, smooth and safe driver, any request honored -- a true professional. Kudos to him and again our host Milos. Gate 1 is lucky to have these two professionals who reflect your reputation and marketing promises made. When we book another tour program with Gate 1, I hope to have this dynamic duo at the helm.
Jim N.
This was my first guided trip with your company, and I was quite pleased! Everything went very smoothly. Our tour manager, Mario, was outstanding!! He was very informative, knowing the history of the countries and very helpful with the myriads of questions our group asked. The food was delicious everywhere we ate, but at times it was just too much in quantity. The optional tours were delightful; I think my favorite being the Silk Wonder and Old Mill tour. The Edisto Winery was also quite interesting. It was also great getting to meet so many new people. Thank you for putting together such an awesome trip.
Phyllis E.
I want to say this trip was PERFECT! the variety of locations to visit, the quality of the hotels, the incredible tour guide Vlaho and our driver Jeko. It was all wonderful. Our tour guide was very skilled in ensuring harmony with the group. We had a mix of newbies and seasoned Gate 1 travelers, and the expectations were all over the place and Vlaho navigated it all with exemplary diplomacy and finesse. We all felt like a very big family very soon after starting the adventure together. Vlaho was so funny and kept the atmosphere very light and fun. I believe this on my list was one of the most wonderful adventures and I cannot wait for my next one. I know I will be back in Croatia for more. 10 days was not enough.
Stephanie S.
We enjoyed a wonderful first-time tour experience with Gate1 Travel and will plan to participate in future tours! We were most impressed with our tour Manager, Mario! Mario was so well organized and was an excellent communicator. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history and culture over the entire 12-day, 3 country itineraries. More importantly, his ever-pleasing personality and extra steps to ensure his guests' comfort and security along the way were most satisfying. He is a great asset to Gate1 and is a big part of our plan to book our next adventure. I need to add that our driver, Alex, was truly amazing and skillful in his operation of our bus tour along the way. We always felt safe and in good hands as he expertly navigated many narrow and busy roads. Thank you, Alex!
Tim K.
I wanted to be sure to let you know that we were more than happy & pleased with the whole trip. The hotels were amazing, the food more than enough and delicious and most of all our tour guide (Ines), local guides were outstanding, as well as our bus driver Dado. This was our 2nd time with Gate 1 and will be our choice again when we tour.
Janet P.
Our trip was really great, thank you! Our guide, Nenad was exceptional. He was extremely knowledgeable and really went out of his way to accommodate the many requests made of him. Hrvoje, our bus driver, also did a great job. His driving was extremely smooth and gave everyone tremendous confidence in our safe travel throughout the trip.
Harold V.
Our tour director Christeje, was superb, the best tour director of other great tour directors I've enjoyed on Gate1 trips. He was professional, personable, gracious, witty, helpful. He addressed and took care of our every need. Bravo!!!!
Donald P.
I've always traveled with Globus, so this is my first time traveling with Gate1. The difference between Globus and Gate1 is your tour manager, Mira. She embodies all the qualities a tour director should have; friendly, cheerful, humorous, punctual, knowledgeable, considerate, patient, organized and above all thoughtful. She plans out every step so there is no surprise or delays to the customers. I also appreciate the small souvenirs that were given to us here and there during the tour. It was a very nice gesture. I will be traveling with Gate1 going forward. Thanks.
Noah T.
The driver Vinka was outstanding. Not only did he drive us safely through out the trip but each morning he had our water at our seats before we boarded. He had our border papers ready, two times he checked our luggage and had our room keys as the group tour, had the bus washed so the windows were cleaned to take better pictures, and when we traveled by his home town, his mother made fresh pastries for the group! Vinka and Mario took wonderful care of us. We also loved the treats Mario gave us throughout the trip. The local guides were all great.
Nita C.
Our Balkans trip was fantastic! We visited Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Slovenia and Venice and we love every bit of it. Our guide Jon was excellent and very knowledgeable. He took very good care of us and made sure we enjoyed every step of the way. Jon answered all our questions and explained so many things to us. We give him a 5 star for his excellent performance and service to us. Our driver Slavko was also very good and took good care of our suitcases and all our transportation needs. We also loved many of the local guides during the tour, especially Enes in Sarajevo. We commend Gate 1 for such a great tour and would definitely recommend it to our friends and family. Way to go Gate 1. Keep up the excellent work!
