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Explore 13-Day Scenic and Heritage Tour Across the Balkans for 13 days with Balkland and discover unforgettable experiences - Photo 2

13-Day Scenic and Heritage Tour Across the Balkans

Country:

Serbia

Flight:

Not included

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Tour id:

269710

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  • Operator:

    Balkland

  • Length:

    13 days

  • Group size:

    15 pax

  • Age:

    8 to 75

  • Difficulty:

    Difficulty levels:
    • Relaxing
    • Easy
    • Moderate
    • Serious
    • Heart-pumping
  • 06.07-18.07.26 scheduled icon
  • 07.09-19.09.26 scheduled icon
  • 05.10-17.10.26 scheduled icon
  • 16.11-28.11.26 scheduled icon

Itinerary

A Cultural Tapestry Across 5 Countries & 24 Cities in the Western Balkans


Experience the soul of the Balkans — from imperial capitals to mountain villages, from Ottoman bazaars to Adriatic gems.


Embark on a 13-day exploration through the heart of the Balkans, where East meets West, and history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. From Belgrade’s vibrant energy and Sarajevo’s layered heritage to the fjord-like beauty of Kotor, the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, and the fairytale magic of Lake Bled, this journey unveils the true essence of the region.


Stroll through ancient fortresses, UNESCO-listed old towns, Ottoman bazaars, Venetian coastal cities, and alpine landscapes — all complemented by authentic cuisine, warm hospitality, and expert storytelling at every step.

Tour program

Day 1

Arrival in Belgrade, Serbia

Your 13-day Balkan Experience begins the moment you land in Belgrade, Serbia’s vibrant capital where centuries of history meet modern energy. As this is the official start of your journey, we’ve designed your arrival to be smooth, welcoming, and stress-free.


Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our friendly English-speaking tour leader at the airport and transferred to your handpicked 4★ hotel. Take time to settle into your room, refresh, and enjoy the hotel’s facilities after your travels.


In the evening, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, the perfect opportunity to connect, share first impressions, and get an introduction to what awaits in the days ahead. It’s the ideal beginning to your unforgettable Balkan adventure.

Start point

Nikola Tesla Airport, Beograd 59, Surčin, Belgrade 11271, Serbia

Day 2

Belgrade City Highlights

After breakfast, begin your full-day exploration of Belgrade, a city where ancient heritage and modern life intertwine beautifully.


Start in the charming riverside district of Zemun, known for its cobblestone streets, elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture, and warm café culture. Continue to Kalemegdan Park and the historic Belgrade Fortress, offering sweeping views over the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers — a site that has witnessed centuries of Balkan history.


Next, visit the majestic Saint Sava Temple, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, admired for its grand design and spiritual significance.


In the afternoon, drive to Avala Mountain to ascend the Avala Tower, where panoramic views of Belgrade and the surrounding landscapes create a memorable perspective of Serbia’s capital.


Conclude your day with a panoramic city tour, passing key landmarks such as Republic Square, the National Assembly, and New Belgrade’s modern architecture, showcasing the dynamic spirit and evolution of this remarkable city.

Day 3

Ovčar-Kablar, Šargan Eight & Zlatibor

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey into the natural beauty and cultural heritage of western Serbia.


Your first stop is the serene Ovčar-Kablar Gorge, known as the “Serbian Mount Athos” for its tranquil landscapes and monastery-filled valleys along the West Morava River. Enjoy peaceful views and fresh mountain air as you take in this picturesque setting.


Continue to Tara National Park, where you will board the historic Šargan Eight Railway — a narrow-gauge train offering a nostalgic ride through forests, tunnels, and scenic mountain viewpoints. This iconic journey captures the charm of Serbia’s railway heritage.


Next, visit Drvengrad (Küstendorf), the traditional wooden village created by acclaimed filmmaker Emir Kusturica. Wander through its rustic streets to discover artisan shops, local crafts, and a unique display of Serbian culture and creativity.


Your day concludes at Zlatibor Mountain, a beloved resort town known for its natural beauty and alpine atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center and enjoy the relaxed mountain vibe.


The full journey, including visits to Tara National Park, the Šargan Eight train, and Drvengrad, covers approximately six hours of scenic travel from Belgrade — a day filled with culture, nature, and unforgettable views.

Day 4

Višegrad & Sarajevo Old Town

Enjoy breakfast in Zlatibor before departing for Sarajevo, with a scenic journey through the mountains of eastern Bosnia. Along the way, stop in Višegrad to visit Andrićgrad, an artistic stone-built town created by director Emir Kusturica. Inspired by the Nobel Prize–winning author Ivo Andrić and his masterpiece The Bridge on the Drina, the site blends history, culture, and imaginative architecture for a unique storytelling experience.


