Balkan Adventure

15 Days
From CAD 3,835
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Welcome to the Balkans, where the east meets the west and the new merges seamlessly with the old. Over the centuries, people have travelled to Eastern Europe for its fertile soil, natural resources and healing waters. This land boasts rich tradition, layered cultures and mouth-watering cuisines. With historic attractions in Budapest, thriving nightlife in Belgrade, a 15th-century Old Town in Sarajevo, Durmitor National Park in Montenegro and the medieval walls of Dubrovnik, you have plenty to discover. Hike through mountains, drive through ever-changing scenery and hit up the local bars after feasting on regional favourites.

Highlights

  • Cross the Chain Bridge in Budapest – known as the Pearl of the Danube – and take the funicular up to Buda Castle for beautiful views over Pest.
  • Discover the rich biodiversity of Kopacki Rit Nature Park on a guided tour and explore the vast landscapes of Durmitor National Park with a guided hike.
  • Wander through Belgrade’s Bohemian quarter and grand 19th-century boulevards before launching into a spot of nightlife. Then, take a daytrip to the artists’ haven of Zemun.
  • Watch Mostar's famous bridge divers hurl themselves from the stones of a bridge that has spanned the river for centuries and visit Tito's bunker – one of the best-kept secrets in former Yugoslavia.
  • See the sights on a guided walking tour of Sarajevo and learn about its recent history as a city under siege.

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 2976

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: Private vehicle,Public bus,Van

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: WMSK

StartStarts: Budapest, Bosnia And Herzegovina

FinishFinishes: Dubrovnik , Bosnia And Herzegovina

DurationDuration: 15 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (14), Dinner (1)
Accommodation: Hotel (12 nights),Guesthouse (1 night),Hostel (1 night)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3835 (CAD 256 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Budapest

Szia! Welcome to Hungary. You'll meet your leader and other members of your group this evening for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, perhaps take a stroll along the Danube River to get a feel for Budapest – the capital city with a contrast of old and new architecture. After the meeting, you might like to head out with your leader for an optional group dinner to get straight into the many local culinary delights, like the hortobagyi crepe (a stew and sour cream crepe) and matrai borzaska (deep fried pork and potato).

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

2
Day 2: Budapest

Today is a full free day to explore Budapest. Admire intricate carvings on buildings, cross the Chain Bridge to explore the Castle District or meander through winding streets, snacking on local delicacies. Budapest is a great city to enjoy from the water, so maybe take a boat trip along the river or catch a funicular up to the castle for spectacular views of the Parliament Building. Hiring a bicycle is another great way to move between the sights. Perhaps round off your day with a drink in the party district, where you’ll find plenty of ruin pubs, bars and nightclubs to choose from.

Optional Activities:

  • Budapest - Bike Ride (6000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Great Synagogue (9000 HUF)
  • Budapest - House of Terror (4000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Hungarian National Museum (2900 HUF)
  • Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour (7000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Parliament Tour (12000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Pub Crawl (starting from) (9000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) (9400 HUF)
  • Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park (5000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Danube Boat Trip (15 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

3
Day 3: Kopački rit NP

Head for Kopacki Rit today – a nature park in eastern Croatia, home to the white-tailed eagle. Since the park is made up of many different waterways, like lakes and canals, we’ll take you on a guided tour of the area after you drop your belongings at your family-run accommodation. In the evening join your group for homemade dinner on the property.

Included Activities:

  • Kopacki Rit NP- orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

4
Day 4: Novi Sad

Get off the tourist track today by heading, by private transfer to Novi Sad – the second largest city in Serbia. Along the way, visit nearby Vukovar – a town that symbolises the devastation of the recent war – and learn about the sobering local history. Visit the local hospital and the museum in its basement – used as a refuge during the siege – and listen to wartime stories from hospital staff, some of whom still work here and who were among the few survivors. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish – maybe visit the Petrovaradin Fortress, which was constructed in the 17th century and used to protect the city during the Napoleonic Wars. Or you can walk around Liberty Square and take in the Neo-Renaissance architecture, perhaps finishing the day off at a carda tavern (a fish restaurant along the Danube River).

Included Activities:

  • Vukovar - Orientation Walk & Guided Hospital Visit

Optional Activities:

  • Novi Sad - City Museum (500 RSD)
  • Novi Sad - Museum of Vojvodina (200 RSD)
  • Novi Sad - Petrovaradin Fortress - Free
  • Novi Sad - Synagogue - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

5
Day 5: Belgrade

After breakfast, begin your journey to Belgrade. Known as the White City, Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Sitting at the confluence of two major rivers – Sava and Danube – it’s an important intersection between Eastern and Western Europe. Here, you’ll experience a mix of progressive flamboyance and conservative customs. Enjoy a guided tour of the city’s wide boulevards and squares and the green heart of Kalemegdan Park. The park is home to Kalemegdan Fortress, which has overlooked the Danube River for centuries. Tonight, perhaps head down to Skadarska Street in the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija to sample some authentic local food and enjoy the lively atmosphere in a place where Orthodox churches vie for space next to nightclubs.

