Guide

Professional tour leader

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Hotel pick up in Vienna Hotel drop off in Dubrovnik Entry tickets for the ‘’will be visited’’ sites Tourist taxes International car insurance Road taxes Petrol

Transport

Private transport provided by the company

Not included:

Meals

Lunches, Dinners, Drinks & Snacks not included

Others

Lunches, Dinners, Drinks & Snacks Souvenirs Personal spending Everything that is not mentioned in the included Tips are not a must in Europe or the Balkans, however, our recommendation is to tip the tour leader/driver as an international practice to tip good service.

Optional

Choose Balkans reserves the rights to add other participants in and during the tour program. If you are interested in a private tour, please contact us for a quotation. Tour’s schedule or itinerary may be affected/adopted due to; weather, Acts of God, labour strikes, bank holidays, site temporary closure/renovation or other external forces outside the Company’s control. On request this tour may also depart from other cities of Austria or neighboring countries such as Slovakia, Hungary or Slovenia. Please contact us for more information on the extra costs.

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Day 1 Pickup In Vienna (Austria) – Bratislava (Slovakia)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Pickup In Vienna (Austria) – Bratislava (Slovakia)

After having experienced the cultural and historical splendor of Vienna (by yourself), our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Vienna. We will continue these 21 days journey by driving towards Slovakia. Our main destination for today will be the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava, a charming city alongside the Danube. Exploring the medieval Old Town Hall, we will learn more about the ancient history of Slovakia. Bratislava's Old Town is known for its many churches and cultural institutions, it is also the location of most of the foreign states embassies and important Slovak institutions. We will head to Michael's Gate, the only gate that has been preserved from the medieval fortifications, and it ranks among the oldest of the town's buildings. After exploring the old town, we will walk up to the iconic Bratislava Castle, overlooking the city. The castle was built in 9th century and it stands on the hill above Danube River. The view from the castle offers an amazing spot worth a picture of Bratislava. In the afternoon we will return to the city center. Bratislava's café culture is legendary, have some free time and try the famous coffee in one of the Bratislav’s traditional coffee shops where the aroma of roasted coffee beans fills the air. Overnight in Bratislava.
Day 2 Bratislava – Győr (Hungary) – Budapest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Bratislava – Győr (Hungary) – Budapest

After breakfast we continue our journey towards Hungary. Our first stop will be the picturesque “City of Rivers”, Győr. The city is filled with a rich history, baroque architecture and tasty Hungarian food. The center of the city is surrounded with multi color homes and churches. We will wander the historic streets and visit the Györ’s Town Hall where you cannot miss the 59-meter tower and its green top. This Neo-Classical building has been open since 1898. Győr has many churches all around the town, however, do not miss a visit to Cathedral Of The Virgin Mary which was built in Roman style in the 11th century. After we will walk towards Györ Synagogue, its colossal grey dome can be spotted from far away. The architecture of this building was used as an inspiration for other synagogues across all central Europe. We will walk along the pedestrian-only street Baross Gabor. The street is filled with numerous cafes, shops, bars, and restaurants. Have some free time to taste the delicious Hungarian food and the famous blueberry beer. Later we will drive towards Budapest. Overnight in Budapest.
Day 3 Day Tour Of Budapest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day Tour Of Budapest

Today we will explore the “Queen of the Danube”, Budapest. This scenic city is known for its singular mix of Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture. The capital of Hungary is divided by the Danube into two parts: traditional "Buddha" and cosmopolitan "Pest". Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. We will pass by the Saint Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in Budapest with neoclassical style. After we will stroll along the boulevards, the Opera, the Parliament building, Heroes' Square, and the 19th-century Fisherman's Bastion with its spectacular views over the city. We will learn more about the historical and cultural significance of the Hungarian capital by visiting the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of the city. We will cross over bridges and discover the Baroque-style Street. You can't miss Budapest at night when the city dresses up, free evening to explore on your own this amazing city, and take in the atmosphere. Overnight in Budapest.
Day 4 Budapest – Subotica (Serbia)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Budapest – Subotica (Serbia)

