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Balkan Experience

«Slovenia is as picture-perfect as Switzerland or other Alpine areas to the north, but much smaller and easier on the wallet. If you’re keen on trekking, skiing, rafting or simply taking in the scenery of one of Europe’s most attractive countries then Slovenia will not disappoint.»
Lonely Planet’s Best value destinations 2013


Day 1: Arrive at Ljubljana
Arrival at Ljubljana Airport or one of the nearby airports arroud Slovenia. Transfer to your hotel and check-in. The rest of the day sightseeing in Ljubljana, the Slovenia capital. The highlights include the beautiful old town, the Opera House, Cathedral, National Museum, Parliament building, Dragon bridge, Castle and the Three Bridges Square of this city founded by the Romans,…
In the evening meet with your Tour Director and fellow travellers.
Overnight in Ljubljana.


Day 2: Ljubljana – Vintgar – Bled – Lake Bohinj – Kranjska gora
Today after breakfast a drive through the picturesque landscape in the heart of the Slovenian Alpine region. First you will stop and walk into the Vintgar Gorge, one of the most popular natural features in Slovenia. The path through the Vintgar Gorge leads along the rushing river Radovna over wooden bridges, along galleries and through the picturesque Gorge, which measures 1600m and ends with the 26-metre Šum waterfall, the highest river waterfall in Slovenia. Later, we depart to Bled, which is often mentioned as the pearl of the Alpine region due to its emerald-green lake, the church on the island in the middle of the lake and the mediaeval Castle from the 11th century perched on a cliff high above the lake. Leisure in Bled and a trip to the island by the traditional Bled special boat called “Pletna”. The journey will continue to Lake Bohinj, the largest glacier lake in Slovenia for a walk, time to relax at the side of the peaceful Lake Bohinj and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the mountains and the valley around the lake. On the way from Lake Bohinj to Kranjska Gora we will drive through picturesque villages, and also through the village of Studor, which is famous for its group of wooden hayracks just below the village. The double structure of these hayracks is particular to the area and the Studor group of hayracks have been declared an architectural monument.
Overnight in Kranjska gora.


Day 3: Kranjska gora – Kluže – Boka – Kobarid – Solkan – Miramare – Portorož
Kranjska Gora is best known as a winter sports town. Every year it hosts an event in the Alpine Skiing World Cup Series, also known as the Vitranc Cup. The world famous ski jumping hill Planica is located in the nearby Tamar valley. This morning after breakfast we head to Italy and over the Predel Pass back into Slovenia, and ontinue down by the serpentine mountain road from where views are breathtaking. Our first stop is The Kluže Fortress, which ranks among the most imposing fortifications in Slovenia, particulary because of its picturesque position above the deep gorge of the Koritnica River. Passing Bovec where several natural sights are included in the municipality, such as the source of the River Soča, the 106m high Boka waterfall, the Kanin Ski Resort, and the Trenta Valley. A half hour drive from Bovec is Kobarid, known for the famous Battle of Caporetto, where the Italian retreat was documented by Ernest Hemingway in his novel A Farewell to Arms. We will visit the Museum in the centre of Kobarid where the battle is well documented. We then continue to the Miramare Castle near Trieste, surrounded by a flourishing park full of precious botanic species, and which has a charming panoramic view, given its location on a cliff high above the sea. Commissioned by the ArchdukeFerdinand Maximilian of Hapsburg as a residence for himself and his wife, the castle offers today's visitors an example of a luxurious aristocratic residence which has preserved its original furnishings. After the sightseeing of Miramare Castle we continue along the coast to Portorož.
Overnight in Portorož.

