The Great Balkan Fairytale from Ljubljana

An incredible 26 day fairytale journey through six amazing countries with the best highlights of the Balkans.

26 Days including Ljubljana, Bled, Postojna, Zagreb, Plitvice, Split, Korčula, Dubrovnik, Mostar, Sarajevo, Belgrade, Sremski Karlovci, Novi Sad, Budapest, Timisoara, Hunedoara, Alba Iulia, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Targu Mures, Bucovina painted monasteries, Brasov, Bran, Sinaia and Bucharest.

Day 1
Arrival to Ljubljana

  • Upon arrival to Venice, Trieste or Ljubljana airport transfer to hotel.

Day 2
Ljubljana

  • This morning, we will first head to Bled, beautifully set in the Julian Alps. A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming town, the lakeshore, and a visit to the imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff high above the lake.
  • After the visit of Bled return to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, for a walking tour. See the sights of the old city center, including the picturesque open-air Central Market, Three Bridges, Baroque Town Hall, and Robba’s Fountain.

Day 3
to Postojna and Zagreb

  • After breakfast, we head to Postojna, home to one of the largest caves in Europe – Postojna Cave. Tour this fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train.
  • Afterward, continue to Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.

Day 4
Zagreb

  • This morning enjoy a city tour featuring the historic Upper Town, St Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, Parliament, and the Government Palace.
  • The rest of the day is free to explore the winding streets of the Old Town.

Day 5
to Plitvice and Split

  • Travel to spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Have your camera ready as you take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes.
    Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
  • Then we continue our journey to Split.

Day 6
Split

  • Enjoy a city tour featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
    Finally, see the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.

Day 7
to Korčula

  • Today we head to the island of Korčula. Upon arrival free time to enjoy this beautiful island.

Day 8
to Dubrovnik

  • The beautiful medieval town Korčula has streets arranged in the shape of a fish bone, which ensures the flow of fresh air and protects from strong winds. According to legend, the famous adventurer Marco Polo was born here.
  • After the visit, head to Dubrovnik.

Day 9
Dubrovnik

  • Start the day with a walking tour of Old Dubrovnik this morning. Visit the Rector’s Palace, and see the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column and Sponza Palace.
  • Next, see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world.
  • The rest of the day is at leisure to explore on your own, enjoy the picturesque setting, shop or simply relax.

Day 10
to Mostar

  • We continue our trip towards Mostar. Mostar is situated on the Neretva River and was named after the bridge keepers (mostari) who guarded the Stari Most (Old Bridge) over the Neretva in the medieval times. The Old Bridge, built by the Ottomans in the 16th century, is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most recognizable landmarks, and is considered one of the most exemplary pieces of Islamic architecture in the Balkans.

Day 11
to Sarajevo

  • Travel to Sarajevo, the capital of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city of Sarajevo has been influenced by several cultures and civilizations over its long history. On your city tour, visit the Turkish Bazaar Bas Carsija, Husref Bay’s Mosque, the Olympic Stadium, and Gavrilo Princip Museum.

Day 12
to Belgrade

  • Today, we travel to Belgrade, Serbia.

Day 13
in Belgrade

  • With a history dating back more than 7,000 years, Belgrade is a fascinating city to visit. Your morning sightseeing tour includes the city’s main attractions: the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress, dramatically situated at the joining of the Sava and Danube Rivers; Republic Square and Mihajlova Street; Saint Sava Temple, the largest Orthodox Church in the city; and Tito’s Memorial. The afternoon is free.

Day 14
to Sremski Karlovci and Novi Sad

  • In the morning, departure to Sremski Karlovci, the museum-city that was the center of culture and religion in Serbia during the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • After a short stop with a wine degustation included, we continue to Novi Sad, the capital of Vojvodina. It is the administrative, economic, cultural and university center of the region, which also has the well-preserved Petrovaradin Fortress that faces the city from the other side of the Danube.
  • Return to Belgrade.

Day 15
to Budapest

  • Today we travel to Hungary and the capital city of Budapest. Upon arrival free time at leisure.

