Budapest to Ljubljana

Szia! Welcome to Hungary. You'll meet your leader and other members of your group this evening for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, perhaps take a stroll along the Danube River to get a feel for Budapest – the capital city with a contrast of old and new architecture. After the meeting, you might like to head out with your leader for an optional group dinner to get straight into the many local culinary delights, like the hortobagyi crepe (a stew and sour cream crepe) and matrai borzaska (deep fried pork and potato).

Today is a full free day to explore Budapest. See the intricate carvings on the local architecture, cross the Chain Bridge to explore the Castle District or walk through winding streets, snacking on local delicacies. Budapest is a great city to enjoy from the water, so maybe take a boat trip along the river or catch a funicular up to the castle for spectacular views of the Parliament Building. Hiring a bicycle is another great way to move between the sights. Perhaps round off your day with a drink in the ruin bars, where the night comes to life.

Head for Kopacki Rit today – a nature park in eastern Croatia, home to the white-tailed eagle. Since the park is made up of many different waterways, like lakes and canals, you’ll go on a guided tour of the area after you drop your belongings at your family-run accommodation. In the evening, join your group for homemade dinner on the property.

Get off the tourist track today and drive to Novi Sad – the second largest city in Serbia. Along the way, visit nearby Vukovar – a town that symbolises the devastation of the recent war – and learn about the sobering local history. Visit the local hospital and the museum in its basement (used as a refuge during the siege) and listen to wartime stories from hospital staff. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish. Maybe visit the Petrovaradin Fortress, which was constructed in the 17th century and used to protect the city during the Napoleonic Wars. Or you can walk around Liberty Square and take in the Neo-Renaissance architecture, perhaps finishing the day off at a carda tavern (a fish restaurant along the Danube River).

After breakfast, begin your journey to Belgrade. Known as the White City, Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Sitting at the confluence of two major rivers – Sava and Danube – it’s an important intersection between Eastern and Western Europe. Take a guided tour of the city’s wide boulevards and squares and the green heart of Kalemegdan Park. The park is home to Kalemegdan Fortress, which has overlooked the Danube River for centuries. Tonight, maybe head down to Skadarska Street in the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija to sample some authentic local food and soak up the lively atmosphere in a place where Orthodox churches vie for space next to nightclubs.

Today, make your way to the neighbourhood of Zemun. This Old Town favourite has a rich history and is now known as the bohemian part of town, home to many of the city’s artists and writers. As Zemun used to be an independent town – only joining Belgrade in 1934 – the small village atmosphere still stands, transporting you to the past. After your orientation walk, maybe head to a market and explore the local wares. Stroll along the river promenade and stop for an optional lunch in one of the riverside restaurants serving fresh fish. Head back to Belgrade’s centre in the late afternoon, where you have free time to visit the imposing Hram Svetog Save (St Sava Church) or learn about the life of Serbia’s greatest inventor at the Nikola Tesla Museum. The city’s nightlife has become legendary throughout Europe, with several hundred floating bars, restaurants and nightclubs lining the Danube and Sava rivers – so you’ll find the perfect way to spend your evening.

Travel by bus through the countryside to Sarajevo this morning. Sarajevo is Bosnia and Herzegovina's small but vibrant capital. The city often draws comparisons with Istanbul as a city that mixes east and west – dotted with minarets, mosques, bazaars and the aroma of coffee. When you arrive, take a guided tour for an insight into the history and culture of the city. Sarajevo is one of the few cities in the world that features an Orthodox church, a Catholic church and a mosque all within proximity. Tonight, maybe sample the local specialty of bosanski cevapi (grilled minced meat mixed with mild spices) in Bascarsija – Sarajevo's old bazaar.

