Compare Balkan Extended by Serbia Tour Operator vs Best of the Balkans: From Medieval Fortresses to the Majestic Adriatic Sea by Road Scholar

Please note:

If you are arriving in Belgrade a few days prior to the tour departure, you can book additional nights with us, at the same hotel, for a surcharge of $55 (Standard package) or $90 (Premium package). Prices are per person, per night, in a double room.

Wishing for MORE TIME IN DUBROVNIK? If you would like to spend a few more days in the world-famous destination, you can book additional nights with us, at the same hotel, for a surcharge of $115 reg.s / $150 high.s (Standard package) or $145 reg.s/ $190 high.s (Premium package). Prices are per person, per night, in a double room.

Day 1: Arrival to Belgrade

Upon arrival in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, you will be welcomed by your driver and escorted to your hotel. On the short coach ride from the Nikola Tesla airport, sit back, relax and enjoy the sights of New Belgrade with its prominent ‘blocks’ – a classic example of Socialist architecture, built after World War II – and modern business centres, including the imposing Ušće Tower. Along the way, your driver will show you and tell some stories about the Western Gate of Belgrade, the famous Belgrade Arena and the monumental Palace of Serbia. Check-in at your hotel.

Use your free time to rest and prepare for the trip. At 7pm in the hotel reception, you will be greeted by your guide who will introduce himself and provide you with detailed information about the entire trip. Overnight.

Day 2: Leisure day: Belgrade Sightseeing

After breakfast, you will embark on a tour (driving and walking) around Belgrade, a capital city well known for its various architectural styles, dynamic history and fantastic views of one of the biggest river confluences in the whole of Europe. Start the tour visiting the Museum of Yugoslav History, a memorial complex devoted to the life and deeds of Josip Broz Tito, the political leader of Yugoslavia. Next, you will pass by the stadium of FC Red Star – the former European and World Cup champions, and proceed to the Temple of Saint Sava, Belgrade’s patron saint. Very much a symbol of the city, this impressive building can be seen from any part of the capital.

After a short break at the Temple’s plateau, the panoramic tour will then take you from Slavija Square, to Saint Mark’s Church, the Serbian National Parliament and White Palace, and on to Republic Square. This most central point of Belgrade is surrounded by such cultural institutions as the National Theatre and National Museum. The tour will then head along the lively Knez Mihailo Street, the main pedestrian and shopping zone, before stopping for a visit to the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, which is located just across from the Building of Patriarchate. Your guide will tell you about the tavern around the corner, the oldest in the city and intriguingly known as “?” (Question Mark), before continuing on to Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, the most important cultural-historic complex of the city, situated on the confluence of the rivers Sava and Danube.

Optional excursions in Belgrade:

Belgrade rivers cruise and Zemun: Danube & Sava, two great rivers and there shores will help you to fell Belgrade’s spirit. You’ll meet this great city from a different perspective and in the evening, explore the charming Zemun neighbourhood, enjoying dinner in one of the traditional fish restaurants.

Skadarlija bohemian night: A traditional Serbian dinner in Skadarlija – the bohemian heart of Belgrade (drinks not included).

Day 3: Belgrade – Fruška Gora – Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad – Belgrade

Breakfast. Today you will explore the most interesting sights of Vojvodina, a province in the north of Serbia. You will be driven through picturesque scenery and Serbia’s famous wine region towards the ‘Serbian Holy Land’, home to 17 functioning Serbian Orthodox monasteries. You will visit well preserved monastery Krušedol, where you’ll have the opportunity to buy wine and rakija made by the monks.

The tour continues on to the town of Sremski Karlovci. A real gem of Serbian culture and spirituality, Sremski Karlovci feels like a ‘museum town’ with its Baroque centre, the Patriarchal Court, the Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas and the first Serbian secondary school (gymnasium). It is also famous for wine production and the town’s annual Wineball festival. You will finish your tour of this charming town with a visit and wine tasting at one the region’s most prominent wineries. As Sremski Karlovci lies on the banks of Danube, you will have the

Opportunity to enjoy lunch on the shore of Central Europe’s longest river.

