Perfect 12 days Balkan Itinerary – A Journey Through History, Culture, and Scenic Wonders! 

Embark on an unforgettable Balkan countries tour, exploring a region rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Experience charming old towns, UNESCO landmarks, and authentic local cuisine as you travel through Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, and Montenegro on this tour, designed for those who seek adventure, heritage, and relaxation. With your private guide handling all the details, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the journey, free from any logistical concerns.

Tour in a Glance

What to Expect From this Four Balkan Countries Private Tour in 2025

This Balkan vacation package takes you through the heart of the Balkan peninsula, from the vibrant streets of Belgrade, the medieval charm of Kotor, the iconic bridges of Bosnia, to the stunning Dalmatian coastline. Explore Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, and Montenegro and enjoy the amazing scenery, meet their people, history and traditions. All that with a private guide who will provide context and explain to you region’s turbulent history and interconnections.

Highlights

• Meet a unique blend of diverse cultures as you travel through 4 Balkan countries, gaining a deeper understanding of their histories, culture and traditions.

• Discover the natural beauty of Balkans from stunning Mountain views in Bosnia to picturesque Adriatic coastline.

• Explore centuries of history as you walk through UNESCO listes sites like Kotor, Dubrovnik and Split.

• Interact and connect with local guides and residents along the way, and gain invaluable insights into their way of life, customs, and contemporary issues.

Tour Flow

1st Day – Meeting and Free Time in Belgrade

You’ll meet your private guide at airport/bus/train station or wherever we agree to meet. After a transfer to your hotel Royal Inn **** (two nights) and check in you’ll have free time to relax after the trip, or to explore Belgrade on your own.

2nd Day – Belgrade Exploration

Begin your day with exploring the famous Knez Mihailova Street, the heart of Belgrade’s lively pedestrian zone, packed with shops, cafes, and historic gems. Discover the iconic Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park and admire the stunning views of the Sava and Danube rivers.

Next is panorama drive into New Belgrade, experiencing the city’s bold Brutalist architecture and areas like modern Belgrade Waterfront. Get to elite Dedinje area, and learn more about the controversal president Tito in the Museum of Yugoslavia. You’ll also visit the unique Saint Sava Church famous for its breathtaking mosaics.

As evening falls, enjoy a scenic river cruise through Belgrade, where the Sava and Danube Rivers reveal the city’s beauty. Glide past iconic landmarks, admire the skyline, and take in views of historic bridges and landmarks while soaking in the vibrant riverside atmosphere.

Rest of the day you are free to explore Belgrade on your own. Tips and recommendations will be provided.

3rd Day – Šumadija and Zlatibor Mountain

After morning check-out from Belgrade, you’ll travel south to central Serbia-Šumadija. First stop is Oplenac hill, where you’ll discover the rich history of the Karađorđević dynasty and visit their impressive royal mausoleum. Next is exploring Serbia’s finest wines, you’ll taste three wines crafted with traditional methods.

Next, drive to Zlatibor Mountain, one of Serbia’s most popular Mountain resorts. After checking-in to hotel Palisad ****, enjoy a relaxing walk around the picturesque town center. In the evening, savor a traditional Serbian dinner featuring regional specialties.

4th Day – Sargan Eight Train, Višegrad and Sarajevo

In the morning, first you’ll experience the most attractive narrow track railway in this part of Europe, the famous Sargan Eight Train. After a two and a half hour ride, you’ll continue to the nearby Drvengrad-Mećavnik (Woodentown) ethnic village, which was created by  famous film director Emir Kusturica.

Next you’ll cross to Bosnia, and the first stop is town Višegrad, famous for its UNESCO listed bridge over river Drina dating from the XVI century. Here you’ll hear a story about Yugoslavian writer Ivo Andrić who wrote the novel about the bridge and won the Nobel Prize in 1962. From Višegrad you’ll continue to Sarajevo on scenic roads following Drina and crossing Romanija Mountain. Upon arrival in Sarajevo and check-in to hotel Colors Inn **** (two nights) you’ll have free time to enjoy Sarajevo’s vibrant life. Tips and recommendations will be provided.

5th Day – Sarajevo Tour

Your Sarajevo exploration begins at Vječna Vatra (Eternal Flame), a WWII memorial, before diving into the city’s cultural, historical, and culinary gems. This tour engages all your senses, offering a true taste of Sarajevo’s essence. You’ll also try Sarajevo’s famous burek at a local bakery before strolling through the lively Ferhadija pedestrian zone. Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral and the 16th-century Orthodox Church, discovering the city’s unique blend of Orthodox, Catholic, and Islamic influences. Continue to Baščaršija, the old town’s heart, where you’ll try the legendary ćevapi. Experience Sarajevo’s coffee culture before visiting key landmarks like Vijećnica, Latin Bridge, Bezistan market, Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and Sahat Tower. End the tour with a delicious piece of baklava, savoring the city’s rich history and flavors.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to revisit favorite spots or relax in a cozy café, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

6th Day – Mostar, Blagaj and Trebinje

You’ll leave Sarajevo and continue along the Neretva River all the way to Mostar. This iconic Herzegovina town received world fame thanks to its XVI century stone bridge and charming Ottoman looking old center. You’ll explore all the important Mostar landmarks and next you’ll have a chance to unlock the secrets of traditonal Bosnian coppersmithing in a local workshop. Before leaving this charming town you’ll have some free time to try local food and admire the view over Neretva river.

