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Montenegro/Croatia/Bosnia-Herzegovina/Serbia/Slovenia

Best of the Balkans: From Medieval Fortresses to the Majestic Adriatic Sea

Program No. 15878RJ
Discover the rich cultural and social history of the Balkans, a place of ancient trade routes, architecture, breathtaking scenery and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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Start
Small Group
Length
17 days
Rating (4.81)
Activity Level
Starts at
5,649
Flights start at
1,150
Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
17 days
16 nights
What's Included
33 meals ( 15B, 7L, 11D )
6 expert-led lectures
17 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
15 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Check-in available from 2:00 PM.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room, enjoy a Welcome Dinner. Please note that water is included in the program cost at all meals.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
This program is not suitable for participants using wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or other mobility assistance devices . Today’s activities include up to 2 hours of walking. Please note that Herceg Novi is known as the “city of stairs”, so there will be a lot of steps with and without railings. The boat ride in the Adriatic Bay of Herceg Novi will be approximately an hour and half long.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room, the daily breakfast will offer a buffet with breads, cheeses, cold-cuts, yogurt, fruit, cereals, juice, milk, coffee, tea and water.
Morning:
This morning, we will begin with a lecture by a local expert on the topic of Montenegro. Following the lecture, we will board a motorcoach for a short drive to the centre of Herceg Novi. During the field trip, we will explore and learn about Herceg Novi. Founded in 1382, this medieval town was formerly known as Castel Nuovo, or “new castle” in Italian, because of its many fortresses. Walk through the winding streets, the Forte Mare, and the port of the city. Herceg Novi was founded by Bosnian king Tvrtko I in the 14th century. It has long and interesting history and you walking you will see interesting buildings with different and vibrant history of the region.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Herceg Novi, enjoy a light lunch of local fare.
Afternoon:
Enjoy an expert-led boat excursion on the Adriatic in Herceg Novi Bay. We will have nice view of an Austrian-built fortress on a small island and the Rose, one of the oldest settlements in the region that is situated on the other side of the bay. The boat excursion will take approximately an hour. After boat excursion we are heading back to the hotel.
Dinner:
On your own. This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to explore local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 hours of walking. The motorcoach ride takes place on curvy coastal roads approximately an hour and half each way.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Begin the morning with a panoramic drive overlooking the entrance of beautiful Kotor bay. We will see some of the small coastal towns and islands off the Bay of Kotor. These sites are internationally recognized as some of Montenegro’s most iconic cultural treasures. We will then head towards the small town of Perast. Despite its current small population of 400 people, palaces from the Renaissance and Baroque eras attest to this town’s history as a favored vacation spot for Venetian and Russian nobles. Home to one of the best maritime schools in the 18th century, this town was also has a strong seafaring heritage. After exploring Perast, we will take a short motor boat ride into the bay to an artificial island known as Our Lady of the Rocks. According to legend, two sailors passing by this part of the bay in 1452 encountered the image of Madonna and the Child upon a rock. Since then, generations of seamen have pledged their faith to the saint by laying a rock on the bay after each successful voyage. Over time, an islet emerged from the sea, upon which a small chapel was erected. Such was its fame that the chapel was gifted masterful paintings and thousands of silver plates. After some time to explore the island, we will return to shore once again via motor boat.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
We will board the motorcoach once again and head to explore Kotor’s Old Town. The drive along the Montenegrin littoral reveals breathtaking views of the stunning Adriatic coastline. Soon, we will reach Kotor. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its exceptional architecture and stunning natural setting. Founded by the Romans, and traded back and forth between empires for centuries, Kotor was an important center of commerce and the arts. See some of the town’s famous sites, such as its Venetian city walls and the local Maritime Museum, during walking field trip before having time on your own to explore Kotor independently.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 hours of walking, plus any additional walking done during your free time in Dubrovnik. The drive from Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik is approximately 2 hours long, it is approximately 30 miles, and includes a border crossing, so please have your passports ready.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will board a motorcoach and journey towards Dubrovnik. We will have a field trip to Dubrovnik’s Old Town on foot, passing by the Onofrio Fountain, Saint Blaise’s Church, the Franciscan Monastery and the famous Rector’s Palace. Dubrovnik is truly a unique place, not only because of its well-preserved architecture but also due to its stunning surroundings and rich culture. Everything we will see is authentic, having withstood many conflicts over the course of centuries. We will learn about the history of Dubrovnik Republic, its diplomacy in politics affairs and trade and the beauty of remarkable architecture reflecting its historical glory and freedom.