Day 16
in Budapest

  • In 1873, the twin cities of Buda and Pest joined with ancient Obuda to form a new, unified city, Budapest. Charming and beautiful, the city was declared a World Heritage site in 1987. Your morning sightseeing tour includes views of all the main attractions: The Parliament, Royal Palace, and the Castle Hill area, Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Heroes’ Square, and Gellert Hill with its Citadel.
  • The rest of the day is at leisure to explore this exciting city on your own.

Day 17
to Timisoara

  • In the morning departure to Timisoara. Romania’s third-largest city (after Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca) is also one of the country’s most attractive urban areas, built around a series of beautifully restored public squares, and lavish parks and gardens. With western Romania’s nicest hotels and finest restaurants, it makes a perfect base for exploring the Banat region.

Day 18
to Hunedoara, Alba Iulia and Sibiu

  • In the morning, we travel to Hunedoara, where iron has been extracted since the Iron Age. One of its most memorable buildings is the Corvin Castle, a fine example of secular Gothic architecture with spiky, spooky fantasy topped with asymmetrical pointed towers and turrets.
  • Continue to the city of Alba Iulia, a symbol of national unity in Romania. Built on 13th century foundations, the imposing Habsburg citadel is star-shaped with seven bastions and successive walls.
  • Head to Sibiu for overnight.

Day 19
Sibiu

  • Morning free at leisure. In the afternoon we take a panoramic walk through the city of Sibiu. Sibiu is one of the most important cultural centers of Romania and bears a strong resemblance to a southern German or Austrian town. The old city center has retained a largely Saxon aspect and managed to fuse the Middle Ages with the new.

Day 20
to Sighisoara and Targu Mures

  • Today, we travel first to the picturesque city of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad Dracula. It is the only inhabited fortified citadel in Romania and is an enchanting city of sloping roofs, pastel facades and cobbled streets.
  • We continue to Targu Mures.

Day 21
to Piatra Neamt

  • Targu Mures remains a noticeably Hungarian town. Dating back at least to the 14th century it has long been an important commercial and academic center.
  • After the visit that includes the Palace of Culture, we continue to Piatra Neamt through the Bicaz Gorge, the largest gorge in Romania, admiring the beauty of the landscape, the Red Lake and its hill station.

Day 22
Bucovina

  • Departure to the Bucovina region to visit its monasteries, the most representative monuments of Moldovan art. Declared a World Heritage Site, these monasteries are one of the most important legacies of Byzantine art in the world, in which their brightly colored interior and exterior fresco paintings stand out.
  • Visit of the Monasteries of Sucevita and the black pottery workshops of Marginea.
  • In the afternoon visit the Voronet Monastery, considered the best architectural and pictorial example in the region, called the “Sistine Chapel” in the East.
  • Return to Piatra Neamt.

Day 23
to Brasov

  • In the morning, we leave Piatra Neamt and travel south to Brasov. Arrival in the afternoon, followed by a tour of the fascinating medieval city of Brasov. Visit the old town and see the exterior of the Black Church, the most representative Gothic monument in Romania.

Day 24
to Bran, Sinaia and Bucharest

  • Continuation towards the town of Bran. Visit of its famous Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.
  • In the afternoon arrival in the city of Sinaia, known as “the pearl of the Carpathians” because of its beauty.
  • In the afternoon we will visit the wonderful Peles Palace, the former summer residence and retreat place of the royal family, built in the second half of the 19th century by the first King of Romania, Carlos I.

Day 25
Bucharest

  • We will get to know the Romanian capital, once known under the nickname “Little Paris”. The visit will take us to the Romanian Athenaeum, the Opera House, the Military Club of the Nation, the Military Academy and the Arc de Triomphe. Bucharest is Romania’s capital and largest city, as well as the most important industrial and commercial center of the country. With 2 million inhabitants in the city proper and more than 2.4 million in the urban area, Bucharest is one of the largest cities in Southeastern Europe.

Day 26
Depart Bucharest

  • After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

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The Great Balkan Adventure from Ljubljana

An incredible 26 day journey through seven amazing countries with the best highlights of the Balkans.

