Best of the Balkans

Day 1  Dubrovnik, Croatia        
Arrive in Dubrovnik where you'll get to see 'paradise on earth'- if George Bernard Shaw is to be believed. The famous playwright was a big fan of this medieval fortified city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. Over the next day you'll uncover the city's unique appeal, but first meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for an included dinner this evening and a glimpse into what lies ahead.

Day 2  Dubrovnik              
Today, join a Local Guide for a sightseeing tour of the iconic highlights in Dubrovnik. Admire the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the city walls. Stroll through elegant courtyards and along limestone streets, admiring the remnants of Dubrovnik's Golden Age. Tonight, there's no better way to enjoy this shimmering coastline than embarking on an optional sunset dinner cruise to a secluded bay for the perfect end to the day.

Day 3  Dubrovnik to Budva, Montenegro          
Journey through the spectacular scenery of Montenegro to the Old Town of Kotor, known as Stari Grad. Located beside a beautiful bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen, it's no surprise it's a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Travel Director will orientate you on this historic town where you'll have time to explore at leisure.

Day 4  Budva to Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina    
Small villages and broad plains line your route south into Bosnia-Herzegovina. Arrive later today in its capital Sarajevo, where a rich religious and multi-cultural heritage has earned it the nickname, the 'Jerusalem of Europe'. Later dinner will be at your hotel.

Day 5  Sarajevo        
Today, centuries of religious history are reflected in Sarajevo's beautiful synagogues, mosques, and Orthodox and Catholic churches as you'll discover when you join a Local Guide for a guided walking tour. You'll also visit the Old Town, view the largest mosque in the Balkans, and see the Eternal Flame and the Sarajevo Roses that are dotted across the city, standing as a stark reminder of the turmoil Sarajevo endured decades ago. Join a local family in their home for tasty traditional cuisine or enjoy a lively encounter in a favourite local restaurant with dinner and entertainment.

Day 6  Sarajevo to Mostar      
Today, you’ll head to Mostar, joining a Local Guide for an exploration of this historic multicultural city that witnessed an impressive resurrection after the Bosnian War. Part of its restoration can be seen in the traditional reconstruction of its medieval 'Stari Most', an Ottoman-style bridge. You'll delve into a tragic time not long ago when Catholic Croats, Muslim Bosniaks and Orthodox Serbs fought for supremacy amidst the colourful cobbled streets overlooking the Neretva River. You’ll have time to explore the city on your own or perhaps join a Local Guide for a visit to Blagaj, famous for its natural spring and one of the most mystical cultural and historical villages in the country.

Day 7  Mostar to Split, Croatia      
Sit back, relax and watch the stunning scenery as you are bound for Split, where modern façades reveal glimpses of an ancient Roman past. On arrival in Split, a Local Specialist takes you behind the city walls to this harbour town's heart, the 4-century Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, followed by a leisurely walking tour through the historic Old Town. See how Gothic, Roman and Renaissance structures merge seamlessly across the cityscape. Admire Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the 7-century Cathedral of Saint Domnius as you explore its maze of narrow alleys. You'll have an evening to discover the Dalmatian capital on your terms or join an Optional Experience in a traditional konoba for a Dalmatian dinner and live music.

Day 8  Split        
You've explored medieval monuments, witnessed the revival of war-torn cities and relaxed on the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic. The allure of the Balkans will linger long after you've said goodbye to your travel companions.

Day 9  Split      
You've explored medieval monuments, witnessed the revival of war-torn cities and relaxed on the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic. The allure of the Balkans will linger long after you've said goodbye to your travel companions.