Our destination for today will be Subotica in Serbia, rich cultural heritage assets, intricately decorated buildings, multicultural spirit and European charm – these are the features that make this city distinctive. In Subotica, you will be eye-full of the vibrant colors, and outstanding architecture of the city due to its once importance and wealth during the Austro-Hungarian empire. We will visit the center of Subotica which is not dominated by the cathedral or church, but the City Hall. It is surrounded by the park, fountains and a huge square. Subotica is known for its relaxed atmosphere, good food, and quality wines. After a walk through the city center, enjoy time to explore Subotica’s streets and squares and taste the far-known local cuisine. We will visit the Cathedral of St. Teresa of Avila and the Synagogue. After the city center visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the town center by yourself and enjoy a coffee in the Austro-Hungarian influenced city. Overnight in Subotica
Day 5 Subotica – Novi Sad
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Subotica – Novi Sad

Right after breakfast, we will start our journey towards Novi Sad, considered to be the cultural capital of northern Serbia. Located on the historical border of two former empires – the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman, as a result you will be able to distinguish among the mixture of melting cultures influencing the town through centuries. You will immediately notice the Austro-Hungarian as well as the Ottoman influences. The town has a unique Baroque architecture characterizing some of its most important buildings. Not to be missed is the Petrovaradin Fortress also known as the Gibraltar on the Danube. We will be able to explore the old town walking through the pedestrian streets passing by Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska. Have some free time to enjoy the city on your own. Overnight in Novi Sad
Day 6 Novi Sad – Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Novi Sad – Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad

Novi Sad region is also very famous about the culture of wine production and high quality of fine wines. We will learn more about the region’s tradition on wine production in Sremski Karlovci, the center of Serbian culture in the 18th century and famous for the well-respected wine cellars. Sremski Karlovci is a real gem of Serbian culture and spirituality, which feels like a ‘museum town’ with its Baroque centre. It is said that every building, house and street in the city have their own stories to tell. Sremski Karlovci has its own legend which claims that whoever drinks from the Four Lions fountain located in the city center will surely return to Karlovci and get married there. After the tour you will have some free time to taste different wine specialties of the region, by enjoying the spectacular views of the vineyards. Overnight in Novi Sad
Day 7 Novi Sad – Belgrade
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Novi Sad – Belgrade

After breakfast we will drive from Novi Sad towards the capital of Serbia, Belgrade. We will start the tour of Belgrade by visiting Sava River, which is 990 kilometers, one of the longest rivers in Europe. Our next stop will be Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, built on the confluence of two big rivers Sava and the Danube. The view of the city from the Fortress is breathtaking. In the Upper Town of the Belgrade Fortress, you will visit the Pobednik monument with a history dating back to 1913. The park is a huge green area with beautiful trees and peaceful paths. We will walk through Knez Mihailova, the social midpoint of Belgrade locals until we reach Republic square. We will visit the temple of St. Sava, it ranks among the largest churches in the world. With a magical architecture inspired by Haghia Sophia, the temple of St. Sava is designed to hold a capacity of 10,000 people. Overnight in Belgrade
Day 8 Belgrade – Nis
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Belgrade – Nis

We will continue this journey by driving towards our next destination, Nis located in southern part of Serbia. The city is one of the most important and bustling cities of Serbia, with a long and legendary historical past. Nis is a lively city with parks, museums and galleries that illustrate its past. Nis is actually one of the oldest places in the area, the birthplace of Constantine the Great. Over the centuries Nis often played a significant role in the history of the region. The first stop will be at Niš Fortress where we will get acquainted with the history and complex culture of this monument. The old fortress on the right bank of the river is believed to have been built on the ancient Roman city, Naissus. Inside the fortress, there is a weather station that provides forecasts for the city of Niš. Not to leave behind the magic of history we will go to Bubanj Memorial Park, a World War II memorial complex. Have some free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Nis
Day 9 Nis– Skopje (N. Macedonia)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Nis– Skopje (N. Macedonia)

After breakfast we will cross border towards the Capital of North Macedonia, Skopje. The city has European, Ottoman and even Asian influences. The Stone Bridge connects the new part to the old part of the city. Impossible to miss in Skopje is the Alexander the Great Statue in the center. Another bridge that stands out is the Art Bridge that leads to the Archaeological Museum. The bridge is lined with flamboyant street lanterns and statues of Macedonian artists and musicians. We will wander through the Old Bazaar of Skopje, the biggest one in the Balkans, that combines the modern way of living with centuries of history. The cross on top of the mountain can be seen kilometres away from Skopje and has become a symbol of the city. Overnight in Skopje
Day 10 Skopje – Matka – Ohrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Skopje – Matka – Ohrid

