Ultimate Balkans

Today depart for Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria.

Please note: Some departures may depart on Day 2 and arrive on Day 2.

Meals included: In-Flight

Upon arrival at Sofia airport, you will be met by a representative and transferred to the hotel.

Overnight: Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel or similar, Sofia

Meals included: None

This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour of Bulgaria's capital city.

Sofia is a modern, youthful city, with a scattering of onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and stubborn Red Army monuments that lend an eclectic, exotic feel. See the gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Saint (Sveta) Sofia Church, the main shopping street Vitosha, the Synagogue, St George Rotunda, the National Theatre and Banya Bashi Mosque (entrances not included).

Visit the country’s most important museum, The Museum of National History (entry included) which contains some of the most important artefacts in Bulgaria’s history. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore some more on your own in this beautiful metropolis.

Overnight: Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel or similar, Sofia

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll travel to discover Bulgaria’s most famous tourist site, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rila Monastery (entry included). Being one of the largest in the Balkans, it was the centre of Bulgarian culture and Orthodox belief for more than 1,000 years. The monastery was founded in the 10th century by the hermit Saint Ivan Rilsky (St John of Rila). Next, leave Bulgaria behind and head to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, where you will arrive in the evening. The city is famous for being the birthplace of Mother Teresa. Today, travel approximately 340 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel De Koka or similar, Skopje

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will discover the most attractive landmarks of Skopje during a walking guided tour, such as the quay of Vardar River, the Memorial house of Mother Teresa (entrance excluded), Macedonia Square (featuring the statue of Alexander the Great on his horse), the 1500-year-old fortress Kale and the narrow streets in the Old Bazaar. As one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, the Old Bazaar has been Skopje's centre for trade and commerce since the 12th century and is still home to several active mosques, churches and a clock tower.

Next, travel to the town Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will enjoy a walking guided tour of the old city. Ohrid once had 365 churches, one for each day of the year, therefore it has been referred to as the 'Jerusalem of the Balkans'. Lake Ohrid is famous as Europe's oldest lake, having formed over three million years ago. The tour will include the Ancient Theatre, the Tsar Samuil’s (Samuel’s) Fortress, old churches, monasteries, basilicas (Sveti Sofia Church) and the famous pedestrian shopping street (entrances not included). Afterwards, continue to the beautiful Bay of Bones, a fascinating archaeological site located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. The Bay of Bones is part of the larger Ohrid region, protected by UNESCO, and it is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and cultural significance, making it one of the most visited areas in North Macedonia. Here you can visit the ancient St Naum Monastery (entrance included).

Today's travel will be approximately 190 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel Garden or similar, Ohrid

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, you will travel to Tirana, the capital of Albania, for a walking guided tour of the city centre. These will include Tirana’s massive main square (Skanderbeg), Et’hem Bey Mosque and Skanderbeg’s statue. The remainder of the day will be at leisure. Today's travel is approximately 140 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel Sky 2 or similar, Tirana

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, travel to the nearby town of Kruje. The history of this city is very much linked to the national hero of Albania, George Castriot Skanderbeg, who made Kruje a fortress of resistance against the Turkish Ottoman empire in the 15th century. You will see Kruje Castle (entry included), which is supposed to be the headquarters of the 'Dragon Of Albania'. Explore the souvenir markets in the traditional Old Bazaar afterwards.

Your journey will then continue to Budva, Montenegro, nestled on the beautiful Adriatic coast, with its lovely beaches and crystal-clear lakes. The rest of the day is at leisure. Today’s travel is approximately 190 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel Garni or similar, Budva

Meals included: Breakfast

Today enjoy a day at leisure in Budva, the centre of Montenegrin tourism, known for its well-preserved medieval walled city, sandy beaches and diverse nightlife.

You may enjoy a walk in the city centre and see the most famous tourist attractions: the Citadel, Ballerina and Mogren Beach, the marina, Land Gate, Square of Churches, Ancient Necropolis, Njegos Street, Mediternaska Street and Slovenska Plaza. Alternatively, you may decide to take an optional full-day tour of Kotor, Montenegro.

Optional Activity: Full Day Tour Kotor, Montenegro
Enjoy a full-day tour of the medieval town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most atmospheric medieval towns on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast. Set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountains, it’s a delight to those who love history and architecture. Glimpse ancient churches, an array of rustic palaces and a maze of streets and squares. Visit the famous Our Lady of the Rocks Church (entry included) and a guided tour at the Kotor Fortress (entry included). Afterwards, enjoy free time at leisure in the beautiful bay of Kotor. Please note: Return bus transfer from Budva to Kotor is included. See important information for pricing.

