Balkan Grand Circle

Upon arrival in Belgrade, Serbia, your driver will greet you at the airport and take you on a short coach ride through New Belgrade, showcasing its iconic ‘blocks’ and notable landmarks. Check-in at the hotel, then join your guide and fellow travelers at 7pm for an informative session. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through Skadarlija, the bohemian heart of the city, where you can savor local delicacies and soak up the ambiance of traditional music. Return to the hotel after an enchanting evening in Belgrade.

After breakfast, prepare for an immersive tour of Belgrade, a city known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Begin at the Museum of Yugoslav History, dedicated to Josip Broz Tito. Pass by the FC Red Star stadium and visit the majestic Temple of Saint Sava, a symbol of Belgrade. Enjoy panoramic views from Slavija Square to Republic Square, surrounded by cultural institutions. Explore Knez Mihailo Street, learn about the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, and visit the iconic “Question Mark” tavern. Conclude the tour at Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, appreciating the breathtaking views. Throughout the day, your guide will provide insightful commentary. Return to the hotel with cherished memories and newfound knowledge.

Embark on a captivating tour of Vojvodina, exploring its cultural treasures. Visit the well-preserved Krušedol Monastery, where you can purchase wine and rakija made by the resident monks. Continue to Sremski Karlovci, a cultural gem with a Baroque center and renowned wineries. Indulge in wine tasting and explore the town’s rich history. Then, head to Novi Sad, the 2021 European Capital of Culture, and enjoy a sightseeing tour, including landmarks like the City Hall and Petrovaradin Fortress. Return to Belgrade, filled with memories of Vojvodina and Novi Sad’s delights.

Continue the tour to Timișoara, known as ‘Little Vienna’ for its architecture and multicultural influences. Explore Unirii Square, visit the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George, and discover Liberty Square and Victory Square. Proceed to Sibiu, the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Check into the hotel and take a short rest. Explore Sibiu’s rich history, including the Brukenthal National Museum and iconic landmarks such as the Large Square, Council Tower, and Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. Retreat for a comfortable overnight stay, immersing yourself in the cultural charms of Timișoara and the medieval splendor of Sibiu.

After breakfast and check-out in Sibiu, your journey takes you to Sighișoara, a charming town in Transylvania with a rich history dating back to the 1100s. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site with its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and notable landmarks such as the Church of the Dominican Monastery, the Clock Tower, and Vlad Dracula’s birthplace. From there, the tour continues to Brașov, a medieval city founded by the Teutonic Knights. Discover the enchanting main square, Piaţa Sfatului, and notable sites like the House of Council and Biserica Neagră (the Black Church). After a delightful afternoon, check-in to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast and hotel check-out, you’ll head to Bran Castle, known as Dracula’s Castle and former Romanian royal residence. Built in the 13th century, its gothic fortress evokes Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” and the legend of Vlad the Impaler, the castle’s presumed prisoner.

The tour then proceeds to Sinaia to visit Peleș Castle, the royal family’s summer residence. This Neo-Renaissance masterpiece, nestled within the Carpathian Mountains, boasts stunning turrets, detail-oriented architecture, and over 160 exquisitely decorated rooms.

Following this, you’ll travel to Bucharest, check into your hotel, and have free time to explore the city’s culture, history, and ambiance. Enjoy a restful night, preparing for the city’s forthcoming adventures.

After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Bucharest, known as “Little Paris” for its Belle Époque buildings and blend of French, Byzantine, and communist architecture. The city center contrasts with quiet corners housing 17th and 18th-century Orthodox churches and art nouveau villas.

The tour begins at Piața Unirii, offering views of the Palace of the Parliament, the world’s second-largest building. Venture to the medieval Old Town, exploring the Old Princely Court, Stavropoleos Monastery, Lipscani Street, and the National Museum of Romanian History. Continue along Calea Victoriei Avenue, admiring French-style buildings, and reach Revolution Square, a significant site of Romania’s communist rule.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time in the vibrant old city center, full of open-air terraces, bars, coffee shops, pubs, and clubs. Enjoy dinner and Țuică, Romania’s national plum drink, and immerse yourself in Bucharest’s unique charm and energy.

Following breakfast and hotel checkout, head to Northern Bulgaria for a day tour. Begin with the UNESCO site near Ivanovo village, showcasing rock-carved churches, chapels, monasteries, and cells from the 12th century, adorned with 14th-century murals.

Next, visit Arbanasi, an architectural reserve and open-air museum with 80 houses retaining original Ottoman design. The village also houses five churches with over 3,600 frescoes. 

The day concludes in Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, known for its winding streets, architectural masterpieces, and craftsmen’s guild. Its prime attraction is the Tsarevets Fortress. 

Upon reaching Veliko Tarnovo, check-in to your hotel, enjoy the evening at leisure, exploring the town, and retire for the night, reminiscing the day’s experiences.

Post breakfast and hotel checkout, begin your journey to central Bulgaria. First stop is the Open Air Ethnographic Museum Etar, showcasing 50 objects including houses, water-powered installations, and craftsmen’s workshops, reflecting central Bulgaria’s life and economy during the Bulgarian National Revival. 

Proceed to Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities and a cultural melting pot. Explore Ancient Plovdiv’s architectural complex, housing restored Bulgarian Renaissance-era houses, and the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, a 2nd-century performance venue. Visit the Roman Stadium and the Church of Saint Constantine and Helena. 

End your tour at Kapana, Plovdiv’s creative hub, filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Drive to Sofia in the evening, check-in to your hotel, and rest for the day, recollecting the day’s cultural explorations.