Further on the tour, you will visit the 2021 European Capital of Culture, Novi Sad. Located on the historical border of two former empires – the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman – as a result, the capital of Vojvodina is a multi-cultural city with an interesting mix of architectural influences. On a sightseeing tour around the city, you will walk around the city’s pedestrian zone, past the City Hall, a Catholic church, the old city centre, the former house of Albert Einstein’s wife Mileva, the cultural foundation Matica Srpska and a synagogue. Then you’ll follow the right bank of Danube and visit Petrovaradin, or the so-called ‘Danube’s Gibraltar’, where the fortress is located. On the place where you can enjoy wonderful view of Danube and the entire city, you can take a chance and end this day with dinner in wonderful ambience before heading back to Belgrade.

Day 4: Belgrade – Zagreb – Otočec – Ljubljana

Breakfast. The tour continues to the Croatian capital of Zagreb. This small gem of European culture and civilisation is located in the heart of the continent. Sightseeing around Zagreb, touring the city’s main attractions: Kaptol (the medieval part of Zagreb), the Franciscan monastery and the 13th century Church of Saint Francis. You will also get the chance to walk around Dolac, Zagreb’s best known farmers’ market, and admire the baroque architecture of the 18th century Church of Saint Mary. The tour will end in the heart of Zagreb, at Ban Josip Jelačić’s monument in the square named after him.

After the lunch break, you will be driven to Slovenia, the world’s first green destination. On your way, you will make a stop at Otočec Castle. A jewel rising above the misty Krka River, this landmark is the only water castle in Slovenia and the surrounding area, and the short break here will refresh you. Afterwards, you will continue on to Ljubljana. Check-in at the hotel and take your time to rest for next days of this amazing tour.

Day 5: Ljubljana – Postojna Cave – Piran – Portorož

Breakfast and check-out. Start your guided tour around Ljubljana, the magical capital of Slovenia that boasts of real charm and a great cultural scene. You will be led along the riverfront to the city’s beautiful cultural landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, the medieval town square “Mestni Trg” and Robba's Fountain, as well as the picturesque central open-air market and the Triple Bridge. After the tour, you will have free time to take a lunch on the banks of the romantic Ljubljanica River.

The afternoon is reserved for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – a visit to the spectacular limestone Postojna Cave. Inside you will see incredible stalactites, stalagmites, limestone pools, subterranean gorges and underground waterfalls. The most popular Slovenian tourist attraction, the cave is a definite must-see on your trip through Slovenia.

After the cave, the next stop is Piran, one of the most beautiful towns of Slovene Istria. The town is actually a large museum with its medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Narrow streets and cramped houses give the town a special charm. After exploring the small yet delightful Tartini Square, climbing to the Cathedral of Saint George and wonderful view from the top of the hill

will further add to your feeling that Piran is a special place.

Your final stop of the day is Portorož, which has been a tourist destination for as far back as the 13th century, when people were treated with seawater. It reached its golden age at the beginning of 20th century when the majestic Hotel Palace opened its doors and Portorož hosted almost 7000 guests yearly, becoming internationally renowned. Check-in at the hotel in Portorož.

Day 6: Portorož – Pula – Rovinj

Breakfast. Drive to Istria, an amazing part of the Croatian coast and the perfect place to enjoy first-class gourmet food, Malvasia wine, gorgeous beaches and Venetian history. Your first stop will be Pula, a beautiful town possessing a wealth of historical sites and examples of Roman architecture. The star of the show is the remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheatre, the 6th biggest Roman coliseum in the world. The Temple of Augustus, the Triumphal Arch of Sergius, the Twin Gates and other sites of the old town will make you feel like you have stepped back in time.