 


Day 4: Portorož – Piran – Lipica – Škocjanske jame – Opatija
After breakfast we will explore the coastal town of Piran wich resembles a large open-air museum, with mediaeval architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Narrow streets and compact houses give the town on its peninsula its special charm. After a walk and leisure time in Piran, we will drive to nearby Lipica. Visit to the Lipica Stud Farm wich is the birthplace of all the Lipizzaner horses in the world. Nowadays it is one of the most beautiful cultural and historical monuments of the Republic of Slovenia. We will continue to Škocjan Caves, which are ranked among the most important caves in the world and represent a most significant underground phenomena. After a walking tour with a local guide, an expert on the earth`s magnificent underworld, we continue driving to the coast of Croatia to Opatija. Situated below the mountain and Nature Park Učka, Opatija is a great choice for a vacation in both summer and winter seasons. Beautiful nature, climate, parks, hotels & old Austrian villas, seaside promenades and beaches have attracted tourists from Europe and all over the world for more than 160 years.
Overnight in Opatija.

 

Day 5: Opatija – Plitvice – Zadar
After breakfast we drive to the National Park of Plitvice, one of the most beautiful national parks on our planet according to international experts, where you will stop to see the waterfalls and lakes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. A local expert guide will show you the National Park which, stretches between beech forests and occupies an area of 192 km². This magnificent work of nature is one of the biggest attractions in Europe. Sixteen lakes in beautiful blue and green pastel colours, in which are mirrored the dense forests on the slopes of the hills Little Chapel and Plješivice, are connected with waterfalls which flow into one another and create a unique and unrepeatable whole. In the afternoon we continue the trip by crossing through the Velebit Mountains to the costal city of Zadar. A city of exceptional 3,000-year old history and extremely valuable cultural heritage, Zadar will always offer something new and original. Combining the beauties of the past and preferences of modern-day tourism, it offers numerous tourist attractions.
Overnight in Zadar.


Day 6: Zadar – Trogir – Split
In the morning after breakfast we leave Zadar and continue towards Trogir. On arrival we willenjoy a sightseeing tour with a local expert guide. Trogir is a museum-town in the very meaning of the word. It's a small town and Trogir's sights are clustered together conveniently, making it an easy walk and easy to understand why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walk includes the Renaissance City Gate, the magnificent Cathedral of St Lovro, the Court house, the old and new palaces, the Church of St John the Baptist, the Kamerlengo Fortress, romantic alleys, the city walls, … After sightseing and leisure we continue to Split. A local expert guide will give you an in-depth sightseeing tour of this gracious city by the sea. Visit the Roman Palace of Diocletian, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, the Temple of Jupiter, the Papalic Palace, the Piazza, the Town Hall City Clock, Fruit square, venetian castle,… then at leisure to explore the maze of streets in the old town.
Overnight in Split.


Day 7: Split – Dubrovnik
Early in the morning just after breakfast you will start driving towards Adriatic Coast to Dubrovnik, where you will explore one of the marvels of the Adriatic. Did you know that Dubrovnik was one of the most prosperous and advanced Maritime Republics of all time? After the famous panoramic spot overlooking Old Town Dubrovnik and it's surroundings, your driver will take you to the entrance of the Old Town. Here you will be accompanied by your expert guide and start a sightseeing tour down the main street Stradun (Placa).
On this historic walk you'll travel through the heart of the old town and witness the impressive economic, social, and cultural achievements of Dubrovnik over the centuries. Enjoy wonderful views, extraordinary tales and stories of some of the most famous landmarks of Dubrovnik, such as the Rector's Palace, Franciscan Monastery, Sponza Palace, the Dubrovnik Cathedral, St. Blaise Church and many others. In the Old Port the legends of the famous Quarantine and the nearby Fortresses of St. Luke and St. John will be explained. Ships from Dubrovnik were known throughout the Mediterranean: galleons and karakas, all of which were built and loaded in the legendary Arsenal, today the popular City Café, will be seen along the way.
You will also be given some leisure time to explore the maze of charming mediaeval back streets, the world famous City Walls of Dubrovnik, one of the most harmonious and best preserved municipal walls on the Mediterranean, or you can just relax at one of the many cozy outdoor cafes.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.