After breakfast, immerse yourself in Sofia’s youthful ambiance, where communist-style architecture mingles with Ottoman mosques and churches. Visit significant landmarks like the grand Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the colourful Church of Saint Nicholas the Miracle-Maker, the cultural cornerstone Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the 4th-century Church of Saint George. Discover the Banya Bashi Mosque’s unique atmosphere and Sofia Synagogue, representing the city’s multicultural history. Visit the National Palace of Culture, a cultural hub, and conclude the tour at the Socialist Classicism architectural landmark, Largo. Spend the rest of the day exploring Sofia at your leisure, enriching your understanding of the city’s cultural and architectural diversity.

After breakfast and check-out, head to Niš in Serbia’s eastern region, known as the birthplace of Emperor Constantine the Great, and a cultural crossroad. Enjoy a tour of Niš, visiting globally significant sights like Mediana archaeological park (currently closed), Skull Tower composed of 952 human skulls, and the best-preserved Turkish fortress, Niš Fortress.

Experience local life in Tinkers Alley, a historic marketplace, trying the renowned local cuisine, especially grilled meat. Finally, travel back to Belgrade for hotel check-in and an overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s cultural immersion.

After breakfast and check-out, travel west from Belgrade to the beautiful Ovčar-Kablar Gorge and Tara National Park. Enjoy a scenic journey on the ‘Nostalgia’ train through the Šargan Eight railway, a historic route offering stunning mountain views.

Next, visit Drvengrad, an ethno village created by movie director Emir Kusturica. It hosts the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival and features the Mećavnik Hotel, galleries, a cinema, and more.

Finally, explore Zlatibor Mountain, Serbia’s first royal resort, and enjoy a walk around its charming town center. Have a traditional Serbian dinner at the hotel and overnight in Zlatibor, ready for more adventures tomorrow.

After breakfast and check-out, head to Višegrad, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visit Andrićgrad, or Stone Town, created by filmmaker Emir Kusturica and dedicated to Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić. Have lunch at Zlatna Moruna.

Next, proceed to Sarajevo, check in at your hotel, and enjoy a city tour. See Vijećnica or Sarajevo City Hall, the old downtown Baščaršija, the Orthodox Church, Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, Sahat Tower, and learn about Europe’s first public toilet. Visit the Latin Bridge, site of the assassination that triggered WWI, Bezistan market, Ferhadiya pedestrian zone, the Sarajevo Synagogue, and a Catholic cathedral.

Overnight in Sarajevo, reflecting on the day’s cultural explorations.

Post-breakfast and check-out, travel to Mostar, a charming city in the Balkan Peninsula. Visit the iconic Old Bridge, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Crooked Bridge, and the tanner’s quarter, Tabhana, on a walking tour. Enjoy lunch by the Neretva River.

Next, visit Blagaj, a 15th-century town on the UNESCO Tentative List, known as the birthplace of Islam in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tour the riverside monastery.

Then, journey to Trebinje, a culturally diverse town. Visit Arslanagića Bridge, explore the old town, and unwind at ‘Poet’s Square.’ Trebinje is known for its connection to a film by Emir Kusturica, featuring Monica Bellucci.

Overnight at a hotel, reflecting on your Mostar, Blagaj, and Trebinje experiences.

After breakfast and check-out, set off to explore the Republic of Montenegro, focusing on the Bay of Kotor. Visit the baroque town of Perast, then take a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks island, known for its local artwork.

Next, head to Kotor, a town with 12th-14th century origins and UNESCO-listed sites. Enjoy a walking tour, explore its churches, and have free time for lunch and further exploration.

The day concludes in Dubrovnik. After hotel check-in, relax or explore Stradun street at night, taking the opportunity to try local seafood. Overnight in Dubrovnik, anticipating the next day’s adventures.

Post-breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik, a well-preserved walled city with 7th-century origins. Stroll the 2km wall, marvel at historic monuments, churches, and palaces, and explore Stradun, Placa, Pile Gate, and other iconic spots. After the tour, relax or continue exploring at your leisure.

At 2pm, journey along the scenic Makarska coast, admiring views of islands, vineyards, and quaint villages. Arrive in Split, a city with a rich 1700-year history, and check in at your hotel. Spend the evening enjoying the Mediterranean ambience with leisure activities.

Overnight in Split, reflecting on the day’s experiences and anticipating future adventures.

Following breakfast and check-out, join a sightseeing tour of Split. Explore Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, stroll through lively markets and the shopping zone, Riva. 

Proceed towards Plitvice, stopping in Šibenik, known for its Venetian architecture and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cathedral of Saint James. Enjoy free time for lunch and exploration.

By late afternoon, arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Enjoy the serene surroundings and have dinner at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel, readying for tomorrow’s exploration of the park.

Start your day with breakfast, then head to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 16 cascading lakes. On a 3-hour guided tour, visit both the upper and lower lakes and enjoy the serene environment. 

Next, travel to Zagreb. Explore Kaptol, the city’s medieval quarter, visit the Franciscan monastery and the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis, wander around Dolac market, and see the 18th-century Church of Saint Mary. Finish your tour at Ban Josip Jelačić’s monument. 

Check-in at your hotel and spend the evening exploring Zagreb at your leisure. Overnight in the city, reminiscing on your Balkan journey.

Breakfast and hotel check-out mark the final day of the tour. Please note that the transfer to the airport is not included in the overall price of the tour.