A Balkan Road Less Traveled

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Sarajevo

   A cosmopolitan city, Sarajevo's sheer religious and cultural diversity earned it the nickname "Jerusalem of the Balkans." While the prosperity that brought it the 1984 Winter Olympics has since faded, the city remains unique. Nestled among endless hills and towering mountains, it feels isolated yet central, quaint yet cosmopolitan. The Old Town, known as Bascarsija, with cobblestone streets, mosques and bazaars that betray its Ottoman heritage. There’s a vibrant combination of cultures here, which has had wonderful effects on the eclectic cuisine, the incredibly welcoming locals and the impressive architecture. And within that mix is the city’s dramatic and often volatile history. History is alive in Sarajevo, and you’ll find reminders of past triumphs and tragedies as you explore this lovely city. No visit is complete without a feast of the local meat specialties from the grill, including the mouthwatering Cevapcici. Explore the city’s unique history at the Tunnel of Hope, constructed between March and June of 1993 during the Siege of Sarajevo in the midst of the Bosnian War, the longest modern siege of a capital city. These days it’s an evocative museum. You’ll also want to visit the ruins of the Olympic Games in the hills outside the city. It’s haunting and beautiful to see the abandoned ski jump and luge tracks.

   Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina! You will be met at the airport in Sarajevo and driven to your centrally located accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

   

   Bascarsija, the City's Heart

   Bascarsija is Sarajevo's old bazaar and the city's historical and cultural center. This historic district, dating back to the 15th century, exudes a captivating blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences. If you want to experience the bazaar at its best, we suggest taking a stroll through the bazaar to Bravadžiluk Street. Once home to the city's locksmiths, this street is now Bascarsija's gastronomic paradise, home to many of Sarajevo's most famous eateries.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Sarajevo

   

   Meeting of Cultures Private Walking Tour

   This sightseeing tour of Sarajevo's Old Town includes all of the most important sights, including the Latin Bridge, the Museum of Sarajevo, the Emperor's Mosque, the House of Defiance, the City Hall, the Old Orthodox Church, the Morica Guesthouse, the Jewish Synagogue, and much more. Led by an experienced local guide, you will come to a better understanding of the history of the city and its contemporary layout.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Sarajevo's Best Museums

   Each museum in Sarajevo reflects the history and lives of locals in very different circumstances, and each one will significantly help you understand this unique city and its determined citizens. Museums centered around the fighting in the 90s are exceptionally emotional and include the War Tunnel (the sole source of aid and weapons during the Siege of Sarajevo), Gallery 11/07/95 (named for the date of the Srebrenica Massacre), and especially the War Childhood Museum. If you're interested in more distant history, seek out Svrzo's House (a traditional Bosnian house) and the National Museum. We also recommend visiting the Jewish Museum to learn about the very complicated and interesting history of Bosnia's long-lived Jewish community.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Traditional Bosnian Dinner with a Local Family Small Group Tour

   You'll enjoy a delicious historical adventure through the cuisine and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina at this unique and traditional Bosnian dinner. You'll have several courses of traditional cuisine and get to learn more about the local culture as you dine. At the end of the meal your guide will show you a lovely panoramic view over the entire city!
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Sarajevo

   

   Jajce and Travnik Small Group Tour

   This excursion takes you west to the city of Travnik, which for years served as the capital of the Bosnian Eyalet and home to the novelist and Noble Laureate Ivo Andric, whose home you will explore. The tour also brings you to a medieval fortress located in the Old Town before continuing on to Jajce, which was once the seat of power for Mediaeval Bosnia. Close to the stunning Pliva waterfall, Jajce is also just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Veliko Plivsko Lake, complete with centuries old wooden watermills, and now a national monument.
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 11 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

4. Day 4 Traveling to Mostar by Private Transfer / Arrival in Mostar

   

   You're departing Sarajevo today, but you're not leaving Bosnia just yet. Your next stop is Mostar, the location of the historic, and now UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, famously reconstructed after the war. A driver will pick you up from your accommodations in the morning and take you for a scenic 2.5 hour drive.

   Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

   A quiet little town with architecture impressive enough to bring UNESCO World Heritage status, Mostar's long history is impossible to miss. You’ll find it nestled in a valley amid the mountains of Herzegovina, where the cultures of East and West come together, as evidenced by bazaars, mosques, tea houses and the Turkish House. The most famous landmark here is a beloved Ottoman stone bridge connecting the town's two halves. Mostar was badly damaged during fighting in the 90s, but has been lovingly restored, especially the bridge, which is famous as a springboard for local daredevil divers. Mostar is small but filled with architectural relics and interesting pieces of history. Your best bet will be to take a private tour with a local guide, who will show you all the most incredible sites the city has to offer. There are several museums here that will give you insight into Mostar’s vibrant, volatile past. The city’s location also makes it ideal for different day trips throughout the region, and the mountains provide numerous outdoor activities for nature lovers.

   Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation when you arrive in Mostar.

   

   Meet Mostar

   Welcome to Mostar, a literal meeting point of cultures, especially the Hapsburgs and Ottomans. These connections are represented by the famous Old bridge across the Neretva River, and the distinction between the two sides of the town is visible to this day. Take a walk down cobblestone streets to the iconic bridge, enjoy the hustle of the street bazaars, and have a traditional meal in one of the restaurants by the river. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try one of the traditional desserts as well, which are very, very sweet and equally tasty. We recommend hurmasice (syrup-drenched pastries), kadaif (kanafeh), or our all-time favorite, tufahija (walnut-stuffed apples poached in sugar water).

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Mostar

   

   Mostar Private Walking Tour

   You'll get to know the real Mostar with a local guide, who will show you all of the sites in this atmospheric destination and will also tell you stories from the vibrant and volatile history of the region. Naturally, you'll cross the famed Old Bridge. There's no better way to see and learn about this unique destination!

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Herzegovina Wine and Food Half-Day Private Tour

   Unlike the rest of the country, Herzegovina has a Mediterranean climate, which makes itself known in many ways, from the local wines and cuisine, to the welcoming locals. On this tour, you'll not only try local wines and learn from their makers, but will visit Pocitelj, a village with perfectly preserved medieval and Ottoman architecture, and Medjugorje, a popular Catholic pilgrimage site.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 5 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Nocturnal Mostar

   For a nice evening, we recommend visiting the restaurant Radobolja or restaurant Maslina, where you can start with a nice local dinner and stay for drinks afterward. Both restaurants also organize live music over the weekends. For younger generations, we have a few clubs to recommend that play music until late: Golden Club, Shankly's Pub, and GoldenCube.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Traveling to Kotor by Private Transfer / Arrival in Kotor

   

   Today you'll be traveling south to Montenegro's Adriatic jewel, the town of Kotor. Your driver will meet you at your accommodations and take you for quite a scenic drive, through the Bosnian canyons to the Montenegrin mountains. En route, you'll stop at Blagaj Tekke, a Dervish monastery built at a stunning spot, beneath a cliff and between spring and waterfalls. This is a great spot for photography, a bit of exploring, and a snack before you continue on to Kotor. The total duration of this journey is about 4.5-5 hours. Since you’ll be crossing a border on your way, your journey can take a bit longer, depending on border crossing waiting time. 
   

   Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

   The southernmost fjord in all of Europe and the deepest in the Adriatic Sea, Kotor is truly a hidden gem. This is a spectacular, visually stunning destination where steep black mountains edge up against the sea. The city is on the UNESCO World Heritage list, mostly for its perfectly preserved Old Town and its walls, with architecture from the Middle Ages. The combination of picture-perfect natural scenery with incredible ancient architecture is dramatic to say the least, and makes a wonderful setting for a unique holiday. The churches and fortresses are some of the most spectacular structures, but that’s just the beginning of things to do in this city of friendly locals, rich history and delicious cuisine. After touring the city with a local, who will help you make your way through the winding streets to see the most impressive sites, we recommend you take the opportunity to get different points of view on Kotor. For a little exercise, hike up the hills surrounding the city for a breathtaking view over the rooftops to the sea. And speaking of the sea, the seafood here is delicious and incredibly fresh. You can get together with a local mussel farmer on a private pier to learn more about this craft before sitting down to a huge plate of mussels and wine. There are also numerous options for swimming, kayaking and fishing in the beautiful and calms waters of the Bay of Kotor.

   When you arrive and meet your driver, he will bring you directly to your Kotor accommodation.

