Balkan Adventure
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Eastern Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the vibrant streets of Budapest to the serene landscapes of Montenegro, this journey offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore iconic landmarks, savor local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. With guided tours, free days for personal exploration, and optional activities, this tour caters to both the adventurous spirit and the curious traveler. Whether you're wandering through ancient fortresses, enjoying the lively nightlife, or hiking through breathtaking national parks, each day promises new discoveries and lasting memories. Join us for an adventure that spans centuries and borders, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Europe.
Included
14 breakfasts, 1 dinner
TRANSPORT IN EUROPE:
Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
PUBLIC BUSES:
This trip covers some distances by public buses. Buses in the Balkans can range from high standard coaches with reclining seats and air-conditioning to older and more basic vehicles for shorter distances.
PRIVATE VEHICLES:
Some sections of this trip are travelled by private transport. Our vehicles are locally sourced, comfortable and mostly air conditioned, which makes travelling enjoyable. On some days we will be covering long distances, which will make these days feel longer, however spectacular views and interesting stops along the way make up for it.
Private vehicle , Public bus , Van
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION:
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
TWIN SHARE BASIS:
Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
CHECK-IN TIME:
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION:
If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
FACILITIES:
Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.
Hotel (12 nights), Guesthouse (1 night), Hostel (1 night)
hotel: 12 night(s), guesthouse: 1 night(s), hostel: 1 night(s);
All Intrepid group trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader takes care of logistics, will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
At Intrepid we also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Kopacki Rit NP- guided tour
Novi Sad - Synagogue
Novi Sad - Petrovaradin Fortress
Belgrade - City Tour with Local Guide
Belgrade- Zemun Orientation Walk
Sarajevo - City Tour with Local Guide
Konjic - Armijska Ratna Komanda ARK D-0 (Tito’s Bunker) tour
Mostar - Day Trip
Durmitor National Park Hike
Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport & entry to sites)
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Budapest
- Budapest - Arrival day
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- Dunapart
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Arrive in the vibrant city of Budapest, where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travelers for an evening introduction. If you arrive early, take a leisurely walk along the iconic Danube River, soaking in the blend of historic and modern architecture. In the evening, join your group for an optional dinner to savor local Hungarian dishes, setting the tone for your culinary journey.
Day 2 – Day 2: Explore Budapest
- Budapest
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- Széchenyi Chain Bridge
- Hungarian Parliament Building
- Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
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Today, enjoy a full day of exploration in Budapest. Discover the intricate carvings on historic buildings, cross the famous Chain Bridge, and wander through the Castle District. Consider a scenic boat trip along the Danube or take a funicular ride for breathtaking views of the Parliament Building. End your day with a drink in the lively party district, where ruin pubs and nightclubs abound.
Day 3 – Day 3: Discover Kopacki Rit
- Osijek
- Kopačevo
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- Kopački Rit Nature Park
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Travel to the serene Kopacki Rit Nature Park in Croatia, renowned for its diverse waterways and wildlife, including the majestic white-tailed eagle. After settling into your family-run accommodation, embark on a guided tour of the park. In the evening, enjoy a homemade dinner accompanied by traditional live music, offering a taste of local culture.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore Novi Sad
- Novi Sad
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- Petrovaradin Fortress's Clock
- Sirmium Palatium Imperiale
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Venture off the beaten path to Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city. Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure. Visit the historic Petrovaradin Fortress or stroll through Liberty Square, admiring the Neo-Renaissance architecture. Cap off your day with a meal at a carda tavern along the Danube River, indulging in local fish specialties.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discover Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Nikola Tesla Museum
- Kalemegdan
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Journey to Belgrade, the historic White City at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Experience a guided tour of the city's grand boulevards and squares, and explore the lush Kalemegdan Park and its ancient fortress. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Skadarska Street, sampling local cuisine and enjoying the lively nightlife.
