Journey Through the Balkans
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of the Balkans, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge. From the serene coastal town of Dobrota to the vibrant streets of Dubrovnik, this journey offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore medieval cities, hike through breathtaking national parks, and immerse yourself in the diverse heritage of Montenegro, Serbia, and Bosnia Herzegovina. With guided tours, optional excursions, and free time to explore at your own pace, this tour promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, savor local cuisine, and create lasting memories as you traverse this captivating region.
Included
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
11 Breakfasts
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Bus, Boat, Train
2 nights simple guesthouse
9 nights standard hotel
hotel: 9 night(s), guesthouse: 2 night(s);
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for direct with the supplier and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.
Skadar Lake: 2.5 hour boat trip on the lake €18.00 plus €4.00 entrance fee to the park.
Tvrdos Monastery and wine tasting: €1.50 per tasting.
Sarajevo Tunnel Tour: €15.00 entrance plus €7.00 transfer to the Tunnel Museum from the city centre.
All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.
Destinations
Trebinje
Dubrovnik
Visegrad
Dobrota
Mostar
Žabljak
Kotor
BudvaMap
Attractions
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
Skadar Lake National Park
Kotor Fortress
Durmitor
Black Lake
Kotor
Tara Canyon
Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
Moraca Monastery (1252.)
Mileseva Monastery
Vrata od Buže
Šargan Eight
Sarajevo City Hall
Blidinje Nature Park
Budva Riviera
Ploče Gate, DubrovnikDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Dobrota
- Dobrota - Arrival day
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Begin your journey in the serene coastal town of Dobrota, Montenegro, where the mountains meet the sea. Arrive at your leisure and settle into your hotel (or similar). In the evening, join your tour leader for a welcome meeting at 7 PM, followed by an optional group dinner. If you arrive early, indulge in local Montenegrin cuisine and drinks to kickstart your adventure.
Day 2 – Day 2: Explore Kotor
- Kotor
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- Kotor Fortress
- Kotor
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Venture to the medieval city of Kotor, nestled beneath Mount Lovcen. Discover the old city's captivating blend of European and Byzantine influences as you stroll through its historic streets. Opt for a challenging hike to Kotor Fortress for panoramic views. In the afternoon, set sail on the turquoise waters of Kotor Bay, exploring its picturesque islands and coastal towns.
Day 3 – Day 3: Budva to Virpazar
- Budva
- Virpazar
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- Skadar Lake National Park
- Budva Riviera
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Start your day with a refreshing swim along the stunning Budva Riviera. Continue to Virpazar, a charming town on the shores of Skadar Lake. Spend the afternoon exploring Skadar Lake National Park, home to diverse bird species and historical sites. Choose between a boat tour or a land excursion to fully appreciate the park's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Day 4 – Day 4: Journey to Zabljak
- Žabljak
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- Durmitor
- Black Lake
- Moraca Monastery (1252.)
- Prevoj Sedlo
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Travel to Zabljak, passing by the historic Moraca Monastery and the impressive Djurdjevica Tara Bridge. Arrive at Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and embark on a hike to the serene Crno Jezero, or Black Lake. Surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, this natural wonder offers a tranquil escape. Return to Zabljak for an overnight stay.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discover Sirogojno
- Sirogojno
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- Mileseva Monastery
- Stopić Cave
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Cross into Serbia and explore the Zlatibor massif. Visit the Mileseva Monastery, renowned for its 13th-century frescoes. Continue to Sirogojno, where you'll tour the Open Air Museum, a national monument showcasing traditional wooden buildings. Spend the night in historical mountain houses within the museum complex, experiencing Serbia's rural heritage firsthand.
Day 6 – Day 6: From Sirogojno to Kustendorf
- Mokra Gora
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- Tara National Nature Preserve Park
- Banjska Stena Viewpoint
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Experience the art of knitting in Sirogojno before heading to Mokra Gora. Board the historic Sargan Eight Railway for a scenic journey through the mountains. Continue to Kustendorf, a unique village created by filmmaker Emir Kusturica. Enjoy the mountain scenery and explore the village's cultural offerings, including a gym, art gallery, and more.
Day 7 – Day 7: Visegrad to Sarajevo
- Visegrad
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- Sarajevo City Hall
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Cross into Bosnia Herzegovina and visit Visegrad, home to the iconic Bridge over the Drina. Continue to Sarajevo, the vibrant capital, and explore its rich history and diverse religious heritage. Discover the city's Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences on a guided walking tour, visiting significant landmarks such as the Gazi Husrev Bey Mosque and the Gothic cathedral.
Day 8 – Day 8: Free Day in Sarajevo
Day 8: Free Day in Sarajevo
- Baščaršija
- Sarajevo City Hall
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Enjoy a day of leisure in Sarajevo. Wander through Bascarsija, the heart of the old city, and explore its bustling markets. Alternatively, delve into history with an optional visit to the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, a poignant reminder of the city's resilience during the 1990s siege. The day is yours to uncover Sarajevo's many charms at your own pace.
Day 9 – Day 9: Explore Mostar
- Mostar
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- Most Musala
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Travel to Mostar, a city rich in history and culture. Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, a symbol of unity and resilience. Learn about Mostar's past and its restoration efforts following the Balkan conflict. After a guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the city's vibrant atmosphere, local festivals, and charming streets at your own pace.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discover Trebinje
- Trebinje
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- Arslanagić Bridge
- Zavala Monastery
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Visit the Tvrdos Monastery, perched on cliffs above Trebinje, and sample its renowned wines. Explore the town's scenic surroundings, including the historic Arsalangic Bridge. Enjoy the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage as you wander through Trebinje's charming streets and picturesque landscapes.
Day 11 – Day 11: Explore Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik
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- Dominican Monastery
- Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
- Vrata od Buže
- Franciscan Church and Monastery
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Arrive in Dubrovnik, a city renowned for its medieval charm and stunning coastal views. Embark on a guided tour of the Old Town, exploring iconic sites like the Pile Gate, Franciscan Monastery, and Rector's Palace. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to wander the city walls or relax by the Adriatic Sea, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere.
Day 12 – Day 12: Departure from Dubrovnik
- Cavtat
- Dubrovnik - Departure day
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Conclude your journey in Dubrovnik. With no scheduled activities, you are free to depart at your convenience. If you have time before your flight, explore more of the city's captivating sights or relax by the sea. Arrange for an airport transfer if needed, and bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and rich cultures you've experienced.
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