After Pula, you will proceed to Rovinj, the pearl of the Adriatic. Wander the cobbled streets of this historic town and let your tourist guide show you why this town is called an Istrian gem. With beautiful architecture that dates back to the 1700s, the narrow streets lead you up to the top of the peninsula, where, at the plateau of the Church of Saint Euphemia you can enjoy the view of the old town, surrounded by amazing Istrian nature. Walking back down, past a cute row of seafood restaurants, you can visit the old neighbourhood of Grisia, famous for its small shops and art galleries. At the bottom, you will come across a typical Istrian market where you can get a real feel for the flavours of the region. After the tour, you will have free time to relax and enjoy on the shore of Adriatic Sea, or continue exploring along Rovinj’s coast. The evening will be spent soaking up the relaxing atmosphere of one of the many great hotels in Istria.

Day 7: Rovinj – Opatija – Plitvice Lakes National Park

Breakfast. Drive to Opatija, an aristocratic town that is just 80 km away yet so different in its history, architecture and atmosphere compared to other towns on the Istrian Peninsula. With its picturesque surroundings, Opatija’s rich history is visible in the buildings built in different architectural styles, including Renaissance, Venetian, Secession and Baroque. Enjoy the sights and feel the pulse of Opatija as you walk along the famous Lungomare promenade, complete with panoramic views of the sea.

Free time for lunch in one of the restaurants by the sea. In the afternoon, you will arrive at the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. In the refreshing atmosphere, you can relax and enjoy dinner either in the hotel restaurant or a local restaurant nearby.

Day 8: Plitvice Lakes National Park – Šibenik - Split

Breakfast. Start exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park, a beautiful park that contains 16 interconnected cascading lakes. On old maps, it was called ‘Devil’s Garden’ and it is the first site in the Balkans to get UNESCO World Heritage status. You will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour that includes a visit to the upper and lower lakes. While swimming is forbidden, you will find the best places for relaxing and contemplating the untouched beauty of this lush paradise.

In the afternoon, you will drive along the Dalmatian coast to Šibenik, a medieval Venetian town famous for its narrow curvy streets, stone-made houses, stairs and remains of the city walls. It is home to many significant landmarks, among which the Cathedral of Saint James

(on the UNESCO World Heritage List), constructed by locals for hundreds of years, has a special place. Šibenik is the perfect place for a break during our trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend your free time strolling through the charming streets and enjoying lunch in a square surrounded by Venetian architecture.

Drive to Split and check-in at the hotel.

Day 9 / Leisure day: Split – Trogir – Split

Breakfast. Start the sightseeing tour of Split, the largest Dalmatian city, founded 1700 years ago, with a well preserved, enormously rich history. Your guide will lead you through the narrow streets of Diocletian’s Palace (a UNESCO Heritage Site), built in the 4th century for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and show you former Temple of Jupiter in the central square of the imperial complex. Today, the temple is now the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, regarded as the oldest Catholic cathedral that remains in use in its original structure. You will also pass through the Golden and Silver Gates and walk around lively markets and Riva, the city’s shopping zone.

The afternoon will be devoted to the beautiful town of Trogir, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are a lover of photography, this is the perfect spot for you. Located on a tiny island, it boasts beautiful architecture, stunning sea views and palm trees that spread along its pleasant waterfront promenade. Watch out, or you will find yourself lost in medieval times. Walking its charming streets, you will find yourself immersed in the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Look out for the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Clock Tower, the Loggia, the Land Gate, Kamerlengo Castle and Saint Mark's Tower. Return to Split.

In the evening, relax in the charming Mediterranean atmosphere and while your free time enjoy dinner in a restaurant by the sea.

Day 10: Split – Međugorje – Mostar – Trebinje

Breakfast. Drive along the beautiful Makarska coast - with wonderful views of Croatian islands, wine & olive plantations and stone-made villages towards Mostar. On the way, you will stop for a visit to the famous pilgrimage site of Međugorje. Since 1981, alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary have been reported in the town and it has become a must-see destination for many travellers to the Balkans. In Međugorje, you will visit the Church of Saint James with the outer altar and statue of Christ. Continue on to Mostar.