26 days including Ljubljana, Bled, Postojna, Zagreb, Plitvice, Split, Korčula, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva, Shkoder, Tirana, Elbasan, Ohrid, Skopje, Sofia, Rila, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, Baile Govora, Cozia, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Targu Mures, Bucovina Painted Monasteries, Brasov, Bran, Sinaia and Bucharest.

Day 1
Arrival to Ljubljana

  • Upon arrival to Venice, Trieste or Ljubljana airport transfer to hotel.

Day 2
Ljubljana

  • This morning, we will first head to Bled, beautifully set in the Julian Alps. A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming town, the lakeshore, and a visit to the imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff high above the lake.
  • After the visit of Bled return to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, for a walking tour. See the sights of the old city center, including the picturesque open-air Central Market, Three Bridges, Baroque Town Hall, and Robba’s Fountain.

Day 3
to Postojna and Zagreb

  • After breakfast, we head to Postojna, home to one of the largest caves in Europe – Postojna Cave. Tour this fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train.
  • Afterward, continue to Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.

Day 4
Zagreb

  • This morning enjoy a city tour featuring the historic Upper Town, St Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, Parliament, and the Government Palace.
  • The rest of the day is free to explore the winding streets of the Old Town.

Day 5
to Plitvice and Split

  • Travel to spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Have your camera ready as you take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes.
    Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
  • Then we continue our journey to Split.

Day 6
Split

  • Enjoy a city tour featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
    Finally, see the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.

Day 7
to Korčula

  • Today we head to the island of Korčula. Upon arrival free time to enjoy this beautiful island.

Day 8
to Dubrovnik

  • The beautiful medieval town Korčula has streets arranged in the shape of a fish bone, which ensures the flow of fresh air and protects from strong winds. According to legend, the famous adventurer Marco Polo was born here.
  • After the visit, head to Dubrovnik.

Day 9
Dubrovnik

  • Start the day with a walking tour of Old Dubrovnik this morning. Visit the Rector’s Palace, and see the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column and Sponza Palace.
  • Next, see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world.
  • The rest of the day is at leisure to explore on your own, enjoy the picturesque setting, shop or simply relax.

Day 10
to Kotor and Budva

  • First travel to the Bay of Kotor, the deepest fjord in Southern Europe and stop in the city of Kotor to visit this beautiful town. Stroll the Weapons Square and admire the city bulwarks before continuing the journey to Budva.
  • The Budva riviera is the center of Montenegrin tourism, known for its well preserved medieval walled city, sandy beaches and diverse nightlife. Budva is 2,500 years old, which makes it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast.

Day 11
to Shkoder and Tirana

  • Following the Montenegrin coast and its spectacular landscapes we enter Albania and visit Shkoder, a cultural center and one of the oldest cities in Albania. The city tour includes a visit to the Mosque, views of the Rozafa castle, as well as other points of interest in the city.
  • In the afternoon the trip will take us to Tirana, the capital of Albania.

Day 12
Tirana

  • The panoramic city tour of Albania’s capital includes views of ‘The Albanians’ – the mosaic in front of the Museum of National History, the Statue of Skanderbeg in Skanderbeg Square, the ‘Et’hem’ Mosque with the Clock tower, the monument to Mother Teresa and other monuments of the city.
  • Rest of the day free at leisure.

Day 13
to Elbasan and Ohrid

  • Today, we travel along the old ‘Egnatica’ road to Elbasan to visit the Castle.
  • We continue to Struga, famous for being the place where you can see the Black Drin river flowing out of Lake Ohrid.
  • Then we continue to Ohrid, the city that has its place on the UNESCO list for its natural, cultural and historical values.

Day 14
to Skopje

  • In the morning, we visit Ohrid, also known as “the Jerusalem of the Balkans” with its 365 churches. A town of vast history and heritage was honored as UNESCO heritage site in 1980. Nestled between high mountains up to 2,800 m and Lake Ohrid, it is not only a place of historic significance but also of outstanding natural beauty, it is the jewel in North Macedonia’s crown.
  • Continue to Skopje where we take a walking tour of the North Macedonian capital city upon arrival. Skopje has been occupied by many different peoples since its foundation. However, the group that left the greatest mark was the Ottomans. The Ottomans ruled North Macedonia for hundreds of years and built a large number of mosques and other buildings. The visit of Skopje includes the Mother Teresa Memorial House, dedicated to the humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa.

