The Balkans Unlocked
19 Sep –
7 Oct 2024
- 19 Days
- 4 and 5 star hotels
- 32 Meals
- Group size: 18
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Itinerary
Johannesburg – Zagreb
We meet at O.R. Tambo International for our flight to Zagreb, Croatia. The journey that lies ahead has been carefully planned and curated to show us the best of the Balkans, yet what we really look forward to are the unexpected moments that will engrain this journey on our memories.
Zagreb
We arrive in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. The country lies at the crossroads of Europe, sharing borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, and Montenegro. Zagreb greets us with wide-open boulevards lined with grand buildings and lush parks. It’s a small, intimate city crowned with an atmospheric old town filled with winding cobbled alleys. We enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant this evening and then retire to our rooms for a well-deserved rest.
Zagreb – Plitvice National Park – Pakoštane
This morning, after breakfast, we set out for a city tour of Zagreb. We take a walk through the Upper Town and see Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark’s Church and some of the beautiful Baroque palaces that border the narrow streets. From the city’s ancient core, we continue to Ban Jelačić Square to take in the sights of the modern city. We travel into Croatia’s lush interior in the afternoon to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. This glorious expanse of dense beech wood forest contains 16 crystal-clear lakes connected by a network of dreamy waterfalls and cascades. We overnight in Pakoštane and have dinner at the hotel.
Pakoštane – Šibenik – Split
Today, we set out to discover Croatia’s sun-bleached Dalmatian Coast. We explore Šibenik with a walk through its steep, stone alleyways. It’s the oldest Croatian and Slavic city on the Adriatic, and its cathedral, the Cathedral of St. James, is regarded as an architectural masterpiece. Built in the Gothic and Renaissance styles, it’s considered the oldest stone cathedral in the world. Later, we head to Split, a buzzing city by the sea. We check into our hotel and share a wonderful dinner.
Split – Trogir – Split
Before we discover the many treasures of Split, we have breakfast at the hotel and make our way along the coast to the stunning town of Trogir. Trogir’s medieval old quarter is set on a tiny island connected by bridges to the mainland and the larger island of Čiovo. It’s a collage of crumbling stone walls, cobbled streets and ornate buildings. The rest of the day is spent in Split, where we explore Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most imposing Roman structures in existence today. We visit the palace cellars and the Cathedral of St. Domnius and marvel at the grand columns and engraved façades. In the evening, we dine at a local restaurant.
Split – Mostar
Today, we leave behind Croatia’s jagged shoreline and Mediterranean mood for the storybook hills of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar, our first stop, is utterly enchanting. Situated on the Neretva River between the Adriatic Sea and mineral-rich regions of Central Bosnia, Mostar rose to prominence as a trading post. The Stari Most, the city’s iconic bridge, spans the river, symbolising the city’s rich heritage. We dive into the tangle of lanes surrounding the bridge to discover the colourful bazaar, and visit a mosque and a perfectly preserved Turkish house. The afternoon is spent at leisure, and we gather for dinner at the hotel.
Mostar – Jablanica – Sarajevo
This morning, we depart from Mostar after breakfast and follow the emerald-green waters of the Neretva River to the small town of Jablanica. We make a short pitstop to take in the breathtaking scenery before going to Sarajevo. The city is a living museum, a place where past and present, east and west, collide. Our exploration starts with the Bascarsija, the 16th-century labyrinthine old quarter at the city’s heart. We learn about Sarajevo’s layered history, seeing the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Old Orthodox Church and the Sarajevo Cathedral. We visit the Latin Bridge, the unassuming location of the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand of Austria, the event that catalysed the start of World War I. Tonight we have dinner at the hotel.
Sarajevo – Visegrad – Bajina Basta – Valjevo – Belgrade
A day of travelling lies ahead as we journey from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Serbia. Breathtaking scenes of rugged mountains, meandering rivers and rolling hills fill our trip, interspersed with visits to charming towns. We stop in Višegrad, famous for the Ottoman-era Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which stretches over the River Drina. After crossing the border, we come to Bajina Bašta, which lies on the foothills of Tara Mountain, an area of outstanding natural beauty. We pause in Valjevo, a lively town with a pretty city centre, before continuing to Belgrade. We immerse ourselves in the city’s atmosphere tonight with dinner at a local restaurant.