Included Activities:

  • Belgrade - City Tour with Local Guide

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

6
Day 6: Belgrade

Today, make your way to the neighbourhood of Zemun. This Old Town favourite has a rich history and is now known as the bohemian part of town, home to many of the city’s artists and writers. As Zemun used to be an independent town – only joining Belgrade in 1934 – the small village atmosphere still stands, transporting you to the past. After walking the town with your leader, perhaps head to a market and explore the local wares. Stroll along the river promenade and stop for an optional lunch in one of the riverside restaurants serving fresh fish. Head back to Belgrade’s centre in the late afternoon, where you have free time to visit the imposing Hram Svetog Save (St Sava Church) or learn about the life of Serbia’s greatest inventor at the Nikola Tesla Museum. The city’s nightlife has become legendary throughout Europe, with several hundred floating bars, restaurants and nightclubs lining the Danube and Sava rivers – so you’ll find the perfect way to spend your evening.

Included Activities:

  • Belgrade- Zemun Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:

  • Belgrade - Museum of Contemporary Art - Free
  • Belgrade - House of Flowers (400 RSD)
  • Belgrade - Nikola Tesla Museum (800 RSD)
  • Belgrade - Museum of Yugoslav History (400 RSD)
  • Belgrade - Military Museum (350 RSD)
  • Belgrade - St. Mark's Church - Free
  • Belgrade - Sveti Sava Church - Free
  • Belgrade - Ethnographic Museum (300 RSD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

7
Day 7: Sarajevo

Travel by bus through the beautiful countryside to Sarajevo this morning. Sarajevo is Bosnia and Herzegovina's small but vibrant capital. Thirty years after the end of a devastating war, Sarajevo is slowly asserting itself as one of Europe's most exciting destinations. The city often draws comparisons with Istanbul as a city that mixes east and west – dotted with minarets, mosques, bazaars and the aroma of coffee. When you arrive, take a guided tour for an insight into the history and culture of the city. Sarajevo is one of the few cities in the world that features an Orthodox church, a Catholic church and a mosque all within close proximity. Tonight, perhaps sample the local specialty of bosanski cevapi (grilled minced meat mixed with mild spices) in Bascarsija, Sarajevo's old bazaar.

Included Activities:

  • Sarajevo - City Tour with Local Guide

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

8
Day 8: Sarajevo

Today head out of Sarajevo for a daytrip to Mostar, which sits in the valley in the high mountains of Herzegovina. Thanks to the Neretva river, Mostar was able to develop into a city in a barren landscape. The city was the most heavily bombed settlement in Bosnia during the war, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Head to the famous Stari Most Bridge, first built by the Ottomans in 1565 by architect Mimar Hajrudin – who succeeded with the impossible mission of crossing the Neretva River with a single span stone bridge. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the famous bridge divers hurl themselves into the icy waters below. Return to Sarajevo in the afternoon, stopping at Konjic on the way – where you’ll discover one of the best-kept secrets in former Yugoslavia – Tito's nuclear bunker. Go back in time on a guided tour of the bunker and learn about Yugoslav history and how life used to be in the not-so-distant past.

Included Activities:

  • Konjic - Armijska Ratna Komanda ARK D-0 (Tito’s Bunker) tour
  • Mostar - Day Trip

Optional Activities:

  • Mostar - War Photo Exhibition (6 BAM)
  • Mostar - Old Bridge Museum (5 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

9
Day 9: Sarajevo

Enjoy a free day in and around Sarajevo. Maybe take an optional daytrip to the thermal springs and green parks of Ilidza – the source of the Bosna River. Or discover local history with a visit to the History Museum and the Sarajevo War Tunnels (dug underneath the airport runway and used to smuggle provisions into the city during its siege). You can also learn about the tragedies faced by the city's Jewish population at the Jewish Museum or get cultural with a stroll through the Art Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Pivnica HS brewery and restaurant is a good place to sample local award-winning beer and grab some dinner.

