Welcome to Belgrade: The Beginning of Your Balkan Journey

Belgrade - Embark on a 13-day exploration of the Balkans, starting in Serbia’s lively capital, Belgrade, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Upon arrival, a welcoming guide will greet you at the airport, ready to introduce you to the Balkans. You’ll be comfortably transferred to your chosen 4-star hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the hotel’s amenities. In the evening, join your group for a special welcome dinner, officially kicking off your thrilling adventure.

Belgrade Highlights: City Energy & Avala Views

Belgrade - Begin with breakfast, then visit Zemun to experience its old-world charm. Discover Kalemegdan Park and the historic Belgrade Fortress for insights into Serbia’s past. Admire the grandeur of the Saint Sava Temple, one of the largest Orthodox churches globally.

Ascend Avala Mountain to see the Avala Tower, offering stunning views of Belgrade and beyond. Conclude your day with a panoramic city tour, visiting key sites like Republic Square and New Belgrade’s architectural marvels, capturing Belgrade’s vibrant spirit and scenic beauty in a single day.

Zlatibor & Drvengrad Charm

Drvengrad - Begin your day with breakfast before heading to the tranquil Ovčar-Kablar Gorge, enjoying the scenic views along the West Morava River. Continue to Tara National Park, where you’ll ride the historic Šargan Eight railway, surrounded by lush landscapes. Then, visit Drvengrad, Emir Kusturica’s unique ethno village, offering a glimpse into Serbia’s cultural traditions.

Zlatibor - End your day at Zlatibor Mountain with a leisurely stroll through the town center, soaking in the area’s natural beauty and charm. This journey, including stops at Tara National Park and Drvengrad, is a 6-hour drive from Belgrade, showcasing Serbia’s rich landscapes and heritage.

Zlatibor to Sarajevo: A Journey Through History and Culture

Sarajevo - Upon arrival in Sarajevo, check into your hotel and embark on an immersive walking tour of the old town. Visit the stunning Sarajevo City Hall, explore the lively Baščaršija Square, and see important sites like the Orthodox Church, Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, and the Latin Bridge. Continue through the historic Bezistan market and the bustling Ferhadija pedestrian zone, soaking in Sarajevo’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

Sarajevo Surroundings

Sarajevo War Tunnel - Start your day with a visit to the Tunnel of Hope (Tunel spasa), a powerful symbol of Sarajevo’s resilience during the siege, offering insight into the city’s enduring spirit.

Vrelo Bosne - Next, journey to Vrelo Bosna, a serene park at the river’s spring, perfect for a peaceful stroll amidst lush greenery.

Bjelasnica - Continue with an ascent to Mount Igman, known for its Olympic history and stunning views, offering a refreshing retreat in nature. Then, head to Bjelašnica Mountain, rich in Olympic heritage and outdoor activities, all set against breathtaking landscapes.

Lukomir - Conclude your day in Lukomir, Bosnia’s highest village, where ancient traditions thrive in stone houses, and visit Umoljani Village, where the charm of traditional life in rural Bosnia comes alive in its timeless stone dwellings.

Herzegovina Highlights

Konjic Bridge - Begin your journey with stops in Konjic, where you’ll admire the old bridge.

Museum Battle for the Wounded on Neretva River - Jablanica, home to the Battle of Neretva Museum.

Mostar - In Mostar, explore the iconic Stari Most and wander the cobbled streets of the old town, visiting landmarks like Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.

Blagaj tekija - Continue to Blagaj to see the tranquil Dervish Monastery by the Buna River, then head to Počitelj, a historic town with stunning Ottoman-era architecture.

Kravice Falls - Next, visit the breathtaking Kravica Waterfall for some relaxation amidst nature.

Trebinje - Conclude your day in Trebinje, where peaceful landmarks like the Arslanagića Bridge and Poet’s Square await.

Bay of Kotor and Dubrovnik Delight

Perast - Begin in Perast, a charming town known for its baroque architecture and serene sea views. Take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island featuring a beautiful church and museum with breathtaking bay views.

Kotor - Continue to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where a guided tour reveals the town’s medieval charm and towering city walls.

Dubrovnik - Then, transition to the Adriatic gem, Dubrovnik. After checking in, stroll along the historic Stradun street, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and architectural splendor. End your day with a delightful dinner, enjoying the local cuisine in Dubrovnik’s enchanting setting.

