14 Day Balkan Tour Extended with Budapest

Day 1: Arrival in Budapest

Upon arrival in Budapest, the capital of Hungary, you will be welcomed by your driver and escorted to your hotel. On the short coach ride from the Ferenc Liszt International airport, sit back, relax and enjoy the sights of Budapest, the city of bridges and thermal baths. Known for its youthful atmosphere and beautiful architecture, Budapest is with good reason nicknamed “Paris of the East”. Check-in at your hotel.

Use your free time to rest and prepare for the trip. At 7 pm in the hotel reception, you will be greeted by your guide who will introduce himself and provide you with detailed information about the entire trip. You will also meet the other travelers in the group. Overnight.

🏚️ Accommodation: Expo Congress 4*/ Hotel Danubius Arena 4* / Hotel Hungaria City Center 4*/ or similar.

Day 2: Budapest Sightseeing // Leisure Day

After breakfast, you will set off on a tour (walking and driving) around Budapest. With a unique, youthful atmosphere, a world-class classical music scene as well as a pulsating nightlife, and, last but not least, an exceptionally rich offering of natural thermal baths, Budapest is one of Europe’s most delightful and enjoyable cities. Due to its scenic setting and its architecture, it is nicknamed the ‘Paris of the East. Thanks to their cultural and architectural significance, the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Budapest sightseeing tour will show you all the major landmarks of the city: Chain Bridge, Margaret Bridge, the Castle District with Matias Church, the Fishermen’s Bastion with the beautiful panoramic views, Gellért Hill (Citadel) with the most spectacular view of Budapest, Elisabeth Bridge, the Central Market Hall, the largest synagogue in Europe, the City Park, Heroes’ Square with statues of the most famous Hungarian kings and dukes, the Opera House, Saint Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and many others.

Optional excursion – Danube cruise is available on this day. For more details, please read the ‘Optional’ info box below the itinerary.

🏚️ Accommodation: Expo Congress 4*/ Hotel Danubius Arena 4* / Hotel Hungaria City Center 4*/ or similar.

Day 3: Budapest – Zvonko Bogdan Winery – Novi Sad – Belgrade

Breakfast. Drive to Belgrade. Today you will explore the most interesting sights of Vojvodina, a province in the north of Serbia. After a leisurely drive through the Pannonian Plain, you will reach the pearl of secessionist architecture, the Zvonko Bogdan Winery. The magnificent building, which clearly points to the almost inevitable blend of wine and art, was built in the style of the traditional architecture of the nearby town of Subotica. During a one-hour guided tour, pay attention to different works of art displayed in the winery and enjoy tasting three different wines made from grapes from the Palic vineyard.

Your next stop will be Novi Sad. The 2021 European Capital of Culture, this multi-cultural city is famous as the home of EXIT, the biggest musical festival in south-eastern Europe. On a sightseeing tour around the city, you will walk around the city’s pedestrian zone, past the City Hall, a Catholic church, the old city center, the former house of Albert Einstein’s wife Mileva, the cultural foundation Matica Srpska and a synagogue. Then you’ll follow the right bank of Danube and visit Petrovaradin, or the so-called ‘Danube’s Gibraltar’, where the fortress is located. On the place where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Danube and the entire city, you will have time to take dinner in a wonderful ambiance.

Drive to Belgrade. Check-in at the hotel.

🏚️ Accommodation: Royal Inn 4* / Hotel Life Design 4* / Hotel Prag 4* or similar.

‌‌‌‌‌‌Day 4: Belgrade Sightseeing // Leisure Day

After breakfast, you will embark on a tour (driving and walking) around Belgrade, a capital city well known for its various architectural styles, dynamic history, and fantastic views of one of the biggest river confluences in the whole of Europe. Start the tour by visiting the Museum of Yugoslav History, a memorial complex devoted to the life and deeds of Josip Broz Tito, the political leader of Yugoslavia. Next, you will pass by the stadium of FC Red Star – the former European and World Cup champions, and proceed to the Temple of Saint Sava, Belgrade’s patron saint. Very much a symbol of the city, this impressive building can be seen from any part of the capital. After a short break at the Temple’s plateau, the panoramic tour will then take you from Slavija Square to Saint Mark’s Church, the Serbian National Parliament, and White Palace, and on to Republic Square. This most central point of Belgrade is surrounded by such cultural institutions as the National Theatre and National Museum. The tour will then head along the lively Knez Mihailo Street, the main pedestrian, and shopping zone, before stopping for a visit to the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, which is located just across from the Building of Patriarchate. Your guide will tell you about the tavern around the corner, the oldest in the city and intriguingly known as “?” (Question Mark), before continuing on to Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, the most important cultural-historic complex of the city, situated on the confluence of the rivers Sava and Danube.