Belgrade
After breakfast, we set out for a tour of Belgrade, which shows us the highlights and hidden gems of the city. We visit the neighbourhoods of Novi Beograd, Dedinje and the old town, seeing magnificent sights like the Temple of St. Sava, Slavija Square, the Royal Palace, and many more. We also pay a short visit to Belgrade Fortress. It’s said that Belgrade’s nickname, “The White City,” comes from the white stone used to construct this iconic building. We take in the panoramic views of the Sava and Danube Rivers from the ancient fortifications. After having lunch at a local restaurant, we part ways and spend the afternoon at leisure.
Belgrade – Studenica – Žiča – Vrnjačka Banja
We depart from Belgrade after breakfast and make our way into the pristine Serbian countryside to visit the UNESCO-listed Studenica Monastery, a cradle of Serbian literature, spirituality and art for over eight centuries. Inside the rough circular walls stands the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary, constructed in exquisite white marble. From Studenica, we travel to Žiča Monastery. Its red exterior hides an ornate interior featuring exquisite frescos. Later, we arrive in Vrnjačka Banja. Nestled in lush countryside, this tree-filled town was once the favourite getaway destination of the Serbian aristocracy. We gather for dinner and share in the beauty of this picturesque town.
Vrnjačka Banja – Kosovo Polje – Pristina – Gračanica – Skopje
Today, we continue south, crossing the border into Kosovo. This landlocked country lies at the heart of the Balkans, bordered by Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania and Montenegro. We visit Kosovo Polje, the site of an epic 14th-century battle between the Serbians and the Ottoman Empire. Travelling through the capital, Pristina, we continue to Gračanica Monastery. Set on extensive grassy grounds, this attractive monastery was completed in 1321 and houses refined medieval-era iconography and colourful murals. This afternoon, we leave Kosovo behind, slipping across the border into North Macedonia. We stay and dine in Skopje, the capital city.
Skopje – Tetovo – Ohrid
Awake in Skopje and step out to explore with a sightseeing tour. Skopje is a city of contrasts, blending grand neoclassical buildings and wide boulevards with relics from antiquity. We tap into the city’s rich history with visits to the Old Bazaar, the Stone Bridge, the Kale Fortress and the Church of the Holy Saviour. On the city’s outskirts, we stop at the Church of St. Panteleimon, a tiny church on the grounds of a monastery with beautifully restored frescos. Departing from Skopje, we travel to Ohrid via Tetovo. Here, we marvel at the vibrant painted walls of the Sarena Dzamija Mosque. We arrive in Ohrid in the evening, where a delicious dinner welcomes us.
Ohrid – Tirana
Ohrid is breathtakingly beautiful. A huddle of buildings cluster on the shoreline, reflected in the dark blue waters of Lake Ohrid. Lake Ohrid is immense, stretching as far as the eye can see and encircled by rolling hills. It’s one of the oldest freshwater lakes in the world and remarkable for its biodiversity and the many historical events that have played out on its banks. We explore the old town and hop on a boat to cruise the lake’s tranquil waters and visit the isolated Monastery of St. Naum. Later in the day, we cross the border into Albania, twisting our way along rivers and hilly landscapes to the capital, Tirana. Tonight, we enjoy an Albanian dinner, tomorrow we’ll discover the city.
Tirana – Sveti Sefan – Budva
Tirana lies almost exactly halfway between Rome and Istanbul, and its architecture has been influenced by both, as well as by Russia. In a single glance, you might see a neo-classical mansion, the minaret of a mosque and the hard lines of a Soviet high-rise. We explore with a city tour, starting in Skanderbeg Square and seeking out the beautiful sights. Later in the day, we set course for Montenegro. Our first stop is Sveti Stefan, a fortified island village connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Snaking our way along the water’s edge, we travel to Budva, where we will stay and eat tonight.
Budva – Cetinje – Kotor – Budva
Make sure you have your camera on hand because today will be filled with dazzling views. From the blue expanse of the Adriatic, we’ll weave through craggy limestone peaks, green hills and rustic countryside to Cetinje, Montenegro’s cultural and spiritual heart. We visit King Nikola’s Museum, filled with treasures from bygone times. Next, we travel to Kotor. Set in a secluded corner of the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, thick stone walls surround its character-filled old town, hiding a spider’s web of narrow alleys and historic buildings. We wander the streets and visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon. In the evening, we return to Budva.
