Balkan Essentials – 9 days

Essential tour

Balkan Essentials – 9 days

Serbia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro – Croatia
8 nights / 9 days tour

0
Price
€1,799
Price
€1,799
Booking Form
Enquiry Form
Full Name*
Email*
Travel date*
Number of adults*
Number of children*
Your Enquiry*
* I agree with Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Dates available do not match your flights? Book aditional nights on check-out or choose private tour by sending us an inquiry.

Select a package
  • Standard PackageStandard Package
  • Superior PackageSuperior Package

Proceed Booking

Save To Wish List

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

2226

Why Book With Us?

  • No-hassle best price guarantee
  • Customer care available 24/7
  • Hand-picked Tours & Activities
  • Free Travel Insureance
  • 9 days

  • March - OctoberMar - Oct

  • 8 Meals Included

  • Belgrade

  • Dubrovnik

  • Relaxed

  • 4* / 5* hotels

  • Small group

  • 9 EXPERIENCE MORE

What to Expect

Discover the vibrant capital of Belgrade, explore Serbia’s rich heritage in Šumadija, and traverse the scenic Šargan Eight railway. Experience Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge, Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, and Kotor’s stunning bay. Enjoy local delicacies and breathtaking landscapes across the Balkans.

  • Explore the captivating capitals of Belgrade, Sarajevo, and Dubrovnik, each with its own unique culture, history, and charm
  • Indulge in traditional Balkan dishes and unique local specialties, from Serbian rakija to Bosnian burek and Montenegrin cheese
  • Journey through breathtaking landscapes, from Serbia’s scenic Zlatibor Mountain to Montenegro’s stunning Boka Bay
  • Visit ancient sites like the UNESCO-listed Kotor and Dubrovnik, and stroll through historical towns and ethno villages
EXPERIENCE MORE

EXPERIENCE MORE  is at the core of our travel philosophy, elevating each tour beyond the ordinary. These carefully curated moments enrich our itineraries, offering deeper insights and unique perspectives of every destination. From exclusive cultural encounters to hidden local gems, EXPERIENCE MORE ensures each journey is unforgettable and engaging.

Some of our experiences included in the tour:

  • Belgrade Sundown Cruise Day 2
  • Mostar Copper Artistry  Day 6
  • Our Lady of the Rocks Day 7
Map
Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Belgrade
Belgrade

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.

Overnight: Belgrade

Day 2: Vibrant Capital of Serbia
Belgrade

On your first day in Serbia, you will embark on a walking and driving tour around Belgrade, starting at Knez Mihailova Street, the city’s bustling pedestrian zone, filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The capital is well known for its architectural styles, dynamic history and one of the biggest river confluences in Europe.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Serbian Morning Routine:  Your guide will take you to a hidden gem close to the main district, the citys oldest tavern intriguingly known as ? (Question Mark), where youll try Serbias most cherished traditional drinks: coffee and rakija. Engage in lively conversation with your guide, who will share fascinating stories about local customs and the UNESCO-protected art of making šljivovica, Serbias renowned plum brandy.

Having started the day like a true local, we will walk through the historical Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, and be amazed by the view of the mighty Sava and Danube rivers. This vantage point offers a striking contrast in Belgrade, where the old meets the modern and land merges with the flowing water.

Crossing Branko’s Bridge into New Belgrade, our panorama tour begins. You’ll experience the bold Brutalism architecture and see the emerging Belgrade Waterfront, a symbol of the city’s modern transformation. Continuing the journey, you’ll gain insight into Serbia’s past, from its 19th century struggle for independence to its turbulent 1990s. Our panoramic journey through Belgrade showcases its rich history and dynamic future, from the iconic Ada Bridge to the elite Dedinje residential area and the Museum of Yugoslavia. We’ll stop for a visit and devote time to the impressive Temple of Saint Sava, the symbol of the city and the fourth-largest Orthodox temple in the world, adorned with stunning mosaics.

Our tour concludes in the lively heart of Serbia’s bustling capital – The Republic Square, having offered you an insight into both the city’s and the country’s diverse culture, heritage, and history. But the day isn’t over yet – get ready to experience Belgrade from a whole new perspective, offering a waterway panorama that ties together everything you’ve discovered so far.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Belgrade Sundown Cruise: As the day winds down, set sail on an enchanting river cruise through Belgrade, where the grand Sava and Danube Rivers unveil the citys splendour. Cruise past iconic landmarks, absorb the vibrant riverside ambience and feel the soothing evening breeze as you take in the stunning views of Belgrades skyline, bridges, and historic landmarks.