Optional excursions – Belgrade rivers cruise and Zemun and Skadarlia Bohemian night, are available on this day. For more details, please read the ‘Optional’ info box below the itinerary.

🏚️ Accommodation: Royal Inn 4* / Hotel Life Design 4* / Hotel Prag 4* or similar.

Day 5: Belgrade – Zagreb – Otocec – Ljubljana

Breakfast. The tour continues to the Croatian capital of Zagreb. This small gem of European culture and civilization is located in the heart of the continent. Sightseeing around Zagreb, touring the city’s main attractions: Kaptol (the medieval part of Zagreb), the Franciscan monastery, and the 13th century Church of Saint Francis. You will also get the chance to walk around Dolac, Zagreb’s best-known farmers’ market, and admire the baroque architecture of the 18th century Church of Saint Mary. The tour will end in the heart of Zagreb, at Ban Josip Jelačić’s monument in the square named after him.

After the lunch break, you will be driven to Slovenia, the world’s first green destination. On your way, you will make a stop at Otočec Castle. A jewel rising above the misty Krka River, this landmark is the only water castle in Slovenia and the surrounding area, and the short break here will refresh you. Afterward, you will continue on to Ljubljana. Check-in at the hotel and take your time to rest for the next days of this amazing tour.

🏚️ Accommodation: Austria Trend 4* / M Hotel 4* / Hotel Lev 4* or similar.

Day 6: Ljubljana – Postojna Cave – Piran – Portoroz

Breakfast and check-out. Start your guided tour around Ljubljana, the magical capital of Slovenia that boasts real charm and a great cultural scene. You will be led along the riverfront to the city’s beautiful cultural landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, the medieval town square “Mestni Trg” and Robba’s Fountain, as well as the picturesque Central open-air market and the Triple Bridge. After the tour, you will have free time to take lunch on the banks of the romantic Ljubljanica River.

The afternoon is reserved for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – a visit to the spectacular limestone Postojna Cave. Inside you will see incredible stalactites, stalagmites, limestone pools, subterranean gorges, and underground waterfalls. The most popular Slovenian tourist attraction, the cave is a definite must-see on your trip through Slovenia.

After the cave, the next stop is Piran, one of the most beautiful towns of Slovene Istria. The town is actually a large museum with its medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Narrow streets and cramped houses give the town a special charm. After exploring the small yet delightful Tartini Square, climbing to the Cathedral of Saint George and wonderful view from the top of the hill will further add to your feeling that Piran is a special place.

Your final stop of the day is Portorož, which has been a tourist destination for as far back as the 13th century when people were treated with seawater. It reached its golden age at the beginning of the 20th century when the majestic Hotel Palace opened its doors and Portorož hosted almost 7000 guests yearly, becoming internationally renowned. Check-in at the hotel in Portorož.

🏚️ Accommodation: Wellness Apollo 4* / Hotel Act-ION Neptun 4* / Hotel Remisens Lucija 3* or similar.

Day 7: Portoroz – Pula – Rovinj

Breakfast. Drive to Istria, an amazing part of the Croatian coast and the perfect place to enjoy first-class gourmet food, Malvasia wine, gorgeous beaches, and Venetian history. Your first stop will be Pula, a beautiful town possessing a wealth of historical sites and examples of Roman architecture. The star of the show is the remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the 6th biggest Roman coliseum in the world. The Temple of Augustus, the Triumphal Arch of Sergius, the Twin Gates, and other sites of the old town will make you feel like you have stepped back in time.

After Pula, you will proceed to Rovinj, the pearl of the Adriatic. Wander the cobbled streets of this historic town and let your tour guide show you why this town is called an Istrian gem. With beautiful architecture that dates back to the 1700s, the narrow streets lead you up to the top of the peninsula, where, at the plateau of the Church of Saint Euphemia you can enjoy the view of the old town, surrounded by amazing Istrian nature. Walking back down, past a cute row of seafood restaurants, you can visit the old neighborhood of Grisia, famous for its small shops and art galleries. At the bottom, you will come across a typical Istrian market where you can get a real feel for the flavors of the region. After the tour, you will have free time to relax and enjoy on the shore of the Adriatic Sea or continue exploring along Rovinj’s coast. The evening will be spent soaking up the relaxing atmosphere of one of the many great hotels in Istria.

