Balkan Essentials
Immerse yourself in vibrant Balkan cultures and captivating history
Explore stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming cities
Indulge in delicious local cuisine and savor unique culinary experiences
Experience warm hospitality and create lasting connections with locals
Visit iconic landmarks and uncover hidden gems off the beaten path
Discover the diverse traditions and captivating stories of the Balkan region
Kotor Bay in Montenegro
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Cathedral and Blessed Virgin Mary Monument in Zagreb
Višegrad
Šibenik in Croatia
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Belgrade, transfer to your hotel in New Belgrade. After check-in, take some time to rest and prepare for your trip. In the evening, meet your guide for an introduction to the journey. Explore the historic quarter of Skadarlija, known for its traditional eateries and charming ambiance. Overnight in Belgrade.
Embark on a comprehensive tour of Belgrade after breakfast. Visit the Museum of Yugoslav History and the magnificent Temple of Saint Sava. Explore Slavija Square, Saint Mark’s Church, and the Serbian National Parliament. Continue to Republic Square, Knez Mihailo Street, and the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel. Discover Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, enjoying the impressive architecture and scenic surroundings. The rest of the day is free for you to further explore the city.
After breakfast, the journey from Belgrade to the picturesque Ovčar-Kablar Gorge. Admire the landscapes as you follow the West Morava River. Continue to Tara National Park and experience the beauty of the Šargan Eight heritage railway. Arrive at Drvengrad, a unique ethno village created by filmmaker Emir Kusturica. Explore the village before heading to Zlatibor Mountain for a leisurely stroll through the charming town center. Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring traditional Serbian cuisine. Overnight stay in Zlatibor.
Visit Andrićgrad, a cultural center in Višegrad, created by Emir Kusturica. Enjoy lunch at the unique Zlatna Moruna restaurant. Continue to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Check in at the hotel and rest before a sightseeing tour. Explore Sarajevo City Hall, Baščaršija, and significant landmarks such as the Orthodox Church, Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, and the Latin Bridge. Visit Bezistan, Ferhadija pedestrian zone, and return to the hotel for overnight accommodation.
Drive to Mostar, known for its stunning Old Bridge. Explore the surrounding area, including the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque and Tabhana. Continue to Blagaj, with its ancient town and captivating monastery. Marvel at the view of the monastery nestled by the Buna River. Head to Trebinje, a picturesque town, and visit the Arslanagića Bridge and Poet’s Square. Enjoy the charming atmosphere and overnight stay in Trebinje.
Explore the Bay of Kotor, stopping in Perast and visiting Our Lady of the Rocks island. Arrive in Kotor for a walking tour, discover UNESCO-listed sites, and have free time to explore the old town. Continue to Dubrovnik, checking in at the hotel. Take a stroll along Stradun and indulge in a delightful dinner in the romantic atmosphere of the city.
Embark on a sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik’s old town. Marvel at the churches, fortifications, and monuments. Explore the main attractions, including Stradun, Placa, and the Rector’s Palace. Enjoy free time to further explore the city. In the afternoon, drive along the Makarska coast and arrive in Split. Check in at the hotel and have free time to relax or enjoy an evening stroll. Overnight stay in Split.
Discover Diocletian’s Palace in Split, exploring its narrow streets, the former Temple of Jupiter, and lively markets. Proceed to Plitvice Lakes with a break in Šibenik to visit its significant landmarks. Arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner in the hotel or a local restaurant nearby.
Embark on a guided tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park, experiencing the interconnected cascading lakes. Enjoy the untouched beauty of the park. Continue to Zagreb, the Croatian capital, and take a sightseeing tour. Explore Kaptol, Dolac, and visit the Franciscan monastery and the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis. Conclude the tour in Ban Josip Jelačić Square. Overnight in Zagreb.
After breakfast and check-out, the tour ends. Transfer to the airport is not included, but assistance can be provided upon request. Thank you for choosing our services, and we hope you had a wonderful experience exploring the Balkans. Safe travels!
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Pricing
Included in price
English-speaking tour leader*
Comfortable transportation*
9 nights 4* accommodation with breakfast
All entrance fees and activities as specified in the itinerary
Single room supplement
Description
Embark on an unforgettable Balkan journey that will immerse you in the rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Belgrade, where you’ll be captivated by the dynamic atmosphere and iconic landmarks. Explore the historic quarter, wander through the bustling streets, and indulge in the warmth of Serbian hospitality.
