Hidden Balkans Group Tour

Arrive in Belgrade, Serbia’s dynamic capital. Our driver/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 "?", where you'll 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, travel south to Oplenac, where Serbia's royal history comes to life. Visit the grand royal mausoleum, the final resting place of the Karađorđević family, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Enjoy a visit to one of the region’s finest wineries, where you’ll sample wines crafted using traditional methods. Discover the royal legacy of Serbia while savouring exquisite local wines. In the afternoon, continue to the picturesque Zlatibor for check-in at your hotel. Relax and take in the scenic beauty of the region before a traditional Serbian dinner. (B,D)

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This morning, visit Drvengrad, or Wooden-Town, created by film director Emir Kusturica. Built from natural materials, it features the Mećavnik Hotel, galleries, shops, a cinema, and a church. Since 2008, it has hosted the Küstendorf Film and Music Festival, attracting stars like Johnny Depp and Monica Bellucci. Next, enjoy a scenic ride on the Šargan Eight, a retro “Nostalgia” train offering stunning mountain views. Continue to Višegrad to see Andrićgrad, a cultural centre dedicated to Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić. After lunch, head to Sarajevo for a two-night stay. (B)

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Start your day in Sarajevo with a visit to Vječna Vatra (Eternal Flame), a memorial for WWII liberators. Taste the famous Sarajevo burek, a local savoury pastry. Stroll through the Ferhadiya pedestrian zone, admiring the Sacred Heart Cathedral and 16^th century Orthodox Church. Experience the city’s blend of Orthodox, Catholic, and Islamic cultures. Explore Baščaršija, the old town, and enjoy ćevapi and coffee. Visit landmarks like the Vjećnica, Latin Bridge, Bezistan market, Gazi Husrevbeg Mosque, and Sahat Tower. Finish with baklava, a sweet taste of Sarajevo’s history. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore or relax at a cafe. (B, SNACKS)

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This morning, depart for Mostar, one of the Balkans' most beautiful cities. Begin with a walking tour of the iconic Old Bridge, a UNESCO landmark and city symbol. Continue to the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Crooked Bridge, and the historic tanner’s quarter, Tabhana. Experience copper modelling at a workshop in the Old Town, guided by a master artisan who shares centuries-old techniques. Enjoy free time in Mostar in the afternoon. Next, visit Blagaj, a 15th century town with a monastery beneath towering cliffs. Conclude the day in Trebinje, with visits to Arslanagića Bridge and Poet’s Square. (B)

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Today, explore Trebinje's vibrant local market, where vendors offer fresh cheeses, dried meats, sun-ripened fruits, and homemade juices, all produced by local farmers using traditional methods. Then, head to Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Discover sights like Stradun, Placa Square, Pile Gate, and the Rector's Palace. Walk the City Walls and explore the city port, uncovering hidden gems. Relive "Game of Thrones" moments and learn about the Republic of Ragusa's history. End the day in Budva, Montenegro's tourist capital. Stroll through its medieval Old Town, relax at the beach, and visit landmarks like the Church of the Holy Trinity. (B)

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Discover Boka Bay, a hidden gem of natural beauty and rich history. Start in Perast, a charming baroque town, then take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks Island, home to a church with local art, silver votive tablets, and a famous tapestry. Uncover its fascinating legends and history. Next, explore Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a walking tour through the medieval town, visiting churches like Saint Nicholas, Saint Luke, and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore the old town or relax in its romantic squares before returning to Budva. (B)

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Journey along the Adriatic coast to Old Bar, a historic town at the foot of Mount Rumija. Wander its cobbled streets, explore ancient stone walls, and enjoy panoramic views. Relax with coffee or dessert in a local café. Cross into Albania for a taste of its natural beauty and gastronomy. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with fresh, organic dishes. Continue to Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, National Museum of History, and the Presidential Palace. Explore colourful murals and buildings before ending at Bunk'Art 2, a museum showcasing Albania’s communist regime history. (B,L)

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Drive to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and cultural blend. Explore its history, from the Gorica Bridge and Byzantine Church of Saint Michael to the Ottoman-era Red Mosque. As the "town of a thousand windows," Berat also offers traditional dishes like ''pula me përshesh'' and ''çorba e Tomorrit.'' Continue to Durrës, a coastal gem rich in ancient ruins and vibrant seaside charm. Stroll through the city, where history and modern energy meet. Return to Tirana for a relaxing evening, with a visit to the lively Blloku area and its trendy cafes. (B)

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Today, leave Albania for North Macedonia and stop in Ohrid, the cradle of Slavic literacy. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ohrid is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich heritage, sitting by one of the world’s oldest lakes. Explore the spiritual heart of the region, with over 300 Orthodox churches and monasteries, and visit the first Slavic university. Later, arrive in Skopje, North Macedonia's vibrant capital. After checking into your hotel, enjoy free time to explore the lively city. As evening falls, relax at a café by the Vardar River and try local dishes like ''tavče gravče'' and ''mastika.'' (B)

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Start your day in Skopje with a walk through the Old Bazaar, the largest preserved bazaar in the Balkans, filled with history. Visit the Sultan Murad Mosque and Daut Pasha Hamam, then head to the 1500-year-old Kale Fortress for panoramic city views. Cross the iconic Stone Bridge to Macedonia Square, home to the ''Warrior on a Horse'' monument and a stunning fountain. Admire modern landmarks like Porta Macedonia, the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, and the Art Bridge. Continue to Matka Canyon for a boat ride on turquoise waters and a wine tasting in Vardar Valley before returning to Skopje. (B)

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Leave North Macedonia behind and journey to Bulgaria. In the Rila Mountains, beneath the majestic Musala Peak, discover the Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest and most revered monastic complex. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by lush forests, offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Bulgarian history with its picturesque architecture. In the afternoon, arrive in Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital. Highlights include the grand Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the colourful Church of Saint Nicholas, the historic Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the ancient Church of Saint George. Stroll past the Banya Bashi Mosque, Sofia Synagogue, and National Palace of Culture. (B)

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Today transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)