Cultural Landscapes of Serbia

Upon arrival in Belgrade, Serbia's vibrant capital, your driver will welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy the sights of New Belgrade, featuring Socialist architecture and modern business centres, during the ride from Nikola Tesla Airport. After hotel check-in, use your free time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. In the evening, we recommend a leisurely 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 enjoy delicious local specialties and traditional music.

On your first day in Serbia, embark on a walking and driving tour of Belgrade, starting at Knez Mihailova Street, the bustling pedestrian zone filled with shops and cafes. Visit the city's oldest tavern, intriguingly named "?," where you’ll try traditional coffee and rakija while learning about the art of making šljivovica, Serbia's famous plum brandy. Explore Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park with stunning views of the Sava and Danube rivers, and experience the contrasting modernity of New Belgrade. Visit the impressive Temple of Saint Sava, and delve into Serbia's history at the Museum of Yugoslavia. Conclude the day with a serene evening river cruise, soaking in the beauty of Belgrade's skyline and historic landmarks. (B)

Today, you will explore the highlights of Vojvodina, a northern Serbian province. Begin with a scenic drive through Serbia's renowned wine region to Fruška Gora National Park, known as the "Serbian Holy Land," home to 17 Serbian Orthodox monasteries. Visit the historic Krušedol Monastery and hear captivating stories from the monks. In Sremski Karlovci, a "museum town" with Baroque architecture, explore cultural landmarks like the Patriarchal Court and Serbia’s first gymnasium. Enjoy a wine tasting in the Fruška Gora region, featuring the famous Bermet wine. Continue to Novi Sad, the capital of Vojvodina, known for its vibrant pedestrian zone, historic sites, and Petrovaradin Fortress with stunning views of the Danube. Return drive to Belgrade. (B, wine tasting)

Depart eastwards towards the town of Kladovo, on the banks of the Danube. En-route visit mighty Golubac Fortress - a recently restored and Hungarian built fairy-tale castle, wonderfully set off by its location in the rugged landscape at the head of the Đerdap Gorge and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles along the river’s length.

Continue to Lepesnki Vir - an important Mesolithic archaeological site dating from between 6700-5500 BC, before taking to the water for a 1 hour private speed boat tour on the Danube. Zip along the natural border between Romania and Serbia to see the magnificent Iron Gate gorge where, carved in stone, the statue of the former Dacian ruler and ancestor of the Romanians, Decebalus, presides. On the Serbian side of the river, the Trajan plaque commemorates the emperors final conquest of Dacia. End the day in Kladovo. (B)

This morning visit the dramatic Vratna Gates, natural stone arches near a medieval monastery. Continue to the town of Vrnjacka Banja, making several stops en-route including the UNESCO listed archaeological site of Felix Romuliana, also known as Gamzigrad, built during the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD as a grand imperial palace complex by the Roman Emperor Galerius. Felix Romuliana served as a lavish residence and mausoleum for the emperor and his family. The site covers an extensive area and includes various structures such as temples, palaces, baths, and fortifications.

Arrive in Vrnjacka Banja, a popular spa town famous for its mineral springs and abundant green spaces. Stroll along the river front in the early evening. (B)

Spend the day visiting Serbia’s most treasured monasteries, both UNESCO protected. First stop is Sopocani Monastery, famed for its colourful wall frescos from the 13-14th Century. Afterwards, head on to the magnificent Studenica Monastery, the largest and richest Orthodox monastery in Serbia, with its impressive collection of Byzantine-style frescoes. Return to Vrnjacka Banja to spend the night. (B)

After checking out from Vrnjačka Banja, drive towards Zlatibor, taking in the scenic landscape. Your first stop will be Tara National Park, where you'll experience the charm of the mountains aboard the retro ''Nostalgia'' train on the Šargan Eight heritage railway. This historic railway, named for its figure-eight shape, offers a unique glimpse into the past with its stunning scenery, tunnels, and viaducts. Next, visit the ethno village Drvengrad, built by film director Emir Kusturica. This wooden village features the Mećavnik Hotel, galleries, shops, and a cinema, and has hosted the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival.

Conclude your day with a short drive to Zlatibor Mountain, Serbia's first royal resort. Check in to your mountain hotel and enjoy a leisurely walk around the town centre. In the evening, savour traditional Serbian cuisine at a local kafana, with dishes like ajvar, kajmak, proja, and succulent veal or fish. (B,D)

This morning visit Sirogojno, an open-air museum which depicts the homes and lives of people from the region over the centuries. Explore the nearby Stopića Cave to see its stunning limestone formation. Return to Zlatibor for a ride on the Gold Gondola, a 10 minute cable car ride to the top of Tornik Mountain, for beautiful views of the surrounding rolling hills. This is the longest gondola in the world, stretching over 9 kilometres, making it a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Return to the hotel for dinner. (B,D)

Travel to Oplenac via the Ovcar-Kablar Gorge. Oplenac is the unofficial capital of the Karadjordjevic dynasty. It features the magnificent mausoleum of the royal family and the church of St.George which is one of the most beautiful orthodox churches in the country. The inside of the church is covered with must see mosaics from floor to ceiling. Embark on a royal wine journey in the "Serbian Tuscany," Šumadija, tasting traditional wines and exploring Serbia’s winemaking heritage at a prestigious century-old winery. Travel back to Belgrade for your final evening in the capital. (B, wine tasting)

Bid farewell to your driver/guide and transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)