Lunch:
On your own in Old town.
Afternoon:
Free time. Enjoy some time to explore Dubrovnik on your own. In your free time you can explore Dubrovnik City Walls and take funicular to Mountain Srd for a magnificent view to the Old Town. Late afternoon we will check in and settle into our rooms before dinner.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 hours of walking and standing for long periods of time. There are over 60 steps leading to the main house of the Mestrovic Gallery, as well as some additional steps to reach the upper floors of the museum. The drive from Dubrovnik to Omis is approximately 3.5 hours long, approximately 120 miles, it is then an additional 1 hour to Split.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will check out of our hotel and make our way to Omis, Croatia. The motorcoach will travel along the beautiful seafront, where we will enjoy a stunning view of picturesque islands and rich Mediterranean vegetation. We will get an opportunity to enjoy this view further upon our arrival towards Omis, where we will enjoy the views of the Cetina River. Omiš is a picturesque town located at the mouth of the Cetina River, surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery. It was once a medieval stronghold. The Cetina River is a typical karst river, with crystal-clear and pristine waters. Stretching over 62 miles, it is one of the longest rivers in Dalmatia and has been a vital lifeline for the region for centuries. Therefore, we will not only immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area but also be introduced to its rich historical heritage.
Lunch:
En route, in local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Board the motorcoach once again as we make our way to Split. Upon arrival, we will take an expert-led field trip of the Mestrovic Gallery, situated in the villa where sculptor Ivan Mestrovic used to live. Known as the greatest 20th century sculptor in Croatia, Mestrovic's works can be found all over the world. On display at the gallery are bronze, marble and wood sculptures, along with drawings, architectural plans and family furniture. The house and the garden itself is also a beautiful site and the work of the sculptor himself as a home for his family.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include walking up to 3 miles on uneven, cobblestone streets. There are long periods of standing, some stairs without railings.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
After breakfast we will enjoy an expert-led lecture as an introduction to Split. After the lecture, we will board the motorcoach for a short ride on an expert-led field trip of the city of Split. We will begin at Diocletian’s Palace, a palace and fortress built by Roman Emperor Diocletian shortly after abdicating his throne at the turn of the 4th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this palace is considered one of the most significant monuments of the Roman Era. Its remains lie on what is considered the old town of Split, and after our visit, we will continue our exploration of the old town by visiting the Peristyle, the Cathedral, and some of the majestic statues of Ivan Mestrovic – the greatest Croatian sculptor of the 20th century. Today, it is one of the only cultural monuments in the world where people still live.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in the city of Split. Board the motorcoach for a short drive back to hotel.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 hours of walking. Please be careful when crossing the Old Bridge at Mostar, as the stone work makes it very smooth and slippery to walk on. The drive from Split to Mostar is approximately 3 hours, it is then an additional 2 hours to Sarajevo. The distance between Split and Mostar is approximately 100 miles and another 80 miles from Mostar to Sarajevo. Please note that this day includes a border crossing, so be sure to have your passports ready.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will check-out of our hotel and begin our journey towards Bosnia and Herzegovina by motorchoach. We will begin our visit with an exploration of Mostar, the largest city in Herzegovina and the fifth-largest in the country. Mostar is located on the Neretva River and is named after the bridge keepers, or “mostari”, who guarded the old bridge, or “stari most”, from invaders during medieval times. The Old Bridge was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century, and is considered one of the most exemplary pieces of Islamic architecture in the Balkans. Unfortunately, the original bridge collapsed due to shelling during the Bosnian War in 1993, but was reconstructed to its original design in 2004 and deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mostar is known for its multicultural architectural features, including examples of pre-Ottoman, eastern Ottoman, Mediterranean and western European architecture styles.