Overnight: Belgrade

Day 3: ''Serbian Tuscany'' Delights
Belgrade - Šumadija Region - Zlatibor Mountain

Morning check-out and departure from Belgrade will take you south to the heart of Serbia, where you’ll explore Oplenac, a place where royals are laid to rest and history comes to life. Here, you’ll visit the majestic royal mausoleum and one of the beautiful wineries that mark Serbia’s regal heritage.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Šumadija Royal Wines: Delve into a royal wine journey through the enchanting Šumadija region, often called the Serbian Tuscany. At one of Serbias leading century-old wineries, where natural beauty meets urban elegance, you will taste three sorts of wine crafted using traditional recipes. Learn about the Royal Karađorđević dynasty, who led Serbia through pivotal moments in its history, founded the modern Serbian state, and greatly influenced its winemaking traditions. Step into the prestigious wine cellar and witness firsthand the meticulous craftsmanship that defines each bottle, gaining a profound appreciation for Serbias renowned wine-making heritage.

After an exquisite wine experience, there will be a short drive to the famous Zlatibor Mountain, home of the first royal resort in Serbia, and check-in to the mountain hotel. Here you can enjoy a relaxing walk around the quaint town centre of this picturesque air spa. In the evening, an enjoyable dinner of traditional Serbian food typical of the region will be served for you.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Zlatibor Gourmet Session: Discover the essence of Serbian cuisine at one of Zlatibor Mountains finest traditional kafanas. Start with rich ajvar and creamy kajmak, paired with artisan-cured meats. Enjoy hearty traditional pies or proja, the beloved Serbian cornbread. For the main course, indulge in succulent veal or freshly caught fish, expertly prepared to bring out the best local flavours. Join us for this unforgettable dining experience and try the rich, irresistible flavours of Serbian cuisine against the stunning backdrop of Zlatibors natural beauty.

Overnight: Zlatibor Mountain

Day 4: Vivid Western Serbia
Zlatibor Mountain - Wooden-Town - Šargan Eight - Višegrad - Sarajevo

After check-out, the tour will continue to the ethno village Drvengrad (Wooden-Town), built by the renowned film director Emir Kusturica. The village, constructed from natural materials, primarily wood, features the Mećavnik Hotel, houses, galleries, shops, a cinema, and a church. Since 2008, Drvengrad has hosted the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival and has welcomed celebrities such as Johnny Depp, Monica Bellucci, Jim Jarmusch, and many others.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Šargan Eight Railroad: You will truly experience the charm of the mountains and reflect on their beauty while riding the authentic, retro Nostalgia train along the narrow gauge heritage railway, Šargan Eight. This railway, named for its figure-eight shape, takes you from the base of Šargan Mountain and transports you back in time as you enjoy stunning scenery, numerous tunnels, and viaducts. Originally part of the railway from Belgrade to Sarajevo in the early 20th century, the Šargan Eight offers a unique glimpse into the past.

This day concludes in Bosnia and Herzegovina and a short drive takes you to Višegrad, where Emir Kusturica used his imagination and creativity to build Andrićgrad (also known as Stone-Town). It is a cultural centre with numerous buildings and facilities built on the banks of the emerald Drina River near the famous bridge (a monument under the protection of UNESCO). The bridge is referenced in the title of Ivo Andrić’s novel ”The Bridge on the Drina”. Andrić, a Nobel Prize-winning author, is celebrated through Kusturica’s creation of Andrićgrad, which translates to Andrić’s Town.

After lunch, the tour will continue on to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Check-in at the hotel.

Overnight: Sarajevo

Day 5: Balkan Soul Capital
Sarajevo

Our Sarajevo exploration starts at Vječna Vatra (Eternal Flame), a memorial dedicated to the city’s liberators during WWII. From there, we will delve deeper in the cultural and historical treasures of the capital while savouring its gastronomic delights. This unique tour engages all your senses – sight, sound, and taste – offering an extraordinary experience that truly captures the essence of Sarajevo.

EXPERIENCE MORE / A Taste of History: Start your Sarajevo tour with none other than a taste of the citys culinary crown jewel – the famous burek. Enjoy this savoury pastry at a local bakery before we continue through the vibrant Ferhadiya pedestrian zone and visit the stunning Sacred Heart Cathedral and 16th century Orthodox Church. Discover how Sarajevos diverse Orthodox, Catholic, and Islamic cultures influence its rich traditions and heritage. Our journey continues to Baščaršija, the heart of Sarajevos old town, where youll try some of the best ćevapi around, a minced meat dish which the entire Balkan swears by. In the city centre area, experience the local tradition of coffee, a key part of Sarajevos daily life. Well also visit iconic sites like the Vjećnica (City Hall) and Latin Bridge, and explore the 16th century Bezistan market complex, the Gazi Husrev-beg mosque, and the Sahat Tower, wrapping the entire tale of this soulful city. End this unforgettable experience with a taste of heavenly baklava and savour the true essence of Sarajevos history and cuisine.

In the afternoon, take the opportunity to explore Sarajevo at your own pace. Revisit your favourite sights or unwind in one of the city’s cosy cafes, reflecting on the rich history and delightful flavours you’ve encountered throughout the day.