Day 15
to Sofia

  • Today, we travel to Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, where you will have free time upon arrival.

Day 16
Sofia

  • Today, we enjoy a complete tour of the city of Sofia. Among others, the most emblematic places are the Alexander Nevski Cathedral that dominates the city, the Church of Saint George, considered the best-preserved Byzantine church, the Russian Church of Saint Nicholas, the Banya Bashi mosque and the ruins of the ancient Serdica.
  • In the afternoon, travel to the Rila Mountains to visit one of the most famous places in Bulgaria – the Rila Monastery. This monastery is a sanctuary of Bulgarian literature and spiritual life. Founded in the middle of the 10th century by San Iván de Rila, it played a key role in preserving Bulgarian culture and the language for centuries.
  • After visiting the monastery church with its impressive fresco paintings, return to Sofia.

Day 17
to Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo

  • Leaving Sofia behind, we head toward the second largest city in Bulgaria – Plovdiv. This is a city with an ancient history. During our city tour we will see the Roman Forum and the stadium, as well as the Roman amphitheater. We will walk through the cobbled streets of the small and ancient city surrounded by houses and beautiful churches.
  • After the visit we will cross the Balkan Mountains through the historic Shipka Pass, which played a key role in the Russian-Turkish War for the Liberation of Bulgaria. Arrival in Veliko Tarnovo – the medieval capital of Bulgaria.

Day 18
to Arbanassi and Balle Govora

  • In the morning, panoramic visit of the city of Veliko Tarnovo with a walk to Tsarevets, where the kings of Bulgaria once lived. We will walk along the oldest street in the city called Samovodska Charshia.
  • We will proceed to Arbanassi, a small village in Bulgaria located 4 km from Veliko Tarnovo, known for its interesting architecture. In the village, we can see the Konstancalieva house and the Church of the Nativity, whose wall paintings are a work of art.
  • Then we head to the mountain resort of Baile Govora (long transfer).

Day 19
To Cozia and Sibiu

  • Head to Cozia for a visit of the Byzantine style Cozia Monastery. A model of harmonious proportions, the main church is richly decorated with frescoes dating back to 1390.
  • Then we cross the Olt Valley into Transylvania.
  • In the afternoon we take a panoramic walk through the city of Sibiu. Sibiu is one of the most important cultural centers of Romania and bears a strong resemblance to a southern German or Austrian town. The old city center has retained a largely Saxon aspect and managed to fuse the Middle Ages with the new.

Day 20
to Sighisoara and Targu Mures

  • Today, we travel first to the picturesque city of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad Dracula. It is the only inhabited fortified citadel in Romania and is an enchanting city of sloping roofs, pastel facades and cobbled streets.
  • We continue to Targu Mures.

Day 21
to Piatra Neamt

  • Targu Mures remains a noticeably Hungarian town. Dating back at least to the 14th century it has long been an important commercial and academic center.
  • After the visit that includes the Palace of Culture, we continue to Piatra Neamt through the Bicaz Gorge, the largest gorge in Romania, admiring the beauty of the landscape, the Red Lake and its hill station.

Day 22
Bucovina

  • Departure to the Bucovina region to visit its monasteries, the most representative monuments of Moldovan art. Declared a World Heritage Site, these monasteries are one of the most important legacies of Byzantine art in the world, in which their brightly colored interior and exterior fresco paintings stand out.
  • Visit of the Monasteries of Sucevita and the black pottery workshops of Marginea.
  • In the afternoon visit the Voronet Monastery, considered the best architectural and pictorial example in the region, called the “Sistine Chapel” in the East.
  • Return to Piatra Neamt.

Day 23
to Brasov

  • In the morning, we leave Piatra Neamt and travel south to Brasov. Arrival in the afternoon, followed by a tour of the fascinating medieval city of Brasov. Visit the old town and see the exterior of the Black Church, the most representative Gothic monument in Romania.