Today, head out of Sarajevo for a daytrip to Mostar, which sits in the valley in the high mountains of Herzegovina. Thanks to the Neretva River, Mostar was able to develop into a city in a barren landscape. The city was the most heavily bombed settlement in Bosnia during the war, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Head to the famous Stari Most Bridge, first built by the Ottomans in 1565 by architect Mimar Hajrudin – who succeeded with the impossible mission of crossing the Neretva River with a single span stone bridge. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the famous bridge divers hurl themselves into the icy waters below. Return to Sarajevo in the afternoon, stopping at Konjic on the way – where you’ll discover one of the best-kept secrets in former Yugoslavia – Tito's nuclear bunker. Go back in time on a guided tour of the bunker and learn about Yugoslav history and how life used to be in the not-so-distant past.

Enjoy a free day in and around Sarajevo. Maybe take an optional daytrip to the thermal springs and green parks of Ilidza – the source of the Bosna River. Or discover local history with a visit to the History Museum and the Sarajevo War Tunnels (dug underneath the airport runway and used to smuggle provisions into the city during its siege). You can also learn about the tragedies faced by the city's Jewish population at the Jewish Museum or get cultural with a stroll through the Art Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Pivnica HS brewery and restaurant is a good place to sample local award-winning beer and grab some dinner.

Today, you’ll ride in a private transfer through the countryside to Montenegro. Although it’s a long drive, there will be plenty of stops along the way. You might park at the bridge over Piva canyon, at the top of Kruska Mountain or at Saddle Peak viewpoint – wherever you stop, you’ll find great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs. When you arrive at Durmitor National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site that was formed by glaciers – take a hike through the lesser-explored wilderness along the shores of Black Lake and keep an eye out for some of the 163 species of bird or 50 species of mammal that roam this region. Finish your day in the nearby town of Zabljak, where you’ll spend the night.

Enjoy a free day today to unwind in nature. Since Durmitor National Park is so vast, there are plenty of trails for an optional guided hike. Feel free to choose one that caters to the group’s personal tastes and fitness levels – they'll expertly mix and match the trails to create a half day of hiking that everyone enjoys. One thing is certain – lakes, pine forests and alpine air are guaranteed for any trail combination. You can also choose to see the park from behind handlebars by hiring a bike and riding into town and on the trails, or by walking to and renting a boat at Black Lake.

Today, drive to Kotor – this 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage site is set on a secluded bay, with towering peaks surrounding a coastline dotted with waterside towns. When you arrive, maybe head out to see the 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphun, the South Gates of Kotor (the Gurdich Gate) and the Armoury Square (Trg od oruzija). You might like to get lost in the alleyways, check out the boutiques and cafes or climb the hills behind the city to visit Kotor's ruined fortification walls. Take an optional hike up the stone steps, past churches, gates and bastions to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan – the top rewards you with views across the town and the Bay of Kotor.

You can take an optional daytrip out of Kotor today. Maybe take a cruise on Kotor Fjord, visiting the twin islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and Sveti Dordje (St George), with its church in the middle of the bay. Legend has it that sailors once spotted an image of the Virgin Mary on a rock here and each time they completed a successful voyage, they added another rock as an offering. Eventually, so many were added that an island emerged, and the church was built on top of it. Alternatively, consider a trip to Budva. With its busy beaches, charming Old Town, busy restaurants and bars, Budva is like Montenegro's little version of Miami. For more history, head up to Montenegro's former capital Cetinje – now a laidback village with grand mansions that were once used as embassies. Enjoy a final night out in Kotor and maybe catch some live music that keeps the cobbled streets thriving.

Depart Montenegro this morning and travel along the southern coast of Croatia to Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik's walled Old Town is often referred to as the pearl of the Adriatic and it's now famed for its role in ‘Game of Thrones’. When you arrive, walk along the high city walls with your leader, enjoying ocean views. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain – built by the European architect Onofrio Della Cava in the 15th century to supply water to the city. After, maybe check out the 13th-century Franciscan monastery or the Sponza and Rector's Palaces, the only Renaissance buildings in the city to survive a devastating earthquake and fire in 1667. As it is the last night of your trip, maybe enjoy one last meal with the group and toast to your adventures.

Today is a free day for more discoveries in Dubrovnik. You might like to visit the city's War Photography Museum, or even take a boat trip to nearby Lokrum Island, where you will find the French-built Fort Royal Castle, a monastery, and a botanical garden that dates back to when the Austrian archduke Maximilian had his holiday home on the island.