Overnight: Sarajevo

Day 6: The Beauty of Herzegovina
Sarajevo - Mostar - Blagaj - Trebinje

Today, you will say goodbye to Sarajevo, as you check-out and drive to one of the most beautiful cities of the Balkan Peninsula, Mostar. During the walking tour, you will visit the symbol of the 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.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Mostar Copper Artistry: Step into a workshop nestled in Mostar’s historic Old Town and explore the ancient art of copper modelling, a craft meticulously perfected over 500 years in Bosnia. Guided by a master artisan, you’ll create stunning jewellery pieces like bracelets, earrings, and pendants, or explore the creation of intricate reliefs. Unlock the secrets of traditional Bosnian coppersmithing, including its rich history, essential tools, and techniques passed down through generations, in this unique and cherished craft experience.

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 day continues to Blagaj (a site on the UNESCO Tentative List), an old town from the 15th century where the Kosača noble family ruled. During the short tour, enjoy the view of the monastery located in a fairytale environment, beneath the cliffs, on the shores of the spring of the emerald green river Buna.

The next stop is Trebinje, a charming town with a captivating blend of sights from various cultural influences. The tour starts with a visit to Arslanagića Bridge, this stone bridge with its peaceful atmosphere will take you 400 years back in time. Conclude your day at ”Poet’s Square”, where century-old 16 plane trees symbolize the town’s charm, before check-in to your hotel.

Overnight: Trebinje

Day 7: The Mediterranean Essence
Trebinje - Perast - Kotor - Dubrovnik

After hotel check-out, you will head towards the epicentre of the local lifestyle – Trebinje local market.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Trebinje Market Delights: Savour the fresh delights of Trebinje’s vibrant local market, a rare gem where traditional tastes and methods still thrive. Amidst the friendly chatter of vendors and the inviting aromas of fresh produce, you’ll experience the true essence of local life. Indulge in creamy, fresh cheese, flavourful dried meats, and sun-ripened fruits, all grown by small local producers using time-honoured techniques. Sip on homemade juices and immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Trebinje.

Wave farewell to Herzegovina as you continue towards Montenegro, a small country renowned for its rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. Your first stop is the town of Perast, a charming baroque-style settlement nestled in the heart of Boka Bay.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Our Lady of the Rocks: From Perast, you have the opportunity to discover a quiet wonder of the Boka Bay, 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 sacred tapestry. As you explore, you’ll uncover the rich history and legends that make this small island a cultural treasure in the heart of the bay.

After the short boat ride, you will continue towards 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 romantic squares.

The final destination of the day is Dubrovnik, one of the most significant monuments in the world and one of Europe’s best preserved walled cities, known since the 7th century. Hotel check-in.

Overnight: Dubrovnik

Day 8: The Pearl of the Adriatic
Dubrovnik

Experience the essence of Dubrovnik, celebrated as the ”Pearl of the Adriatic”, with a visit to its iconic sights, including Stradun, the main street, Placa Square, Pile Gate, the Rector’s Palace, and more. Explore the City Walls and the picturesque city port, uncovering hidden gems along the way. Immerse yourself in the magic of Dubrovnik, where the stunning locations that served as the backdrop for Game of Thrones bring the city’s rich history and fantasy world to life. Dive into intriguing stories about the Republic of Ragusa and enjoy the enchantment that makes Dubrovnik one of the most captivating destinations in the world.

Our mission is to showcase Dubrovnik from every angle, allowing you to fully embrace its unique charm as you explore this extraordinary city. After the city tour, we recommend making the most of your free time by enjoying lunch at a restaurant perched atop the city walls, where breathtaking views await. Alternatively, consider taking a cable car to Srđ Hill for stunning panoramas of the Old Town and the Adriatic coast, or explore the 2 km stretch of City Walls for a unique perspective of Dubrovnik from above. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Karaka, a replica of a traditional 16th century wooden galleon, and admire the breathtaking views of the old town and the centuries-old impregnable walls of Dubrovnik from the sea.

Overnight: Dubrovnik

Day 9: Farewell, Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik

After hotel check-out, it is time to conclude your Balkan tour. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organisation, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Balkan&more to organise a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.

