Private - Balkan Essentials in 12 days

Upon your arrival in Serbia's vibrant capital, Belgrade, you'll be warmly greeted and escorted to your hotel (or similar). As you travel from Nikola Tesla Airport, take in the sights of New Belgrade, where socialist architecture meets modern business centers. After checking in, enjoy some leisure time to relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. In the evening, we suggest a stroll through one of Belgrade's oldest quarters to Skadarlija, the city's bohemian heart. This charming 19th-century cobbled street is lined with 'kafanas' where you can savor delicious local specialties and traditional music. Overnight in Belgrade.

Begin your day with a panoramic tour of Belgrade, showcasing its architectural diversity and historical richness. From the bold Brutalism of New Belgrade to the emerging Belgrade Waterfront, witness the city's transformation. Cross Branko's Bridge to see landmarks like the Palace of Serbia and the modern Ada Bridge. Visit the Temple of Saint Sava, a symbol of the city, adorned with stunning mosaics. Continue your journey through the bustling pedestrian zone, arriving at Republic Square and Knez Mihailova Street. Experience the local culture at the historic Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, offering breathtaking views of the Sava and Danube rivers. Conclude your day with a serene river cruise, capturing the essence of Belgrade's skyline and historic landmarks. Overnight in Belgrade.

Depart from Belgrade and head south to the heart of Serbia, exploring Oplenac, a site where history comes alive. Visit the royal mausoleum and a beautiful winery, delving into Serbia's regal heritage. Continue to Zlatibor Mountain, known for its picturesque air spa and the first royal resort in Serbia. Check into your mountain hotel (or similar) and enjoy a relaxing walk around the quaint town center. In the evening, savor a delightful dinner of traditional Serbian cuisine, typical of the region. Overnight in Zlatibor.

After checking out, continue to Drvengrad (Wooden-Town), a unique ethno village built by renowned film director Emir Kusturica. Experience the charm of the Šargan Eight Railroad, a narrow gauge heritage railway offering stunning mountain views. Cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina, visiting Višegrad and the cultural center of Andrićgrad, built by Kusturica. Conclude your day in Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and check into your hotel (or similar). Overnight in Sarajevo.

Begin your exploration of Sarajevo at the Vječna Vatra, a memorial dedicated to the city's liberators. Delve into the cultural and historical treasures of the capital, savoring its gastronomic delights. Experience the vibrant Ferhadiya pedestrian zone, visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral, and explore Baščaršija, the heart of Sarajevo's old town. Enjoy traditional dishes like burek and ćevapi, and experience the local coffee culture. Visit iconic sites such as the Vijećnica and Latin Bridge. Spend the afternoon exploring Sarajevo at your own pace. Overnight in Sarajevo.

Depart Sarajevo and journey to Mostar, one of the Balkan Peninsula's most beautiful cities. Visit the iconic Old Bridge, a UNESCO-protected landmark, and explore the historic sites of the city. Continue to Blagaj, an old town with a stunning monastery beneath the cliffs. Proceed to Trebinje, a charming town with a blend of cultural influences. Visit the Arslanagića Bridge and Poet's Square before checking into your hotel (or similar). Overnight in Trebinje.

After checking out, explore Trebinje's vibrant local market, savoring traditional tastes. Continue to Montenegro, visiting the charming town of Perast and the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Proceed to Kotor, an old Mediterranean town with rich history. Explore its UNESCO site, including the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Conclude your day in Dubrovnik, one of the world's most significant monuments. Check into your hotel (or similar). Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Immerse yourself in the essence of Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic.' Visit iconic sights such as Stradun, Pile Gate, and the Rector's Palace. Explore the City Walls and the picturesque city port, uncovering hidden gems. Experience the magic of Dubrovnik, where history and fantasy come to life. Enjoy lunch atop the city walls or take a cable car to Srđ Hill for stunning panoramas. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Karaka, a replica of a traditional 16th-century wooden galleon. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Depart Dubrovnik and drive along the picturesque Dalmatian coast, enjoying stunning views of Croatian islands and lush vineyards. Stop in the City of Ston to savor its famous oysters and capture the iconic Ston Walls. Continue to the Pelješac Peninsula, known for its breathtaking vineyards and celebrated wines. Conclude your day in Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, with a rich history. Explore the Diocletian's Palace and the lively Riva promenade. Check into your hotel (or similar). Overnight in Split.

Start your day with a short drive to the ferry port and board a high-speed catamaran to Hvar, the queen of the Croatian islands. Explore the island-city of Hvar, famous for its Venetian architecture and traffic-free cobbled streets. Visit the Renaissance Cathedral, Benedictine Convent, and Franciscan monastery. Enjoy free time to explore the enchanting Pakleni Islands, relax on sun-kissed beaches, or enjoy a Mediterranean lunch. Return to Split in the late afternoon. Overnight in Split.

Bid farewell to the Dalmatian coast and head inland, passing through charming villages and rolling hills. Arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a beautiful park with 16 interconnected cascading lakes. Enjoy a guided tour of the upper and lower lakes, surrounded by untouched beauty. Conclude your day in Zagreb, Croatia's vibrant capital. Check into your hotel (or similar) and enjoy free time to explore the city. Overnight in Zagreb.

Conclude your Balkan tour with a sightseeing tour of Zagreb, exploring the city's main attractions. Visit Kaptol, the medieval part of Zagreb, and the Franciscan monastery with its 13th-century Church of Saint Francis. Walk around Dolac, Zagreb's best-known farmers' market, and admire the baroque architecture of the Church of Saint Mary. The tour concludes at Ban Josip Jelačić's monument in the heart of Zagreb. End of services.