Continue your drive to Sarajevo, the cultural and historical heart of Bosnia & Herzegovina. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and begin an immersive walking tour of the city’s Old Town — where East meets West in one remarkable place.


Explore the striking Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica), stroll through the lively Baščaršija Square, and visit sacred landmarks that reflect the city’s diverse heritage: the Orthodox Church, Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, and the Catholic Cathedral. Stand at the historic Latin Bridge, where the event that sparked World War I took place.


Wander through the atmospheric Bezistan covered market and the vibrant Ferhadija pedestrian street, lined with shops, cafés, and traditional craft boutiques — an ideal introduction to Sarajevo’s soul, culture, and warm hospitality.

Day 5

Sarajevo Region: Tunnel of Hope, Olympic Mountains & Lukomir Village

Begin the day with a visit to the Tunnel of Hope (Tunel spasa), Sarajevo’s lifeline during the 1990s siege. Walk through this historic passageway and gain powerful insight into the city’s resilience, courage, and determination during one of its most challenging periods.


Continue to Vrelo Bosne, a tranquil nature park at the spring of the Bosna River. Enjoy a peaceful walk across wooden bridges surrounded by crystal-clear streams, swans, and lush greenery — a refreshing escape from city life.


Next, ascend to Mount Igman, known for its role in the 1984 Winter Olympics and its breathtaking panoramic views. From there, travel to Bjelašnica Mountain, a beloved alpine retreat rich in Olympic legacy, traditional mountain life, and stunning outdoor landscapes.


Your day concludes in the remote highlands of Lukomir, Bosnia’s highest and most traditional village, perched at 1,495 meters. Explore stone-built houses, centuries-old customs, and the timeless rhythm of rural life preserved by local shepherd families. Visit nearby Umoljani Village, where folklore, natural beauty, and authentic Bosnian heritage come together in an unforgettable encounter with mountain culture.

Day 6

Konjic, Jablanica, Mostar, Počitelj & Trebinje

After breakfast and check-out, begin your journey through the cultural and natural gems of southern Bosnia & Herzegovina.


Your first stop is Konjic, a charming riverside town famous for its elegant Old Stone Bridge and scenic setting along the Neretva River. Continue to Jablanica, where you will visit the Battle of the Neretva Museum, offering insight into one of the most significant WWII battles in the Balkans.


Arrive in Mostar, one of the region’s most iconic destinations. Stroll through the enchanting Old Town, visit the majestic Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and admire the world-famous Stari Most (Old Bridge) — a symbol of unity, resilience, and cultural heritage.


Next, explore Počitelj, a beautifully preserved Ottoman-era fortress town overlooking the Neretva Valley. Wander its stone pathways, towers, and artisan workshops, offering a journey back in time.


Your final stop is the stunning Kravica Waterfalls, a natural oasis where you can relax and soak in the beauty of cascading emerald waters.


Conclude your day in the charming town of Trebinje, known for its peaceful ambiance, historic Arslanagića Bridge, and elegant Poet’s Square — the perfect setting for a tranquil evening.

Day 7

Bay of Kotor & Dubrovnik

After breakfast and check-out, depart Trebinje for a day filled with coastal beauty, medieval charm, and Adriatic vistas.


Your first stop is the enchanting town of Perast, celebrated for its elegant baroque architecture and tranquil bay views. From here, take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a picturesque man-made island home to a charming church and museum, offering spectacular panoramas across the Bay of Kotor.


Continue to the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor, a fortified medieval treasure surrounded by dramatic mountains and the sea. Enjoy a guided tour through its winding stone streets, historic squares, and ancient landmarks, including the Cathedral of St. Tryphon and the imposing fortress walls.


In the afternoon, cross into Croatia and travel to the Adriatic jewel — Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Stradun, the Old Town’s marble-paved promenade lined with elegant buildings, lively cafés, and centuries of history.


End your day with a delightful dinner, savoring local Dalmatian cuisine in Dubrovnik’s enchanting old town setting.

Day 8

Dubrovnik Old Town & Coastal Journey to Split

Begin the morning with a refreshing kayak adventure around Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls, offering a unique perspective of the Old Town, its fortifications, and the shimmering Adriatic coastline. After your activity, return to the hotel for breakfast and prepare for a day rich in history and scenic beauty.


Dive into the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town with a guided walking tour. Stroll along the famous Stradun (Placa), admire centuries-old architecture, and visit notable landmarks such as the elegant Rector’s Palace, where the stories of the Republic of Ragusa come to life.


