Route: Budapest Novi Sad Belgrade Sarajevo Mostar Kotor Dubrovnik
Duration: 14 nights
Transport: This route is a 15 day trip and you’ll spend 14 nights in your accommodation and travel by bus or private transfer during the day.
Sustainability: This trip only creates 76 kg of carbon emissions! To fly the same route would cost 404.2 ♻️
Reviews: All independent reviews
If you’ve already visited the traditional hotspots of Central Europe and fancy something a little bit more adventurous, our Balkan Trail is perfect for you! The tourist path in this region can be less well-trodden than in Western Europe, but getting off the beaten track here is seriously worthwhile. If you’re into incredible landscapes, authentic experiences and the friendliest people, and you’re not afraid of a little adventure, pick the Balkan Trail!
Would you rather travel with a group and experienced tour leader? Our Balkan Group Tour could be a better fit for you.
The Balkans are a lesser explored part of Eastern Europe, but if anything they’re even more beautiful and fascinating than some of Europe’s more typical hotspots. This Eastern Europe trip takes you on a Balkan adventure – from Budapest down to idyllic Montenegro and Dubrovnik.
Begin your Balkan Tour in the Hungarian capital, Budapest – gateway to Eastern Europe – before moving on to Novi Sad in Serbia. This gorgeous city may not be the country’s capital but it offers plenty to do and see. Home to the magical Petrovaradin fortress and situated on the Danube, Novi Sad is one of Eastern Europe’s hidden gems.
From here, head on to buzzing Belgrade, with its incredible nightlife, bohemian vibe and ridiculously cheap beer. Explore its historic streets before moving on to your next stop, Sarajevo.
Sarajevo has a fascinating and turbulent past, and this lends it a unique atmosphere. Bullet holes are still visible in its buildings from the Croatian Bosnian war which ended in the 90s, but the vibrant cafe culture, colourful markets and friendly people tell a different story. Explore more of enchanting Bosnia as you head towards the Adriatic, passing incredible scenery and stopping off at Mostar with its famous Old Bridge.
Next, it’s on to Montenegro and the mindblowingly beautiful Adriatic coastline. Kotor Bay is fast becoming a bucket list destination, so make sure you visit while it’s still fairly under the radar. It really has to be seen to be believed: admire the incredible views from the fortress, or take a tour around the traditional old town.
Beginning the return leg of the journey, you’ll head to Dubrovnik, the famous medieval walled town on Croatia’s idyllic coastline to chill out before the end of your trip.
If you fancy extending your adventure, why not continue up the Dalmatian coast via Zadar where you can relax on the many idyllic beaches – or head to one of the many surrounding Islands for the day. If that sounds tempting, just ask us about customising your trip!
The quickest way to get to and from the UK will be to book a flight. Travelling by train from the UK to Budapest is possible (but involves a few night trains), but travelling back by train/bus from Dubrovnik will take you a long time, so bear that in mind!
If you’d prefer to fly back from Split (rather than Dubrovnik) then you can include the bus back to Split at check-out.
