Balkan Roots

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.

In the evening, we recommend a leisurely stroll through one of Belgrade’s oldest quarters to Skadarlija, the city’s bohemian heart. This charming 19th century cobbled street is lined with “kafanas” where you can enjoy delicious local specialties and traditional music.

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.

Our route then takes us past the monument of Stefan Nemanja, a key figure in Serbian history, and through Slavija Square before arriving at one of Belgrade’s most iconic landmarks – the Temple of Saint Sava. We’ll stop for a visit and devote time to this impressive sanctuary, the symbol of the city and the fourth-largest Orthodox temple in the world, adorned with stunning mosaics.

From there, we continue along King Alexander Boulevard, passing notable sites such as the National Assembly, before reaching the city’s bustling pedestrian zone, where the walking part of our tour starts.

Strolling through Belgrade’s vibrant streets, we arrive at Republic Square and continue down Knez Mihailova Street, the city’s lively cultural and shopping centre.

Refreshed and immersed in the city’s spirit, we will walk through the historic Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, where you’ll be amazed by the stunning views of the mighty Sava and Danube rivers. This vantage point offers an impressive contrast in Belgrade, where the old meets the modern and the land merges with the flowing water.

But the day isn’t over yet – get ready to experience Belgrade from a whole new perspective, offering a waterway panorama that ties together everything you’ve discovered so far.

Upon completion of breakfast, we say farewell to Belgrade and set out through the rolling landscapes of Central Serbia toward our first destination – the Manasija Monastery. As we approach, the Monastery rises like a fortress from another era, surrounded by massive stone walls and striking defense towers. Built in the early 15th century under Despot Stefan Lazarević, Manasija stands as one of the most important monuments of Serbian medieval culture. Inside, the Church of the Holy Trinity reveals vibrant frescoes and rare mosaics, while the remains of the monastery’s library and refectory whisper of the once thriving Resava School of Transcription, where manuscripts were meticulously copied and preserved. Here, your guide will open a window into the world of the medieval Serbian state and its turbulent history of conquests and restorations.

From here, our journey takes us underground into one of Serbia’s natural wonders – the Resava Cave. Known as one of the oldest and most fascinating caves in the country, this protected natural monument invites you to wander through eight chambers adorned with surreal formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and cascading stone draperies. As you move deeper, the air grows cooler, a reminder of the cave’s timeless natural beauty. Make sure to bring an extra layer for this unforgettable subterranean adventure.

Returning to the sunlight, we continue into the lush mountains where the sound of rushing water leads us to the Lisine Waterfall. Tumbling 25 meters down over mossy stone, this cascade is one of the tallest and most spectacular in Serbia. Here, you have the option to enjoy lunch amid the crystal-clear waters and peaceful forest surroundings, creating a tranquil setting.

As the day continues, we head south to the historic city of Niš, one of Europe’s oldest settlements and a crossroads of civilizations. Upon arrival, our first stop will be the striking Skull Tower, a unique and haunting monument that tells the story of Serbian resistance against Ottoman rule. We’ll then continue on to the impressive Niš Fortress and enjoy a short city tour that reveals the layered history of this remarkable city – from Roman times to the Ottoman era. By evening, we arrive at our hotel, where you can unwind and prepare for tomorrow’s discoveries.

In the morning we head to Mediana, an important archaeological site that reflects the prosperity of the Roman Empire during the reign of Constantine the Great, who was born in Niš. This complex once served as a residence and retreat for Roman emperors traveling through the Balkans. As you explore the site, you’ll see beautifully preserved mosaics, remains of residential villas, granaries, and a bath complex, all of which illustrate the sophistication of Roman architecture and daily life. Mediana also highlights the role of Niš as a strategic and cultural center during the 4th century. Your visit here provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient past, perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the day’s discoveries.

Our journey continues towards North Macedonia. On the way to its capital, we’ll make a stop at one of region’s renowned wineries.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Wines of Vardar Valley You can never have enough gourmet delights in the Balkans – so we invite you for a wine tasting featuring the finest North Macedonian wines from the Vardar River Valley, country’s central wine region. Discover the region’s winemaking traditions and savour a selection of local wines that highlight Macedonian craftsmanship and heritage.

Drive to Skopje – a city with 2,000 years of history. 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.

In the evening, enjoy free time to relax at the hotel or explore this vibrant capital city. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with bars and cafés; consider enjoying a drink with views of the Vardar River. Don’t miss the chance to sample traditional Macedonian cuisine at a cosy restaurant – try dishes like “tavče gravče” and sip a glass of ”mastika’ ‘ for an authentic taste.

After breakfast, depart for Prizren, a charming city nestled at the base of the Šar Mountains. Once the capital of Serbia in the 14th century, its skyline is a vibrant mix of churches, mosques, and historic houses. As you stroll through cobbled streets, you will have the opportunity to admire the Church of Ljeviška (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Orthodox seminary, Sinan-Pasha Mosque, cross the Old Stone Bridge, and Prizren Fortress.