Beat the crowds with an early morning walk along Dubrovnik's city walls that surround the Old Town. Soak up the views of the sea from the fully intact medieval structure, then enjoy all that Dubrovnik has to offer with the remainder of the day free for you to explore. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain – a masterpiece built by famous European architect Onofrio della Cava. Check out the Franciscan monastery with one of the world's oldest, continuously functioning pharmacies, founded in the 13th century. If you still feel energetic after a day exploring, you can take the switchbacks leading up Srd Hill behind Dubrovnik for spectacular views of the city and the Dalmatian coastline. Otherwise, the newly restored cable car can whisk you to the top in no time. The hill is topped by a castle of Napoleonic times, which now houses the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence.

Journey to Korcula today, along the narrow and scenic Peljesac Peninsula to its tip. The last stretch to Korcula will be done by car ferry. For the next two nights, you’ll stay with local hosts who rent out their rooms in the summer. The rooms, while simple, are the best way to put money back into the local economy. When you arrive, head out for a sunset hike to Lumbarda Village. Wind through olive groves, vineyards and town promenade overlooking the archipelago, and soak up the view over Peljesac Channel. When you arrive at a family-owned restaurant, sit down for an included dinner of local ingredients, including traditional Dalmatian meat loaf or pasticada (traditional stewed beef) and some fresh grilled vegetables with olive oil, usually served with fresh goat and sheep cheeses (and maybe some smoked ham to tie it all together). Return to Korcula via private vehicle and relax.

Take a daytrip to Mljet Island – Croatia’s greenest island with a huge coastal national park. The island is well known for its two salt lakes – Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (big lake and small lake) – located at the north end of the island. Start with a short hike to the island's interior, followed by a ferry ride to St Mary's Benedictine Monastery, on an island in one of the lakes. Spend the day discovering its tiny towns, weaving and winding coastline, scenic lookouts and sandy beaches. Mljet is a little further away and less visited than the tourist hotspots of Brac and Hvar, so you’ll be able to stray away from the crowds and have this peaceful paradise to yourself. Head back to Korcula in the afternoon for a relaxing evening full of delicious food and some great local wine.

A morning hydrofoil ferry takes you to the neighbouring island of Hvar – known as the 'Queen of the Dalmatian Islands'. When you arrive, get to know the town with its wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades on an orientation walk. Later, you can enjoy your included hop on hop off taxi boat pass that departs every half hour to the nearby Pakleni islands – largely uninhabited and often described as the most beautiful in the world. All three islands have gorgeous beaches and walking trails to explore, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants – aperitif at sunset, anyone?

Today is a free day to explore Hvar Island at your leisure. Maybe head out on a hike through the abandoned villages of Velo Grablje and Malo Grablje, gently descending all the way down to the sea at Milna Bay. On the way, you can see what remains of the typical Mediterranean life that flourished on the Croatian islands in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hike past jagged limestone cliffs and slow your pace to enjoy the undulating farms, fields of lavender and rosemary, and ancient olive groves. Alternatively, you can spend the day lounging at one of the island's many quiet beaches and go on a sunset stroll along the harbour promenade.

Catch a boat to Split this morning. Situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Split is the second largest city in Croatia. Join a local guide for a walking tour of the seaside town and get to know its history. See the original and well-preserved basements under the city, the Cathedral in Diocletian's Peristyle and Jupiter's Temple. Explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace – Split's most imposing structure and some of the most interesting ruins on the Adriatic coast. Portions of the Palace are over 1700 years old! After, maybe grab a drink at a cafe on the Riva Promenade and people watch for a while. Tonight, get your group together for a harbourside dinner and toast to a gorgeous trip.

Take a full day to explore Split further. You might like to take a day trip to the surrounding area and visit the ancient Roman city of Salona, or the sleepy towns of Trogir or Sibenik. There will be a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. In the evening why not head out for some fresh seafood with your travel companions?