Our first destination for today will be Matka near Skopje. It is impressive how this beautiful nature paradise is located so close to the bustling capital. We will join the boat ride at Matka Canyon that will take you through the canyon all the way to Vrelo cave and be amazed by the wild nature of Matka. The Vrelo cave in Matka is part of the top 77 of the best natural sites in the world by the New7Wonders project. The boat trip takes about 2 hours. Besides the fun boat trip through the canyon, Matka has much more to offer, such as caves, medieval castles, spectacular hiking routes and the option to go swimming in the turquoise waters. After this experience we will drive towards Ohrid, one of the most seductive destinations in N. Macedonia, indicated as one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. Overnight in Ohrid.
Day 11 Ohrid – St. Naum - Ohrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Ohrid – St. Naum - Ohrid

Ohrid city and Ohrid Lake are part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1980. Ohrid Lake and its surroundings where inhabited by the Illyrian Tribe of Enkeleys. The Lake was named by the Romans as “Lyhnidas” (the Light Lake). Our next destination will be St. Naum. From May to September, we will reach St. Naum by Boat, being able to enjoy this amazing experience and the beautiful surroundings from the boat. The monastery of St. Naum carries the name of a holy place. It is situated right at the source of River Crni Drim, which flows through Lake Ohrid. This monastery complex is part of the National Park Galicica and belongs to one of the strictly protected areas. Crystal clear, spring water reflects both the surrounding greenery and the mountain peaks in the background. You can have lunch in one of the restaurants there, or simply enjoy some time on the beach. In the afternoon we will return back to Ohrid. Overnight in Ohrid
Day 12 Ohrid – Berat (Albania)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Ohrid – Berat (Albania)

Today we will cross border to Albania. We will visit Berat, known as the town of 1001 windows, part of UNESCO world heritage. Walking through the narrowed stone streets offers a fantastic view of the medieval old houses, with windows that seem to stand on top of each other. The city’s life began in the 6th-5th century B.C. as an Illyrian settlement. Later, in the 3rd century B.C., it was turned into a castle city known as Antipatrea. Uniquely today, residents still live inside of the castle walls. Berat has it all; a beautiful medieval castle, ancient churches and mosques, a lively lower town consisting of grand old houses draped on steep hillsides, an old stone bridge, great museums and remains from the communist era in Albania. Berat is also known as the birthplace of Onufri, the famous painter of churches all-over the Balkans, distinguished for creating a specific reddish colour still difficult to imitate. We will continue our tour and visit the Gorica Neighbourhood. Overnight in Berat.
Day 13 Berat – Durres - Tirana
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Berat – Durres - Tirana

After breakfast we will head to the ancient town of Durres to explore the amphitheater, the Roman ruins and the Venetian Tower. Durrës is the main port in Albania and second largest city in the country. Because of its geographic position, in the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Durres has always been a very important city throughout the history. Founded as Epidamnos in the ancient region of Illyria in 627 BC by ancient Greeks, Durrës has been one of the most important cities in the history of Albania. During our visit we will pass by the amphitheater, the Roman ruins and the Venetian Tower. We will continue our tour towards the promenade by the seaside “Vollga”. Have some free time on your own, have lunch by the seaside restaurants or simply have a coffee while enjoining the view of the endless sea and soak up the sunshine. Not to be missed when visiting Durres is the traditional ice cream. In the afternoon we will drive towards Tirana. Overnight in Tirana.
Day 14 Day Tour Of Tirana
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day Tour Of Tirana

