Balkans Encompassed - 22 days

Depart Serbia and journey into Romania, arriving in Timisoara, a city known for its distinctive architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Explore Unirii Square, Liberty Square, and Victory Square, each offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. Continue your journey through Transylvania, with the majestic Carpathian Mountains as your backdrop. Arrive in Sibiu, a city steeped in history, where you'll explore its medieval streets and landmarks, including the Large Square and the Brukenthal Museum.

Begin your day with a leisurely morning in Sibiu, enjoying coffee on its charming cobbled streets. Explore the Astra National Museum Complex, showcasing traditional rural life. Traverse the breathtaking Transfagarasan, a scenic route through the Carpathian Mountains, and take a cable car ride to the stunning Balea Lake. Conclude your day in Sinaia, known as the "Pearl of the Carpathians," where you'll stay overnight.

Embark on a journey through Romania's enchanting castles, beginning with a visit to Peles Castle, a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece. Continue to Brasov, a city founded by the Teutonic Knights, where you'll explore medieval towers and the Gothic-style Biserica Neagra. Conclude your day at Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula's Castle, perched atop a cliff. Return to Sinaia for an overnight stay.

Cross back into Serbia, arriving in Nis, the birthplace of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. Explore the historic Nis Fortress and stroll along Tinkers Alley, savoring local delicacies. Continue to the Resava Valley and visit the medieval Manasija Monastery. Conclude your day in Belgrade, where the evening is at leisure.

Head south to Oplenac, where you'll visit the majestic royal mausoleum and a beautiful winery. Embark on a royal wine journey through the enchanting Sumadija region, tasting exquisite wines. Continue to Zlatibor Mountain, Serbia's first royal resort, where you'll enjoy a relaxing walk and indulge in traditional Serbian cuisine at a local kafana.

Check out from Zlatibor and visit the ethno village of Drvengrad, built by renowned film director Emir Kusturica. Ride the retro "Nostalgia" train along the Sargan Eight, enjoying stunning mountain scenery. Continue to Visegrad, where you'll explore the UNESCO-protected bridge. Conclude your day in Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Begin your day at Trebinje's local market, sampling local delicacies. Cross into Montenegro, visiting the charming town of Perast and taking a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks. Continue to Kotor, an ancient Mediterranean town, where you'll explore its UNESCO-listed sites. Conclude your day in Dubrovnik, one of Europe's best-preserved walled cities.

Leave Dubrovnik and drive along the picturesque Dalmatian coast to Ston, where you'll savor its famous oysters and capture a photo of the iconic Ston Walls. Continue to the Peljesac Peninsula, visiting a local winery to sample the robust Plavac Mali. Conclude your day in Split, exploring its preserved history within Diocletian's Palace and strolling along the lively Riva promenade.

Embark on a day trip to the sunny island of Hvar, renowned for its Venetian architecture and traffic-free cobbled streets. Explore the harbor, Renaissance Cathedral, and other landmarks. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, with options for a boat excursion to the Pakleni Islands or a Mediterranean lunch. Return to Split in the late afternoon.

Bid farewell to the Dalmatian coast and head inland to Plitvice Lakes National Park, home to 16 interconnected cascading lakes. Enjoy a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, taking in the upper and lower lakes. Conclude your day in Zagreb, Croatia's capital, where the evening is free for exploration.

Conclude your Balkan tour with a sightseeing tour of Zagreb. Explore the city's main attractions, starting in Kaptol, where you'll visit the Franciscan monastery and its 13th-century Church of Saint Francis. Stroll around Dolac Market and admire the baroque architecture of the Church of Saint Mary. Conclude your tour at Ban Josip Jelacic's monument, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.