As you venture further into the region, you’ll discover the picturesque province of Vojvodina, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns. Delight in wine tastings, sample delectable local delicacies, and uncover the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Crossing into Montenegro, be awestruck by the stunning Bay of Kotor, with its ancient town and picturesque waterfront. Cruise to the ethereal island of Our Lady of the Rocks, steeped in local legends and adorned with a remarkable church. Continue your journey to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s jewel on the Adriatic coast. Step into the walled city and be transported back in time as you explore its maze-like streets, marvel at the well-preserved medieval architecture, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere.
Experience the multicultural charm of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where you’ll stand in awe of the iconic Old Bridge, a symbol of unity and resilience. Explore the winding streets, admire the blend of Ottoman and European influences, and savor the local cuisine.
Discover the historical treasures of Split and Trogir in Croatia, coastal gems that showcase ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and a seamless blend of history and modern life. Lose yourself in the narrow streets, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and soak up the beauty of these captivating towns.
Conclude your journey in Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia. Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural riches, from its charming old town to its lively markets and grand cathedrals. Stroll through the bustling streets, savor traditional Croatian cuisine, and reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve gathered throughout this unforgettable Balkan adventure.
Let the Balkans weave their magic as you explore diverse cultures, admire breathtaking landscapes, and uncover centuries of history. This enchanting journey promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable experience of the Balkan region.
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Things to know
No, but we can arrange them for a surcharge from the following airports:
- Ljubljana
- Venice
- Zagreb
- Belgrade
- Sofia
- Dubrovnik
- Podgorica
No, our tours do not include plane tickets, and we also do not advise on them. However, we can help you choose the airport closest to the starting location of your tour or arrange a shuttle from/to the airport for an additional fee.
Of course, just let us know upon booking so we can make timely arrangements.
Solo travelers who want to meet and travel with like-minded people often join us on our tours, except the private ones. Our mission is to provide you with a relaxed and sociable tour experience that allows the group to grow closer throughout the journey. Solo travelers will be roomed with another solo traveler of the same gender or can upgrade to a solo room for an additional fee.
If you provide your dietary requirements when booking your tour, we will make the necessary arrangements to the best of our ability. But please understand that vegan & gluten-free options are not as widely available in this area, especially in the more rural Balkans.
All the countries on our Balkan Tours, except Slovenia, use their local currency. We recommend you exchange small amounts of money as you go in the cities since the exchange rates are much more favorable than at the airports. Your tour leader will be happy to assist you.
The currencies in the countries on our way are:
- Serbian Dinar,
- Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark,
- Macedonian Denar,
- Albanian Lek,
- Euro in Slovenia and Croatia.
On scheduled tours, you are limited to taking 1 suitcase and 1 smaller bag for personal items per person.
There are no luggage restrictions on private tours, as long as you’re able to carry it for a short distance.
Yes, but anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Also, keep in mind that some of the activities on our Balkan Adventure tour are not appropriate for children under the age of 12.
Depending on your nationality and the countries you are traveling to, you will need a valid passport and an entry visa. Check this well in advance of the departure date of your tour since some visa processing times may take multiple weeks. Be mindful that Slovenia is the only country we visit that is in the Schengen area, so every other country has its entry conditions. Some even require passports to have 3-6 months left until the expiry date, so be sure to double-check before booking your tour. When deciding to book your travels, contact us for assistance, so we can help you to get everything you need for a stress-free tour through the Balkans.
Besides the price of the flight tickets, it depends on how much you anticipate spending on food, drinks, and shopping. On average, the prices in the Balkans are lower than in Western Europe and decrease the further south you go. It is also common practice to tip in restaurants, bars, hotels, and taxis if you feel you have received excellent service.
All of the hotels and other accommodations on our tours have WiFi available.
Each trip can be made shorter or longer. Inform us of your wishes upon or before booking.
Of course. All of our tours are fully customizable. Itineraries can be prolonged, shortened, combined or just tweaked a little, with no extra charge for you.
Sure. Choosing the hotels can always be up to you. If you’re on more of a budget, we can offer you affordable accommodation options, or upgrade to more premium ones for a more luxurious experience.
No. We recommend you take medical insurance that would cover any possible health-related costs on this trip.
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