Balkan Adventure Itinerary

Arrive in Budapest, Hungary's intoxicating capital, on the banks of the Danube River. Admire intricate carvings on resplendent buildings, cross the iconic Chain Bridge to explore the Castle District or perhaps see the city from its best angle on a boat cruise. In free time, uncover national history on a visit to Heroes' Square, head to the Szechenyi Baths for a soak in the healing waters or simply meander through winding streets snacking on local delicacies.

Cross the border into Croatia and travel to Osijek. Navigate the hallways of grand buildings, stroll along the banks of the Drava River or pick up the true flavours of this destination at a local cafe. Choose to travel to the small town of Dakovo, with its enchanting neo-Romanesque cathedral and Lipizzaner horses, or visit Vukovar, a town that symbolises the devastation of the recent war.

Experience how Novi Sad, with its fascinating blend of traditional culture and Austro-Hungarian architecture, is one of the most enthralling cities in Serbia. Call into a family-run vineyard and a unique honey museum while relishing the scenic environs of Sremski Karlovci.

Soak up the history of Belgrade city, one of the oldest in Europe, and experience a mix of progressive flamboyance and conservative customs. Visit the confluence of two major rivers, the Sava and the Danube, to see why Belgrade is such an important link between Eastern and Western Europe. Mosey through the Bohemian quarter or explore city boulevards where Orthodox churches vie for space next to fashionable nightclubs.

Travel through serene countryside to Sarajevo, the lively capital of Bosnia-Herzegovina. In the evening, be sure to visit Bascarsija, the main street of Sarajevo, to find the best bosanski cevapi - grilled minced meat mixed with mild spices. Perhaps enjoy a day trip from Sarajevo to Mostar to see a town that was reduced to rubble during the Yugoslav wars and has since been rebuilt, becoming an important symbol of the new Balkans.

Follow pilgrims up the rocky mountain path to Ostrog, a 17th-century monastery in the mountains of Montenegro. Hike to the upper monastery where relics of the founder, Saint Vasilije, are kept then head down to the lower monastery to spend the night in humble konaks.

Get delightfully lost in the crooked alleyways of Kotor. Climb the hills behind the city to discover the ruined castle of the former ruler. In free time, enjoy a cruise on the Kotor Fjord or consider a day trip to Budva, a popular coastal town nearby.

Travel to Dubrovnik in Croatia and take a walk along the city walls for views of the Adriatic Sea. Perhaps climb Mt Srd for an aerial perspective or toast the end of the Balkan Adventure over dinner.