Optional Activities:

  • Sarajevo - Ilidza Park and Springs (15 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Jewish Museum (3 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (3 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Sarajevo Museum (10 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Brusa Bezistan (3 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Despica House (3 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Svrzo's House (3 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - City Hall & Old National Library (10 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (8 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - War Tunnel (10 BAM)
  • Sarajevo - Gallery 11/07/95 - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

10
Day 10: Durmitor NP

Today, you’ll ride in a private transfer through the countryside to Montenegro. Although it’s a long drive, there will be plenty of stops along the way. You might park at the bridge over Piva canyon, at the top of Kruska Mountain or at Saddle Peak viewpoint – wherever you stop, you’ll find great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs. When you arrive at Durmitor National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site that was formed by glaciers – take a hike through the lesser-explored wilderness along the shores of Black Lake and keep an eye out for some of the 163 species of bird or 50 species of mammal that roam this region. Finish your day in the nearby town of Zabljak, where you’ll spend the night.

Included Activities:

  • Durmitor National Park Hike

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

11
Day 11: Durmitor NP

Enjoy a free day today to unwind in nature. Since Durmitor National Park is so vast, there are plenty of trails for an optional guided hike. Feel free to choose one that caters to the group’s personal tastes and fitness levels – they'll expertly mix and match the trails to create a half day of hiking that everyone enjoys. One thing is certain – lakes, pine forests and alpine air are guaranteed for any trail combination. You can also choose to see the park from behind handlebars by hiring a bike and riding into town and on the trails, or by walking to and renting a boat at Black Lake.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

12
Day 12: Kotor

Today, drive to Kotor – this 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage site is set on a secluded bay, with towering peaks surrounding a coastline dotted with waterside towns. When you arrive, maybe head out to see the 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphun, the South Gates of Kotor (the Gurdich Gate) and the Armoury Square (Trg od oruzija). You might like to get lost in the alleyways, check out the boutiques and cafes or climb the hills behind the city to visit Kotor's ruined fortification walls. Take an optional hike up the stone steps, past churches, gates and bastions to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan – the top rewards you with views across the town and the Bay of Kotor.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

13
Day 13: Kotor

You can take an optional daytrip out of Kotor today. Maybe take a cruise on Kotor Fjord, visiting the twin islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and Sveti Dordje (St George), with its church in the middle of the bay. Legend has it that sailors once spotted an image of the Virgin Mary on a rock here and each time they completed a successful voyage, they added another rock as an offering. Eventually, so many were added that an island emerged, and the church was built on top of it. Alternatively, consider a trip to Budva. With its busy beaches, charming Old Town, busy restaurants and bars, Budva is like Montenegro's little version of Miami. For more history, head up to Montenegro's former capital Cetinje – now a laidback village with grand mansions that were once used as embassies. Enjoy a final night out in Kotor and maybe catch some live music that keeps the cobbled streets thriving.

Optional Activities:

  • Kotor - Cruise on Kotor Fjord (40 EUR)
  • Kotor - Maritime Museum (5 EUR)
  • Kotor - St. Tryphon’s Cathedral (4 EUR)
  • Kotor - Fortress (3 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

14
Day 14: Dubrovnik

Depart Montenegro this morning and travel along the beautiful southern coast of Croatia to Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik's walled Old Town is often referred to as the pearl of the Adriatic and it's now famed for its role in ‘Game of Thrones’. When you arrive, walk along the high city walls with your leader, enjoying ocean views. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain – built by the European architect Onofrio Della Cava in the 15th century to supply water to the city. After, maybe check out the 13th-century Franciscan monastery or the Sponza and Rector's Palaces, the only Renaissance buildings in the city to survive a devastating earthquake and fire in 1667. As it is the last night of your trip, maybe enjoy one last meal with the group and toast to your adventures.

Included Activities:

  • Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport & entry to sites)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)

15
Day 15: Dubrovnik

Today, your adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned and you can depart at any time. There's lots to see and do here in Dubrovnik, so if you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

Optional Activities:

  • Dubrovnik - Hike up Mt Srd - Free
  • Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence (4 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Rector's Palace (13 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum (10 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure (69 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car (27 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip (27 EUR)
  • Dubrovnik - Franciscan Monastery (4 EUR)

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Reviews

 

Richard   -  Traveled, October 2023

As a Canadian of Eastern European heritage, I am always disappointed about how little our media covers the Balkans and other far Eastern Europe. This trip filled in many gaps, a real eye opener, the Balkans are wonderful!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/25/2023

 

Lee   -  Traveled, September 2023

Very good trip, highly recommend it, learned a great deal about the Balkan countries, and very enjoyable.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/11/2023

 

Debra   -  Traveled, September 2023

This was our first Intrepid trip and we loved it! It was a great mixture of history and historical places, and beautiful landscapes. Our tour leader Franjo was absolutely amazing: warm, humorous and incredibly well organised. Highly recommended.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/11/2023

 