This morning, you'll travel by local bus northwest to Zadar. For centuries Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia, and the city's rich heritage is visible at every step. An important coastal town, the musical steps of the ‘Sea Organ’ on Zadar's waterfront express its important relationship with the sea. Trace marble streets through the Old Town and discover Roman ruins in amongst medieval churches. Enjoy some local food and drinks in a city that’s home to a vibrant café culture. Zadarsko pivo is a light beer with a very pleasant taste, just a little bit bitter, with a rich flavour. After, maybe treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a contemporary Croatian restaurant. Try njoki (lamb in red wine) with Dalmatian ham and rocket salad, or opt for the popular choice of fresh tuna carpaccio or a fillet in scampi sauce. Also try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from locally-grown maraschino cherries according to a centuries' old secret recipe. This unique drink was a favourite at European imperial and royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

Head out of the city this morning for a special experience at the farm of the Benedictines of St. Mary. This order leads a secluded life, believing that working on the agricultural land brings them closer to God. During your visit, you'll taste some of the award-winning jams, liqueurs and juices produced in the monastery. Sample high-quality olive oils and wines with cheese and bread, then take a tour of the property. As you walk around the orchards, you'll learn about how the nuns live, the fruits grown on the grounds and how their products are produced. After some time to explore, you'll head back to Zadar in the afternoon, where you'll have free time. Maybe try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from the locally grown maraschino cherries. This unique drink was a favourite at European royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

Travel inland this morning to your next base in Grabovac and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park – an Eden of waterfalls and lakes. Fed by the Bijela and Crna Rivers, the waters tumble from tree-lined ridges through dense forests. Sixteen lakes fed by underground springs are split into the upper and lower lakes. The upper are in the dolomite cliffs, where water weaves in and out of the karst, dropping dramatically down to the lower lakes. This interplay of water, rock and plant life creates a dynamic landscape. Look out for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls, and butterflies that transform the park into a riot of colour. After, visit Licko Petrovo Selo – a small village next to the park with a local NGO that focuses on preserving the historical art of woolly men's underwear. Take a short tour of the NGO and hear about how they preserve this important part of their cultural heritage (and maybe even buy a warm souvenir to take home).

Continue to Croatia’s capital and largest city – Zagreb. Full of parks and squares, Zagreb is a laidback place, proud of its coffee culture and the perfect spot to wander. Follow your leader on an orientation walk when you arrive and then enjoy some free time for the rest of your time here. Maybe join one of the many free walking tours in the city and engage with a local here to learn about their daily life or browse the city’s stunning neo-baroque and gothic architecture. You could check out Tkalciceva Street’s lively social scene or head up Medvednica Mountain, where the views stretch as far as neighboring Slovenia on a clear day. To live like a local, maybe head to Zagreb’s open-air markets where you’ll find all kinds of fresh vegetables, nuts, honey and liqueurs.

This morning, take the train and cross the border to Ljubljana. One of the smallest capitals in Europe, Ljubljana makes up for it by also being one of the greenest and most vibrant cities on the continent. Follow your leader on an orientation walk and ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city. Dubbed the ‘dragon city’ due its ties to Greek mythology, you’ll likely spot dragon symbols scattered about. Ljubljana, home to 50,000 students, is known for its lively nightlife. Explore Metalkova for an alternative vibe or the Old Town for its historical charm – or ask your leader for their recommendations.

Embark on a day trip to Lake Bled this morning. Your leader will guide you on a scenic walk that passes some impressive 19th century villas, including the residence of the former Yogoslav president ‘Marshal’ Tito – now known as the hotel Vila Bled. The rest of the day is free for you to explore all that Bled has to offer. If you’re feeling active, consider renting a paddleboard and taking a trip around the picturesque island. Alternatively, you can get on a Plenta boat ride – a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman – and reach it that way. From there, climb the 99 steps to St Mary’s Church and ring the wishing bell. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, which isn’t hard – nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims theirs is the best. Return to Ljubljana in the evening and perhaps round your group together for a final dinner.

There are no activities planned for the final day and you can depart your accommodation at any time. For those who wish to stay in Ljubljana, reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.