Belgrade to Dubrovnik - 13 days

Your adventure begins in the vibrant Serbian capital of Belgrade, where you are warmly welcomed at Nikola Tesla Airport and transferred to your hotel (Hilton Belgrade or similar). After check-in, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Immerse yourself in Belgrade’s dynamic spirit with a guided exploration of its iconic landmarks. Begin in the lively Knez Mihailova Street, where historic facades and bustling cafés set the scene. Savor authentic Serbian coffee and rakija at the legendary Question Mark Tavern, then delve into the city’s layered past at the formidable Belgrade Fortress and tranquil Kalemegdan Park. Traverse Branko’s Bridge into New Belgrade, marvel at the contemporary Ada Bridge, and glimpse the grandeur of Dedinje. The Museum of Yugoslavia offers a window into the nation’s complex history, while the majestic Temple of Saint Sava stands as a testament to spiritual heritage. Conclude your day at Republic Square, surrounded by the city’s vibrant culture before returning to your hotel (Hilton Belgrade or similar).

After breakfast and check-out, journey from Belgrade to Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital. Discover the medieval charm of Kaptol, the historic Franciscan Monastery and Church of Saint Francis, and the vibrant Dolac Market. Admire the baroque elegance of the Church of Saint Mary and pause at Ban Josip Jelačić Square, the city’s bustling heart. Following lunch, continue to Slovenia, stopping at the enchanting Otočec Castle for a refreshing break. Arrive in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s green capital, and settle into your hotel (Grand Hotel Union or similar), with the evening free to explore the city’s inviting restaurants and lively atmosphere.

Begin your day with a guided stroll through Ljubljana, where leafy boulevards, elegant bridges, and baroque architecture create a storybook setting. Visit the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the ornate Town Hall, Mestni Trg, Robba’s Fountain, and the lively central market. Cross the iconic Triple Bridge before heading to the alpine wonder of Lake Bled. Glide across the emerald waters on a traditional pletna boat to the Church of Saint Mary, perched on Slovenia’s most photographed island. Enjoy free time to explore Bled Castle, savor the famous cream cake, and soak in the breathtaking scenery before returning to Ljubljana for another restful night at your hotel (Grand Hotel Union or similar).

After departing Ljubljana, venture underground to the mesmerizing Postojna Cave, where a train ride reveals a world of stalactites, stalagmites, and subterranean wonders. Continue to the rolling vineyards of the Goriska Hills, a region famed for its white wines and medieval villages. Step back in time in Smartno, a 14th-century gem, and enjoy a tasting at a local winery. The day concludes in Portoroz, a sun-kissed Istrian town on Slovenia’s coast, where you check in to your hotel (Hotel Kempinski Palace Portoroz or similar) and unwind by the Adriatic Sea.

Cross into Croatia and discover Groznjan, a hilltop village alive with art galleries and medieval charm. Experience a truffle-hunting demonstration in the surrounding forests, followed by a tasting of local delicacies paired with Istrian wine. Continue to Motovun, where ancient walls and the Church of St. Stephen overlook the scenic countryside. After a day of cultural and culinary delights, arrive in Porec and settle into your hotel (Valamar Riviera Hotel or similar) for a restful evening.

Set out for Rovinj, Istria’s jewel, where Venetian architecture and cobblestone streets invite exploration. Wander Grisia Street, renowned for its vibrant art scene, before savoring fresh oysters and seafood at a restaurant near Lim Bay. Continue to Pula, where the imposing Roman amphitheatre, Temple of Augustus, Triumphal Arch of Sergius, and Twin Gates reveal the city’s ancient grandeur. Return to Porec for a relaxing evening at your hotel (Valamar Riviera Hotel or similar).

Bid farewell to Istria and travel to Opatija, a refined coastal town where you can enjoy a coffee and stroll along the scenic Lungomare promenade. Journey through picturesque countryside to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its cascading turquoise lakes and lush forests. Embark on a guided tour of the park’s upper and lower lakes, then relax at your hotel (Hotel Jezero or similar) nestled in this natural paradise.

Depart Plitvice Lakes for the Dalmatian coast, stopping in Trogir, a UNESCO-listed town where Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture line the narrow streets. Visit the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Clock Tower, Loggia, Land Gate, Kamerlengo Castle, and Saint Mark’s Tower. Continue to Split, where the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, Temple of Jupiter, and Cathedral of Saint Domnius await. Stroll the lively Riva promenade before checking in at your hotel (Cornaro Hotel or similar) in Split.

Board a high-speed catamaran to Hvar, the crown jewel of Croatia’s islands. Explore the town’s Venetian architecture, traffic-free streets, and lively harbor. Visit the Renaissance Cathedral, Benedictine Convent, Franciscan Monastery, and Church of Our Lady of Mercy. Enjoy free time to discover the Pakleni Islands, relax on the beaches, or hike to Milna Bay. Return to Split in the late afternoon and spend the evening at your hotel (Cornaro Hotel or similar).

Travel along the scenic Dalmatian coast to the Peljesac Peninsula, renowned for its vineyards and robust Plavac Mali wines. Cross the impressive Peljesac Bridge and enjoy a tasting at a local winery. Stop in Ston to sample its famed oysters and admire the formidable Ston Walls. Arrive in Dubrovnik, where you check in at your hotel (Hotel Excelsior or similar) and enjoy a leisurely evening in this Adriatic gem.

Experience the magic of Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic.' Stroll along Stradun and Placa Square, enter through the historic Pile Gate, and explore the elegant Rector’s Palace. Walk atop the ancient City Walls for panoramic views of the old port and terracotta rooftops. Enjoy free time for lunch with a view, or take the cable car to Srd Hill for breathtaking vistas. In the evening, opt for a sunset cruise aboard a replica 16th-century galleon, admiring the city’s illuminated ramparts from the sea. Return to your hotel (Hotel Excelsior or similar) for your final night.

After a final breakfast in Dubrovnik, your unforgettable journey through the Balkans comes to a close. Depart with cherished memories and new friendships, ready for your onward travels.