In the afternoon, depart Dubrovnik and enjoy a scenic drive along the Makarska Riviera, famed for its dramatic coastline, turquoise waters, and charming seaside villages. The 3-hour journey to Split is a visual delight, offering picture-perfect views throughout the drive.


Upon arrival in Split, check into your hotel and take time to relax. Spend your evening at leisure exploring the city’s lively waterfront promenade, narrow stone alleyways, and vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere at your own pace.

Day 9

Split, Šibenik, Zadar & Plitvice Region

After breakfast, begin your day in Split with a guided walking tour through the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, a living Roman monument where history and daily life blend seamlessly. Explore its narrow alleyways, Peristyle Square, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Temple of Jupiter, before enjoying time to soak up the lively Mediterranean atmosphere.


Continue to Šibenik, one of Croatia’s oldest coastal towns. Stroll through its charming stone streets and visit the remarkable Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece renowned for its unique architectural style.


Your journey then brings you to Zadar, a city where ancient heritage meets modern creativity. Visit the Roman Forum and experience the city’s two famous contemporary art installations — the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun — offering a magical harmony of sound, light, and sea.


In the late afternoon, travel toward the Plitvice Lakes region, home to Croatia’s most breathtaking national park. Enjoy a relaxing dinner surrounded by nature and prepare for tomorrow’s visit to this UNESCO-protected natural wonder.

Day 10

Plitvice Lakes Exploration & Journey to Zagreb

After breakfast, check out and begin your day surrounded by nature’s masterpiece — Plitvice Lakes National Park. Enjoy a 4-hour guided tour through this UNESCO-listed wonder, where turquoise lakes, wooden boardwalks, and cascading waterfalls create one of Europe’s most enchanting landscapes.


Following your visit, sit back and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive to Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Wander the charming streets, relax at a café in the Upper Town, or simply unwind after a day immersed in nature.

Day 11

Zagreb City Tour, Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle

Start your morning with breakfast before exploring the highlights of Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital. Begin at Kaptol, home to the open-air Dolac Market, where locals gather for fresh produce and daily life unfolds with charm. Continue to the Franciscan Monastery and admire the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis, a symbol of enduring heritage. Conclude your tour at Ban Josip Jelačić Square, the lively heart of the city.


After your tour, depart for Slovenia and enjoy a 2-hour scenic drive to one of Europe’s greatest natural masterpieces — Postojna Cave. Embark on a guided journey through its mesmerizing underground world, featuring vast halls, delicate formations, and an unforgettable train ride into the depths of the cave.


Just 10 minutes away stands the legendary Predjama Castle, dramatically built into a cliffside. Discover the remarkable stories of knights, sieges, and secret tunnels as you tour one of Europe’s most unique medieval castles.


Continue to Ljubljana (approx. 1 hour). Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.

Day 12

Lake Bled & Ljubljana City Tour

After breakfast, set off for a short, picturesque drive to Lake Bled, a fairytale setting framed by the Julian Alps. Visit Bled Castle, perched atop a cliff with panoramic views over the lake. Then, board a traditional Pletna boat to reach Bled Island — ring the wishing bell inside the Church of St. Mary, a beloved local tradition said to bring good fortune.


Return to Ljubljana for a guided walking tour of Slovenia’s charming capital. Stroll through the atmospheric Old Town, cross the iconic Triple Bridge, and stop by the Dragon Bridge, an enduring symbol of the city. Admire the Ljubljana Cathedral and enjoy the blend of Baroque elegance, café culture, and riverside charm.


Spend your final evening soaking in Ljubljana’s warm and relaxed ambiance — a perfect farewell to your Balkan journey.

Day 13

Farewell to the Balkans

Enjoy your final breakfast in Ljubljana as you reflect on the unforgettable moments, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes that shaped your Balkan Experience Journey. After check-out, a private transfer will take you to the airport or your next destination.


As you bid farewell to the Balkans, carry with you the warmth of its people, the flavours of its cuisine, and the stories etched into every city, lake, and mountain you explored. Until we meet again — safe travels, and may the spirit of the Balkans stay with you wherever you go.



End point

Letališče Jožeta Pučnika Ljubljana, Zgornji Brnik 130a, Cerklje na Gorenjskem, 4210, Slovenia

Terms & Conditions

RESERVATIONS

Booking Tour Packages:

For individuals and small groups (up to 8 travelers), a non-refundable deposit is required to secure the reservation, with the balance due 30 days before departure. For bookings made less than 30 days prior to departure, full payment is required.

