THE BALKANS WITH THE SISTERHOOD

June 1 – 19, 2026

Newsweek Readers Choice Best Women's Travel Club

Explore the Balkans, Embrace Sisterhood

A 2026 Journey of Culture, Cuisine & Connection

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the enchanting Balkans with Sisterhood Travels in 2026. This exclusive tour will take you through the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Croatia. But this is far more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to connect deeply with our Balkan Sisters, women whose stories, crafts, and cuisines will inspire and move you.

Imagine exploring ancient castles and UNESCO World Heritage sites by day, and by night, dining at gourmet and Michelin-starred restaurants where the flavors of the region come alive on your plate. Picture yourself learning traditional crafts from local women artisans, sharing laughter and stories over a home-cooked meal in Sarajevo, or dancing to the rhythms of Macedonian folk music.

Balkans

This is a journey for women who seek more than just travel; it’s for those who want to forge meaningful connections, experience the magic of global sisterhood, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or setting out on your first adventure, this tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, luxury, and camaraderie.

Join us as we explore the Balkans in 2026—a place where history meets the present, where cultures blend, and where the bonds of sisterhood transcend borders. Together, we’ll create stories worth telling for years to come. Are you ready to experience the world with open hearts and open arms? Let’s make this journey unforgettable.

Six Countries

Featuring

OUR ITINERARY

June 1, 2026

Welcome to Tirana, Albania! After you pass through immigration and customs, your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall to transfer you to our 5-star, centrally located hotel with stunning city views. The rest of the day is yours to rest and rejuvenate until you join your Group Leader and new Sisters for an informal meet and greet this evening. (No meals included today)

Hotel: Arte Boutique Hotel

albania tirana city pano

June 2, 2026

This morning, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour as we explore Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and Bunk’Art 2, offering insights into Albania’s history. Next, we’ll enjoy a fabulous lunch at Padam Boutique Restaurant, featuring gourmet Albanian cuisine with a modern twist. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore independently with your Sisters. This evening, we’ll join together for our Welcome Dinner at Mullixhiu, featuring a tasting menu that reinterprets traditional Albanian dishes using local ingredients. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Arte Boutique Hotel

June 3, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll visit the Tirana Women’s Center, where we’ll meet with local women artisans and participate in a handicraft workshop. After, we’ll explore Kruje Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum in the breathtaking Albanian countryside. Next, we’ll return to Tirana for you to enjoy the rest of the afternoon independently with your Sisters before we head to dinner at Artigiano, featuring fine Italian-Albanian fusion cuisine in a chic setting. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Arte Boutique Hotel

albania tirana city pano

June 4, 2026

This morning, we’ll be taking a scenic drive to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, we’ll explore Berat Castle, the Onufri Museum, and the historic Gorica and Mangalem districts, where we’ll meet with local women preserving the art of traditional Albanian embroidery. This evening, we’ll dine together at Hotel Mangalemi Restaurant, known for its traditional Berat cuisine and stunning terrace views. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Hotel Plaza Berat

June 5, 2026

Today, we’ll travel to the northern city of Shkodra, Albania’s cultural hub. You’re in for a treat as we take an exclusive boat tour of Lake Skadar, exploring the lake’s hidden coves and rich birdlife. Later, we’ll visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography where we’ll meet with local female photographers and discuss the evolution of photography in Albania. This evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring traditional Shkodran dishes with live music. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Hotel Mozart

June 6, 2026

This morning, we’ll be crossing into Montenegro as we drive along the breathtaking Adriatic coast. When we arrive, we’ll take a short, guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed old town, including St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and the Maritime Museum. After, enjoy the rest of the afternoon with your Sisters to explore the quaint streets, shop, or enjoy a coffee by the bay. This evening, we’ll dine together at Galion Restaurant, known for its seafood dishes and waterfront views. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Art Hotel Galathea