Walking tour around Mostar starts with a visit to the symbol of this city, Balkan TOP 10 and the most photographed sight in the country – the Old Bridge (a UNESCO protected landmark). You will then proceed to Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Crooked Bridge and the old tanner’s quarter Tabhana. Free time in Mostar for getting lunch on the banks of the Neretva River, with an amazing view of the bridge that rises above you.

The next destination of the day is Trebinje, a picturesque town with a wonderful mix of sights originating from a mix of different cultures. The tour starts with a visit to Arslanagića Bridge, a dream for artists and photographers alike; this stone bridge with its peaceful atmosphere will take you 400 years back in time. During the leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll see the most important sights of Trebinje as you make your way to the so called ‘Poet’s Square’ where you can sit under the 115 year old trees, which are the symbol of the town. In this beautiful town, Emir

Kusturica, the world famous movie director, made one of his last movies, with Monica Belluci in the leading role. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 11: Trebinje – Perast – Kotor – Dubrovnik

Breakfast and check-out. This day is devoted to the Republic of Montenegro, a country that boasts of rich heritage and immense natural beauty. The Bay of Kotor with its unique landscape is a must-see location for more than 500 cruisers per year. On the way to the marvellous Kotor, you will make a stop at the town of Perast, a little settlement baroque in style. From Perast, you’ll start a relaxing boat ride along the Bay of Kotor to the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This manmade island is home to a church with valuable paintings by local artists, silver votive tablets and a famous votive tapestry.

After the boat ride, you will arrive in Kotor, an old Mediterranean town that dates back to the 12th and 14th century. A walking tour will allow you to explore this UNESCO site, including the churches of Saint Nicholas and Saint Luke, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and other cultural moments. You will have free time to continue wandering around the old paved town, or have lunch in a restaurant on one of romantic squares.

Drive to Dubrovnik. Check-in at the hotel and overnight.

Day 12 / Leisure day: Dubrovnik Sightseeing

Breakfast. Start walking tour around Dubrovnik, one of the most significant monuments in the world and one of Europe's best preserved walled cities, known since the 7th century. The old town is surrounded by a 2 km long wall that gives a great opportunity to see old Dubrovnik from above during a one hour relaxing walk; the city’s churches, fortifications and monuments are a real must-see. Dubrovnik has enchanted a lot of famous persons to devote their pieces of art to the city, thus in this city of marble and light coloured stone, you will find numerous art galleries and unique shops. In the historical centre of Dubrovnik, you will visit the main street Stradun, the main square Placa, Pile Gate, the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, the walls of the Old Town, the church of Saint Blaise, the cathedral, the Jesuit church, Orlando’s Column, Big Onofrio’s Fountain, the city port and other hidden gems.

Optional excursions in Dubrovnik:

Cable Car Ride: The Dubrovnik Cable Car will take you to the top of Srđ Hill, where you can stretch your view up to 60 km across Adriatic coast, and this wonderful city.

Seafood dinner in Dubrovnik: In the evening, you’ll have opportunity to visit a local restaurant where you can enjoy Croatian seafood dishes and wines.

Day 13: Departure

Breakfast and hotel check-out. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organisation, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Serbia Tour Operator to organise a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.

*Wishing for MORE TIME IN DUBROVNIK? If you would like to spend a few more days in the world-famous destination, you can book additional nights with us, at the same hotel, for a surcharge of $105 reg.s / $140 high.s (Standard package) or $135 reg.s/ $180 high.s (Premium package). Prices are per person, per night, in a double room.

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Arrive, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Herceg Novi

Check-in available from 2:00 PM.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room, enjoy a Welcome Dinner. Unless otherwise noted, dinners on this program are typically a three-course set menu. Please note that water is included in the program cost at all meals.

