Balkans Private Tour Program (MON006) 10 Days 9 Nights

We pick you up at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Belgrade is an ancient cradle of civilization with a long history dating back to prehistoric times, where the Vinča culture once flourished. The Sava and Danube rivers converge in Belgrade, giving it key strategic importance.

The Church of Saint Sava (Church of St. Sava) is a Serbian Orthodox church in Belgrade and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Built in honor of Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, it is believed to stand on the site where his relics were burned by the Ottomans. Construction began in 1935, was halted, and resumed in 1985. The interior decoration is currently underway, expected to be completed in 2020, with an elevator taking visitors up to enjoy panoramic views from the base of the dome.

The Museum of Yugoslav History and the House of Flowers (Tito's mausoleum) display tributes from nations around the world, as well as firearms, weapons, and uniforms belonging to Marshal Tito, the former President of Yugoslavia who played a prominent role in both World Wars. Tito led Yugoslavia out of the Warsaw Pact to maintain neutrality and pursued policies promoting equality among all ethnic groups. After his passing, Yugoslavia faced conflicts and civil war, ultimately leading to the breakup of the country in the 1990s.

Then, take a cruise along the Sava and Danube rivers to enjoy the atmosphere along both riverbanks. The cruise route passes under several bridges and through the new Belgrade Waterfront district, which was recently developed with massive investment as an all-in-one waterfront project featuring office buildings, apartments, hotels, restaurants, a large shopping mall, a library, a museum, and more. The boat will cruise to the confluence of the two main rivers, the Sava and the Danube, which is the origin of more than 100 smaller tributaries. This area is considered a wonderful wish-granting spot known as the Happy Buoy according to the local beliefs of Belgrade residents. There are 2 rules for making a wish: do not make more than 1 wish, and do not wish for anything that is untrue or impossible. The boat will then cruise past the Belgrade Fortress, where you can take beautiful photos of the fortress from the river.

The ancient Belgrade Fortress, also known by its Turkish name "Kalemegdan," has served as a key stronghold for various civilizations for over two thousand years, having been destroyed and rebuilt dozens of times. Today, the complex comprises the ancient fortress and Kalemegdan Park. Inside the old fortress area, there are multiple gates; viewed from the outside, the fortress is surrounded by exceptionally tall and thick walls, with equally massive and sturdy gates, such as Defterdar's Gate facing the Sava River, the 15th-century Zindan Gate, and the Inner Stambol Gate built in 1750. There is also an open-air military museum displaying tanks and artillery used in the World Wars, ancient watchtowers, and the Victor Monument, sculpted by architect Ivan Meštrović, which stands as one of Belgrade's iconic landmarks.

hotel Overnight In Belgrade

Today, we depart for Smederevo, a distance of 55 km (1 hour). Smederevo is a city in eastern Serbia founded in the Middle Ages and served as the capital from 1430 to 1439, rich in cultural heritage. Explore Smederevo Fortress, built in the 15th century by Despot Đurađ Branković in just 2 years. Its architecture features a triangular Serbian-Byzantine design with 25 towers, situated along the Jezava and Danube rivers.

In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Viminacium, a major archaeological site in Serbia located near the town of Kostolac. Viminacium was one of the largest Roman cities between the 1st and 5th centuries, fully equipped with classic Roman urban structures. The city was later destroyed several times and rebuilt. Today, numerous ancient artifacts have been unearthed here, including golden tiles, jade, marble sculptures, and more than 1,400 ancient tombs.

Afterwards, visit Golubac Fortress, one of the most stunning medieval fortresses in the Balkans. Perched on the banks of the Danube River along the border between Serbia and Romania, the fortress was ruled by various powers, including the Bulgarians, Hungarians, Austrians, and Ottomans. Inside, archaeological evidence spanning from Roman times to the Ottoman era has been uncovered. The fortress boasts remarkable architecture divided into 3 sections, with 9 towers and ancient medieval frescoes.

hotel Overnight In Belgrade

Today, depart for Sargan, a small town in the west-central region of the country, covering a distance of approximately 111 kilometers through various mountain ranges filled with lush greenery and forests. In spring and summer, the air in this area is fragrant with blooming mountain flowers, while in winter, it is continuously blanketed with white snow.

