Balkan Capitals & Imperial Cities - 12 day tour

Welcome to Serbia! Upon arrival in Belgrade, our driver will greet you at the Nikola Tesla airport and take you to your hotel. As you travel by coach, you can relax and take in the sights of New Belgrade, featuring Socialist architecture and modern business centres like the Usce Tower. Your driver will also point out landmarks such as the Western Gate of Belgrade, Belgrade Arena, and Palace of Serbia. After checking in at your hotel, you will have free time to rest and prepare for the tour.

During a brief meeting with our guide at 7pm, you will be introduced to the tour and provided with all necessary information.
Overnight: Belgrade

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Belgrade, starting at the iconic Temple of Saint Sava. Explore Slavija Square, Saint Mark’s Church, the Serbian National Parliament, and the White Palace.

Move on to Republic Square, surrounded by cultural landmarks like the National Theatre and National Museum. Stroll along Knez Mihailo Street, visit the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, and hear intriguing tales about the nearby tavern, playfully named “?” (Question Mark). Conclude the tour at Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, a pivotal cultural-historic complex at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
Overnight: Belgrade  |  Breakfast

Belgrade - Novi Sad - Budapest (Hungary). Today we'll explore the sights of Vojvodina, starting with Novi Sad, the 2021 European Capital of Culture. Discover its multicultural charm on a walking tour through the pedestrian zone, passing landmarks like City Hall, a Catholic church, Albert Einstein’s wife Mileva's former house, Matica Srpska cultural foundation, and a synagogue. Follow the Danube's right bank to Petrovaradin, known as ‘Danube’s Gibraltar,’ with its fortress offering breathtaking views.

After a lunch break, travel through the Pannonian Plain to Zvonko Bogdan Winery. This artistic haven reflects the fusion of wine and art. Enjoy an hour-long guided tour showcasing various artworks and a tasting of three wines from the Palic vineyard. Afterwards, we'll head for our next destination - Budapest.
Overnight: Budapest  |  Breakfast

After breakfast, we will head out for a guided tour of Budapest, blending walking and driving to explore the city. With its unique and youthful atmosphere, Budapest stands out as one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities.

The Budapest sightseeing tour will take you through all the major landmarks, including the iconic Chain Bridge, Margaret Bridge, the Castle District with Matthias Church, and the scenic Fishermen’s Bastion.

Head to Gellért Hill (Citadel) for the most spectacular view of Budapest, and witness other notable landmarks such as Elisabeth Bridge, the Central Market Hall, the largest synagogue in Europe, City Park, Heroes’ Square, the Opera House, Saint Stephen’s Basilica, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Come evening, opt to experience the best of Budapest aboard a 1.5 hour Danube River Cruise, including a welcome drink, glass of wine and traditional Hungarian buffet dinner. This can be booked and paid locally with your guide.
Overnight: Budapest  |  Breakfast

Budapest - Vienna (Austria). Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Vienna, arriving around noon. Vienna, a city of architectural wonders, boasts iconic landmarks that showcase a rich artistic history.

The guided sightseeing tour commences within Ringstrasse, where 16th and 17th-century architecture shines. Highlights include the neo-gothic Vienna City Hall, the Parliament building, Burgtheater, Naturhistorisches Museum, Kunsthistorisches Museum, and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.

Walking along the main pedestrian street, you'll witness the modern and renovated side of Vienna before reaching Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Continue on to Stephenplatz, where the magnificent Vienna State Opera takes center stage, recognized globally as a premier opera house and the venue for the prestigious Vienna Opera Ball.

After the tour, enjoy time at leisure. Explore Vienna's renowned museums or try local specialties like the famous Wiener Schnitzel.
Overnight: Vienna  |  Breakfast

Vienna - Bratislava (Slovakia) - Prague (Czechia). Begin your second day in Vienna with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schönbrunn Palace, a historical landmark with over 300 years of legacy representing Austria's monarchy. While here, stroll through the palace labyrinth gardens or enjoy cup of original Viennese coffee paired with a piece of apple strudel.

In the afternoon, head to Bratislava in Slovakia. Discover the city's key landmarks, including the Presidential Palace, Eurovea (the modern city center), the National Theatre, and an Art Nouveau church. Stop at Bratislava Castle for photo opportunities, then proceed to the Slavín memorial monument - a poignant reminder of war against a backdrop of panoramic views.

