BEST OF BALKANS
Overview
The one that will have you utterly bewitched by the Balkans, Budapest to Belgrade.
Hit up an incredible 7 countries in just one trip and take in the best sights the Balkans has to offer. Whether it’s exploring the beautiful city of Dubrovnik, partying until the early hours in Belgrade or strolling around the historic sights Sarajevo has to offer, this trip has something for everyone.
Included/Excluded
- Accommodation: 14 nights in Hotels
- Only US$200 deposit to book
- Pay over time, interest free
- No booking fee, no change fee
- FlexDeposit
- 14 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
- Expert Trip Manager, Driver Team, Local Guides
Day 1: Budapest
Budapest
Good evening, travellers! Hope you’re ready for an exciting ride across the beautiful Balkans. Today, you’ll exchange hellos with your Trip Manager (and your new crew too!). To celebrate, we’ll feast on a delicious welcome dinner and watch the sun set over this historical city.
Day 2: Budapest > Ljubljana
Budapest
This morning we’ll set out along the cobbled streets of Budapest for a guided walking tour to explore what this city has on offer. You’ll see St Stephen’s Basilica, as well as the famed chain bridge & the stunning parliament building. And then we’ll hop onto the coach to our next stop.
Ljubljana
After a morning full of awesome ancient architecture, we’ll be ready to arrive in Ljubljana. Tonight, you can choose to join a traditional Slovenian evening. We’re talking: a traditional dancing show paired with a spread of authentic dishes. A feast for your mind and tastebuds alike!
Day 3: Ljubljana > Lake Bled > Radovljica > Ljubljana
Ljubljana
Ljubljana, thank you for the perfect dose of Balkan tradition. But we’ll be back in a while. Because today, something even more exciting is on the agenda.
Lake Bled
You’ve probably seen pictures of Lake Bled, but nothing will prepare you for the real thing. With its fairytale medieval castle reaching out of an islet, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Julian Alps and the turquoise waters of the lake itself, it really is like something out of a Disney movie.
Radovljica
Satisfied your soul soaking in all that natural beauty? Now satisfy your hungry tummies with some lunch at this quaint Medieval town.
Ljubljana
It’s been a long but pleasing day. Tonight, we’ll stroll around town and grab some dinner on the way. And with a satisfied smile on our faces, the day has come to an end.
Day 4: Ljubljana > Plitvice National Park
Ljubljana
Next up is something altogether drop dead gorgeous….
Plitvice Lakes National Park
A strong introduction to Croatia is on the cards today with cascading teal forest pools at Plitvice Lakes. Why this place is not famous world over as one of the prettiest places in Europe, we have no idea.
Day 5: Plitvice National Park > Split
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Morning, explorers! Fill up on your included breakfast. It’s time to hit the road again…
Split
Welcome to the sea-side heaven of Split. With the oh-so-inviting aquamarine waters on our side, we’ll check into our stay. You’ve got some time to explore this beautiful city. And then, you can choose to join us for some dinner at a traditional Dalmatian tavern.
Day 6: Split > Dubrovnik
Split
Split it’s been fantastic, but we have to leave for other Croatian gems further down the coast.
Dubrovnik
The drive along the Dalmatian coastline to Dubrovnik is a sightseeing must do all on its own. On arrival in the city you’ll be greeted by limestone walls; an Old Town filled with quintessentially Croatian cafes and plenty of clubs; and a mountain meets sea situation will see you falling in love within seconds. Tonight over dinner with the crew, spirits will no doubt be high and the show’s not over yet!
Day 7: Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik
The city of Dubrovnik is so much more than just a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Game of Thrones location – not that either of those claims to fame are even mildly mediocre. After you’ve been guided around the city with intricate detail with our local guide you’ll be armed with the knowledge to pick out a waterside rock bar where you can swim and indulge ’til your heart’s content.
Day 8: Dubrovnik > Budva > Tirana
Dubrovnik
Now that we’ve done all things Dubrovnik, we’ll coast our way to Albania via the dramatic Adriatic Coastline.
Budva
We’ll stop by Montenegro’s seaside beauty of Budva. You have the option to grab some lunch at a sea-view restaurant, or spend some time on the beach, before we head to our next stop.
Tirana
Welcome to the capital city of Albania. This hidden gem has a lot to offer, and we’ve got the entirety of tomorrow to see it all. Bet you’re tired after all that travelling, so join us for an included dinner before heading back to our hotel to get some sleep for tomorrow.
Day 9: Tirana
Tirana
Time to wake up! Grab your breakfast and join us for a walking tour of Tirana, guided by a local guide. And the rest of the day is all yours to spend in this beautiful city, and one of the many museums will defo pique your interest!
Day 10: Tirana > Mostar
Tirana
Tirana, you’ve been great. But we’ve got another awe-inspiring destination waiting for us.
Mostar
Hello Mostar! We’re officially in Bosnia & Herzegovina, ready to bask in all of its historical glory. Beautiful rivers, iconic bridges, brick-red roofs – it’s gonna be a treat. Tonight, we’ll stroll around the picturesque streets to grab some authentic dinner. Spend the night chilling with your crew and getting some well-deserved rest.
Day 11: Mostar > Sarajevo
Mostar
Ready? This morning, we’re visiting the legendary Mostar Bridge that arches right over the silent blue river. (And it makes for a perfect backdrop for your Insta photo dump!)
Sarajevo
The historical streets of Sarajevo have a story or two to tell. And we’ll be listening to them all tomorrow. Tonight, you have the option to taste home-made Bosnian cuisine, learn what living like a local is like (plus support their families in turn). A truly wholesome experience!
Day 12: Sarajevo
Sarajevo
Day 13: Sarajevo > Belgrade
Sarajevo
Belgrade
Another border crossing is on the agenda as we wave our way into Serbia en route to Belgrade. Medieval meets modern in this bustling, pure white city. Zen folk can go sit on the Hill of Contemplation or stroll along the Sava river, others can see the fortress of Beogradska Tvrđava & enjoy the lively mood of Belgrade by night.
Day 14: Belgrade > Budapest
Belgrade
Leaving Belgrade behind, today we’re onto beautiful Budapest.
Budapest
Fast becoming one of the hottest destinations in Europe, Budapest is on our beeline. You’ll have the option to take a cruise and make the most of your evening. Later, you’ll no doubt want to keep things moving at one of the city’s famous ruins bars, that need to be seen to be believed!
Day 15: Budapest
Budapest
That’s a wrap! Our love affair with the Balkans has sadly come to an end! But perhaps we can get the squad back together for a reunion trip?