Overnight: Hotel Garni or similar, Budva

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll head to Dubrovnik, Croatia, known as ‘The Pearl of the Adriatic’ on an approximately 95-kilometre travel day.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the medieval Old Town an a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll also discover Onofrio’s Fountain and walk along Prijeko Street to the Old Port, the key to Dubrovnik’s trading and maritime success. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in the beautiful city of Dubrovnik.

Overnight: Hotel Marea or similar, Neum, Dubrovnik area

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, travel to Split on an approximately 235-kilometre day.

Split is one of the most important cities along the Adriatic Sea. The city’s historical centre is UNESCO World Heritage listed. Upon arrival, see Diocletian’s Palace, the ancient Roman fortress complex (entry included).

Overnight: Hotel Pax or similar, Split

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, reach Korenica on an approximately 230-kilometre travel day. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

You may take the opportunity to join an optional tour to travel to the nearby Plitvice National Park, Croatia’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Optional Tour: Plitvice Lake National Park
(Entry included)
Explore the cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes, surrounded by lush greenery. It is Croatia’s oldest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will enjoy a guided nature walking tour, where you will be amazed by the colour of the water and the pure beauty of this natural wonder. Enjoy a boat ride within the National Park for approximately 15–20 minutes.
Please note:
• The visit to Plitvice Lakes is weather-dependent. In the event of bad weather, the National Park can be closed. If possible, changes will be made to the following day’s schedule, respecting all the visits included in the itinerary
• Return bus transfer from Split to Plitvice Lakes is included. See Important Information for pricing.

Overnight: Hotel Porto or similar, Korenica

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, cross into Slovenia and travel to its capital, Ljubljana. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking guided tour of the National University Library, Congress Square, Cobbler’s Bridge, the New Square, Franciscan Church, the main square, Preseren Monument, the Three Bridges, the river promenade, the Municipality Square, the Open-Air Market, Butcher’s Bridge, the Old Square, St Nicholas Cathedral and Dragon Bridge (entrances not included). Next, you will visit Ljubljana Castle (entry included), a medieval castle with Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements, located on the summit of Castle Hill, which dominates the city centre. The visit includes a return journey by funicular.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure, after an approximately 244-kilometre travel day.

Overnight: Urban Ring Hotel or similar, Ljubljana

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, reach the enchanting Lake Bled. Upon arrival, take a scenic boat ride on the emerald-green lake to admire lush scenery. After the boat ride, visit Bled Castle (entry included), the oldest castle in Slovenia, dating back to the 11th century. Perched on a steep cliff high above the lake, the castle creates a dramatic backdrop to the city. Enjoy lunch at leisure in the fortress (not included) then return to Ljubljana after an approximately 110-kilometre travel day.

Overnight: Urban Ring Hotel or similar, Ljubljana

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, travel to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, where you will enjoy a guided walking city tour of Zagreb’s Upper and Lower Town districts with amazing city views from the Strossmayer Promenade. You will also see the main attractions, including St Catherine’s Church, the Stone Gate, the Lotrscak Tower and the Croatian Parliament. You will head to the Lower Town via Tkalciceva Street and pass the Dolac Market to the medieval Kaptol (entrances excluded). Finally, enjoy the traditional architecture in Ban Jelacic Square. Today's travel is approximately 140 kilometres.

Overnight: Garden Hotel or similar, Zagreb

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, drive towards Serbia on an approximately 380-kilometre day. Enjoy the scenic ride as you go inland towards Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city. Located on the banks of the Danube River, it features the historic Petrovaradin Fortress, a relaxed cafe culture and a historical city centre. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy time at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Fontana or similar, Novi Sad

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, travel to the capital of Serbia, Belgrade. Upon arrival, admire Republic Square, the National Theatre and National Museum. Here you will find the Bohemian Quarter (Skadarlija), which is the oldest part of Belgrade, featuring Ottoman heritage, plus Bajrakli Mosque, the only mosque in the city. Here you will also find Kalemegdan Park, Belgrade Fortress and the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers (entrances not included). You will also discover Pobednik ('The Victor'), the most famous symbol of Belgrade, built to commemorate Serbia's victory over the Ottoman and Austro- Hungarian Empire during the Balkan Wars. You'll then return to Novi Sad in the evening after an approximately 200-kilometre travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Fontana or similar, Novi Sad

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, travel to Budapest, 'The Queen of the Danube', and the capital of Hungary.

On the way, stop at stop in Subotica, one of the least-known architectural gems of Serbia, famous for its rich multicultural heritage and stunning Central European Art Nouveau style.

Upon arrival in Budapest, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure after an approximately 310-kilometre travel day.

One of the largest cities in the European Union, Budapest is disected by the Danube River. Its 19th century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest. A funicular (cable railway) runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. Budapest offers many interesting sites, including the largest building in Hungary, the neo gothic Parliament building, Fisherman’s Bastion.