Day 24
to Bran, Sinaia and Bucharest

  • Continuation towards the town of Bran. Visit of its famous Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.
  • In the afternoon arrival in the city of Sinaia, known as “the pearl of the Carpathians” because of its beauty.
  • In the afternoon we will visit the wonderful Peles Palace, the former summer residence and retreat place of the royal family, built in the second half of the 19th century by the first King of Romania, Carlos I.

Day 25
Bucharest

  • We will get to know the Romanian capital, once known under the nickname “Little Paris”. The visit will take us to the Romanian Athenaeum, the Opera House, the Military Club of the Nation, the Military Academy and the Arc de Triomphe. Bucharest is Romania’s capital and largest city, as well as the most important industrial and commercial center of the country. With 2 million inhabitants in the city proper and more than 2.4 million in the urban area, Bucharest is one of the largest cities in Southeastern Europe.

Day 26
Depart Bucharest

  • After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

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Dalmatian Sunshine

This 9-day tour features best must see spots in Dalmatian Croatia and Slovenia. 

9 days including Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice, Postojna, Bled, Ljubljana and Zagreb

Day 1
Arrive Dubrovnik

  • You will be met and transferred to your hotel.
  • The rest of the day is at leisure until you gather with your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2
Dubrovnik

  • On a morning walking tour of Old Dubrovnik visit the Rector’s Palace, and see the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column, Sponza Palace, the Dominican Monastery, and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world.
  • The rest of the day is free.

Day 3
to Split

  • Travel north along the spectacular Adriatic coast, past old fishing villages and new resorts, to the city of Split.
  • Enjoy a sightseeing tour featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
  • Then see the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle, and the Cathedral.

Day 4
to Trogir and Plitvice Lakes

  • After breakfast, head to Trogir, the center of artistic activities. Scholars from around the world gather here to study and paint.
  • Then, turn inland and travel to spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Have your camera ready as you take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.

Day 5
to Opatija, Postojna and Bled

  • Return to the coast and travel along the beautiful bay of Kvarner to its popular resort, Opatija.
  • After some free time, journey north to Postojna, home to one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour this fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train.
  • Afterward, continue to Bled, beautifully set in the Julian Alps.

Day 6
Bled

  • An Alpine lake surrounded by high peaks, Bled was “discovered” by travelers in the middle of the 19th century. Since then, a small town of hotels, villas, and restaurants has developed around the lake, turning Bled into a lively, all-seasons resort. A sightseeing tour features the charming town and the lakeshore and visits imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff high above the lake.
  • The balance of the day is at leisure. Perhaps join an optional excursion to the small island in the middle of the lake Bled, scenic drive through the Alpine countryside and visit Bohinj and its namesake lake.

Day 7
to Ljubljana and Zagreb

  • Leave the mountains and head to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. See the most significant sights of the old city center on a walking tour. Highlights include the picturesque open-air Central Market, the Three Bridges, Baroque Town Hall, and Robba’s Fountain.
  • Then, continue to Zagreb, Croatia’s capital city.

Day 8
Zagreb

  • This morning, enjoy a city tour featuring the historic Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, Parliament and Government Palace.
  • The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the winding streets of the old town or take an optional excursion to see the countryside.

Day 9
Depart Zagreb

  • After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

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The Great Balkan Dream from Ljubljana

An incredible 26 day journey through seven amazing countries with the best highlights of the Balkans.

26 days including Ljubljana, Bled, Postojna, Zagreb, Plitvice, Split, Korčula, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva, Shkoder, Tirana, Elbasan, Ohrid, Skopje, Niš, Belgrade, Sremski Karlovci, Timisoara, Hunedoara, Alba Iulia, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Targu Mures, Bucovina Painted Monasteries, Brasov, Bran, Sinaia and Bucharest.

Day 1
Arrival to Ljubljana

  • Upon arrival to Venice, Trieste or Ljubljana airport transfer to hotel.

