Balkan Journeys: From Serbia to the Adriatic

Arrive in Belgrade, Serbia’s dynamic capital. Your private driver and guide will greet you at Nikola Tesla Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take a scenic drive through New Belgrade, known for its Socialist-era architecture and modern business centres. In the evening, we recommend taking a stroll through Skadarlija, Belgrade’s bohemian quarter, and enjoying a traditional meal at a local "kafana".

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Begin your day with a walking and driving tour through Belgrade. Wander along Knez Mihailova Street, a lively pedestrian zone, and explore the historic Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sava and Danube rivers before crossing into New Belgrade. Visit the Temple of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches, and discover Serbia’s past at the Museum of Yugoslavia. Your guide will take you to the city's oldest tavern, intriguingly known as "?", to enjoy Serbia's beloved traditional drinks: coffee and rakija. End your day with a scenic river cruise along the Sava and Danube, offering stunning views of Belgrade’s skyline. (B)

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Today, explore the picturesque region of Vojvodina. Drive through Fruška Gora National Park, known as the "Serbian Holy Land" for its 17 monasteries. Visit Krušedol Monastery and continue to the Baroque town of Sremski Karlovci, renowned for its winemaking heritage. Enjoy a wine tasting, including the famous Bermet wine. Later, visit Novi Sad, the European Capital of Culture 2021, and explore the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress. Return to Belgrade in the evening. (B)

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After checking out, travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Stop at Drvengrad (Wooden-Town), an ethno village built by film director Emir Kusturica. Enjoy a scenic ride on the Šargan Eight railway, a heritage train journey through the mountains. Continue to Višegrad, home to the UNESCO-listed bridge on the Drina River. Explore Andrićgrad, a cultural centre dedicated to Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić. Arrive in Sarajevo for check-in at your hotel. (B)

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Delve into Sarajevo’s rich history with a walking tour of its Old Town. Visit the Eternal Flame memorial and enjoy local delicacies, including burek and ćevapi, as you explore the city’s Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture. Highlights include the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. End your tour with a taste of traditional Bosnian coffee and baklava. The afternoon is free to explore at your leisure. (B,L)

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Depart Sarajevo and journey to Mostar, one of the most beautiful cities in the Balkans. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and the Crooked Bridge. Engage in a copper-crafting workshop and create your own jewellery. After lunch along the Neretva River, continue to Blagaj, home to the serene Dervish Monastery. End the day in Trebinje, a picturesque town near the Montenegrin border. (B)

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This morning explore Trebinje's vibrant local market and indulge in creamy, fresh cheese, flavourful dried meats, and sun-ripened fruits. Next drive through the stunning landscapes of Montenegro, visiting its quaint villages and dramatic coastline. Stop at the medieval town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the breathtaking views from its fortress. Continue to the serene town of Perast and enjoy a boat ride to the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. In the afternoon, drive along the scenic Bay of Kotor before arriving at your hotel in Kotor. (B)

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After breakfast, drive up the 25-serpentine road to Lovćen National Park and visit King Nicola’s Museum. Climb the 461 steps to the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš at Jezerski Vrh. Continue to Njeguši, famous for its cheese and prosciutto, before heading to Budva. Explore the medieval Old Town, relax on the sandy beach, and enjoy some free time before returning to Kotor. (B)

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This morning head into your final Balkan country of Albania, where you first experience the essence of Albanian agrotourism with farm-to-table dining in the countryside, featuring dishes made from fresh, organic ingredients. Next, drive to Tirana, Albania's capital, to explore its impressive architecture, including landmarks like Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the National Museum of History. Finally, visit Bunk'Art 2, an underground museum that uncovers Albania's tumultuous communist past. (B)

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This morning drive to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its stunning architecture showcasing landmarks such as the arched Gorica Bridge and the Byzantine Church of Saint Michael. Explore this "town of a thousand windows," and perhaps savour traditional dishes such as “pula me përshesh'' and ''çorba e Tomorrit'' in authentic restaurants. On the back to Tirana stop off to see ancient ruins and enjoy vibrant seaside vibes in Durress. Back in Tirana enjoy a free evening exploring the Blloku area with its lively bars and restaurants. (B)

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After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore Tirana at your own pace before your transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK or to extend your holiday. (B)