Gamal H.
Just returned from our 14-day Croatia Slovenia and Venice trip. We had a great time. Our guide Mario was the very best. He was a professional fan and cared about all our needs. Driver Sylvio was great. The hotels were very good.
Liliana A.
It was wonderful, we had such a good time. My friends want to travel again with gate 1, it was their first time, and they were so pleased with everything. Our tour manager Lana and driver Sam were great, they did such a good job, they're the best. It was my 6th time travelling with you and I am already looking for the next adventure
Aurora O.
This was an amazing trip due mainly due to our fabulous tour director, Nikola. His knowledge of the region's history and culture was extremely beneficial as my knowledge was limited at the start of the trip. He was kind and thoughtful and very fluent in English. He also had many surprises and treats and made everyone feel comfortable and always made sure the slower folks on the tour were taken care of. Gate 1 is very lucky to have such a phenomenal tour guide who is a true professional. He is the best tour director I have had so far.
Indranie S.
Amazing! Anna was excellent! Damir was wonderful! Food, local guides and attractions were all great! We're looking at our next trip now. Bravo!
Robert M.
This was our first time traveling with Gate1, and we were blown away. From start to finish, everything was thoughtfully planned. The hotel selections were absolutely the best. Every hotel was in a great location, walking distance to sights, and breakfast was always included. And not just bread and Nutella (my wife and I were used to that when traveling on our own). This was stress-free travel at its finest. Now to our Tour Director, Josip from Zagreb. What a gem! He made the trip not only fun but rich with history, culture, and unforgettable stories about important figures like Nikola Tesla and Marco Polo. Josip's knowledge, positivity, and genuine kindness made every day enjoyable. He is truly an outstanding leader and a kind human being. Dubrovnik deserves its own spotlight. It is a place you'll never forget. So magical that you might even forget the other cities. Yes, it's that beautiful. From the old city walls to the glimmering Adriatic, it's simply unforgettable. Our driver, Sebastian, was also fantastic. He was safe, calm, and professional, making every drive smooth and relaxing. We were part of a large group of 42 travelers, and everything went incredibly well. Everyone got along, which speaks volumes about the energy Josip created. My best advice is to go with the flow. Trust your tour director. Be present in the moment. Appreciate the journey. It won't be perfect all the time, but Gate1 truly goes the extra mile to make you feel cared for. Considering the price we paid, which included the planner, hotels, transfers, accommodation, and breakfast, we definitely received more than our money's worth. Thank you, thank you, thank you Gate1 Travel, Josip, Sebastian, and our amazing group for the incredible memories. We are already looking forward to our next Gate1 adventure.
John D.
I recently returned from a Gate 1 vacation, and I must say this trip was truly unforgettable-largely due to our exceptional tour guide - Vlaho. From the very start, he demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and care. He was incredibly accommodating to everyone's needs, always making sure we were comfortable and well-informed. What set Vlaho apart, however, was his genuine kindness and compassion. He treated every traveler with respect and warmth, creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment throughout the journey. His generosity in encouraging us to try new things-whether it was local cuisine, cultural experiences, or optional excursions-made the trip feel rich and immersive. He went above and beyond every single day, anticipating our needs before we even voiced them and handling every situation with grace. I've traveled with Gate 1 on several occasions, and I can honestly say Vlaho is one of the best guides I've had the pleasure of touring with. His passion for what he does shines through, and it made our entire experience that much more special.
Marissa P.
I am a travel agent and I traveled as a consumer on this trip. This trip was well organized and well planned. The stops were great. The hotels were well located and appropriate class. Danny our driver was excellent and kept us safe. Edo the tour manager did a great job of managing the group, making everyone feel special, and took care of a few medical issues along the way. He was always prepared and ready for the day. I wouldn't hesitate to send clients on this tour.
Anne M.