Day 2
Ljubljana

  • This morning, we will first head to Bled, beautifully set in the Julian Alps. A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming town, the lakeshore, and a visit to the imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff high above the lake.
  • After the visit of Bled return to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, for a walking tour. See the sights of the old city center, including the picturesque open-air Central Market, Three Bridges, Baroque Town Hall, and Robba’s Fountain.

Day 3
to Postojna and Zagreb

  • After breakfast, we head to Postojna, home to one of the largest caves in Europe – Postojna Cave. Tour this fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train.
  • Afterward, continue to Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.

Day 4
Zagreb

  • This morning enjoy a city tour featuring the historic Upper Town, St Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, Parliament, and the Government Palace.
  • The rest of the day is free to explore the winding streets of the Old Town.

Day 5
to Plitvice and Split

  • Travel to spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Have your camera ready as you take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes.
    Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
  • Then we continue our journey to Split.

Day 6
Split

  • Enjoy a city tour featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
    Finally, see the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.

Day 7
to Korčula

  • Today we head to the island of Korčula. Upon arrival free time to enjoy this beautiful island.

Day 8
to Dubrovnik

  • The beautiful medieval town Korčula has streets arranged in the shape of a fish bone, which ensures the flow of fresh air and protects from strong winds. According to legend, the famous adventurer Marco Polo was born here.
  • After the visit, head to Dubrovnik.

Day 9
Dubrovnik

  • Start the day with a walking tour of Old Dubrovnik this morning. Visit the Rector’s Palace, and see the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column and Sponza Palace.
  • Next, see the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world.
  • The rest of the day is at leisure to explore on your own, enjoy the picturesque setting, shop or simply relax.

Day 10
to Kotor and Budva

  • First travel to the Bay of Kotor, the deepest fjord in Southern Europe and stop in the city of Kotor to visit this beautiful town. Stroll the Weapons Square and admire the city bulwarks before continuing the journey to Budva.
  • The Budva riviera is the center of Montenegrin tourism, known for its well preserved medieval walled city, sandy beaches and diverse nightlife. Budva is 2,500 years old, which makes it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast.

Day 11
to Shkoder and Tirana

  • Following the Montenegrin coast and its spectacular landscapes we enter Albania and visit Shkoder, a cultural center and one of the oldest cities in Albania. The city tour includes a visit to the Mosque, views of the Rozafa castle, as well as other points of interest in the city.
  • In the afternoon the trip will take us to Tirana, the capital of Albania.

Day 12
Tirana

  • The panoramic city tour of Albania’s capital includes views of ‘The Albanians’ – the mosaic in front of the Museum of National History, the Statue of Skanderbeg in Skanderbeg Square, the ‘Et’hem’ Mosque with the Clock tower, the monument to Mother Teresa and other monuments of the city.
  • Rest of the day free at leisure.

Day 13
to Elbasan and Ohrid

  • Today we travel along the old ‘Egnatica’ road to Elbasan to visit the Castle.
  • We continue to Struga, famous for being the place where you can see the Black Drin river flowing out of Lake Ohrid.
  • Then we continue to Ohrid, the city that has its place on the UNESCO list for its natural, cultural and historical values.

Day 14
to Skopje

  • In the morning, we visit Ohrid, also known as “the Jerusalem of the Balkans” with its 365 churches. A town of vast history and heritage was honored as UNESCO heritage site in 1980. Nestled between high mountains up to 2,800 m and Lake Ohrid, it is not only a place of historic significance but also of outstanding natural beauty, it is the jewel in North Macedonia’s crown.
  • Continue to Skopje where we take a walking tour of the North Macedonian capital city upon arrival. Skopje has been occupied by many different peoples since its foundation. However, the group that left the greatest mark was the Ottomans. The Ottomans ruled North Macedonia for hundreds of years and built a large number of mosques and other buildings. The visit of Skopje includes the Mother Teresa Memorial House, dedicated to the humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa.

Day 15
to Niš and Belgrade

  • Today we travel to Serbia. Our first stop is Niš, considered one of the oldest cities in Europe. Niš is a university center but also one of the most important industrial centers in Serbia.
  • Continue to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia.