Day 3 Herceg Novi Bay, Herceg Novi Herceg Novi

The boat ride along the Adriatic will be 3 hours long with one stop to get out in the afternoon. Today’s activities will include up to 2 hours of walking throughout the day along city streets. Please note that Herceg Novi is known as the “city of stairs”, so there will be a long of steps with and without railings.

Enjoy an expert-led boat excursion on the Adriatic in Herceg Novi Bay. View an Austrian-built fortress on a small island, the Blue Cave, and then stop in Rose, one of the oldest settlements in the region, for a short stroll.

Our Group Leader will lead us on an expert-led walk of Herceg Novi. Founded in 1382, this medieval town was formerly known as Castel Nuovo, or “new castle” in Italian, because of its many fortresses. Walk through the winding streets, the Forte Mare, and the port of the city alongside your group, and then enjoy some free time to independently explore on your own. After returning to the hotel, we will listen to a lecture on the history and present-day life of Montenegro.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room, the daily breakfast will offer a buffet with breads, cheeses, cold-cuts, yogurt, fruit, cereals, juice, milk, coffee, tea and water.

At a local restaurant in Herceg Novi, enjoy a light lunch of local fare. Unless otherwise noted, lunches on this program are typically a two-course set menu.

On your own. This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to explore local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Day 4 Kotor and Kotor Bay Herceg Novi

Today’s activities include up to 3 hours of walking during the day.

Begin the morning with a panoramic drive through Herceg Novi, where we will see some of the small coastal towns and islands off the Bay of Kotor. These sites are internationally recognized as some of Montenegro’s most iconic cultural treasures. Led by a local expert, explore the small town of Perast. Despite its current small population of 400 people, palaces from the Renaissance and Baroque eras attest to this town’s history as a favored vacation spot for Venetian and Russian nobles. Home to one of the best maritime schools in the 18th century, this town was also has a strong seafaring heritage. After exploring Perast, we will take a short motor boat ride into the bay to an artificial island known as Our Lady of the Rocks. According to legend, two sailors passing by this part of the bay in 1452 encountered the image of Madonna and the Child upon a rock. Since then, generations of seamen have pledged their faith to the saint by laying a rock on the bay after each successful voyage. Over time, an islet emerged from the sea, upon which a small chapel was erected. Such was its fame that the chapel was gifted masterful paintings and thousands of silver plates. After some time to explore the island, we will return to shore once again via motor boat.

We will board the motorcoach once again and head to explore Kotor’s Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its exceptional architecture and stunning natural setting. Founded by the Romans, and traded back and forth between empires for centuries, Kotor was an important center of commerce and the arts. See some of the town’s famous sites, such as its Venetian city walls and the local Maritime Museum, during a short walking excursion before having time on your own to explore Kotor independently.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

In the hotel dining room.

Day 5 Dubrovnik, Free Time Neum

Coach ride from Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik is approximately 2 hours. It is then another 2 hours to Neum. Today’s activities will include up to 3 hours of walking during the day.

After breakfast, we will board a motorcoach and journey towards Dubrovnik. Enjoy a lecture on present-day life in Croatia, with a focus on the region of Dalmatia. We will then take an excursion of Dubrovnik’s Old Town on foot, passing by the Onofrio Fountain, Saint Blaise’s Church, the Franciscan Monastery and the famous Rector’s Palace.

Free Time. Enjoy some time to explore Dubrovnik on your own before we board the coach once again and make our way to Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Once there, we will check-in and settle into our rooms before dinner.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

In the hotel dining room.

Day 6 Cetina Valley, Mestrovic Gallery Split

Coach ride from Neum to Omis is 2 hours, it is then another 1 hour to Split. Today’s activities will include up to 3 hours of walking and standing for long periods of time. There are over 60 stairs leading to the main house of the Mestrovic Gallery, as well as additional steps to reach the upper floors of the museum.