The breathtaking coastline of Croatia, the historic limestone fortresses, the lush green of lavender, rosemary, and grapevines, the mesmerizing turquoise lakes and waterfalls at Plitvice, the fantastic food and delicate wines, the gracious Croatians---surpassed only by our more than capable driver, "Danny", and our Tour Manager, Edo--The Quintessential Tour Guide! Edo's charm and wit and amazing attention to detail left all of us enjoying our vacation even more as we knew we were in totally safe and capable hands. The narrow switchback roads in Hvar were skillfully maneuvered by driver Danny; a couple of unfortunate "blips" (health issues) in our group were handled smoothly and seamlessly by Edo, and not a beat was missed. His impressive knowledge of the history of all the places we visited; his engagement with each and every one of us; his delightful sense of humor kept us all "tuned in." We had an especially harmonious group, and everyone was kind and respectful and ready to laugh. It was truly an adventure never to be forgotten. As always, Gate One was the "Star of the Show" as no one could say enough about it. Seasoned Gate One-ers easily convinced the newbies of its expertise. Good Job, Again Gate One!!
Melanie G.
I would like to commend our tour director, Nicolina. She is the best we have had of the many tours we have taken with Gate 1 and others. Extremely organized, knowledgeable, friendly and in full control of the group. She gave the impression of really enjoying her work, and the group she guided. She made this one of our most memorable travel experiences.
John P.
It was amazing & beautiful ! Our tour manager Nida is so awesome! She's so knowledgeable about the history of all the countries we visited as well as very caring, helpful, & accommodating person. Her energy is contagious, she's always happy, perky, singing & dancing with the group. She's very professional & always looking out for the safety of the group. You need more tour guide like her. The hotels are very nice & centrally located especially the Eurostar / Lyra hotel. All the food in the hotel are great, all the staff are very friendly n helpful. Our driver Marianne is an excellent driver , he kept us all safe in the bus. We appreciate Gate 1 with all your efforts to make your customers happy & satisfied with your service & make our experiences during the trip memorable & sometimes unforgettable. Thank you! Please keep your prices affordable to most people , so people will travel more and see the world to connect with other people & their cultures as well. You're all doing a good job!
Josephine W.
My 12-day tour through Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, and Slovenia was absolutely unforgettable. The natural beauty of each country - from dramatic coastlines to breathtaking mountains - was beyond anything I imagined. Our tour guides were incredibly knowledgeable, bringing each destination to life with fascinating history and local insight. Best of all, the entire experience was very affordable, offering incredible value without sacrificing quality.
Lecia J.
Thank you! It was fantastic! We enjoyed every day! It was informative, educational, exciting, beautiful and FUN! We had an amazing Tour Director. He was very knowledgeable, patient and helpful with every question! We wish we could have him on every tour. We also had a wonderful driver who made us feel safe everywhere we went. The countries we visited were stunning, and we learned SO much about the Balkans, enjoyed the beautiful hotels, mountains and Adriatic Sea. All the food was tasty and we have zero complaints. Every detail was planned out and I'm sure there was so much going on behind the scenes that we did not have to worry about. I can't say enough positive things. It really was a vacation of a lifetime, and we are so glad we made it happen. Gate 1 was very helpful before and during the trip. Including getting our transfer changed when we were stuck in Rome due to a delay and missing our connection. I sincerely cannot say enough good things about Serban, our Tour Director, and Ivan, our driver. They were both amazing and I know our trip was even better because we were in such good hands!
Julie C.
Ivona was a superb Tour Manager! She even bought us Croatian and Slovenian Christmas ornaments as a remembrance! She also bought us cream cake at Lake Bled (perhaps this could be included in the tour package!). She was wonderful. We have done about 10 Gate 1 Tours and she is definitely one of the best tour managers!! Thank you. The camaraderie among this travel group was great!
Pam L.
We enjoyed the trip very much. Our tour manager Mira was excellent, attention to details and very friendly to all of us. The bus drive Slodjen was also excellent. I would recommend the trip to our family and friends. Thank you.
Tina L.
My 12-day Albania, Montenegro, Croatia and Slovenia tour was amazing thanks to Lana and Josip. Our group of 42 got along well and everything went seamlessly. The activities, local guides and hotel locations were great, especially in Tirana and Ljubljana. Our tour director, Lana, did an outstanding job. She was well-organized, very knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor! She went above and beyond in taking care of our needs (dietary restrictions, etc.). Her suggestions on activities, restaurants and shopping during our free time were very helpful. I will never forget how Lana made my birthday extra special! Josip did a great job of getting us safely from one destination to another and ensured that the coach was in good condition. Thank you, Lana for making this a memorable trip! She is a great asset to Gate 1.