Continue to Priština, where old and new merge in the city center. Discover landmarks like the Cathedral of Blessed Mother Teresa, the National Library, Ottoman-era mosques, and contemporary monuments such as the Newborn Monument.

Next, visit Gračanica Monastery, a masterpiece of Serbian medieval architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 14th century by King Stefan Milutin, the monastery is renowned for its stunning frescoes, which vividly depict biblical scenes and the lives of saints. The serene setting, with its quiet courtyards and beautifully preserved interiors, offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling cities you’ve visited, providing an immersive glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of the region.

Conclude the day with a scenic drive back to Skopje for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, check-out from your Skopje hotel. Following the tour, we continue to the nearby Matka Canyon, known for its striking lake nestled among rugged cliffs and lush forests. Here, you can take a boat ride on the clear turquoise waters and enjoy stunning views of the canyon’s dramatic landscape.

Continuing our journey, we arrive in Ohrid, often called 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.

After the tour, check into your hotel and have the evening free to enjoy the city of Ohrid.

Check out of your hotel in Ohrid and head southeast to the St. Naum Monastery, a historic spiritual center on the southern shore of Lake Ohrid. Explore the monastery’s beautiful frescoes and tranquil grounds before enjoying a scenic boat ride along the Black Drim River, taking in the lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters as the river flows toward Albania.

Our first stop is the enchanting town of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the pride of Albanian architecture. This authentic town beautifully blends Eastern and Western cultures, showcasing a rich history through its iconic landmarks. From the arched Gorica Bridge and the Byzantine Church of Saint Michael to Ottoman treasures like the Red Mosque, this “town of a thousand windows” tells the story of diverse traditions and civilisations that once thrived here. Beyond its historical charm, Berat is also a gourmet destination, renowned for traditional dishes like “pula me përshesh” and “çorba e Tomorrit”, served in authentic restaurants that preserve centuries-old recipes.

Conclude the day by checking into your hotel in Berat and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the city at your own pace, soaking in its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere.

Check out of your hotel in Berat and drive toward Durrës, Albania’s historic port city on the Adriatic coast. Durrës will welcome you with its vibrant seaside charm and rich atmosphere, where the past and present blend seamlessly. As we stroll through this lively coastal city, you’ll feel the energy of its ancient roots and modern rhythm. History resonates in the streets, as the sea breeze and lively promenades invite you to embrace the local ambience. This brief but memorable visit will leave you with a true taste of Albania’s coastal soul.

Continue your journey to Tirana, the capital city of Albania as well as its largest city. Situated on the banks of the Lana River, Tirana has outstanding architecture, wide boulevards, parks, shops and cafés. The heart of Tirana is the Skanderbeg Square, dominated by the statue of Lord Skanderbeg, an Albanian hero and symbol of freedom and independence. During the sightseeing tour, you will be introduced to the architecture of the Mussolini period and see the city’s most important landmarks, including the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the National Museum of History, the Clock Tower and the Presidential Palace. As you stroll through the central part of the city, you can enjoy the many murals and works of art painted on the buildings by various artists and understand why Tirana is known as “the city of colourful buildings”.

Settle into your hotel, then we recommend visiting Ish-Blloku (the “Block”), Tirana’s vibrant upmarket district, famous for its boutiques, cafes, bars, and lively nightlife.

Depart Albania’s capital and head north to Krujë, a town steeped in history and perched on a scenic hilltop. Begin your visit with a tour of Krujë Castle, a fortress that stands as a symbol of Albanian resistance and pride, famously linked to the national hero Skanderbeg. Wander through the castle walls, explore its towers and museums, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Our next destination promises a delightful introduction to the country’s natural landscapes, sustainable practices and diverse gastronomic scene.

Your day ends in Budva, the renowned tourist capital of Montenegro, and discover why it’s a top destination. Explore the medieval streets of Budva’s Old Town, enjoy a cocktail on the sandy beach, and marvel at the stunning views of the bay and neighbouring islands. The Old Town, perched on a small peninsula, is a cultural treasure, with landmarks like the Church of the Holy Trinity and the churches of Saint Ivan, Santa Maria in Punta, and Saint Sava. Enjoy some free time to savour fresh seafood and local wines at one of the many restaurants, after which you’ll check-in to your hotel and rest.

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 the short boat ride, you will continue towards Kotor, an old Mediterranean town that dates back to the 12th and 14th centuries. A walking tour will allow you to explore this UNESCO site, including the churches of Saint Nicholas and Saint Luke, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and other cultural monuments. You will have free time to continue wandering around the old paved town, or have lunch in a restaurant on one of romantic squares.

Return to Budva for free time to explore and enjoy this modern Mediterranean town.

After hotel check-out, it is time to conclude your Balkan tour. As most of our travellers decide to extend their trip within their own arrangements, 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 your behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.