In the afternoon, board the Sargan Eight Train steam train, which is part of a narrow-gauge railway shaped like the number 8, connecting the main railway routes of Serbia and Austria-Hungary (from Belgrade to Mokra Gora). Built in 1925, the train runs over a distance of 15 kilometers through 22 tunnels and 5 bridges. The railway track has a width of only 760 mm (30 inches), serving as an important historical route. It ceased operations in 1974 and was restored between 1999-2003 for tourism.

Travel to Drvengrad Village, built as a cultural exhibition village by Emir Kusturica, the Serbian film director who won the Palm d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and created the film "Life is a Miracle".

Travel to Zlatibor, a wellness and health resort town in the Dinaric Alps of western Serbia. Covering an area of approximately 300 square kilometers, it is filled with hotels and resorts. The town enjoys pleasantly cool weather in summer and is blanketed with snow in winter, thanks to its elevation of around 1,000 meters above sea level.

hotel Overnight In Zlatibor

Today, we depart for Uvac Nature Reserve (Nature Reserve Uvac), located in southwestern Serbia in the Stari Vlah-Raska mountains. Covering over 7,543 hectares, it features the Uvac River meandering for more than 120 kilometers.

Next, we head to the Uvac Canyon viewpoint, the highlight of the area. The winding Uvac River creates uniquely stunning scenery along the Balkan mountain route. You will take a boat cruise along the Uvac River with a chance to spot the Griffon Vulture, an important protected and endangered species. The pristine natural environment of the Uvac Nature Reserve makes it one of the world's primary habitats for the griffon vulture.

In the afternoon, travel approximately 45 kilometers (about 1 hour) to Mileseva Monastery, dating back to the 13th century. Inside is the famous "White Angel" fresco, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval European artworks. Afterward, head to the international border checkpoint for immigration clearance and cross into Montenegro. Once immigration formalities are complete, continue to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. The name "Podgorica" means "under Gorica," named after the small hill overlooking the city. Located on a plain between the Dinaric Alps and Lake Scutari (Lake Skadar), we will visit the Monument of King Nikola and Republic Square, the vibrant center of shops and cafes in this charming, compact capital.

hotel Overnight In Podgorica (Montenegro)

Today, we depart to visit the 13 July Winery, located in a vast cave on Chechanic Hill used to cellar Montenegro's famous fine wines. In the past during the Yugoslav era, it served as an underground aircraft hangar holding over 27 fighter jets. Today, Plantaže (Plantae), a joint venture between the Montenegrin government and private partners, has transformed this area into a massive wine cellar under the "VRANAC" brand, crafted from premium local grape varieties that make both its white and red wines renowned. The estate is surrounded by one of the largest and most picturesque vineyards on the Balkan Peninsula. You can enjoy wine tasting and select wines to purchase as you wish.

Travel to Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula, nestled in the Zeta-Skadar Valley just 7 kilometers from the Adriatic Sea. Spanning a total area of 370 square kilometers, two-thirds of the lake lies in Montenegro. The shoreline is breathtakingly beautiful, especially along the northern and western edges. The lake is famous for its diverse flora and aquatic fauna, serving as one of Europe's largest bird reserves and a crucial breeding ground for the endangered Dalmatian Pelican, as well as a resting place for migratory birds traveling from Northern Europe to Africa. Home to over 280 bird species, birdwatching is a key highlight here, with autumn and winter being the ideal seasons for viewing.