Day 6 – Day 6: Explore Zemun and Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Nikola Tesla Museum
- Saint Sava Temple
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Explore the bohemian neighborhood of Zemun, once an independent town, now a charming part of Belgrade. Stroll along the river promenade and enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant. Return to Belgrade in the afternoon, where you can visit the impressive Hram Svetog Save or delve into the life of Nikola Tesla at his dedicated museum. As night falls, experience Belgrade's legendary nightlife along the rivers.
Day 7 – Day 7: Discover Sarajevo
Day 7: Discover Sarajevo
- Baščaršija
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Travel to Sarajevo, the vibrant capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Take a guided tour to uncover the city's rich history and cultural blend of East and West. Explore the old bazaar, Bascarsija, and savor local specialties like bosanski cevapi. With its unique mix of religious sites, Sarajevo offers a fascinating insight into its diverse heritage.
Day 8 – Day 8: Daytrip to Mostar
- Mostar
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- Most Musala
- Stara Ćuprija Konjic
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Embark on a day trip to Mostar, nestled in the high mountains of Herzegovina. Visit the iconic Stari Most Bridge and witness the daring bridge divers. On your return to Sarajevo, stop at Konjic to explore Tito's Nuclear Bunker, a hidden gem of Yugoslav history. This day offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Day 9 – Day 9: Free Day in Sarajevo
- Mostar
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- War Childhood Museum
- Igman
- Sarajevo City Hall
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Enjoy a day of leisure in Sarajevo. Consider a visit to the thermal springs of Ilidza or delve into the city's past at the History Museum and Sarajevo War Tunnels. Explore the Jewish Museum or the Art Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina for a cultural experience. For a taste of local brews, head to the Pivnica HS brewery.
Day 10 – Day 10: Journey to Durmitor National Park
- Osijek
- Žabljak
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Travel through Montenegro's picturesque countryside to Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stop for photos at scenic viewpoints like the Piva Canyon and Saddle Peak. Upon arrival, hike along the shores of Black Lake, keeping an eye out for diverse wildlife. Spend the night in the nearby town of Zabljak, surrounded by natural beauty.
Day 11 – Day 11: Free Day in Durmitor National Park
- Žabljak
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- Piva Lake
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Unwind in the vast wilderness of Durmitor National Park. Choose from a variety of hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels, offering stunning views of lakes and pine forests. Alternatively, rent a bike to explore the park or take a boat ride on Black Lake. Enjoy the fresh alpine air and the tranquility of nature.
Day 12 – Day 12: Explore Kotor
- Kotor
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- The Church of Sveti Ivan (St John)
- Trebjesa
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Arrive in the enchanting city of Kotor, nestled in a secluded bay surrounded by towering peaks. Visit the 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphun and explore the charming alleyways. For panoramic views, hike up to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the town and the Bay of Kotor.
Day 13 – Day 13: Optional Daytrip from Kotor
- Kotor
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- Viewpoint of Herceg Novi
- Sveti Stefan
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Consider an optional daytrip from Kotor. Cruise on the Kotor Fjord to visit the islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and Sveti Dordje, steeped in legend and history. Alternatively, explore Budva's lively beaches and Old Town or visit Cetinje, Montenegro's former capital. Enjoy a final evening in Kotor, perhaps with live music in the cobbled streets.
Day 14 – Day 14: Discover Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik
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- Dominican Monastery
- Franciscan Church and Monastery
- Onofrio's Large Fountain
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Travel along Croatia's stunning southern coast to Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic. Walk along the ancient city walls, taking in the breathtaking ocean views. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain and explore the 13th-century Franciscan Monastery. As your journey nears its end, enjoy a final group dinner, celebrating the adventures shared.
Day 15 – Day 15: Farewell from Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik - Departure day
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Your adventure concludes today in Dubrovnik. With no scheduled activities, you are free to depart at your leisure. If you wish to extend your stay in this captivating city, your booking agent can assist with arrangements. Reflect on the memories made and the diverse cultures experienced on this unforgettable journey.
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