We will start our adventure by discovering Tirana, the capital of Albania. Tirana offers a great combination of very interesting museums, historic sites, national parks, mountains. Ottoman, Italian and communist style architecture all clashing with each other, but offering a great pleasure to wander through. We will walk towards Skanderbeg Square, named after the Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu. The main square is surrounded by the National Museum, the Bank of Albania, the Opera house, Skanderbeg Statue, Ethem Beu Mosque and fancy bars. After strolling around the bustling streets of Tirana, we will visit BUNKART, one of the most interesting museums in Tirana. Initially designed as a nuclear bunker offering shelter to the Albanian communist supreme leader Enver Hoxha and his close party members during the cold war. The bunker was kept strictly secret to the general public until 2016, when the Albanian government decided to initiate an interesting project that converted the nuclear bunker into a museum. BUNKART is a video museum exhibition dedicated to the history of the Albanian communist army and to the daily lives of Albanians during the regime. Our tour continues towards Tirana Castle, found in the city center. The castle is now a pedestrian street where modern and tradition perfectly merge creating one of the fanciest areas of modern Tirana. Our last attraction for this tour will be the colorful, lively and vibrant Blloku Neighborhood. Not to be missed is Tirana’s delicious food varieties, from the tasty and cheap street food to the finest gourmet options. Overnight in Tirana
Day 15 Tirane – Kruje - Prizren (Kosovo)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tirane – Kruje - Prizren (Kosovo)

Today we will head towards Kruja, a historical city symbol of the Albanian resistance against the expansion of the Ottoman Empire during the XV century. Kruja is situated in central Albania on a rocky mountainous terrain about 560 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Sarisalltik Mountain. Walking through the narrow streets and the wooden houses of Kruja’s Medieval Old Bazaar (one of the biggest and oldest in Balkans) gives you a sense of a passage through the history. This is the best place to shop for souvenirs in Albania, from typical to more unique and handmade souvenirs such as carpets, jewelries etc. The castle of Kruja (built during the 5th century A.D.) is strategically placed on the top of a rocky hill, making it difficult for the enemies to attack. The tour leader will take you through some hidden paths, used by the locals to leave the castle without being noticed during periods when the enemies surrounded the castle. You will have some free time to enjoy a tasty traditional lunch, do some souvenir shopping or admire the city. Overnight in Prizren.
Day 16 Day Tour Of Prizren
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day Tour Of Prizren

Prizren is considered as the cultural capital of Kosovo, mixing its rich history, incredible nature, religious tolerance and gastronomic delights. Prizren has played an important role in the region as an Illyrian settlement and a crossroad for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, contributing to the unique architecture of the city. The river flows through the heart of the old town and under the many bridges that crisscross the city. If you are looking to experience a lively international experience you should visit Prizren during August when the medieval city becomes home to one of the most famous short film festivals in the world named Dokufest. The best way to explore the town is by wandering through the streets passing by elegant medieval houses that fight for your attention. Filigree artisanal techniques for precious metals are Prizren’s joy and pride. Don’t miss the unique experience of shopping in one of the many filigree shops of the town, where you are welcomed to also see the metalsmithing magic happen. If you have to choose just one mosque to visit then visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, rich in arabesque colour and pattern. The view from the fortress on the hill above the town offers a great panorama of this astonishing town. Free afternoon in Prizren. Overnight in Prizren.
Day 17 Prizren – Shkoder (Albania
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Prizren – Shkoder (Albania

From Kosovo, we will cross the border to Shkoder Albania. The city is situated in the north-western part of Albania, giving its name to the biggest lake in the Balkans. It is one of the oldest cities in Albania, with a history of a thousand years of habitation. The oldest wall of the Shkodra castle dates from the 1st millennium BCE. The Roman historian Livy cited the town as the capital of the Illyrian king Gent, who fought the Romans in 168 B.C. We will visit Rozafa castle offering tremendous scenery of the lake and the three rivers melting all together in the Adriatic Sea. The city’s architecture is highly influenced by the Venetian style and if you are lucky enough to join the tour of Shkodra in February you might experience the carnival festival. Most of the guests are surprised to learn that most of the Venetian masks are handmade and produced in Shkodra. The city’s favourable geographic position has always been an important trading mark through the centuries, making it possible for different civilisations to encounter. Overnight in Shkoder.
Day 18 Shkoder - Sveti Stefan (Montenegro) – Budva - Kotor - Montenegrin Riviera
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Shkoder - Sveti Stefan (Montenegro) – Budva - Kotor - Montenegrin Riviera