If you would like to book pre or post tour accomodation, you can do that during  check out process
Download itinerary
General Inclusions
Valid both for Standard and Superior package

Transportation

  • Airport arrival transfer
  • Transportation as per the itinerary with modern, comfortable vehicles tailored to your group size

Entrances
and Tickets

Temple of Saint Sava, Oplenac Royal Complex, Wooden-Town, Blagaj Tekke, Kotor Old Town

Experiences

Coffee & rakija in a Belgrade tavern (Serbian Morning Routine); Sava and Danube Rivers Cruise (Belgrade Sundown Cruise); Wine tasting in a local winery in Central Serbia (Šumadija Royal Wines); Dinner in a traditional Western Serbian restaurant (Zlatibor Gourmet Session); Train ride tickets on a heritage railway (Šargan Eight Railroad); Traditional Bosnian street food tasting (A Taste of History); Copper modelling workshop (Mostar Copper Artistry); Visit to the local market in Herzegovina (Trebinje Market Delights); Boat ride to the island and entry ticket to the church (Our Lady of the Rocks)

Meals

  • 8 x breakfast
  • Additional meals included in our experiences

Additional

  • Professional English-speaking tour guidance throughout the tour
  • VAT, accommodation taxes and city taxes
  • Tour logistics and organization with dedicated service and care
  • 1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger

Accommodation

Standard package:

  • 2 BB in Belgrade in Royal Inn 4* / Mercure Excelsior 4* / Central Point 4* or similar
  • 1 BB in Zlatibor in Palisad standard 4*/ Mona 4* / Buket 4* or similar
  • 2 BB in Sarajevo in Old Town 4* / Colors Inn 4* / Movenpick 4* (Novotel) or similar
  • 1 BB in Trebinje in Central Park 4* / Sesto Senso 4* / Platani 4* or similar
  • 2 BB in Dubrovnik in Lapad 4* / Lero 4* / Valamar Tirena 4* or similar

Superior package:

  • 2 BB in Belgrade in Envoy 4* / Museum 4* / Moskva 4* or similar
  • 1 BB in Zlatibor in Palisad superior 4* / Bor by Karisma 5* / Zlatibor Residence 4* or similar
  • 2 BB in Sarajevo in Courtyard by Marriott 4* / Europe 5* / Baškuća 4* or similar
  • 1 BB in Trebinje in Central Park 4* / Nar 4* / Integra 4* or similar
  • 2 BB in Dubrovnik in Royal Neptun 4* / Kompas 4* / More 5* or similar

Optional excursions:

There are no optional excursions offered on this tour. If you would like us to customize the tour and include additional activities, feel free to reach out via enquiry form.

Notices:

Tips and porterage services are not included in price

Final choice of the hotels depends on current availability. The tour organiser reserves the right to change the hotel due to availability reasons but guarantees the same category, service quality and similar location of the accommodation unit

**Due to the limited capacity of the Šargan Eight railway and in the case of unavailability, tickets will not be booked and the customer will be refunded the amount of the ticket price (€10). After/before the booking, the agency may, by costumer request, within 48 hours, inform the customer whether the agency will reserve the requested tickets

*Due to limited choice of accommodation at Plitvice, in the case of unavailability during high season, the overnight stay will be organised in the closest available accommodation

Minimum number of passengers needed for guaranteed tour departure: 1

The tour organiser reserves the right to change the itinerary of the tour due to unexpected slow-moving traffic at international borders. These changes will not affect the basic itinerary

It is the responsibility of the passengers to get acquainted with visa requirements of all the countries they are travelling to or will be in transit

General Travel Conditions issued by Tour Operator d.o.o. and reconciled with YUTA standards are valid for this programme

I'm a solo traveller, is there a single supplement?

If you are travelling alone, not as part of a joint private tour, and want to book an exclusive private tour (guide & vehicle) with accommodation in a single room, please send us a request via the booking form, or send us an email on office@balkan-more.com.

Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Airport arrival transfer is included in this tour. However, as most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organisation, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. If you would like us to organise a departure transfer on their behalf, you are welcome to book the departure transfer during the checkout process, or simply contact us.

Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes, we will easily arrange additional overnights upon your request. If you are looking to book only one additional night before, or after the tour, you are welcome to choose the option during the checkout process. If you are arriving few days before the tour departure or you would like to extend your stay after the tour end, get in touch with our agents, and they will help you with booking your pre or post tour accommodation at the same hotel as the one that is already booked for your stay.

What is cancellation policy?

CANCELLATION BY THE GUEST

In case of cancellation by the guest, refund policy will be applied by the terms stated in the list below. The guest is obligated to send official written cancellation notice. Given refund policy will be applied from the time of receiving the notification in writing. The shown refund amount represents a percentage of the total tour price.

For cancellation up to 60 days before departure – 100% refund.
For cancellation from 59 days till 46 days before departure – 90% refund.
For cancellation from 45 days till 31 days before departure – 80% refund.
For cancellation from 30 days till 16 days before departure – 70% refund.
For cancellation from 15 days till 8 days before departure – 50% refund.
For cancellation from 7 days till the day of departure – 0% refund.

Beside all standard reasons, cancellation policy will also apply if tour participant cancel the tour with a reason that includes medical ground, visa issues, jury service etc.

Related Tours

From

1799€

Trusted affilations, globally recognized

Aligning with premier travel associations, ensuring excellence in every journey.