June 7, 2026

This morning, we’ll be cruising the Bay of Kotor on our private yacht tour. We’ll stop at the Lady of the Rocks Island and the charming town of Perast, where we’ll visit the Perast Women’s Cooperative, learning about local embroidery and lace-making traditions. For lunch, we’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic on the yacht with fresh seafood and local wines. You’ll be able to enjoy your afternoon relaxing on the yacht or exploring Perast independently with your Sisters. This evening, we’ll dine at the Restaurant Stari Mlini, a historic turned fine-dining restaurant, which will offer us a unique Montenegrin culinary experience. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Art Hotel Galathea

montenegro bay of kotor night

June 8, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll take a short drive to Budva, Montenegro’s most popular coastal town where we’ll explore the old town’s Venetian walls, medieval churches, and vibrant markets. Next, we’ll participate in a cooking class with local women, learning to prepare traditional Montenegrin dishes. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure with your Sisters after we check into our lovely resort. (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Hotel: Hotel Montenegro Beach Resort

montenegro budva

June 9, 2026

Enjoy your free day today with your Sisters at our beautiful resort. Perhaps you’ll indulge in spa treatments or enjoy complimentary beds, umbrellas, and towels on the private beach. This evening, we’ll dine at our resort with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Hotel Montenegro Beach Resort

June 10, 2026

This morning, we’ll transfer to the Podgorica Airport for our group flight to Skopje, North Macedonia. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a panoramic city tour where we’ll have the opportunity to visit Skopje’s Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and the Mother Teresa Memorial House. Later, we’ll meet with members of the Sumnal Women’s Association which focuses on education and empowerment for Roma women. This evening, we’ll head to our dinner at Debar Maalo, a beloved local spot serving authentic Macedonian dishes. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Skopje Marriott Hotel

June 11, 2026

We’re heading to Matka Canyon this morning to explore this natural wonder with a private boat tour. We’ll visit the Vrelo Cave, and if you choose, you can walk the scenic trails. Lunch will feature a picnic at Matka Canyon with local sourced products. When we return to Skopje, we’ll meet with local women for a traditional dance workshop, learning Macedonian folk dances. The rest of the day and evening is yours to enjoy with your Sisters. (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Hotel: Skopje Marriott Hotel

June 12, 2026

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Skopje Airport for our short group flight to Belgrade, Serbia. After we arrive, we’ll take a guided panoramic city tour to explore Kalemegdan Fortress, the bohemian Skadarlija district, and the Republic Square. Next, we’ll visit the Center for Women’s Studies where we can engage in discussions with local scholars about the role of women in Serbian society. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a flavorful dinner at Frida Restaurant & Lounge, offering a chic setting and a mix of Serbian and international flavors. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Metropol Palace Belgrade

belgrade night pano

June 13, 2026

This morning after breakfast, we’ll visit the Ethnographic Museum, followed by a private meeting with female artisans who are preserving traditional Serbian crafts. Next, we’ll participate in a Serbian cooking class at Zepter Museum Kitchen, learning to make iconic dishes like sarma (stuffed cabbage) and ajvar (pepper spread). Of course, we’ll enjoy the fruits of our labor before having a free afternoon and evening to explore Belgrade independently with your Sisters. (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Hotel: Metropol Palace Belgrade

belgrade serbia pano

June 14, 2026

Today, we’ll transfer by motor coach to Sarajevo, with scenic stops along the way. When we arrive, we’ll discover the city’s diverse cultural heritage on our panoramic city tour, visiting the Latin Bridge, Bascarsija Bazaar, and Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. Later, we’ll meet with women from the Association of Women Victims of War to learn about their experiences and resilience. This evening, we’ll dine together at 4 Sobe Gospode Safije, featuring a fine-dining experience in a beautifully restored Austro-Hungarian villa. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Hotel Europe Sarajevo

Sarajevo

June 15, 2026

This morning, we’ll visit the Srebrenica Memorial Gallery, followed by a private discussion with female historians and survivors about Bosnia’s recent history. After, we’ll learn the art of Bosnian coffee-making and traditional pastry baking in a private class with local women. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a homemade Bosnian lunch in a private home, experiencing the warmth of Bosnian hospitality. The rest of the day and evening is yours to explore Sarajevo’s old town with your Sisters. (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Hotel: Hotel Europe Sarajevo

