Budapest to Venice (12 destinations)

Welcome to the vibrant capital of Hungary, Budapest. Your journey begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, followed by an optional dinner with fellow travelers. As night falls, take a stroll along the Danube River to admire the illuminated cityscape. For a taste of local nightlife, explore the eclectic ruin bars, known for their unique decor and lively atmosphere.

Embark on a journey to Serbia's capital, Belgrade, with a stop in Novi Sad. Enjoy an orientation walk and explore the Petrovaradin Fortress, offering stunning views of the Danube River. Continue to Belgrade, where you'll have free time to wander through its historic parks and fortresses. In the evening, savor local cuisine on Skadarska Street in the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija.

Delve deeper into Belgrade with a day of exploration at your own pace. Consider a cruise along the Danube River or visit the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the famed inventor. If the weather is warm, relax at Ada Ciganlija beach. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, especially during summer, with numerous events and activities.

Travel through picturesque landscapes to reach Sarajevo, the lively capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Known for its blend of Eastern and Western influences, the city is rich in history and culture. Upon arrival, consider a guided tour to explore Bascarsija, the old bazaar, and indulge in local delicacies like bosanski cevapi.

Spend a day exploring Sarajevo's rich history and culture. Opt for a day trip to the thermal springs and parks of Ilidza or delve into the city's past at the History Museum and Sarajevo War Tunnels. For a cultural experience, visit the Art Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina or wander through Bascarsija's vibrant bazaars.

Travel to Mostar, stopping at Tito's Bunker for a guided tour of this Cold War relic. Upon arrival in Mostar, visit the iconic Stari Most, an architectural marvel spanning the Neretva River. Witness the daring dives of local club members into the chilly waters below.

Arrive in the UNESCO-listed city of Kotor, nestled in a stunning bay surrounded by mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring the Bay of Kotor and the town's historic sites, including the 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphun. Enjoy the charming streets and vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.

Enjoy a free day in Kotor, wandering through its narrow alleyways and discovering hidden boutiques and cafes. For a panoramic view, hike up to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the town and bay. In the evening, relax at a lookout spot and admire the illuminated city walls.

Travel along Croatia's scenic southern coast to reach Dubrovnik. Spend the day exploring this medieval city at your leisure. Consider a boat trip to Lokrum Island, where you can visit historical sites and enjoy the natural beauty. In the evening, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset or dine by the harbor.

Enjoy a day of leisure in Dubrovnik, with its stunning Adriatic backdrop. Explore the charming Old Town, easily navigable on foot. In the evening, meet new group members and perhaps join them for a stroll or dinner to forge new friendships.

Embark on a day trip to the Elafiti Islands, a picturesque archipelago near Dubrovnik. Relax on the beach, swim, or enjoy a leisurely lunch. Upon returning to Dubrovnik, explore the city walls and visit historical sites like Big Onofrio's Fountain. End the day with a sunset view from Banje Beach.

Travel to Split, a city that embodies the soul of Dalmatia. Spend the afternoon exploring its historic streets, with a must-see visit to the World Heritage-listed Diocletian's Palace. Consider joining an optional guided tour for a deeper understanding of the city's rich history. Enjoy dinner by the sea, savoring fresh seafood or simply admiring the sunset.

Enjoy a leisurely day in Split, exploring the atmospheric Old Town and the remains of Diocletian's Palace. Wander through the maze of passageways and courtyards, discovering shops, cafes, and historical sites. Relax with a coffee on the Riva waterfront promenade, a prime spot for people-watching. In the evening, experience Split's vibrant nightlife with fellow travelers.

Visit the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls. Explore the park's well-marked trails and admire the diverse wildlife. After a memorable visit, travel to Croatia's capital, Zagreb, where you'll spend the night.

Begin your day with an orientation walk in Zagreb, highlighting local attractions and amenities. Visit Dolac Market for a taste of local flavors, and explore the gothic Zagreb Cathedral. Spend the afternoon visiting museums or wandering through the city's charming streets. Consider visiting the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships for a unique experience.

Travel by train to Ljubljana, Slovenia's cosmopolitan capital. After checking in, join a short orientation walk to get acquainted with the city. The rest of the day is yours to explore Ljubljana's charming old town, with its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit Ljubljana Castle and Preseren Square for a taste of the city's history and culture.

Enjoy a free day in Ljubljana or opt for a day trip to the picturesque Lake Bled. Take a Pletna boat ride to the island and climb to St Mary's Church, or indulge in the famous Bled cream cake. For adventure seekers, activities like rafting, cycling, and swimming are available. Return to Ljubljana for a relaxing evening.

Travel to Venice, a city renowned for its canals and romantic ambiance. Spend the day exploring iconic sights like the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge. Consider a gondola ride for a unique perspective of the city. In the evening, join fellow travelers for dinner and sample local specialties like fresh lobster and squid ink pasta.