We will check-out of our hotel and make our way to Omis, Croatia. The coach with travel along the beautiful seafront, where we will enjoy a stunning view of picturesque islands and rich Mediterranean vegetation. We will get an opportunity to enjoy this view further upon our arrival in Omis, where we will take a short boat ride from Omis to Radmanove Mlinice.

Board the coach once again as we make our way to Split. Upon arrival, we will take an expert-led excursion of the Mestrovic Gallery, situated in the villa where sculptor Ivan Mestrovic used to live. Known as the greatest 20th century sculptor in Croatia, Mestrovic's works can be found all over the world. On display at the gallery are bronze, marble and wood sculptures, along with drawings, architectural plans and family furniture.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

En route, we will enjoy lunch at an old mill next to the Cetina River.

On your own.

Day 7 Split, Free Time Split

Today’s activities will include up to 3 hours of walking during the day.

We will head out on an expert-led walking tour of the city of Split. We will begin at Diocletian’s Palace, a palace and fortress built by Roman Emperor Diocletian shortly after abdicating his throne at the turn of the 4th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this palace is considered one of the most significant monuments of the Roman Era. It’s remain lie on what is considered the old town of Split, and after our visit, we will continue our exploration of the old town by visiting the Peristyle, the Cathedral, and some of the majestic statues of Ivan Mestrovic – the greatest Croatian sculptor of the 20th century.

Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in the city of Split. Once back at the hotel, we will enjoy an expert-led lecture.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

At a local restaurant.

Day 8 Mostar, Free Time Sarajevo

Coach ride from Split to Mostar is approximately 3 hours, it is then another 2 more hours to Sarajevo. Today’s activities include up to 3 hours of walking during the day. Please be careful when crossing the Old Bridge at Mostar, as the stone work makes it very smooth and slippery.

We will check-out of our hotel and begin our journey to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. On our way we will stop by Mostar. Here we will explore the Old Town and the bridge of Mostar, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a symbol of unity between the different nationalities living in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The bridge of Mostar, originally a 16th century Ottoman bridge, was destroyed during the Croat-Bosniak War in 1993, but was reconstructed to its original design in 2004.

Free time in Mostar. We then continue on to Sarajevo to check-in to our hotel.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

In the hotel dining room.

Day 9 Sarajevo, Free Time Sarajevo

Today’s activities will include up to 3 hours of walking during the day.

We will take an expert-led excursion in Sarajevo by bus and on foot. We will see such sights as the former Austro-Hungarian area, the Bascarsija Bazaar and the former Jewish quarter of the city. As we venture further into the Old Town, we will also make a visit to the “war tunnel”, also known as the Tunnel of Hope, which connected the city of Sarajevo to an area controlled by the United Nations during the Bosnian War. This tunnel was built by the Bosnian Army in 1993 and made it possible for both supplies to make their way into the city, and for people to get out.

Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. Before dinner, enjoy a lecture on the history and present day of Bosnia-Herzegovina at the hotel.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

At a local restaurant.

Day 10 Visegrad, Andricgrad & Drvengrad Zlatibor

Coach ride from Sarajevo to Visergrad is 2 hours. It is then another 1.5 hours to Zlatibor. Today’s activities will include up to 3 hours of walking during the day.

Today we will depart by motorcoach and head towards Visegrad. Explore the historic Ottoman bridge built in 1577 for Grand Vizier Mehmed Pasa Sokolovic, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then take a short walking field trip of the nearby town of Andricgrad, built and dedicated to Yugoslav novelist and Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andric.

Depart by coach and visit Dobrun Monastery, built in 1343 and dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin. After our visit, we will board the coach once again and cross the border into Serbia. We will visit the traditional Serbian village of Drvengrad, built by Serbian director Emir Kusturica for his film Life is a Miracle. After our field trip we will board the coach once again and head to Zlatibor, where we will check-in to our hotel.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

At a local restaurant.

At the hotel.