Raymond   -  Traveled, September 2023

What an experience! Our amazing guide Frano led us through an epic adventure across the Balkans. The natural beauty of the regions contrasted with the complex history and iconic cities. From pensions in walled towns to the top of soaring mountains every day was a new experience.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/11/2023

 

Melanie   -  Traveled, September 2023

Wow this trip is an incredible mix of jaw dropping scenery, heart-wrenching local stories, incredible historical buildings and architecture and really tasty food. Ivana our guide was incredible - so organised, approachable and loved the cheesy jokes. We were very lucky to have a great group and we all thoroughly enjoyed the trip. This trip was a real eye opener for me, coming from Australia and not hearing all the stories about the war. Plus with Ivana's outstanding knowledge of local history I just learned so much. Can't recommend this trip enough and I will be telling all my friends and relatives to visit the area.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/08/2023

 

Rob   -  Traveled, September 2023

An excellent trip. A variety of well known cities and small lesser known places. Our tour leader, Ivana, was brilliant.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/04/2023

 

Andrew   -  Traveled, September 2023

I would highly recommend this trip, you will learn about the history of Yugoslavia which I admit I knew very little about before this trip. Also the food and the culture is the various countries is amazing.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/17/2023

 

Robyn   -  Traveled, August 2023

If you love amazing scenery this trip is for you! Montenegro is magnificent!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/27/2023

 

Darren   -  Traveled, August 2023

Before I went on the trip, people asked "Why would you go to The Balkans?" Or "Isn't that place unsafe?" I never felt unsafe and the people everywhere were very friendly. Our Tour Leader (Igor) was amazing - it was like we got a food tour included as well. Go to The Balkans - discover its natural beauty, diverse food and amazing history before the rest of the world gets in on the secret.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/17/2023

 

Rosemary   -  Traveled, August 2023

If you would like to learn about this fascinating region do not hesitate to book this trip. Growing up with the tensions in this area made me feel I needed to get a grasp on this period of history and this tour certainly delivered. Our guide Robert was super passionate and delivered what is such a complex history in a compassionate and respectful way. Would 100% recommend this tour if you have a keen interest in the region! Its also such a beautiful place to visit without the tourists as yet!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/01/2023

 

Melinda   -  Traveled, August 2023

Fantastic itinerary, indescribable scenery. I now have a greater understanding of the area and people. This was due to our fantastic leader Dora who is so knowledgeable, providing information in a respectful and thought provoking manner. She also had the best restaurant bookings and food recommendations and always approachable to answer questions.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/20/2023

 

Sunali   -  Traveled, August 2023

A well organized, adventurous and a perfect way to experience the Balkans. Intrepid really made the two weeks of galavanting so easy. Our tour guide Dora was spectacular and I will highly recommend this tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/20/2023

 

Gina   -  Traveled, August 2023

Fabulous trip through the fascinating Balkans. I loved each city and learnt so much about the history. Our wonderful tour leader, Dora, had amazing knowledge about every place we visited.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/20/2023

 

Sunali   -  Traveled, August 2023

A well organized, adventurous and a perfect way to experience the Balkans. Intrepid really made the two weeks of galavanting so easy. Our tour guide Dora was spectacular and I will highly recommend this tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/20/2023

 

Eric   -  Traveled, July 2023

What an incredible trip, and if you have Dusan as your guide, you just hit the jackpot! His knowledge of the Balkans is impressive and I learned so much while traveling with him. I highly recommend this tour--such an interesting part of the world.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/02/2023

 

Anthony   -  Traveled, July 2023

This was one of the best trips we have been on. The variety of the locations, the amazing scenery especially In Montenegro was amazing. Made so much better by the astonishing skills and dedication of our tour leader Dushan

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/03/2023

 

Carina   -  Traveled, July 2023

This was the very best adventure from beginning to end. Fun, educational, informative and soul filling. Our guides, Dina and Igore were both dedicated and caring, obviously loving their chosen vocation. Our grou p of 9 people aged 18 to 72 (myself), were all catered for.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/17/2023

 

William   -  Traveled, July 2023

My Intrepid experience was worthwhile. I think they appeal to a broad range if interests.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/17/2023

 

William   -  Traveled, July 2023

I loved this trip! The Balkans are fun and fascinating, brought to life by our tour leaders, Dina and Igor! The only change I'd make is one day in Osijek, replacing the second day with another day in either Montenegro or Dubrovnik.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/18/2023

 

Pamela   -  Traveled, July 2023

This tour was terrific. All of the places /countries visited were interesting especially learning about the various impacts on the region due to wars and conflict. The food was great too. Dina be Igor we’re both enthusiastic leaders who have an incredible passion for the Balkans.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/26/2023

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