12 days Balkan Delight
The astonishing natural beauty and charming medieval cities of the Balkans show few signs of the conflicts that have shaped this region. See the Sarajevo War Tunnels, the historic inner city of Split and Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik. Admire the longest and deepest fjord in Southern Europe and Plitvice's crystal clear lakes, plunging waterfalls and emerald green landscapes.
| Day | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Zagreb (2 Nights) | Embark on an off-the-beaten track discovery of the Balkans. The capital city of Zagreb is your springboard to a fascinating journey through what was once a troubled region and is today a land of diverse cultures and traditions which you will have a unique opportunity to enjoy with newfound friends. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive. Hotel Westin Meals Welcome Reception |
| 2 | Zagreb Sightseeing and Free Time | The paved squares and steep alleyways of Zagreb are ours to explore this morning as we join a Local Specialist to delve into the city's rich medieval and religious history. Wander through the upper and lower town admiring the iconic sites that have captured the attention of visitors for centuries. See the majestic Cathedral on Kaptol, the Archbishop's Palace, St. Mark's Church, with its vividly coloured tiled roof, the Opera House, including a stroll around the 17th century Ban Jelačić Square. Spend the afternoon at leisure – enjoy panoramic city views from Strossmatre, pay tribute to Zagreb's patron saint at the Stone Gate or meander through the Old Town, twirling your Šestine umbrella as you ramble along its labyrinthine lanes. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to the birthplace of iconic leader Tito and enjoy a delicious meal of regional specialitites with magnificent views of the Croatian Countryside. Meals Buffet Breakfast |
| 3 | Zagreb – Sarajevo sightseeing (2 Nights) | We journey to Sarajevo, whose rich religious and multicultural heritage has earned it the nickname, the Jerusalem of Europe. Its centuries-old religious history is reflected in its beautiful synagogues, mosques, and Orthodox and Catholic churches. Delving into the depths below Sarajevo, we join a Local Specialist for an insider tour of the Bosnian war tunnel which allowed food, war supplies and humanitarian aid to come into the city, and people to get out. Hear war-time tales of bravery and tragedy. This evening, join your travel companions for dinner at your hotel. Meals Buffet Breakfast Dinner Hotel Radon Plaza |
| 4 | Sarajevo Sightseeing and Free Time | Join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of the city's old town, past the largest mosque in the Balkans, the Eternal Flame and the Sarajevo Roses that are dotted across the city as a stark reminder of the turmoil Sarajevo endured decades ago. During your free time this afternoon perhaps ramble along Copper Street seeking treasures, or drink from the fountain of Sebilj to secure your return to Sarajevo. Meals Buffet Breakfast |
| 5 | Sarajevo – Mostar – Dubrovnik (3 Nights) | We journey to the secluded coves and dramatic cliffs of the Dalmatian coast, that for centuries have attracted famous artists, actors and aristocrats. En route to Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', we stop to see the magnificent bridge at Mostar, named after the bridge keepers who in medieval times guarded the 'Stari Most' over the Neretva River. The 16th century bridge, built by Sinan the great Ottoman architect, was destroyed during the war and has been rebuilt using the same centuries-old traditions. Enjoy some free time to explore the town before continuing to the ancient city of Dubrovnik. This evening consider joining a private sunset cruise with dinner and enjoy the best views of this enchanting city from the water. Meals Buffet Breakfast Hotel Ariston |
| 6 | Dubrovnik Sightseeing and free Time | Stroll through the limestone streets of this stunning medieval city, joining a Small Group Sightseeing walking tour of the main sights of Dubrovnik with a Local Specialist. Admire the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries. Consider taking an afternoon boat ride to the seaside oasis of Cavtat. This evening, we travel to Osojnik and 'Connect With Locals', joining the Muhoberac family for a traditional Be My Guest meal in the village their ancestors have lived in for over 500 years. Meals Buffet Breakfast Dinner with Wine |
| 7 | Dubrovnik – Excursion to Montenegro | Dazzling natural surrounds are ours to enjoy today as we travel to the Republic of Montenegro where we will meet a Local Specialist and head towards the mouth of the Bay of Kotor. Celebrate centuries of history in the charming town of Kotor, with its Venetian palaces and medieval churches. We return to Dubrovnik this evening and dine tonight at our hotel. Meals Buffet Breakfast Dinner |
| 8 | Dubrovnik – Split (2 Nights) | We pass old fishing villages and modern resorts, arriving in the vibrant city of Split. Enjoy a city tour with a Local Specialist featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian's 4th-century Palace. See Split's Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral. Spend the evening on your own, or join an Optional Experience to savour traditional Dalmatian flavours. Meals Buffet Breakfast Hotel Corner |
| 9 | Split Free Day or Optional Excursion to Dalmation island | Indulge in a full free day to discover Split on your terms. Ascend the bell tower for magnificent views of the sprawling terracotta roofs that edge onto the Adriatic or consider a full-day Optional Experience to one of the Dalmatian Islands. Meals Buffet Breakfast |
| 10 | Split – Trogir – Plitvice | This morning, we visit the walled island of Trogir with a Local Specialist. The stone town is a boon for lovers of art and Renaissance, Baroque and Romanesque architecture churches. We leave the coast and journey to the forested National Park of Plitvice, where we will dine tonight at our hotel. Meals Buffet Breakfast Dinner Hotel Jezero |
| 11 | Plitvice National Park Sightseeing – Zagreb | The tranquil turquoise, emerald and grey waters of Plitvice's multitude of lakes and waterfalls are explored today on a walking tour with a Local Specialist. Amble along the wooden pathways suspended over the pristine natural landscapes, admiring the lush green vegetation and the abundant birdlife that find sanctuary in this UNESCO World Heritage. We return to Zagreb for a final Farewell Dinner together where we will reminisce over an enchanting Balkan exploration. Meals Buffet Breakfast Farewell Dinner Hotel Westin |
| 12 | Depart Zagreb | Our time together comes to and end this morning after breakfast. Transfers are available to Zagreb Airport. Conditions apply. Meals Buffet Breakfast |