🏚️ Accommodation: BO Palazzo 4* / Hotel Valamar Riviera 4* / Hotel Valamar Diamant 4* or similar.

Day 8: Rovinj – Opatija – Plitvice Lakes National Park

Breakfast. Drive to Opatija, an aristocratic town that is just 80 km away yet so different in its history, architecture, and atmosphere compared to other towns on the Istrian Peninsula. With its picturesque surroundings, Opatija’s rich history is visible in the buildings built in different architectural styles, including Renaissance, Venetian, Secession, and Baroque. Enjoy the sights and feel the pulse of Opatija as you walk along the famous Lungomare promenade, complete with panoramic views of the sea.

Free time for lunch in one of the restaurants by the sea. In the afternoon, you will arrive at the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. In the refreshing atmosphere, you can relax and enjoy dinner either in the hotel restaurant or a local restaurant nearby.

🏚️ Accommodation: Grabovac 3* / Hotel Macola 3* or similar.

Day 9: Plitvice Lakes National Park – Sibenik – Split

Breakfast. Start exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park, a beautiful park that contains 16 interconnected cascading lakes. On old maps, it was called ‘Devil’s Garden’ and it is the first site in the Balkans to get UNESCO World Heritage status. You will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour that includes a visit to the upper and lower lakes. While swimming is forbidden, you will find the best places for relaxing and contemplating the untouched beauty of this lush paradise.

In the afternoon, you will drive along the Dalmatian coast to Šibenik, a medieval Venetian town famous for its narrow curvy streets, stone-made houses, stairs, and remains of the city walls. It is home to many significant landmarks, among which the Cathedral of Saint James (on the UNESCO World Heritage List), constructed by locals for hundreds of years, has a special place. Šibenik is the perfect place for a break during our trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend your free time strolling through the charming streets and enjoying lunch in a square surrounded by Venetian architecture.

Drive to Split and check-in at the hotel.

🏚️ Accommodation: Globo 4*/ Hotel President 4*/ Hotel Art 4* or similar.

Day 10: Split – Trogir – Split // Leisure Day

Breakfast. Start the sightseeing tour of Split, the largest Dalmatian city, founded 1700 years ago, with a well preserved, enormously rich history. Your guide will lead you through the narrow streets of Diocletian’s Palace (a UNESCO Heritage Site), built in the 4th century for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and show you the former Temple of Jupiter in the central square of the imperial complex. Today, the temple is now the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, regarded as the oldest Catholic cathedral that remains in use in its original structure. You will also pass through the Golden and Silver Gates and walk around lively markets and Riva, the city’s shopping zone.

The afternoon will be devoted to the beautiful town of Trogir, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are a lover of photography, this is the perfect spot for you. Located on a tiny island, it boasts beautiful architecture, stunning sea views, and palm trees that spread along its pleasant waterfront promenade. Watch out, or you will find yourself lost in medieval times. Walking its charming streets, you will find yourself immersed in the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Look out for the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Clock Tower, the Loggia, the Land Gate, Kamerlengo Castle, and Saint Mark’s Tower. Return to Split.

In the evening, relax in the charming Mediterranean atmosphere, and while in your free time enjoys dinner in a restaurant by the sea.

🏚️ Accommodation: Globo 4*/ Hotel President 4*/ Hotel Art 4* or similar.

Day 11: Split – Međugorje – Mostar – Trebinje

Breakfast. Drive along the beautiful Makarska coast – with wonderful views of Croatian islands, wine & olive plantations, and stone-made villages towards Mostar. On the way, you will stop for a visit to the famous pilgrimage site of Međugorje. Since 1981, alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary have been reported in the town and it has become a must-see destination for many travelers to the Balkans. In Međugorje, you will visit the Church of Saint James with the outer altar and statue of Christ. Continue on to Mostar.