June 16, 2026

Today we embark on a scenic drive to Mostar, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). We’ll also explore the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and the Turkish House. Later, we’ll visit a women’s cooperative in Blagaj where we’ll learn about local crafts and enjoy a traditional lunch by the Buna River. This evening, we’ll enjoy a traditional Herzegovinian dinner at Sadrvan in a charming setting by the Neretva River. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: Hotel Mepas

June 17, 2026

This morning we’ll make our way to Dubrovnik, Croatia for a day of relaxation and reflection. You’ll have the rest of the day and evening to explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town or simply relax by the sea with your Sisters. (Breakfast included)

Hotel: Boutique Hotel Porto

June 18, 2026

Today, enjoy a free day to explore Dubrovnik with your Sisters. Tonight, we’ll gather together for our Farewell Dinner at Restaurant 360, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exquisite dining experience overlooking the city walls and harbor. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Boutique Hotel Porto

dubrovnik old town pano night

June 19, 2026

Sadly, our journey together comes to an end. We’ll be transferred back to the Bucharest airport for our return flights home. (Breakfast included)

Trip Inclusions

Deposit

EARLY BOOKING BONUS

Book on or before December 31, 2024, by 11:59 pm Eastern Time and receive a $400 per person Early Booking Discount!

Use Promo Code: BalkanBliss

(promo code is case-sensitive)

Terms: Early booking discount has no cash value and cannot be applied to any other trip or person. Discount will be reflected on your invoice after you have made your reservation with the full required deposit.

PRICING

Double Occupancy
$ 9,399
00
per person
  • THE BALKANS WITH THE SISTERHOOD 2026

PRICING

Single Occupancy
$ 11,799
00
per person
  • THE BALKANS WITH THE SISTERHOOD 2026

important information

PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY

  • There will be a maximum of 16 Sisters plus your Sisterhood Travels Group Leader. Roommate matching is available.
  • International airfare is not included in your pricing. You will fly into Tirana, Albania (TIA) and depart from Dubrovnik, Croatia (DBV)
  • You can arrive at any time on June 1, 2026, and depart at any time on June 19, 2026.
  • Check-in time at our arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm.
  • All international flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before February 1, 2026. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
  • Arrival transfers are provided only on June 1, 2026, from the Tirana airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on June 19, 2026, from our hotel to the Dubrovnik airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and times, or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
  • Group flights as specified are included in your pricing. All seats are in economy class. No upgrades are possible. We will provide the exact time of the flights and airline closer to departure.
  • You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your date of return. Your valid passport must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels no later than February 1, 2026, in order to secure your group flight airline tickets. If you do not provide this to Sisterhood Travels on or before the date specified, we cannot guarantee flight availability, and you will be responsible for any additional expenses incurred.
  • You must be able to walk and stand from 1 – 2 hours without assistance and keep pace with the group for this tour. This tour includes some excursions on boats.
  • Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip, as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
  • Individual gratuities for your Tour Director, local guides, and drivers are not included in your pricing. We will provide you with tipping guidelines for your trip
  • Travel Insurance is highly recommended and is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email.
  • We cannot accommodate wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices on this trip.
  • There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
  • Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational, weather, or logistical reasons.
  • Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.
  • You will receive an invitation soon after you book your trip for our travel app, “Trip Plans”. You will need to download this app to your smart phone as this is where you will find the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding your itinerary in addition to all of the critical information you need to know.

Need a Roommate?

Cancellation & Refunds

Activity Level 4

Activity Level:

Busy

This is a consistently robust itinerary that is likely to be filled with a combination of long, active days, several early hotel departures and some long journeys by coach. There may be limited time for rest and rejuvenation as you explore these amazing destinations. There may be multiple flights and travel by non-traditional means such as safari vehicles, rickshaws/pedicabs, etc. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility and be capable of walking 1-2 miles over time over potentially difficult terrain which may include hills. Guests should be comfortable with standing for longer periods of time with no difficulty.