Budva – Boka Kotorska – Dubrovnik
Today, our trip comes full circle as we return to Croatia. We hug the steep walls of the Bay of Kotor, skirting the pretty coastline to the town of Boka Kotorska, which has a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Onwards through the countryside and past scattered villages to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s famous walled city. Red-tiled roofs and church spires peak from above the medieval fortifications enclosing the city’s storied streets. We spend the afternoon at leisure and dine at the hotel.
Dubrovnik
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to Dubrovnik’s old town to discover its many gems. Our tour dives into the 1,400-year history of the city by spotlighting its most important religious and cultural sights. En route, we stroll along Stradum, the beloved main thoroughfare of the old town and the city’s gathering place. We see beautiful landmarks, like the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Church, the imposing Dubrovnik Cathedral, the city’s three monasteries, and the city hall. The afternoon is spent at leisure. In the evening, we gather at the hotel for a farewell dinner.
Dubrovnik – Johannesburg
This morning, our tour of the Balkans comes to an end as we make our way to the airport and board our flight to South Africa.
Dubrovnik – Johannesburg
Seven countries, seventeen days and one incredible journey. Our tour through the Balkans has been an epic exploration of the many histories, cultures and cuisines of a multi-faceted region. From sun-kissed beaches and towering mountains to medieval villages and pulsating cities, it’s shown us a different side of Europe. We return with vivid memories and enchanting experiences that will last a lifetime. Seagull Travel & Tours looks forward to taking the road less travelled with you again.
Johannesburg – Zagreb
We meet at O.R. Tambo International for our flight to Zagreb, Croatia. The journey that lies ahead has been carefully planned and curated to show us the best of the Balkans, yet what we really look forward to are the unexpected moments that will engrain this journey on our memories.
Zagreb
We arrive in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. The country lies at the crossroads of Europe, sharing borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, and Montenegro. Zagreb greets us with wide-open boulevards lined with grand buildings and lush parks. It’s a small, intimate city crowned with an atmospheric old town filled with winding cobbled alleys. We enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant this evening and then retire to our rooms for a well-deserved rest.
Zagreb – Plitvice National Park – Pakoštane
This morning, after breakfast, we set out for a city tour of Zagreb. We take a walk through the Upper Town and see Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark’s Church and some of the beautiful Baroque palaces that border the narrow streets. From the city’s ancient core, we continue to Ban Jelačić Square to take in the sights of the modern city. We travel into Croatia’s lush interior in the afternoon to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. This glorious expanse of dense beech wood forest contains 16 crystal-clear lakes connected by a network of dreamy waterfalls and cascades. We overnight in Pakoštane and have dinner at the hotel.
Pakoštane – Šibenik – Split
Today, we set out to discover Croatia’s sun-bleached Dalmatian Coast. We explore Šibenik with a walk through its steep, stone alleyways. It’s the oldest Croatian and Slavic city on the Adriatic, and its cathedral, the Cathedral of St. James, is regarded as an architectural masterpiece. Built in the Gothic and Renaissance styles, it’s considered the oldest stone cathedral in the world. Later, we head to Split, a buzzing city by the sea. We check into our hotel and share a wonderful dinner.
Split – Trogir – Split
Before we discover the many treasures of Split, we have breakfast at the hotel and make our way along the coast to the stunning town of Trogir. Trogir’s medieval old quarter is set on a tiny island connected by bridges to the mainland and the larger island of Čiovo. It’s a collage of crumbling stone walls, cobbled streets and ornate buildings. The rest of the day is spent in Split, where we explore Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most imposing Roman structures in existence today. We visit the palace cellars and the Cathedral of St. Domnius and marvel at the grand columns and engraved façades. In the evening, we dine at a local restaurant.
Split – Mostar
Today, we leave behind Croatia’s jagged shoreline and Mediterranean mood for the storybook hills of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar, our first stop, is utterly enchanting. Situated on the Neretva River between the Adriatic Sea and mineral-rich regions of Central Bosnia, Mostar rose to prominence as a trading post. The Stari Most, the city’s iconic bridge, spans the river, symbolising the city’s rich heritage. We dive into the tangle of lanes surrounding the bridge to discover the colourful bazaar, and visit a mosque and a perfectly preserved Turkish house. The afternoon is spent at leisure, and we gather for dinner at the hotel.