For groups over 8 travelers, a non-refundable deposit is required to secure the reservation, with the balance due 60 days before departure. For bookings made less than 60 days prior to departure, full non-refundable payment is required.

Booking 4 months or more before the departure date does not require a deposit.

Booking between 3 to less than 4 months before the departure date requires a deposit of 20% of the total tour cost, with the balance due 45 days before departure.

Accommodation:

Balkland will confirm your selected accommodations upon receipt of your deposit. If your choice is unavailable, Balkland will suggest a comparable alternative or provide options from the next available price category.

Changes to accommodation options may occur, and you will be notified before deposit payment. If a change is necessary after deposit payment, Balkland will inform you and work to find a suitable replacement or refund any difference.

Changes to booked accommodations may not be possible or may require a change fee as indicated in Section E.

Excursions:

Your package must include at least one excursion in each overnight destination lasting 2 or more nights. Excursions are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until deposit payment.

If any included excursions are unavailable, Balkland will inform you and recommend a suitable alternative (if available).

B. CANCELLATIONS

• Cancellations must be made in writing (by email to Balkland), and charges will be based on the date the cancellation is received. Travel insurance is recommended, and you agree that Balkland is not liable for any insurance policy's rejection to refund your reservation.

• The cancellation charges vary depending on the type of tour package booked and the number of days prior to departure that the cancellation is made.


For individuals and small groups (up to 8 travelers):

31+ days to tour departure: loss of 20% deposit

30 days or less: 100% of tour cost

For groups over 8 travellers:

65+ days to tour departure: loss of 20% deposit

64 to 31 days to tour departure: 50% of total trip cost

30 days or less: 100% of tour cost


• Balkland may cancel your reservation if there is an outstanding balance after the final payment due date or if extra services have been requested but not yet paid for.

• Leaving the trip early results in no refund for any unused services, including accommodations, transportation, and excursions. Please refer to the Force Majeure clause for cancellations due to Force Majeure events.

PRICES

Balkland provides the final tour price and services included in the package for review before payment. Itemized cost breakdowns are not available.

PLAN-TO-GO DEPOSIT

A non-refundable Planning Deposit may be charged and applied to the cost of the trip package once confirmed. It can also be used for future Balkland trip packages booked within a year.

Full deposit payment guarantees the trip package price. 

E. CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS

Changes to reservations may incur extra fees or cost differences to be covered by the customer. Balkland may also levy a fee of up to €200 for changes to existing bookings. This fee will be calculated on a case-by-case basis depending on the complexity of the change.

F. REFUNDS

Refunds, except for involuntary changes/cancellations, will be made within 7 days after the trip ends, subject to a 3% deduction for credit card processing fees.

G. PASSPORTS, VISAS, TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & DETAILS

Customers are responsible for obtaining necessary travel documents and providing accurate personal information. Balkland will not be liable for expenses incurred due to non-compliance with passport and visa requirements or incorrect data provided by the customer.

H. INSURANCE

Customers are advised to purchase personal travel insurance to cover accidents, medical expenses, personal liability, cancellation, and loss or damage to luggage. Balkland is not responsible for any issues arising from the policy or claim.

I. ACCOMMODATIONS

If reserved accommodation is unavailable, Balkland Travel may arrange a substitution of equal or greater value. Check-in and check-out times vary, but Balkland can arrange luggage storage and early check-in or late check-out for an additional fee.

J. TRANSFERS

Transfer services may be included but subject to change without notice. Balkland is not responsible for missed transfers due to events beyond their control. If customers miss a transfer, Balkland can assist in arranging an alternative service, but customers are responsible for any additional expenses. Balkland recommends purchasing travel insurance. If customers miss a transfer due to negligence, Balkland is not responsible.

K. EXCURSIONS

Balkland may change excursion schedules, and in such cases, an alternative excursion of equal or higher value will be provided. If the alternative is of lower value, a refund of the price difference may be given.

Customers are responsible for arriving on time for excursions, and missed excursions due to tardiness, negligence, or failure to meet at the designated check-in area are not eligible for refunds. Group sizes can vary, and some excursions require a minimum number of participants to operate. Excursions are subject to availability.

L. COMPLAINTS

Customers must report any dissatisfaction with services immediately to the Balkland destination manager and submit written complaints via email within 15 days of completing the trip. Balkland will work to address the problem and find a resolution.

Balkland is not responsible for flight cancellations or delays, unused services, or promises made by non-Balkland employees. Customers should purchase travel and personal insurance to protect against unforeseeable situations and accidents during the trip.

Balkland strongly recommends purchasing proper travel and personal insurance to protect you from any unforeseeable situations and accidents during your trip.