Angelina S.
My son and I absolutely had a wonderful trip to Albania, Montenegro, Croatia and Slovenia. We met our tour guide, Anna, at the hotel in Tirana. She gave us some suggestions of things to do before our Introduction meeting. The guide in Tirana was super - he took us on a walking tour including the Bunkart 2 Museum. The wine tasting in Podgorica was done beautifully! The hotel had a lovely hot tub that we took advantage of. The stop in Kotor, Montenegro, was so interesting: the architecture, the cafes, the cats! The hotel in Dubrovnik had a gorgeous pool! The stop in Ston was educational: the salt mine stop especially. The absolute highlight was the visit to Plitvice National Park. The intense rains had kept this site closed up to the day we got there. So lucky to be able to walk on the (almost submerged) wooden walkways to the Falls. This is definitely a must-see! The walking tour in Zagreb was spectacular. What a beautiful city - and so clean! the last stop was Ljubljana, Slovenia. The Bled Castle and Lake Bled were beautiful. Thanks to Anna's terrific, efficient and friendly leadership this was a wonderful trip.
Eileen K.
The whole trip was absolutely flawless. Couldn't have been better and a huge shout out to our guide, Bine, who made the experience "exceptional". He was the consummate guide, raconteur, and historian. So very knowledgeable and able to convey the complex political history of the Balkans in layman's terms. He was funny, informative and engaging always letting the travelers under his care know what was coming up next. He has been guiding for decades and it shows. He is a MASTER! His passion for travel was infectious and our whole family agreed, he is the PERFECT guide. He stands out as brilliant gem in Gate One's staff of guides. 10 out of 10.... no, 12 out of 10. Can't wait to sign up for the next trip if he is the guide.
Renee M.
Tena was an EXCELLENT trip leader on the Slovenia-Croatia tour. So educated, informed and articulate, we learned SO VERY much about the history and economy of these two countries AND the former Yugoslavia. Tena answered any and all questions--including circulating a clip board encouraging us to write specific questions that she would answer onboard. Her answers were candid and thorough.....her understanding of and pride for her country were obvious and admirable. I've been on guided group tours by Trafalgar, Amer. Express, Maupin and Traveling Texans but not one of those leaders were as thorough as Tena. She made herself VERY approachable on every stop we made to answer impromptu or private questions. Best of all, she'd give several dining suggestions and which eateries/excursions to avoid. Gate1 should have EVERY agent-in-training shadow Tena on a trip......doesn't get any better!
Marti W.
The Croatia/Slovenia trip was marvelous. Damir, our tour leader, went far above and beyond. He was truly excellent in every way!!! He was knowledgeable and approachable. He has a great sense of humor and was unfailingly kind and approachable. He did what every tour guide should do- cause the tourist to love the country you are touring! We even invited our friends to come along for this, their first Gate 1 experience, and we are already considering our next trip.
Jeannette S.
I would just like to let you know how much I enjoyed this tour. It exceeded all my expectations in every way. Damir was an amazing tour guide. He is personable, efficient, knowledgeable, fun, and always gave us so much wonderful information. Damir really made the tour so enjoyable for everyone. It is evident how much he loves Croatia and Slovenia. This was an amazing trip for me. I loved the scenery, the food, our tour guide, the history and so much more. All of the extra excursions were well worth the time and money spent. It was awesome to learn and be a part of this beautiful culture. Our bus driver, Milan, was also great! I would definitely recommend this trip and Gate 1 to my friends and family!
Carol H.
Just returned from the 12 Day Albania, Montenegro, Croatia & Slovenia trip. It was simply amazing. Every single detail of the trip was just great. My wife and I are both vegan, and we are very aware that sometimes this is complicated when traveling abroad. Our guide, Majda, was a true gem. She made sure every meal that was planned had an option for us. She worked her magic every single time. I realize that Gate 1 is not responsible for accommodating our dietary requests, so we are truly thankful that Majda was so caring and mindful every time. She elevated our experience from amazing to superbly amazing. She was also such a great guide for everyone on the trip. She is the best guide we have ever had with Gate 1 or any other company we've traveled with. The hotels were excellent, the local guides were outstanding, the driver was great, the outings were terrific, and the views were all out of this world, but Majda's genuine friendliness, professionalism and overall excellence as a guide made this trip an incredible journey for both of us. Thank you Gate 1 for everything and thank you to Majda for such a great trip.