Then you’ll continue to the nearby village Blagaj. Here on the source of river Buna, you’ll enjoy cool breeze and fresh water coming from the cave underneath the rock. From Blagaj we drive further through Herzegovina and in the afternoon we finish the day in Trebinje, an old and charming town with Mediterranean looks. Your accommodation for one night is hotel Central Park ****. Recommendations and tips for restaurants will be provided.

7th Day – Montenegro Coastline and Dubrovnik

In the morning you say farewell to Herzegovina and tour continues towards Montenegro, a small country renowned for its rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. Your first stop is – Perast, a charming baroque-style town nestled in the heart of Boka Bay. Here you’ll have a chance to discover a unique cultural gem – Our Lady of the Rocks island. Explore its historic church, adorned with local artwork, silver votive tablets, and a renowned sacred tapestry, while uncovering the island’s fascinating legends.

Next stop is Kotor, an old Mediterranean town that dates back to the XXII century. A walking tour will take you through this UNESCO site, exploring its charming squares, churches and other cultural monuments. You will have free time to continue wandering around the old paved town, or have lunch in a restaurant on one of romantic squares.

End the day in Dubrovnik, a world-renowned cultural gem and one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities, dating back to the 7th century. Upon arrival and check-in to hotel Lapad **** (two nights) you’ll have free time to explore the town on your own.

8th Day – Dubrovnik Exploration

Discover this historical place and its iconic landmarks, from Stradun and Pile Gate to the City Walls and famous ports. Walk through centuries of history, uncovering hidden gems and stories of the Republic of Ragusa, while reliving scenes from Game of Thrones.

After the city tour, enjoy free time or have a lunch atop the city walls with stunning views, take a cable car to Srđ Hill for panoramic vistas, or walk the 2 km stretch of the walls for a unique perspective. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise aboard the Karaka, a replica 16th-century galleon, and admire Dubrovnik’s majestic walls from the sea.

9th Day – Ston, Dalmatian Wines and Split

Day starts with a scenic drive along the Dalmatian coast, passing Croatian islands, vineyards, olive groves, and charming stone villages. Your first stop is Ston town. Here you’ll taste its famous oysters and capture the iconic Ston Walls.

Next you’ll discover the Croatian winemaking heritage in Pelješac Peninsula. We’ll take you to a local winery to try some of the finest Croatian wines such as Plavac Mali (famous red wine) and to learn about the region’s centuries-old traditions, where wines thrive in rocky terrain. Let the rich flavors and vintners’ insights immerse you in the essence of Dalmatian wine culture.

End the day in Split, Dalmatia’s largest city, with 1,700 years of preserved history. Enter through the Golden Gate and explore its key landmarks- Diocletian’s Palace, Temple of Jupiter and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the world’s oldest Catholic cathedral. Stroll along the lively Riva promenade, soaking in the Mediterranean sun and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy rest of the day on your own, exploring history, savoring fresh see foor or relaxing by the sea. You stay in Split for two nights, hotel Globo ****.

10th Day – Hvar Island Discovery

Start the day with a short drive to the ferry port and board a high-speed catamaran to Hvar, one the most famous Croatian islands. Enjoy stunning sea views as you cruise through Splitska Vrata. Discover Hvar and its Venetian-style old town, walk its charming cobbled streets lined with charming cafés and restaurants. On a guided walk, explore the harbor, Renaissance Cathedral, Benedictine Convent, Franciscan Monastery, and Church of Our Lady of Mercy.

Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace—relax on sun-kissed beaches, take a boat to the Pakleni Islands, hike scenic trails to Milna Bay, or savor a Mediterranean lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening you get back to Split.

11th Day – Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zagreb

After check-out, you’ll drive inland from the stunning Dalmatian coast to more mountainous landscape. Your first stop is famous Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed gem with 16 cascading lakes once called the “Devil’s Garden” on old maps. Enjoy a 3-hour guided tour through its upper and lower lakes, taking in the park’s pristine beauty. While swimming is not allowed, you can unwind at a nearby restaurant surrounded by nature.

End the day in Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital. After check-in to hotel Double Tree by Hilton **** , enjoy free time to explore the city and dine at your leisure.

12th Day – Zagreb Exploration and Departure

After check-out, conclude your Balkan countries private tour with a sightseeing tour of Zagreb’s highlights. Explore Kaptol, the medieval quarter, and visit the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis. Stroll through Dolac Market, admire the baroque Church of Saint Mary, and end the tour at Ban Josip Jelačić Square, the city’s vibrant heart. Depending on your flight arrangement we say goodby at the airport in Zagreb.

The End of the Balkan Tour 

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