The scenic drive from Trebinje to Dubrovnik takes about 4 hours, offering picturesque coastal and landscape views that enhance the day’s journey.

Dubrovnik to Split: From Ancient Alleys to Adriatic Shores

Dubrovnik - Begin your day with breakfast before diving into Dubrovnik’s old town for a tour of its historic gems. Stroll through iconic streets like the Stradun and Placa, and visit the impressive Rector’s Palace, where the city’s past comes alive.

Split - In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive along the stunning Makarska coast, known for its breathtaking seaside views. The 3-hour journey to Split offers a visual treat of Croatia’s coastal beauty. Upon arriving in Split, check into your hotel and unwind. The evening is yours to relax or explore Split’s lively streets at your own pace.

Journey from Split to Plitvice: Heritage Stops and Natural Wonder

Old Split - Begin your day with breakfast before diving into Split’s ancient core, exploring Diocletian’s Palace with its Roman grandeur, bustling markets, and the Temple of Jupiter.

Sibenik - Next, journey to Šibenik to marvel at the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO site, and wander through the medieval charm of the old town.

Zadar - Continue to Zadar, where history meets innovation. Visit the Roman Forum and experience modern installations like the Sea Organ, blending the ancient with the contemporary.

Plitvice Lakes National Park - End your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO treasure filled with cascading lakes and waterfalls. After your visit, enjoy dinner in the serene surroundings. The drive from Split to Plitvice, without stops, is approximately 4 hours, taking you from Croatia’s historic landmarks to its natural wonders.

From Plitvice’s Natural Majesty to Zagreb’s Urban Pulse

Plitvice Lakes National Park - Start your day with breakfast before embarking on a guided 4-hour tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park, where emerald lakes cascade through lush forests in a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty.

Zagreb - After soaking in the tranquility of the park, head towards Zagreb on a scenic 2-hour drive. Upon arrival in Croatia’s vibrant capital, check into your hotel and enjoy free time to relax or explore the lively streets of Zagreb at your own pace, preparing for further exploration the next day.

Zagreb to Ljubljana: Cultural Insights and Alpine Splendor

Zagreb - Start your day with breakfast before exploring Zagreb’s key highlights. Begin at Kaptol, visiting the lively Dolac market and the Franciscan Monastery, then admire the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis. Conclude your tour at Ban Josip Jelačić Square, the heart of the city.

Bled - Next, embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Lake Bled, nestled in the Slovenian Alps. Take in the beauty of its iconic island church, clifftop castle, and emerald waters, offering a peaceful retreat.

Ljubljana - Afterward, continue for about an hour to Ljubljana, where you’ll check into your hotel and unwind, ready to explore Slovenia’s vibrant capital.

Postojna’s Underground Wonders & Ljubljana’s Historic Splendor

Postojna Cave - Start your day with breakfast before embarking on a 1-hour drive to the awe-inspiring Postojna Cave, one of Europe’s most spectacular natural wonders. Explore its vast underground chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, each shaped by millennia.

Ljubljana - Return to Ljubljana for a city tour that showcases its most iconic landmarks. Begin at the Triple Bridge, a unique architectural wonder spanning the Ljubljanica River. Visit the Dragon Bridge, a symbol of the city’s resilience, before concluding your tour at the magnificent Ljubljana Cathedral, a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Farewell to the Balkans

Ljubljana - As the sun rises on your final day, enjoy a last breakfast and reflect on the unforgettable experiences from your journey. After checking out from your hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality you’ve encountered on the Balkan Experience tour. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, take with you the memories of this remarkable adventure. Safe travels, and may the spirit of the Balkans stay with you until your next adventure.

• All necessary transport and transfers in modern, private, air-conditioned vehicles
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• English-speaking tour leader throughout the trip

• Personal Expenses
• Tips and Gratuities
• Travel Insurance
• Anything not mentioned in the tour itinerary
• International flights and visas.

Authentic Experiences: Discover the true spirit of the Balkans as we guide you beyond the usual tourist destinations.

Personalized Itineraries: Each tour is crafted to match your unique interests and travel preferences.

Local Connections: Enthusiastic local guides lead our tours, sharing the rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating stories of the region.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.