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Enjoy some free time to explore more of Mostar. Afterwards, we will board the motorcoach once again and make our way to Sarajevo, where we will check-in to our new hotel in the late afternoon.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 miles of moderate walking with frequent breaks. Some streets are cobblestoned, and there may be steps without railings.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Today we will begin our exploration of Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. On a field trip that will be part by motorcoach and part on foot, we will explore various parts of the city including the old Ottoman neighborhood of Bascarsija, the Austro-Hungarian architecture alongside the river, and the former Jewish quarter of the city. The blend of these different cultural influences gives Sarajevo a unique, multicultural character. We will also visit the Latin Bridge where Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, sparking World War I. As we venture further into the Old Town, we will also take a visit to the “war tunnel”, also known as the Tunnel of Hope, which connected the city of Sarajevo to an area controlled by the United Nations during the Bosnian War. This tunnel was built by the Bosnian Army in 1993 and made it possible for both supplies to make their way into the city, and for people to get out. The tunnel is a symbol of resilience and the city’s enduring spirit throughout the turbulent period of war. Located in a valley surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo is set beneath of rolling hills and on the bends of the Miljacka River. This natural landscape enhances the city's charm and the overall experience of Sarajevo.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. Before dinner, enjoy a lecture by a local expert on a local topic.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 1 hour of walking. The drive from Sarajevo to Belgrade is approximately 6 hours long, approximately 180 miles and includes a border crossing, so please have your passports ready.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Today we travel to Belgrade. The journey from Sarajevo to Belgrade takes us through the scenic landscapes of the Balkans, offering glimpses of rolling hills, river valleys, and quaint villages along the way. As we travel across the border from Bosnia and Herzegovina into Serbia, the changing scenery reflects the diverse geography of the region. Entering Serbia, we will continue towards Belgrade and arrive early afternoon.
Lunch:
Lunch en-route.
Afternoon:
After lunch we will continue our drive to Belgrade. Upon arrival we will check into our rooms and later we will gather for an expert let lecture on local topic.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 miles of moderate walking with frequent breaks, mainly flat. Museum visit involve some periods of standing.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Today we will explore the city of Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and former capital of Yugoslavia. Belgrade is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas of Europe, and was first founded at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, where the now historic Kalemegdan Fortress lies. This fortress was built around the 3rd century BCE by the Celtic tribe of Scordisci, and used to encompass the whole city (then called “Singidunum”) within its walls. During our field trip we will learn how this city rapidly expanded and grew, and was influenced by a multitude of cultures and architectural styles in later centuries. Among some of the sites seen today will be the main pedestrian street of Knez Mihailova, featuring a series of buildings and mansions of the 1800s, the Church of Saint Sava, the largest Orthodox church in Serbia modelled after the Hagia Sophia of Istanbul, and the “House of Flowers”, the memorial center of former Yugoslav president Josip Broz Tito.
Lunch:
Lunch on your own.
Afternoon:
Free time to explore Belgrade on your own. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 miles of walking. The drive from Belgrade to Novi Sad is approximately 1.5 hours. The drive from Novi Sad to Ilok is around an hour long and includes a border crossing, so please have your passports ready.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Today we will head towards northern Serbia. We will pass by Srijemski Karlovci and the Petrovaradin Fortress to reach the city of Novi Sad. We will begin with a walking exploration of the city of Novi Sad. Founded in 1694 by merchant Serbs and quickly becoming an important trading, manufacturing and cultural center, Novi Sad has earned the nickname of “Serbian Athens.” The architecture in Novi Sad is partly Central European, and this mixture of styles adds to its unique beauty. Additionally, Novi Sad is known for its gastronomy, situated in the agricultural hub of Serbia, offering a wide range of locally grown and produced foods. Future more, it is today the second largest city in all of Serbia, and is a key industrial and financial center in the country.