Travel to Budva, covering a distance of 65 kilometers (approx. 1.20 hours). This ancient town with a history spanning over 2,500 years is situated along the Adriatic coast, earning the nickname the “Riviera of Montenegro.” Before arriving in Budva, stop for photos at the viewpoint overlooking Sveti Stefan Island, an iconic symbol of Montenegro tourism. Once a pirate fortress, it has now become a luxury hotel while retaining its historical elegance. The island is private property and not accessible to the general public. From this viewpoint, you can also admire stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the town of Budva.

Head out to explore Budva Old Town, which has preserved its medieval European architecture beautifully. Inside the old town, numerous charming squares large and small are connected by narrow pedestrian streets. The historic buildings in this area have been converted into souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes. Stroll through the various squares such as Church Square—formerly the Salt Square—home to several historic churches including the Church of St. Ivan, Santa Maria in Punta, and the Church of St. John. The Church of St. John dates back to the 7th century and houses the sacred icon of the Virgin Mary known as Madonna in Punta or Madonna of Budva.

hotel Overnight In Budva

Today, we depart for Kotor, located just 25 kilometers away (about 45 minutes). The town sits along the Bay of Kotor, acclaimed as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. It has a rich history as a maritime trading hub and remains a major port of call for cruise ships in the Adriatic Sea, welcoming countless travelers arriving by sea each year.

We will experience the captivating beauty of Kotor, encircled by high defensive walls dividing the old town from the new. Kotor Old Town, in particular, is exceptionally well-preserved in authentic medieval style and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city walls were built by the Venetians, and much of the architecture reflects Venetian cultural influence, as the city was under the rule of the Venetian Republic for nearly 400 years.

Within Kotor Old Town, you will discover charming squares, old palaces, the Clock Tower, and noble mansions that have now been turned into museums, boutique hotels, restaurants, and lovely souvenir shops, making Kotor a delightful town brimming with history and character to explore.

Visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon (Cathedal of St. Tryphon), the only Roman Catholic cathedral in Kotor. Built in 1166, it was named after Saint Tryphon, the patron saint and protector of the city.

Afterward, take a boat cruise in Kotor Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Kotor Old Town. The boat takes us around the bay with lovely views of both the old and new towns.

During the cruise, stop at a small islet legendarily built by local people out of devotion to the Virgin Mary. The island is home to Our Lady of the Rocks Church (Lady of The Rock Church), featuring a revered sacred rock behind the main altar. Inside, the walls are decorated with embossed silver votive tablets depicting body parts, presented by locals praying for healing from ailments.

In the afternoon, head to the international border to cross from Montenegro into Bosnia and Herzegovina. After customs and immigration clearance, continue to Trebinje in southeastern Herzegovina, a distance of approximately 85 kilometers (taking about 2 hours).

Trebinje is a charming small town set in the valley of the Trebišnjica River. Townspeople built their homes along the riverbanks, featuring diverse architecture including a scenic Ottoman-era stone bridge. Trebinje Old Town has preserved its authentic historic architecture and is considered one of the most picturesque towns in the country, serving as the economic and cultural center of eastern Herzegovina.

hotel Overnight In Trebinje

Depart for Mostar, stopping to visit the charming village of Blagaj, located not far from Mostar. The emerald-green Buna River flows through the village with crystal-clear reflections. Its spring flows out from a cliff cave into the Buna River.

Near the mouth of the cave stands an old house built during the Ottoman Empire around 1520 and restored in 1851. Today, it has been turned into a museum called “Blagaj Tekke,” associated with a legend of a dragon that once claimed a maiden sacrifice each year until a hero defeated it. The sacred sword said to have killed the dragon is preserved inside the museum.

In the afternoon, travel to Mostar, surrounded by natural beauty and architectural heritage. The city endured heavy shelling during the war between Croats and Serbs. Mostar is Bosnia's 5th largest city, situated along the Neretva River, which historically served as a boundary between two cultures.

