Balkan Gems with Greece

Upon arrival in Belgrade, Serbia’s vibrant capital, your driver will welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy the sights of New Belgrade, featuring Socialist architecture and modern business centres, during the ride from Nikola Tesla Airport. After hotel check-in, use your free time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.

Your journey through Belgrade begins with a panoramic tour highlighting its architectural diversity and history, from bold Brutalism to the emerging Belgrade Waterfront, a symbol of modern transformation. As we cross Branko’s Bridge, you’ll get a glimpse of New Belgrade’s distinctive skyline, featuring landmarks like the Palace of Serbia (SIV), Belgrade Arena, and the modern Ada Bridge. Continuing, we pass through the Dedinje district, home to the Residence of Miloš the Great, embassies, grand villas, and the Museum of Yugoslavia, reflecting the country’s complex history.

Morning check-out and departure from Belgrade will take you south to the heart of Serbia, where you’ll explore Oplenac, a place where royals are laid to rest and history comes to life. Here, you’ll visit the majestic royal mausoleum and one of the beautiful wineries that mark Serbia’s regal heritage.

After check-out, the tour will continue to the ethno village Drvengrad (Wooden-Town), built by the renowned film director Emir Kusturica. The village, constructed from natural materials, primarily wood, features the Mećavnik Hotel, houses, galleries, shops, a cinema, and a church. Since 2008, Drvengrad has hosted the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival and has welcomed celebrities such as Johnny Depp, Monica Bellucci, Jim Jarmusch, and many others.

Our Sarajevo exploration starts at Vječna Vatra (Eternal Flame), a memorial dedicated to the city’s liberators during WWII. From there, we will delve deeper in the cultural and historical treasures of the capital while savouring its gastronomic delights. This unique tour engages all your senses – sight, sound, and taste – offering an extraordinary experience that truly captures the essence of Sarajevo.

Today, you will say goodbye to Sarajevo, as you check-out and drive to one of the most beautiful cities of the Balkan Peninsula, Mostar. During the walking tour, you will visit the symbol of the city, Balkan TOP 10 and the most photographed sight in the country – the Old Bridge (a UNESCO-protected landmark). You will then proceed to Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Crooked Bridge and the old tanner’s quarter Tabhana.

After hotel check-out, you will head towards the epicentre of the local lifestyle – Trebinje local market.

Today we are heading to the Boka Bay, a hidden gem renowned for its rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. Our first stop will be at the town of Perast, a charming baroque-style settlement nestled in the heart of the bay.

After check-out from Budva, the tour continues along the coast of the Adriatic. Our first stop is Old Bar, nestled at the foot of Mount Rumija, where centuries-old stone walls and winding cobbled streets tell the stories of Montenegro’s past. Enjoy a leisurely walk through this open-air museum, where you’ll discover historic landmarks and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Once there, we recommend you to savour a coffee or indulge in a traditional dessert at one of the local cafés, perfect for soaking in the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.

From the timeless charm and rich history of Berat, with its UNESCO-protected architecture and unique cultural blend, to the coastal allure of Durrës, home to ancient ruins and vibrant seaside vibes, this day promises a journey through Albania’s heritage and beauty.

Check-out and wave goodbye to Tirana. On our way to the capital of North Macedonia, we will make a stop in Ohrid, the cradle of Slavic literacy. Thanks to its extraordinary natural beauty and rich historical and cultural heritage, Ohrid was proclaimed as both a Cultural and Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. One of the oldest lakes in the world will welcome you with a photographic setting, impeccably clear water that reflects the lake’s picturesque high mountain surroundings. This former capital of the First Bulgarian Empire is the spiritual and national centre of Northern Macedonia. In the same area where the first Slavic university was founded, you will have the chance to visit over 300 Orthodox churches and monasteries.

Begin your sightseeing tour in the old part of Skopje with a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Bazaar, the largest preserved bazaar in the Balkans today. With the 1500-year-old Kale Fortress perched above, listen to stories about the Sultan Murad Mosque and Daut Pasha Hamam. Then, walk across the Stone Bridge, near the Archaeological Museum of North Macedonia, towards Macedonia Square and its stunning fountain featuring the ”Warrior on a Horse” monument. In the city’s newer, more modern part, you will also see the Porta Macedonia, the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, the Art Bridge, and numerous statues of prominent North Macedonian figures.

Check-out and embark on a journey to Thessaloniki, a city that blends ancient history with vibrant modern life. As you explore, you’ll feel the pulse of this dynamic metropolis, starting at Aristotelous Square, where grand mansions frame a breathtaking view of the Thermaic Gulf. On a clear day, the majestic peak of Mount Olympus looms in the distance, adding a mythical backdrop to your experience. Wander down Nikis Avenue, a lively promenade where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sea breeze, and the buzz of conversation fills the air – a favourite gathering place for both locals and travellers.

Check-out and continue your journey towards the Greek capital, making sure your camera is ready – the breathtaking vistas ahead will undoubtedly amaze you.

Start the day by exploring Athens, the capital of Greece and the cradle of democracy. Known for its iconic archaeological sites, Athens is home to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel where architectural masterpieces like the Parthenon stand as symbols of Ancient Greece and democracy.

After hotel check-out, it is time to conclude your Balkan tour. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organisation, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Balkan&more to organise a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.