M. RESPONSIBILITY

Balkland contracts with third-party companies and individuals to provide trip packages. These services are subject to the third-party's terms and conditions. Balkland is not responsible for changes, delays, or cancellations of services provided by independent third parties.

Balkland is not responsible for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity caused by third-party service providers. Balkland is also not responsible for risks and dangers that may occur during travel to destinations offered by Balkland.

Balkland is not responsible for the quality standards, political environment, cuisine, sanitation, cleanliness, telecommunications, business practices, treatment, or medical services of the destinations offered. Balkland is not liable for any risks involved with travel to unstable political situations, civil unrest, war, and government or private actions.

Balkland may modify or cancel your trip without prior notice or liability due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond its control, such as natural disasters or civil unrest.

Balkland strongly recommends purchasing travel insurance to protect against unforeseen events and risks during your trip.

By booking a trip with Balkland, you agree to these terms and conditions. Any disputes will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Bosnia and Herzegovina and will be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

N. DISCLAIMER

Balkland and its destination managers have a relationship with local suppliers to provide better services. However, Balkland is not responsible for damages or losses caused by any action, inaction, or disputes between customers and local suppliers.

O. FORCE MAJEURE CLAUSE

Balkland is not responsible for failure or delay caused by events beyond its control, including pandemics, wars, fires, and more. Balkland will use reasonable efforts to avoid non-performance and will notify customers of any delay or failure to perform.

P. FORCE MAJEURE CREDITS

Balkland will apply a Force Majeure credit for customers unable to travel due to Force Majeure events. The credit will preserve the full value of the reservation for future trips and is valid for the calendar year following the original start date of the itinerary. The credit can only be applied if the customer has canceled the reservation and a refund has been issued by third parties.

Q. FORCE MAJEURE REFUNDS

Customers can request a refund due to death or serious illness of a customer or an immediate family member. Refunds will only be considered if requested within ten calendar days after the diagnosis, and at least ten calendar days before the trip's scheduled start date. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in cancellation policies and non-refundable services being applied.

S. Dispute Resolution

The Parties will try to resolve any disputes regarding the Terms and Conditions amicably through negotiations. If the dispute is not resolved within a reasonable time, mediation or litigation may be pursued. The courts of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, will have exclusive jurisdiction over any disputes. Bosnian laws will govern the Terms and Conditions.

T. Promotional Release

Photographs or videos may be taken during the tour for use in promotional campaigns. You will be informed in advance and given the option to be included or excluded. By agreeing to be included, Balkland and its local partners may use the content for promotional purposes.

Tour Details

Accommodation

You’ll enjoy stays in top-rated 4-star hotels throughout the journey.


Transport

You’ll travel in comfort and style throughout the tour in our modern, luxurious mini-van or coach.


Optional

Your tour package covers all admission fees for the landmarks and attractions listed, ensuring you can fully enjoy the experience without any extra costs. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, cultural landmarks, or natural wonders, everything is included:

  • Belgrade City Tour
  • Drvengrad Tour
  • Sarajevo Old town tour
  • Lukomir Village
  • Tunnel of Hope Sarajevo tour
  • Museum of the Wounded at the Battle of Neretva
  • Mostar Old town tour
  • Kravica waterfall
  • Kotor City Tour
  • Boat Cruise from Perast to Our Lady of the Rocks
  • Dubrovnik Old City Tour
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Ticket
  • Ljubljana City Tour
  • Boat Ride in Bled
  • Postojna Cave
  • Zagreb City Tour

No need to worry about additional entrance costs—just focus on enjoying the experience!

Additional Services

Airport pick-up and drop-off

Additional Services

Please note that personal expenses, tipping and gratuities, as well as alcohol and other items not mentioned in the tour itinerary, are not included in the package.


Meals

Indulge in a true Balkan experience with meals that go beyond just food. Enjoy:

•12 breakfasts,

•1 dinner


You’ll get a taste of traditional Balkan cuisine while immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture. Special dietary needs are happily accommodated.

This tour offers Vegetarian, Vegan and Halal food options on request. Simply let Balkland know the food option that you prefer.

Guide

Throughout the entire tour, you will have the expert guidance and assistance of a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you from the beginning to the end of the journey. Additionally, at each landmark and during guided tours in different cities, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable and licensed local tour guides. 


Good to know

Currency

Serbia

Plugs and adapters

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Plug type C

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Plug type E

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Plug type F

Customer reviews

Operator

4.6

Faq Tour

How can I book a tour?
You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.
Which payment options are available?
We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.
Can I change or cancel my reservation?
Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.
What documents are required to participate in the tour?
You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.
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