Day 16
Belgrade

  • With a history dating back more than 7,000 years, Belgrade is a fascinating city to visit. Your morning sightseeing tour includes the city’s main attractions: the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress, dramatically situated at the joining of the Sava and Danube Rivers; Republic Square and Mihajlova Street; Saint Sava Temple, the largest Orthodox Church in the city; and Tito’s Memorial.
  • The afternoon is free.

Day 17
to Sremski Karlovci and Timisoara

  • In the morning, departure to Sremski Karlovci, the museum-city that was the center of culture and religion in Serbia during the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • After a short stop we continue to Timisoara. Romania’s third-largest city (after Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca) is also one of the country’s most attractive urban areas, built around a series of beautifully restored public squares, and lavish parks and gardens. With western Romania’s nicest hotels and finest restaurants, it makes a perfect base for exploring the Banat region.

Day 18
to Hunedoara, Alba Iulia and Sibiu

  • In the morning, we travel to Hunedoara, where iron has been extracted since the Iron Age. One of its most memorable buildings is the Corvin Castle, a fine example of secular Gothic architecture with spiky, spooky fantasy topped with asymmetrical pointed towers and turrets.
  • Continue to the city of Alba Iulia, a symbol of national unity in Romania. Built on 13th century foundations, the imposing Habsburg citadel is star-shaped with seven bastions and successive walls.
  • Head to Sibiu for overnight.

Day 19
Sibiu

  • Morning free at leisure. In the afternoon we take a panoramic walk through the city of Sibiu. Sibiu is one of the most important cultural centers of Romania and bears a strong resemblance to a southern German or Austrian town. The old city center has retained a largely Saxon aspect and managed to fuse the Middle Ages with the new.

Day 20
to Sighisoara and Targu Mures

  • Today, we travel first to the picturesque city of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad Dracula. It is the only inhabited fortified citadel in Romania and is an enchanting city of sloping roofs, pastel facades and cobbled streets.
  • We continue to Targu Mures.

Day 21
to Piatra Neamt

  • Targu Mures remains a noticeably Hungarian town. Dating back at least to the 14th century it has long been an important commercial and academic center.
  • After the visit that includes the Palace of Culture, we continue to Piatra Neamt through the Bicaz Gorge, the largest gorge in Romania, admiring the beauty of the landscape, the Red Lake and its hill station.

Day 22
Bucovina

  • Departure to the Bucovina region to visit its monasteries, the most representative monuments of Moldovan art. Declared a World Heritage Site, these monasteries are one of the most important legacies of Byzantine art in the world, in which their brightly colored interior and exterior fresco paintings stand out.
  • Visit of the Monasteries of Sucevita and the black pottery workshops of Marginea.
  • In the afternoon visit the Voronet Monastery, considered the best architectural and pictorial example in the region, called the “Sistine Chapel” in the East.
  • Return to Piatra Neamt.

Day 23
to Brasov

  • In the morning, we leave Piatra Neamt and travel south to Brasov. Arrival in the afternoon, followed by a tour of the fascinating medieval city of Brasov. Visit the old town and see the exterior of the Black Church, the most representative Gothic monument in Romania.

Day 24
to Bran, Sinaia and Bucharest

  • Continuation towards the town of Bran. Visit of its famous Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.
  • In the afternoon arrival in the city of Sinaia, known as “the pearl of the Carpathians” because of its beauty.
  • In the afternoon we will visit the wonderful Peles Palace, the former summer residence and retreat place of the royal family, built in the second half of the 19th century by the first King of Romania, Carlos I.

Day 25
Bucharest

  • We will get to know the Romanian capital, once known under the nickname “Little Paris”. The visit will take us to the Romanian Athenaeum, the Opera House, the Military Club of the Nation, the Military Academy and the Arc de Triomphe. Bucharest is Romania’s capital and largest city, as well as the most important industrial and commercial center of the country. With 2 million inhabitants in the city proper and more than 2.4 million in the urban area, Bucharest is one of the largest cities in Southeastern Europe.

Day 26
Depart Bucharest

  • After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

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Pilgrimage Tour of Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia

Discover three beautiful countries with breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage and history on this spiritual 12 day journey.