The journey continues to Prague, where you will stay for the next two nights.
Overnight: Prague  |  Breakfast

Dive into the enchanting Prague today. Recognised as the 'City of a Hundred Spires,' Prague is gracefully nestled along the Vltava River, and is renowned for having the best-preserved medieval town center in Europe.

Begin your sightseeing adventure at Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), officially recognised as the largest ancient castle globally. Within its walls, explore a diverse collection of historic buildings, museums, and galleries, including Saint Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Basilica of Saint George. Then, descend to the old city, stopping at two viewpoints for breathtaking views of the city.

Below the castle, traverse the fairytale-like Charles Bridge and wander through the quaint, enchanting streets of the old town. Eventually, you will reach Old Town Square, home to the Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock – one of the world's oldest clocks and a symbol of Prague.

At night, you can opt to join our Vltava Cruise with dinner - sip a glass of Moravian plum brandy and enjoy the views of Prague’s illuminated attractions during a leisurely 3-hour cruise. This can be booked and paid locally with your guide.
Overnight: Prague  |  Breakfast

Prague - Regensburg (Germany) - Munich. Today, we drive to Regensburg in Germany, where the medieval center of the city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical prominence during the Middle Ages. Explore key landmarks such as the old stone bridge over the Danube, the cathedral, Krauterermarkt square with the Collegiate Church of Saint John, the Cathedral Treasury Museum, Heuport house, and the historic Adler Pharmacy.

As the evening approaches, continue your exploration to Munich, celebrated for its captivating architecture and the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration. Munich, home to pretzels, BMW, and the Bayern Munich football club, boasts the title of the most liveable city in Germany. Roam through the city center, witnessing iconic sights including the Pinakotheken art museums, the legendary Hofbrauhaus, the National Theatre with the Royal Palace, Marienplatz, and the vibrant Viktualien market.
Overnight: Munich  |  Breakfast

Munich - Salzburg (Austria) - Hallstatt - Villach. After breakfast, we return to Austria to explore Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided walk takes you through the picturesque old town, featuring landmarks like Mirabell Gardens, Mozarteum, Marionette and Regional Theatres, Markart Square, and Mozart’s Square. Enjoy a stroll along the Salzach River or visit the Hohensalzburg fortress. Don't forget to try the iconic Mozartkugeln, chocolate-covered marzipan balls inspired by the renowned composer.

Next, venture to the village of Hallstatt with its pastel-coloured houses. Explore key attractions, including the Kalvarienberg Church, Market Square, Hallstatt Museum, and the Charnel House in Michael’s Chapel, featuring a display of 1200 skulls, among other archaeological artifacts.

End your day in Villach, the second-largest Austrian city, renowned for its legendary carnival. Explore the city's highlights, including Villach Main Square with the Trinity Column, Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of Saint Jacob.
Overnight: Villach  |  Breakfast

Villach - Bled (Slovenia) - Ljubljana - Otočec - Zagreb (Croatia). Get ready for Slovenia, beginning with a visit to Bled. This alpine lake, featuring a beautiful island, has captivated visitors for centuries with its natural beauty. Why not try the famous Bled cream cake while soaking in the breathtaking views?

Continue to Ljubljana, the enchanting capital of Slovenia, known for its genuine charm and vibrant cultural scene. Stroll along the riverfront to explore the city's cultural landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, the medieval town square "Mestni Trg," Robba’s Fountain, the central open-air market, and the iconic Triple Bridge. Following the tour, break for lunch on the banks of Ljubljanica River.

While enroute to our next stop, you'll pause at Otočec Castle, a unique water castle above the Krka River. Refresh with a short break before proceeding to Zagreb, where we'll spend the night.
Overnight: Zagreb  |  Breakfast

Zagreb - Indjija - Belgrade (Serbia). After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Zagreb, exploring its main attractions, including Kaptol, the Franciscan monastery, the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis, Dolac farmers’ market, and the baroque architecture of the 18th-century Church of Saint Mary. Last stop on the tour will be at Ban Josip Jelačić’s monument in the heart of Zagreb.

On the return journey to Belgrade, indulge in shopping at Fashion Park Outlet, Serbia's largest retail shopping center. Finally, arrive in Belgrade for hotel check-in and an overnight stay.
Overnight: Belgrade  |  Breakfast