Lunch:
On your own
Afternoon:
After lunch, you will have some free time to explore town on your own. Group leader will be happy to provides you with tips and suggestion for your independent time. Board the motorcoach to reach our next destination, Ilok, Croatia. While approaching Ilok, we will once again encounter the majestic Danube, the most well-known river in Europe. The border between Serbia and Croatia lies along the river itself, as does the town of Ilok
Dinner:
In the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 1 hour of walking. The drive from Ilok to Zagreb is approximately 4 hours long, approximately 200 miles.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
After breakfast we will head towards Ilok, a town situated on the very border of Croatia and Serbia. This town is known for its long history of winemaking, and we will get the exciting opportunity to visit wine cellars that have been part of this town’s history for more than 200 years. During our visit we will explore wine cellars, learn about Ilok’s history and enjoy a tasting of local wines.
Lunch:
Lunch in local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch we will board the motorcoach and continue towards Zagreb. The drive from Ilok to Zagreb takes us through the heart of Croatia, offering a fascinating contrast between the quiet countryside and the bustling capital. We will check-in to our new hotel and enjoy some time to relax into our rooms before dinnertime.
Dinner:
On your own. Group Leader will provide you an insight in choices and possibilities in the very centre of Zagreb.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 3 miles of walking, with periods of up to 2 hours standing. There are some inclines without railings.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
This morning we will have an expert-led lecture providing an overview of a region you have visited on your program. After the lecture, we will explore the historic city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. We'll enjoy a walking field trip from the Upper Town to the lively main square of the city, Ban Jelacic Square. This square is named after city’s founder, Count Josip Jelacic, after he formerly unified the neighboring settlements of Kaptol and Gradec into a single city in 1850. During our excursion, we will visit landmarks such as the Zagreb Cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture, and Saint Mark's Church, with its distinctive tiled roof showcasing the coat of arms of Zagreb and Croatia. We’ll also spend time in Saint Mark’s Square, the political heart of Croatia, which houses the Parliament and Government buildings. As we stroll through the cobbled streets of the Upper Town and green streets of the Down town, we will immerse ourselves in the city’s history, culture and everyday life.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time to explore Zagreb on your own. Group Leader will be happy to help you to organize the afternoon the best. Zagreb offers numerous interesting museum visits.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 2 hours of walking. The drive from Zagreb to Bled is approximately 3 hours, it is 120 miles between Zagreb and Bled, it is then another 1 hour to Ljubljana. Please note that this day includes a border crossing, so be sure to have your passports ready.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will check out of our hotel and begin our journey towards Ljubljana, Slovenia. On our way, we will visit Lake Bled, one of the prettiest Alpine resorts, known for its natural beauty, crystal clear lake water, and magnificent castle overlooking the Julian Alps. In the middle of the lake, admire the small island with the church. We will also visit Bled Castle, the most photographed site in Slovenia.
Lunch:
We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, enjoy your free time admiring the lake and natural beauty before we make our way to Ljubljana. Upon arrival, we will check in to our hotel and have a lecture by a local expert on the topic of Slovenia.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Today’s activities include up to 2 hours of walking.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will begin our morning with an expert-led walking field trip of Ljubljana. Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia, and one of the smallest capital cities in all of Europe. This city derives its name from the Ljubljanica River, which divides the city into two halves and provides an attractive and intimate boardwalk for visitors. The riverside area by the Old Town also includes many restaurants and coffee shops, making it a popular destination for locals and foreigners alike. Ljubljana’s unique character is heavily marked by the design of famous Slovene architect, Joze Plecnik, whose influence can be seen throughout the city. Ljubljana is known for its extensive pedestrian zone, reflecting the city's commitment to green initiatives.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time to explore Ljubljana on your own. We suggest taking a cable car to discover Ljubljana Castle and admire the view of the city from above.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Check-out by 11:00 AM.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
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