Our first destination for today is Budva in Montenegro, before getting there we will make a stop near Sveti Stefan, historically a fishing town on a small island near the coast. However, nowadays it is not possible to visit the island anymore as it has turned into an exclusive residential resort. Even while standing on the coast, Sveti Stefan is a sight for sore eyes – worth a picture. We will drive towards Budva, a popular tourist destination, famous for its beaches, gorgeous nature and old characteristic buildings. The city is separated between an old and new part. On one hand, in the New Budva, there are many modern buildings, offices, shopping malls, restaurants and bars. On the other hand, in the Old Budva, there is the historical centre and many sights to visit, such as the St. Ivan church, the small church of St. Mary and the medieval splendours of the old town, which we will visit on this tour. Our second destination for today is Kotor, UNESCO world heritage site. The city is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets crisscrossing the old town. The intention was to confuse intruders who came to plunder the town, while nowadays it characterizes the city. Many of the old buildings and churches have small plaques on it with their dates of construction and original use. We will visit the Saint Luke’s church which has a great significance for the locals because it represents unity to them. Overnight near Montenegrin Riviera.
Day 19 Montenegrin Riviera – Mostar (Bosnia And Herzegovina)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Montenegrin Riviera – Mostar (Bosnia And Herzegovina)

From Montenegro, we will cross the border to Bosnia & Herzegovina and head towards the city of Mostar. We will, of course, visit the iconic Old Bridge also known as Stari Most, part of UNESCO world heritage and built in a typical Islamic architectural style in the 16th century. We will also wander through the Old Bazaar with its colorful streets and lively atmosphere. The city has stones with “Don’t Forget” all around the town, commemorating the city’s history. Mostar combines the old with the new, which you will notice while wandering through the streets. There are several beautiful old mosques, bustling Turkish bazaars, and a maze of cobbled alleyways. We will also visit the Blagaj monastery, a little bit outside of the city, on the foot of a cliff, with beautiful blue waters in front of it. Blagaj is a small Ottoman medieval town in Herzegovina with its stunning nature and imposing spring of river Buna. In the afternoon you will have some free time to explore and wander around Mostar, this splendid UNESCO site. Overnight in Mostar
Day 20 Mostar – Sarajevo – Mostar
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Mostar – Sarajevo – Mostar

After breakfast we will drive from Mostar to our next destination Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today’s itinerary includes walking on uneven terrain, while visiting some of the ruins during our Sarajevo tour. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. The tour will cover the stories of origins of Sarajevo and the medieval Bosnian Kingdom. We will visit the Ottoman and Austria-Hungarian parts of Sarajevo, which both with its stunning markets, bazaars, mosques, churches and synagogues will reveal the true nature of the real European Jerusalem. We’ll make sure to visit the Latin Bridge and learn the story about how WWI was triggered right here, in the heart of Sarajevo. The bridge received its name because it connected the right bank of the Miljacka with the Catholic quarter of the city, which was informally called "Latinluk" in Ottoman times. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. You will have some free time to enjoy the traditional dishes and have a cove in the old town. Overnight in Mostar.
Day 21 Mostar – Transfer Day To Dubrovnik (Croatia)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Mostar – Transfer Day To Dubrovnik (Croatia)

This is the last day of your Balkan adventure marking the end of this amazing experience through the highlights of Central Europe along the Danube river and the undiscovered Balkans. Your tour leader will take you to the Croatian border. Our local representative (driver) will shuttle you to your hotel in Dubrovnik. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories to cherish for a lifetime.

+18

21 days tour

Vienna To Dubrovnik; Grand Tour Of Central Europe & The Balk

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Vienna To Dubrovnik; Grand Tour Of Central Europe & The Balk

Pickup In Vienna (Austria) – Bratislava (Slovakia)

Bratislava – Győr (Hungary) – Budapest

Day Tour Of Budapest

Budapest – Subotica (Serbia)

Subotica – Novi Sad

Novi Sad – Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad

Novi Sad – Belgrade

Belgrade – Nis

Nis– Skopje (N. Macedonia)

Skopje – Matka – Ohrid

Ohrid – St. Naum - Ohrid

Ohrid – Berat (Albania)

Berat – Durres - Tirana

Day Tour Of Tirana

Tirane – Kruje - Prizren (Kosovo)

Day Tour Of Prizren

Prizren – Shkoder (Albania

Shkoder - Sveti Stefan (Montenegro) – Budva - Kotor - Montenegrin Riviera

Montenegrin Riviera – Mostar (Bosnia And Herzegovina)

Mostar – Sarajevo – Mostar

Mostar – Transfer Day To Dubrovnik (Croatia)

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