 

Day 8: Dubrovnik – Kotor – Cetinje – Sveti Štefan – Budva
Today you will discower the walled cities, wild nature and breathtaking views of Montenegro. Early, just after breakfast, you will drive along the rocky countryside until reaching Montenegro, from where you will enjoy a beautiful scenic ride along the bay of Kotor, the only fiord on the Mediterranean, which was added to the list of twenty five the most beautiful bays in the world. On the foothills of Mount Lovcen there is the old town of Kotor, a UNESCO listed town of rich cultural tradition and one of the best preserved sights in the Mediterranean area. A walking tour shows you the Duke`s Palace, St. Luka`s Church, the Arsenal building, noble families` palaces, St. Tryphon Square, the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, the Town Hall, the Clock Tower, the main town square, town gates, the city walls, Kotor fortifications,… After sightseeing and free time you will witness an unforgettable experience when you drive along the serpentine road on the slope of Mt. Lovčen and enjoy breathtaking views over the bay of Kotor. On the way to Cetinje there is the small village of Njeguši, where you will taste the local cheese and prosciutto, which are made solely in the area around Njeguši.
After an excellent culinary experience you will continue to Cetinje, and upon arrival enjoy a sightseeing tour of the Old Royal Capital, and also the historical and the secondary capital of Montenegro, with the official residence of the President of Montenegro. The scenic road towards Budva leads you to the idyllic island of St. Stephen, converted into a luxury hotel, accessible only to the wealthiest peaople on the planet. From there, there is only few minutes drive to Budva, a 3,000 year old town and the centre of Montenegro's tourism, which is well known for its sandy beaches, diverse nightlife, and examples of Mediterranean architecture.
Overnight in Budva.

 

Day 9: Budva – Vrelo Bune – Mostar
This morning your day starts with a drive towards Bosnia and Hercegovina. Crossing borders we continue until reaching Vrelo Bune, a strong karstic spring, emerging from a huge karstic cavern beneath a high vertical cliff. It is one of the largest and most beautiful springs in Europe. A Dervish Monastery rests nestled among the cliffs over the River Buna here, and a serene aura pervades the area. From Vrelo Bune there is short drive to Mostar, world famous for its Old Town and bridge, now a symbol of reconciliation, cooperation, and the co-existence of diverse cultural, religious and ethnic communities. On arrival, a sightseeing tour with a local expert guide shows you the ancient oriental old town, with its forts, towers, gates, the Old Bridge (reconstructed), Old Bazaar, Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque, Kriva Čuprija, Kujunđiluk Street — Old Coppersmiths` Street, … Some free time, when you’ll have an opportunity to taste some local specialties, or to discover local handcrafts on your own.
Overnight in Mostar.

 

Day 10: Mostar – Sarajevo
Start the day with a scenic drive into the rugged beauty of the Neretva Gorge. Stop in Jablanica where, in a heroic battle in World War Two, Tito, along with Partisans, destroyed the bridge over the River Neretva to trick the Nazis, so they could save the wounded soldiers from the siege. On to Sarajevo, one of the most oriental and culturally diverse cities in Europe. A local expert guide will tell tales from the past, and of the history of this fascinating city. You will start in Vrelo Bosne, the magnificent park and the source of the River Bosna, continue to the Sarajevo war tunnel under the Sarajevo Airport, constructed during the Siege of Sarajevo in the Bosnian War, and at the end walk through the old historical and cultural centre, where you will see the old Town Hall (National Library), Brusa Bezistan (the Trading Centre), Kazanđžiluk (Old Coppersmiths` Street), Baščarsija (Olde Town's main square), Gazi Husref Bey Mosque, Orthodox Church, Synagogue, Roman Catholic Cathedral, Latin Bridge — the site of King Ferdinand's assassination, …
Overnight in Sarajevo.

 

Day 11: Sarajevo – Višegrad – Mokra gora – Zlatibor
On this day you will discover the Bosnian and Serbian mountain countryside. Departure to Višegrad, best known for Yugoslav Ivo Andrić's Nobel-winning novel, The Bridge on the Drina. Continuing, and crossing the Serbian border, until you reach to Mokra gora (Wet Mountain) and a trip on the narrow gauge heritage railway called Šargan Eight, which is unique in the world. Its route, viewed from the sky, looks like the number 8. After the amazing experience with the old railway we continue to Drvengrad, meaning Wooden Town, a traditional village that the Serbian film director Emir Kusturica built for his film »Life Is a Miracle«.
Overnight in Zlatibor.