Day 11 Belgrade Belgrade

Coach ride from Zlatibor to Belgarde is approximately 3 hours. Today’s activities will include up to 2 hours of walking during the day.

After breakfast, we will board a motorcoach and begin our journey to Belgrade, Serbia.

Take an exciting bus and walking excursion through Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and former Yugoslavia. See the main pedestrian street, Knez Mihailova, which is always alive with activity and features a number of buildings and mansions of the 1870s. We will also explore the old Kalemegdan fortress, Saint Sava Church and the Mausoleum of former Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

En route to Belgrade.

At a local restaurant on Skadarlija Street in the bohemian quarter of Belgrade. Enjoy live music with dinner.

Day 12 Novi Sad, Srijemski Karlovci Belgrade

Coach ride from Belgrade to Novi Sad is approximately 1.5 hours each way. Today’s activities will include up to 4 hours of walking during the day.

Today we will take a full-day excursion through northern Serbia, beginning with a walking exploration of the city of Novi Sad. Founded in 1694 by merchant Serbs and quickly becoming an important trading, manufacturing and cultural center, Novi Sad has earned the nickname of “Serbian Athens”. It is today the second largest city in all of Serbia, and is a key industrial and financial center in the country. After our walk, you will have time to explore the city on your own.

Drive to the nearby town of Srijemski Karlovci, passing by the Petrovaradin Fortress on the way. Learn about the past and present history of the region of Voljvodina, an area on the border of the Ottoman Empire and the Western World. Our field trip will end with a honey tasting in a local Beekeeping Museum.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

At a local restaurant.

On your own.

Day 13 Free Time, Transfer to Zagreb Zagreb

Coach ride from Belgrade to Zagreb is approximately 5 hours.

Today we will have a late morning departure. Enjoy some time to sleep in or to explore Belgrade on your own. Right before noon we will all board a coach and begin our journey towards Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Along the way we will cross the northeastern part of Croatia, known as the “bread-basket” of the country.

We will arrive to Zagreb in the late afternoon. Check-in to our new hotel and take some time to settle into your rooms and relax before dinner.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own, en route to Zagreb.

In the hotel dining room.

Day 14 Zagreb, Free Time Zagreb

Today’s activities will include up to 2 hours of walking during the day.

This morning we will explore the historic city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Enjoy a walking excursion from the Upper Town to the lively main square of the city, Ban Jelacic Square. This square is named after city’s founder, Count Josip Jelacic, after he formerly unified the neighboring settlements of Kaptol and Gradec into a single city in 1850. Among some of the sites we will see during our excursion are the Cathedral and Saint Marks Church.

Free Time. Enjoy some time to explore Zagreb on your own.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

At a local restaurant.

Day 15 Lake Bled Ljubljana

Coach ride from Zagreb to Bled is approximately 3 hours. It is then another hour to Ljubljana. Today’s activities will include up to 2 hours of walking during the day.

We will check-out of our hotel and begin our journey towards Ljubljana, Slovenia. On our way, we will visit Lake Bled, one of the most famous sites in all of Slovenia.

As we continue our way to Ljubljana, we will enjoy the view of a tiny island in the middle of Lake Bled. This island with a romantic castle on a hilltop is the most photographed site in Slovenia. Upon arrival, we will then check in to our hotel and listen to a lecture by a local expert on the topic of Slovenia.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

En route, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the hotel dining room.

Day 16 Ljubljana, Free Time Ljubljana

Today’s activities will include up to 2 hours of walking during the day.

We will begin our morning with an expert-led excursion through Ljubljana on foot. Walking through the charming downtown, appreciate the unique character of the area designed by famous architect, José Plecnik.

Free time. Continue exploring Ljubljana on your own.

At leisure.

In the hotel dining room.

On your own.

At a local restaurant, we will enjoy a Farewell Dinner with folk music.

Day 17 Program Concludes In Flight

Check-out by 11:00 AM.

In the hotel dining room.