Mostar – Jablanica – Sarajevo
This morning, we depart from Mostar after breakfast and follow the emerald-green waters of the Neretva River to the small town of Jablanica. We make a short pitstop to take in the breathtaking scenery before going to Sarajevo. The city is a living museum, a place where past and present, east and west, collide. Our exploration starts with the Bascarsija, the 16th-century labyrinthine old quarter at the city’s heart. We learn about Sarajevo’s layered history, seeing the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Old Orthodox Church and the Sarajevo Cathedral. We visit the Latin Bridge, the unassuming location of the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand of Austria, the event that catalysed the start of World War I. Tonight we have dinner at the hotel.
Sarajevo – Visegrad – Bajina Basta – Valjevo – Belgrade
A day of travelling lies ahead as we journey from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Serbia. Breathtaking scenes of rugged mountains, meandering rivers and rolling hills fill our trip, interspersed with visits to charming towns. We stop in Višegrad, famous for the Ottoman-era Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which stretches over the River Drina. After crossing the border, we come to Bajina Bašta, which lies on the foothills of Tara Mountain, an area of outstanding natural beauty. We pause in Valjevo, a lively town with a pretty city centre, before continuing to Belgrade. We immerse ourselves in the city’s atmosphere tonight with dinner at a local restaurant.
Belgrade
After breakfast, we set out for a tour of Belgrade, which shows us the highlights and hidden gems of the city. We visit the neighbourhoods of Novi Beograd, Dedinje and the old town, seeing magnificent sights like the Temple of St. Sava, Slavija Square, the Royal Palace, and many more. We also pay a short visit to Belgrade Fortress. It’s said that Belgrade’s nickname, “The White City,” comes from the white stone used to construct this iconic building. We take in the panoramic views of the Sava and Danube Rivers from the ancient fortifications. After having lunch at a local restaurant, we part ways and spend the afternoon at leisure.
Belgrade – Studenica – Žiča – Vrnjačka Banja
We depart from Belgrade after breakfast and make our way into the pristine Serbian countryside to visit the UNESCO-listed Studenica Monastery, a cradle of Serbian literature, spirituality and art for over eight centuries. Inside the rough circular walls stands the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary, constructed in exquisite white marble. From Studenica, we travel to Žiča Monastery. Its red exterior hides an ornate interior featuring exquisite frescos. Later, we arrive in Vrnjačka Banja. Nestled in lush countryside, this tree-filled town was once the favourite getaway destination of the Serbian aristocracy. We gather for dinner and share in the beauty of this picturesque town.
Vrnjačka Banja – Kosovo Polje – Pristina – Gračanica – Skopje
Today, we continue south, crossing the border into Kosovo. This landlocked country lies at the heart of the Balkans, bordered by Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania and Montenegro. We visit Kosovo Polje, the site of an epic 14th-century battle between the Serbians and the Ottoman Empire. Travelling through the capital, Pristina, we continue to Gračanica Monastery. Set on extensive grassy grounds, this attractive monastery was completed in 1321 and houses refined medieval-era iconography and colourful murals. This afternoon, we leave Kosovo behind, slipping across the border into North Macedonia. We stay and dine in Skopje, the capital city.
Skopje – Tetovo – Ohrid
Awake in Skopje and step out to explore with a sightseeing tour. Skopje is a city of contrasts, blending grand neoclassical buildings and wide boulevards with relics from antiquity. We tap into the city’s rich history with visits to the Old Bazaar, the Stone Bridge, the Kale Fortress and the Church of the Holy Saviour. On the city’s outskirts, we stop at the Church of St. Panteleimon, a tiny church on the grounds of a monastery with beautifully restored frescos. Departing from Skopje, we travel to Ohrid via Tetovo. Here, we marvel at the vibrant painted walls of the Sarena Dzamija Mosque. We arrive in Ohrid in the evening, where a delicious dinner welcomes us.
Ohrid – Tirana
Ohrid is breathtakingly beautiful. A huddle of buildings cluster on the shoreline, reflected in the dark blue waters of Lake Ohrid. Lake Ohrid is immense, stretching as far as the eye can see and encircled by rolling hills. It’s one of the oldest freshwater lakes in the world and remarkable for its biodiversity and the many historical events that have played out on its banks. We explore the old town and hop on a boat to cruise the lake’s tranquil waters and visit the isolated Monastery of St. Naum. Later in the day, we cross the border into Albania, twisting our way along rivers and hilly landscapes to the capital, Tirana. Tonight, we enjoy an Albanian dinner, tomorrow we’ll discover the city.