 

Day 12: Zlatibor – Beograd
After breakfast admire the beautiful landscape of Zlatibor, a mountain range which spreads over an area of 300 km². Your morning drive takes you through the Serbian countryside to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and one of the oldest European cities. In Belgrade a sightseeing tour with a local expert guide who will tell all kind of stories about the city and the citizens will be divided into two parts. The first part is a bus tour, where you will see City Council building, National Assembly building, Terazije, Republic Square, Student Square, Varoš kapija, New Belgrade, Zemun, Topčidersko brdo, Dedinje (representative of the residential part of Belgrade, with the Mausoleum of former President Tito), Slavija square with first McDonalds in south-east Europe,...
The second part is a walking tour of the busy Knez Mihajlova Street, Bohemian Quarter (Skadarlija), Belgrade Fortress, Military Museum, the Victor Monument, Confluence of the Rivers Sava and Danube, Kalemegdan Park, and the Monument of Gratitude to France. Dinner aboard one of the amazing Belgrade rafts on the River Sava or Danube. Overnight in Belgrade.

 

Day 13: Beograd – Novi Sad
In morning free time for shoping or strolling in the old city. At midday departure to Novi Sad. A scenic drive through the province of Vojvodina, Serbia`s granary, to Novi Sad. Sightseeing with a local expert guide includes a visit to the most famous and most visited historic monument in Novi Sad, Petrovaradin, which is one of the most impressive Fortresses in the world, which overlooks Stari Grad and the Danube. The tour continues with a walk through the centre of Novi Sad, the city known as the Serbian Athens. You will see the National Theatre, Main City Square where many concerts and public events are held, wine festival, celebration of New Year`s Eve, and many more. See the City Hall, Catholic Church, Orthodox Church, Grand Hotel Mayer (favourite place of the famous scientist Albert Einstein), Zmaj Jovina Street and Dunavska Street (the oldest streets in Novi Sad, full of shops, bars and exellent restaurants), Dunavski Park, the oases of peace and quiet in the preserved piece of nature in the very centre of Novi Sad.
Overnight in Novi Sad.

 

Day 14: Novi Sad – Fruška Gora – Zagreb
After breakfast we leave Novi Sad, crossing Fruška Gora, sometimes also referred to as the jewel of Serbia due to its beautiful landscape protection area, nature and its picturesque countryside, and continue to Zagreb, the Croatian capital. Zagreb is really two cities in one. There's the Lower Town, full of wide boulevards, huge squares and Secession architecture. Then there's the Upper Town which is cosy, intimate and distinctly mediaeval in ambience. During a sightseeing tour with a local expert guide you will share entertaining stories about the city, its inhabitants and the life in the city from the early days to the modern times. Start at Trg Jelacica and head to the Upper Town, visit the Cathedral, Ban Jelačić Square, the City Museum, Dolac Market, the Stone Gate, the Gallery of Naive Art, St Mark's Church,…
Overnight in Zagreb.

 

Day 15: Zagreb – Ptuj – Ljubljana
This morning we head to Ptuj, the oldest town in Slovenija, also well known for its rich culture, architecture, tasty food and extraordinary wine. Sightseing of Ptuj, leisure and drive to Ljubljana, where the tour ends.
Overnight in Ljubljana

 

Day 16: Departure
Free until departure to the airport.

Airport transfers from Ljubljana airport on arrival and departure, 15 nights accommodation in quality hotels, 15 breakfast in hotel or restaurants, extra-small group (maximum 7 persons) – private tour, all group transportation, full-time service of a professional tour guide, all cities and sights sightseeing: Ljubljana, Bled, Kobarid, Piran, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes Tour, Zadar, Trogir, Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva, Mostar, Sarajevo, Višegrad, Beograd, Novi Sad, Zagreb, Ptuj.
Meals and drinks, except others as mentioned in the detail program, admissions, visa, international flights with airport taxes, dinner in Belgrade 35,00 EUR, personal insurance and personal expenses
For cancellation up to 3 days, a full refund will be given. For cancellation up to 1 days, 50% refund will be given.
At AdventureHero, we love to trek!