Balkan was a distinguished travel operator specialising in holidays across the Balkans and other captivating regions of Europe. Known for its expertise in cultural and historical tours, Balkan offered a range of travel experiences, from scenic coastal retreats to immersive city explorations. Whether you're exploring the ancient streets of Dubrovnik, enjoying the thermal baths of Budapest, or cruising the Danube, Balkan ensured a well-rounded and enriching journey.
With a focus on authenticity and local connections, Balkan provided travellers with insider access to unique destinations. The company took pride in itself on its knowledgeable guides, carefully curated itineraries, and exceptional value. Balkan catered to a variety of travellers, including families, couples, and solo adventurers, offering everything from group tours to tailor-made travel packages.
Established in 1973, Balkan began as a small travel agency offering package holidays to Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. The company's name reflects its roots in promoting travel to the Balkan Peninsula, a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. During the 1980s, Balkan expanded its portfolio to include other Eastern European destinations, such as Romania, Hungary, and Croatia.
In the 1990s, following the fall of the Iron Curtain, Balkan saw an opportunity to showcase the newly accessible treasures of Central and Eastern Europe. The company introduced cultural tours focusing on historical landmarks, local traditions, and regional cuisine. Over the years, Balkan has continued to evolve, adding luxury river cruises, winter sports holidays, and bespoke travel experiences to its offerings.
Today, Balkan remained a leader in European travel, renowned for its deep expertise in the region and its commitment to providing high-quality, affordable holidays.
On Thursday 24th April 2025, Balkan announced on its website, balkanholidays.co.uk, that it was now closed for business in the UK. Their statement read, "The company remains solvent, but has ceased trading, however all forward holiday bookings have been cancelled. All clients will be notified and refunded in full. May we kindly ask for patience as we process the refunds and appreciate your understanding. Thank you for your past business and please accept our most sincere apologies for the disappointment and inconvenience."
Balkan's dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences has been recognized through numerous industry awards and accolades. These honours reflect the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
These accolades underline Balkan’s reputation as a trusted and innovative leader in European travel, which offered memorable journeys that combine affordability with authenticity.