Day 1
Arrival to Zagreb

  • Upon arrival to Zagreb airport meet and greet. Balance of the day at leisure.
  • Dinner and overnight.

Day 2
Zagreb - Marija Bistrica

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • A morning sightseeing tour will take you along the historic Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, Zagreb Cathedral, the Parliament and the Government Palace. After the tour drive to Marija Bistrica the sanctuary of Mother of God, Queen of Croatia, crowned with Papal crowns. This is the national Croatian Shrine where for prayers of the Stations of the Cross.
  • Dinner and overnight

Day 3
Marija Bistrica - Ljubljana - Bled

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Morning drive to Ptujska gora, famous pilgrimage site. Visit the gothic church. After continue to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia.
  • During sightseeing tour, view open-air Market, Baroque Town Hall, Robba’s Fountain, the Three Bridges and the Parliament.
    Visit Ljubljana Cathedral. Continue to beautiful Alpine resort, Bled.
  • Dinner and overnight

Day 4
Bled - Brezje - Bled

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • A sightseeing tour of Bled features the charming town with the lakeshore, and imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff high above the lake. Take pletna boat ride to Bled island and visit St Mary church with a collection of religious art. Afternoon drive to the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Succor in Brezje, the largest pilgrimage site in Slovenia. Here see the famous painting of the Our Lady of Brezje, the Patron Saint of Slovenia.
  • Return to Bled for dinner and overnight.

Day 5
Bled - Postojna - Opatija

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Morning drive to Postojna, home of one of the largest caves in Europe. Tour the fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train.
  • After the tour continue to the coast and travel along the beautiful bay of Kvarner to its popular resort, Opatija.
    En route stop at Our Lady of Trsat, built to commemorate the transfer of the Holy House of Nazareth from Jerusalem to Loreto. Tradition tells us the Holy House was kept here between 1292 and 1294 before its final destination in Loreto.
  • Dinner and overnight in Opatija.

Day 6
Opatija - Plitvice Lakes

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Morning drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Upon arrival, have your camera ready and take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by thickly wooded mountains and lush vegetation.
  • Dinner and overnight

Day 7
Plitvice Lakes - Zadar - Trogir - Solin

  • Breakfast in hotel
    Morning drive to Zadar the oldest Slavic city on the Adriatic, once famed cultural center. Pause here for an orientation tour that includes views of the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Cathedral and St. Donat Church.
  • Continue to Trogir, the center of artistic activities. Scholars from around the world gather to study and paint here. Visit Trogir Cathedral. End the day in Solin.
  • Dinner and overnight

Day 8
Solin - Split - Medjugorje

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Drive to Sinj and visit Our Lady of Sinj, one of Croatia’s oldest spiritual centers. The shrine is home of the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, dating from the seventeenth century. Upon arrival in Split, enjoy a city tour featuring the historic inner city, built around Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. See remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral.
  • Continue towards Medjugorje. Arrival late in afternoon.
  • Dinner and overnight

Day 9
Medjugorje

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Experience the beauty and peace of this simple village. During the stay in Medjugorje you will have the opportunity to share faith with pilgrims from all over the world. You will have the possibility to join other pilgrims in prayer in St. James Church or follow the path up Apparition Hill where the visionaries first
    encountered Our Lady. Touch and pray before the cross that commemorates the spot where Mary first appeared to the visionaries.
  • Dinner and overnight

Day 10
Medjugorje - Mostar - Dubrovnik

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Morning at leisure in Medjugorje for personal reflection and prayer.
  • After, continue to Mostar. During orientation tour view the remains of the Turkish quarter and the reconstruction efforts on the 16th century stone bridge. Continue through the marvelous gorge of the Neretva River to Dubrovnik.
  • Dinner and overnight.

Day 11
Dubrovnik

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • There is a walking tour of “Old Dubrovnik” this morning; view the Rector’s Palace, Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column, the Sponza Palace, the Dominican Monastery. Visit Dubrovnik Cathedral and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure.
  • Farewell dinner and overnight

Day 12
Depart Dubrovnik

  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Transfer to Dubrovnik airport

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