A walking tour around Mostar starts with a visit to the symbol of this city, Balkan TOP 10, and the most photographed sight in the country – the Old Bridge (a UNESCO-protected landmark). You will then proceed to Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Crooked Bridge, and the old tanner’s quarter Tabhana. Free time in Mostar for getting lunch on the banks of the Neretva River, with an amazing view of the bridge that rises above you.

The next destination of the day is Trebinje, a picturesque town with a wonderful mix of sights originating from a mix of different cultures. The tour starts with a visit to Arslanagića Bridge, a dream for artists and photographers alike; this stone bridge with its peaceful atmosphere will take you 400 years back in time. During the leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll see the most important sights of Trebinje as you make your way to the so-called ‘Poet’s Square’ where you can sit under the 115-year-old trees, which are the symbol of the town. In this beautiful town, Emir Kusturica, the world-famous movie director, made one of his last movies, with Monica Belluci in the leading role. Overnight in the hotel.

🏚️ Accommodation: Platani 4* / Hotel Central Park 4* / Hotel SL Industry 4* or similar.

Day 12: Trebinje – Perast – Kotor – Dubrovnik

Breakfast and check-out. This day is devoted to the Republic of Montenegro, a country that boasts of rich heritage and immense natural beauty. The Bay of Kotor with its unique landscape is a must-see location for more than 500 cruisers per year. On the way to the marvelous Kotor, you will make a stop at the town of Perast, a little settlement baroque in style. From Perast, you’ll start a relaxing boat ride along the Bay of Kotor to the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This manmade island is home to a church with valuable paintings by local artists, silver votive tablets, and a famous votive tapestry.

After the boat ride, you will arrive in Kotor, an old Mediterranean town that dates back to the 12th and 14th centuries. A walking tour will allow you to explore this UNESCO site, including the churches of Saint Nicholas and Saint Luke, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and other cultural moments. You will have free time to continue wandering around the old paved town or have lunch in a restaurant on one of the romantic squares.

Drive to Dubrovnik. Check-in at the hotel and overnight.

🏚️ Accommodation:  Lapad 4* / Grand Hotel Park 4* / Hotel Uvala 4* or similar.

Day 13: Dubrovnik Sightseeing // Leisure Day

Breakfast. Start a walking tour around Dubrovnik, one of the most significant monuments in the world and one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities, known since the 7th century. The old town is surrounded by a 2 km long wall that gives a great opportunity to see old Dubrovnik from above during a one-hour relaxing walk; the city’s churches, fortifications, and monuments are a real must-see. Dubrovnik has enchanted a lot of famous persons to devote their pieces of art to the city, thus in this city of marble and light-colored stone, you will find numerous art galleries and unique shops. In the historical center of Dubrovnik, you will visit the main street Stradun, the main square Placa, Pile Gate, the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, the walls of the Old Town, the church of Saint Blaise, the cathedral, the Jesuit church, Orlando’s Column, Big Onofrio’s Fountain, the city port and other hidden gems.

Optional excursions – Cable Car Ride and Seafood dinner in Dubrovnik, are available on this day. For more details, please read the ‘Optional’ info box below the itinerary.

🏚️ Accommodation:  Lapad 4* / Grand Hotel Park 4* / Hotel Uvala 4* or similar.

Day 14: Departure

Breakfast and hotel check-out. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organization, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Serbia Tour Operator to organize a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.

Optional Tours:

On Day 2:

Danube cruise in Budapest: Experience the beautiful sights of Budapest from a different perspective, during a 1.5-hour cruise along the Danube River. Onboard you can enjoy a welcome drink and one glass of wine, with the option of a traditional Hungarian buffet dinner.

On Day 4:

Belgrade rivers cruise and Zemun: Danube & Sava, two great rivers and their shores will help you to feel Belgrade’s spirit. You’ll meet this great city from a different perspective and in the evening, explore the charming Zemun neighborhood, enjoying dinner in one of the traditional fish restaurants.

Skadarlija bohemian night: A traditional Serbian dinner in Skadarlija – the bohemian heart of Belgrade (drinks not included).

On Day 13:

Cable Car Ride: The Dubrovnik Cable Car will take you to the top of Srđ Hill, where you can stretch your view up to 60 km across the Adriatic coast, and this wonderful city.

Seafood dinner in Dubrovnik: In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local restaurant where you can enjoy Croatian seafood dishes and wines.

– If you are interested in joining our optional tours, feel free to contact us via the conversation page of your booking.