The eastern bank of the river is Muslim, featuring mosques and Turkish-style residences, while the western bank is Roman Catholic, featuring churches and monasteries. Today, Mostar is a beautiful and renowned city in Bosnia. The name "Mostar" comes from "Mostari," meaning "bridge keepers." Its crowning landmark is the historic Old Bridge (Stari Most), rebuilt in 2005 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the surrounding area.

hotel Overnight In Mostar

Today, depart for Konjic in northern Herzegovina, Bosnia, taking approximately 1.30 hours over a distance of 70 kilometers. Konjic is set among lush mountains and pristine nature, with dense forests, lakes, and streams. The Neretva River is the main waterway flowing through the town, the very same river that passes through Mostar. Thanks to its rich natural surroundings, Konjic has become a center for eco-tourism and adventure, popular for hiking and white-water rafting from July to August. Historically, Konjic was also industrially significant as an arms production center during the former Yugoslavia era.

Next, visit the massive "Tito’s Bunker" in Konjic, built underground and kept secret for over 50 years. It was an atomic war command post designed to shelter up to 350 leaders, their families, and key Yugoslav officials, with provisions to sustain them for 6 months. It took 26 years to construct (1953-1979).

In the afternoon, travel to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a rich history dating back to the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. A defining event was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which triggered World War 1. The city is also remembered for the siege during the Bosnian War. Today, Sarajevo is safe and welcoming, known as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans."

Afterward, take a walking tour through Sarajevo Old Town to admire historic landmarks mostly built during the Ottoman era around the 15th-16th centuries: - City Hall and the historic building known as Spite House (Split House) - Old Synagogue - Sebilj wooden fountain at the heart of Baščaršija Square (Bascarsila Square or Pigeon Square) - Ancient roadside inns for travelers known as Han - The Emperor's Mosque (The Emperors Mosque), the oldest mosque built in 1457 - The Latin Bridge, site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand - Historic bazaar district known as Gazi Husrev-beg's Bazaar or Old Bezistan (Ghazi Husrev Bey’s Bazaar or Old Bezistan), and nearby Gazi Husrev-beg's Mosque (Ghazi Husrev Bey’s Mosque), the largest mosque in Bosnia and a major architectural landmark of the Ottoman era in the Balkans - Historic market streets: Kazandžiluk Street (Kazandziluk street), known for copperware, and Bravadžiluk Street (Bravadziluk street), famous for locksmiths, where strolling through makes you feel like stepping back in time to the 16th century - Sarajevo Tunnel.

hotel Overnight In Sarajevo

Depart for Travnik, a distance of 90 km (approx. 1.40 hours). Travnik, the former Ottoman capital of Central Bosnia Canton, is nestled in the Lasva Valley with the Lasva River flowing through the town, surrounded by mountains. Visit Travnik Fortress to take in a 360-degree panoramic view of the town from above. Then stroll through Travnik Old Town, home to many well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings. Because the town has changed relatively slowly compared to other Bosnian cities, it is known as the "Istanbul of Europe." It is also the birthplace of Nobel Prize-winning author Ivo Andric, who wrote classic Bosnian literature. Today, the town is also renowned for producing the country's finest sheep cheese.

In the afternoon, travel to Bihac, a distance of 220 km (approx. 3.30 hours). Bihac is a city in Una-Sana Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated in the northwestern part of the country on the banks of the Una River near the Croatian border. It was under Ottoman rule until 1878.

hotel Overnight In Bihac

Depart for Una National Park, located about 35 km from the city. Established in 2008, it boasts stunning waterfalls and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as hiking, rafting, and camping. Before reaching the park, you will pass Orasac Village, which features ruins dating back to the 13th–15th centuries. Upon entering the park, you will find Strbacki Buk waterfall, standing 25 meters high, complete with wooden walkways for an up-close view.

In the afternoon, continue to Jajce, a historic town that once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Bosnia. Stop to see the magnificent Pliva Waterfall, approximately 22 meters high, situated between the Pliva and Vrbas rivers.

Travel to Sarajevo, a distance of 160 km (approx. 2.45 hours), to head to Sarajevo International Airport for your flight back to Thailand.