Marco C.
The trip was great, very well organized with good hotels and outstanding tour manager - Tomislav. I have around a dozen trips with Gate 1 Travel and Tomislav was one of the best. Thank you Tomislav and Gate 1 Travel for great vacation!
Yefim L.
I usually do not add a written summary but feel I must commend Duane, Tour Manager, on one of our most delightful Gate One trips! So young but knowledgeable and in complete control of a rather large group of tourists. He engaged each traveler and was always available to assist our older travelers in accessing sites. Would also add that the optional tours were absolutely fabulous-a favorite being the SILK WONDER & OLD MILLS! The food and accommodations were wonderful! GREAT TRIP!!!!
John R.
It was great! I cannot say enough about our guide, Jelena. She was knowledgeable, humorous, friendly, caring, accommodating, but most of all she was a skilled leader who was able to take a group of strangers and form us into a cohesive group. She is without a doubt the best guide I ever had. She and our driver, Robert, were an outstanding team! Thanks for the great experience!
Martha P.
Fabulous love it!! Everything was perfect. Love our guide Melos, He was so up to date and knowledgeable about everything. Our bus trips were not boring Melos keep us entertained Our group was like a family, everyone was so friendly. Our driver was the best. He handled those curves and turns like a pro. All in all, the whole trip was so enjoyable I would do it again Thank you Gate1 you did it again!!!
Barbara C.
Great trip through Croatia and Slovenia. Nikola was an energetic and knowledgeable tour guide. Our group of 40 quickly bonded and got along well. We visited Roman ruins, castles, waterfalls and scenic sites. The towns and villages in Croatia, especially Split and Dubrovnik, were wonderful. Slovenia was also gorgeous. Everyone we met was friendly and welcoming. The local guides were experienced, informative, and friendly. We learned history and received recommendations for our free time that were exciting and fun. We enjoyed the optional tours and activities. We had a wonderful and memorable trip!
Henderson C.
Gate 1 should be grateful for the work that Ivan does on these tours. There were plenty of different types of people on this trip and he was caring, funny, smart and responsive to all. You should give him a huge raise.... While the trip itself was fantastic, he was the difference maker in creating a fantastic memory.
Gary G.
My trip was fantastic. Our tour guide Bilijana was phenomenal. The beauty of Croatia and Slovenia was breathtaking. Everything was well planned, and the hotels were wonderful. Planning my next trip with Gate 1
Jacqueline G.
This was my first group tour and was quite pleased with my decision. I was impressed with Mario, our group leader. His knowledge of the history and his connections with additional guides to unique spots of interest. Accommodations were excellent. The tour gave me a taste of the region and will be returning in spring on my own. I would recommend your company to anyone interested in tour guide experience.
Gary L.
This was our second Gate1 tour, and we were equally as impressed as our first tour to Iceland. Everything was perfect. We loved each of the locations and felt that each place we visited was carefully chosen to make sure we saw the highlights of each country. The hotels were also all great - we especially loved our accommodations in Dubrovnik and Slovenia. However, our tour guide, Edo, really made the trip amazing. He was always upbeat, energetic and keeping the group engaged. He was extremely knowledgeable and shared his knowledge skillfully and professionally while also using his humor to keep our attention. He went above and beyond to make sure that our group was safe, informed, and having a great time throughout the trip, and made sure to connect with each of us throughout the trip. We really appreciated that he even shared some of his personal experiences, which really helped us to connect with the places we visited and understand the history. One of the ladies on the bus had a birthday during the trip, and Edo made sure to make it very special for her with singing, balloons and treats for the bus. When we had some of the group dinners, he made sure we were all having fun dancing so that everyone felt included. I can't say enough good things about him. Ivan was a great driver, kept us safe, had a very pleasant demeanor and made sure that all of our luggage made it to where it needed to be. This trip was a 10/10 and we plan to continue touring with Gate1 in the future.
Whitney W.