   

   Evenings in Kotor

   Kotor is a charming and vibrant town, so enjoy its scenic coast with an easy walk around its center. Take a moment to explore the enchanting alleys of the old town, where you'll find a plethora of nice, cute restaurants situated among historic buildings. If you'd like to stretch your legs a bit more, walk down the 4km (2.5 miles) promenade to Dobrota, a cute village that is officially a separate town but is a de facto part of Kotor.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your First Full Day in Kotor

   

   Medieval Montenegro Private Tour

   This comprehensive tour will give you a chance to see some of the most amazing villages and towns in the region. Budva, Cetinje, Njegusi village and Kotor are all interesting in their own right, and touring them with an expert guide is the best way to learn about their medieval history and architecture. Your guide knows the history of each of these places and will tell you stories of the rich and volatile past of the region while you cruise through the countryside and explore the cities on foot, getting a local's point of view.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 7 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   All about the Mussels

   Since it’s right on the coast, Montenegro is known for its remarkably fresh seafood. We recommend getting a taste of this local delicacy and, specifically, the incredible mussels. Head to one of the coastal restaurants for the freshest meal, or join a group and learn all about mussels while visiting some of the most important sights around Kotor. If you choose to join a group, the first part of the tour will be done on a boat, allowing you to explore the breathtaking Boka Kotorska Bay from a unique and picturesque perspective.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Traveling to Tirana by Private Car / Arrival in Tirana

   

   Today you'll enjoy a coastal drive as you head to your next overnight destination, Tirana. Along the way, you will stop at Ulcinj, the southernmost town in Montenegro with something of an Albanian flavor. Here you'll have the chance to explore the stunning Old Town and fortress, before crossing the border and continuing on to the Albanian capital. The duration of the journey is around 6 hours total, but since you’ll be crossing a border on your way, your journey can take a bit longer, depending on border crossing waiting times. 
   

   Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

   Tirana is a unique destination that combines opposites. It feels both ancient and modern, quaint and cosmopolitan, fast-paced, yet laidback. There are wonderful restaurants here, beautiful nature in the surrounding countryside, and a rich cultural life that will keep you entertained all day and night. The Blloku neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant, with excellent bars, restaurants and cafes. The Old Town, meanwhile, has an eclectic mix of historic architecture. This is a lovely destination that still feels untouched, so you’ll really be able to make the city yours. Besides exploring the unique urban atmosphere, there are several fantastic day trips to enjoy. Driving to the city of Berat is always fun, as you can stop at a winery along the way to sample some of the tasty local vintages, then check out an impressive castle. The Albanian Riviera is also relatively close by, and here you can relax along the shore and get in touch with the life of local fishermen. The nearby Dajti Mountain is also an impressive destination, with incredible views over the city and beyond. From outdoor adventures to delectable gastronomy and historic architecture, Tirana really has something for everyone.

   Once in Tirana, your private driver will bring you directly to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Tirana by Night

   Tirana is a lovely city, night and day, as it's filled with countless coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. You can spend time in Grand Park or experience the busy bars and restaurants of the Blloku area, inside Tirana Castle, or behind the Pyramid situated on the main Boulevard. The Sky Tower offers a panoramic view of Tirana, especially at night when the city is illuminated. The revolving bar and restaurant on the top floor provide a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy drinks while taking in the city lights. The city's center also offers many smaller local restaurants, offering popular dishes at reasonable rates.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Tirana

   

   Styles of Tirana

   If you'd like to get properly acquainted with Tirana, the best way is to spend a day with a local, starting with a brief walking tour of the city covering all the main sights, including the Mosque of Ethem Bey, the Clock Tower, Skanderbeg square, The Martyr's Cemetery, Grand Park and various government buildings. The tour concludes in the former Communist Party elite’s residential area, Blokku. This is now a buzzing district packed with modern bars, restaurants and pubs.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Eat Your Way

   Tirana has a wealth of tasty restaurants and cool cafes where you can taste local delicacies and cosmopolitan cuisine from around the world. If you’re looking for a unique place to enjoy a hearty meal or a drink, check out the Blloku neighborhood. Here you’ll find the city’s most interesting places, where young in-the-know locals congregate and you’re always sure to see something interesting. It’s hard to go wrong here, and it’s not a huge neighborhood, so you’d do well to wander around a bit to choose where you’d like to enjoy your afternoon or evening.
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Your Second Full Day in Tirana

    

    Kruja and Durres Private Day Trip

    An ancient, hilltop town, Krujë is a must-see for those staying in Tirana. The restored old bazaar is packed with authentic handmade goods, including carpets, which you can watch being made on a loom. Inside the walls of Kruja Castle, you will visit an ethnographic museum in an Ottoman tower house and the Bektashi Sufi Shrine, where you can learn more about how people have lived here for centuries. After Kruja, you'll visit the city of Durres where you can enjoy lunch with a scenic view of the sea, followed by a visit to one of the largest Roman amphitheaters, which saw gladiatorial combat.
    

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 9 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

11. Day 11 Departure Day

    We will arrange for a transfer to Tirana's Mother Teresa airport. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel in central Tirana and get you to the airport in plenty of time for your departing flight. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.