Tirana – Sveti Sefan – Budva
Tirana lies almost exactly halfway between Rome and Istanbul, and its architecture has been influenced by both, as well as by Russia. In a single glance, you might see a neo-classical mansion, the minaret of a mosque and the hard lines of a Soviet high-rise. We explore with a city tour, starting in Skanderbeg Square and seeking out the beautiful sights. Later in the day, we set course for Montenegro. Our first stop is Sveti Stefan, a fortified island village connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Snaking our way along the water’s edge, we travel to Budva, where we will stay and eat tonight.
Budva – Cetinje – Kotor – Budva
Make sure you have your camera on hand because today will be filled with dazzling views. From the blue expanse of the Adriatic, we’ll weave through craggy limestone peaks, green hills and rustic countryside to Cetinje, Montenegro’s cultural and spiritual heart. We visit King Nikola’s Museum, filled with treasures from bygone times. Next, we travel to Kotor. Set in a secluded corner of the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, thick stone walls surround its character-filled old town, hiding a spider’s web of narrow alleys and historic buildings. We wander the streets and visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon. In the evening, we return to Budva.
Budva – Boka Kotorska – Dubrovnik
Today, our trip comes full circle as we return to Croatia. We hug the steep walls of the Bay of Kotor, skirting the pretty coastline to the town of Boka Kotorska, which has a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Onwards through the countryside and past scattered villages to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s famous walled city. Red-tiled roofs and church spires peak from above the medieval fortifications enclosing the city’s storied streets. We spend the afternoon at leisure and dine at the hotel.
Dubrovnik
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to Dubrovnik’s old town to discover its many gems. Our tour dives into the 1,400-year history of the city by spotlighting its most important religious and cultural sights. En route, we stroll along Stradum, the beloved main thoroughfare of the old town and the city’s gathering place. We see beautiful landmarks, like the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Church, the imposing Dubrovnik Cathedral, the city’s three monasteries, and the city hall. The afternoon is spent at leisure. In the evening, we gather at the hotel for a farewell dinner.
Dubrovnik – Johannesburg
This morning, our tour of the Balkans comes to an end as we make our way to the airport and board our flight to South Africa.
Dubrovnik – Johannesburg
Seven countries, seventeen days and one incredible journey. Our tour through the Balkans has been an epic exploration of the many histories, cultures and cuisines of a multi-faceted region. From sun-kissed beaches and towering mountains to medieval villages and pulsating cities, it’s shown us a different side of Europe. We return with vivid memories and enchanting experiences that will last a lifetime. Seagull Travel & Tours looks forward to taking the road less travelled with you again.
Are you ready to discover a different side of Europe? Join Seagull Travel & Tours as we take the road less travelled to the Balkans. This vast and varied region is an untapped treasure trove of history, culture and natural beauty. We show you the highlights and hidden gems of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania and Montenegro with an engaging 17-day journey. Travelling with Seagull allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Balkans. Our expertly planned itineraries account for all the details, from what to see and where to stay to how to get around. We journey by private coach, accompanied by English-speaking guides who give insight into our travels and bridge the language divide. With this small group tour to the Balkans, you’ll see a new side of Europe in the company of like-minded travellers and step off the beaten path with ease and luxury.
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Seagull Travel & Tours crafts small group tours that offer luxury, convenience, and spontaneous moments of joy.
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We are here to help
The tour leader collects a set amount from each member of a tour. This kitty is then used to tip the local tour guide and city guides, bus drivers, any other assistants, and restaurant staff. We believe in tipping for good service as a token of appreciation, especially as many workers in tourism rely on tips to supplement their income.
Although we cannot apply on your behalf, we are more than willing to give guidance and assistance with completing forms. We do this for many clients on a near-daily basis. It does, however, remain the responsibility of the client to ensure that they get the correct visa on time.
Remember that we limit the number of guests on our tours. This means more time at stops and sites. We definitely do not do groups of 30 pax, where guests are rushed from one site to the other. There is enough time to explore on your own.
We always suggest USD/Euro 50 to USD/Euro 100 per person per day. As we mostly include two meals per day on our tours, this will be enough for lunch/dinner, some snacks, and memento shopping. Should you want to buy larger items, we suggest taking along your credit card. Remember to advise the bank that you will be travelling.