Overnight: Ibis Budapest City or similar, Budapest

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a day at leisure in this beautiful city. In the evening, take the opportunity to join a scenic boat ride to see the evening lights of Budapest on the Danube (not included).

Overnight: Ibis Budapest City or similar, Budapest

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, travel to Romania on an approximately 325-kilometre travel day.

First, stop in Arad, where you will admire the impressive Neo-Gothic Palace of Culture, the City Hall Palace, the Red Church, the great Catholic Cathedral and the State Theatre (entrances not included).

Next, discover Timisoara, a wonderful city frequently referred to as 'Little Vienna', that became the European Capital Of Culture in 2021. The charm of this city lies in its distinct architectural character and vibrant cultural life. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to discover Victory Square, Union Square, the Roman Catholic Cathedral, Freedom Square or the Jewish Neighbourhood.

Overnight: Hotel Timisoara or similar, Timisoara

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, visit the famous Corvin Castle (entry included), one of the most fascinating castles in Eastern Europe. Built in a Renaissance Gothic style, the castle is full of amazing legends.

Next, travel to Alba Iulia, the city of the Great Union of Romania (the country's National Day). Here you will explore Alba Carolina Fortress, Romania's largest star-shaped fortress, beautifully restored with impressive gates, rich Roman history and deep cultural significance as the site of Romania's 1918 unification. Here, visit the Coronation Cathedral and St Michael’s Cathedral (entries included). Afterwards travel to Sibiu, the European Capital Of Culture in 2007. The city is dominated by the Tower Of The Clock or the 'Council Tower', dating to the medieval era. See the Brukenthal Museum (the former residence of the governor of Transylvania), the Big Square, the Small Square and Huet Square with the Evangelical Cathedral (entrances not included). Today's travel is approximately 330 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel MyContinental or similar, Sibiu

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, head to the ancient, fortified church of Biertan (entry included), a Saxon village. Discover the bastion where couples who wanted to separate were imprisoned in order to change their mind. You'll also visit the Saxon Citadel Of Biertan that has preserved and intact three city walls.

Next, travel to Sighisoara, renowned as one of the best-preserved still-inhabited citadels in Europe. The historic centre of Sighisoara has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 and is dominated by the Clock Tower. Enjoy a guided tour of Sighisoara Citadel. Here, you will see the Church On The Hill (entry included), reachable by a wooden covered staircase. You will also admire the statue of the famous Hungarian poet Petofi Sandor. The citadel is famous for its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, well-preserved defensive walls, and as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Dracul), who inspired the myth of Dracula, the vampire. Continue to Brasov, a stunning medieval town in Transylvania, framed by the Carpathian Mountains, featuring colourful baroque buildings, after an approximately 200-kilometre travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Coroana Brașovului or similar, Brasov

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you will enjoy a guided tour of Brasov, which was once an entirely fortified town.

Brasov is also an important cultural and commercial centre and one of the most charming cities of Transylvania. Brasov impresses with its typically German architecture where the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance intersect to give life to an interesting and culturally lively city. You will see the First Romanian School, located in the oldest district of the city (the Schei district) which was inhabited exclusively by Romanians. See the palaces and houses of the historic centre, with the Council Square and the pedestrian Avenue of the Republic.

Later, continue to Bran, where you will tour Bran Castle (entry included), also known as Dracula’s Castle. In the Middle Ages, Bran was on the border between Wallachia and Transylvania, therefore it was essential for the inhabitants of Brasov to build a defensive stronghold. The fortress was later transformed into a beautiful castle thanks to the intervention of Queen Maria of Romania. After lunch (not included) you will visit the famous Peles Castle (entry included), the summer residence of the first king of Romania - King Charles 1 of Hohenzollern, of German origins. The castle was built between the 19th and 20th centuries. Each room is characterised by a unique style. Afterwards, you'll continue to Bucharest and check into the hotel after an approximately 215-kilometre travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Ambassador or similar, Bucharest

Meals included: Breakfast

Today you will enjoy a fantastic guided city tour of Bucharest. See the Parliament Building, an impressive monument built during the 1980s. Tour the historical centre of Bucharest, a pedestrian area with the remains of the princely fortress of Vlad the Impaler. You will also see the 16th-century Palatine Church built in the Byzantine style, then visit the Stavropoleos Church, an architectural jewel of the 18th century designed in typical Wallachian style, with oriental influences in its external decorations (entrances not included).

In the afternoon, enjoy time at leisure in the capital city of Romania. Known as 'Little Paris' due to its elegant interbellum architecture, Bucharest blends a rich mix of neo-classical buildings, Communist-era landmarks and a vibrant modern culture.

Overnight: Hotel Ambassador or similar, Bucharest

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, at the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Australia or New Zealand after a trip of a lifetime!

Meals included: None

Please note: Some flights may arrive +1 day.

Meals included: None