Balkan Capitals & Imperial Cities

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.

After checking in at your hotel, you can relax before heading out to explore Skadarlija, Belgrade’s historic bohemian quarter. This charming 19th-century cobbled street is home to traditional kafanas (taverns), offering local cuisine and live folk music.

After breakfast, embark on a walking and driving tour of Belgrade, starting along Knez Mihailo Street, we will see the street filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The capital of Belgrade is known for its architecture, history and one of Europe's biggest converging rivers, the River Sava and the Danube.

Next, our guide will tell us intriguing tales about the nearby tavern, playfully named “?” (Question Mark). You will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional coffee and rakija. as well as hear about the process of making "šljivovica'' a type of rakija renowned as Serbia's plum brandy.

Next, we will travel to Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, a pivotal cultural-historic complex, showcasing old and new Belgrade at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. We continue across Branko's Bridge into New Belgrade, where you'll see bold Brutalist architecture and the growing Belgrade Waterfront. The tour highlights Serbia's history, from its 19th-century struggle for independence to the 1990s, passing landmarks like Ada Bridge, Dedinje, and the Museum of Yugoslavia.

We then visit the impressive Temple of Saint Sava, the fourth-largest Orthodox temple, before concluding at Republic Square. In the evening, you can enjoy Belgrade’s vibrant culinary scene.

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, 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.

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, the Castle District with Elizabeth Bridge, and the Hero's Square. We will then make our way to the city centre to admire the grand Hungarian Synagogue's architecture

You will then have some free time for lunch, we will then enjoy a one-hour cruise on the Danube River, showcasing the Royal Palace, Parliament, and stunning bridges giving us a unique experience on the water.

If you are looking to enjoy a longer cruise, you can opt to experience the best of Budapest aboard a 2.5-hour Danube River Cruise, including a traditional Hungarian buffet dinner, and live music. This can be booked and paid locally with your guide.

Budapest - Vienna (Austria). We embark on a scenic drive to Vienna, arriving around noon. Famous for its stunning architecture, Vienna is home to many iconic landmarks that highlight its rich artistic and cultural history.

We start with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Habsburg summer residence. Here, we explore 300 years of history and experience the grandeur of 18th-century court life through its magnificent rooms and chambers.

Next, we head to Café Residenz in Schönbrunn Palace for The Strudel Show, where expert pastry chefs will demonstrate how to make the traditional apple strudel, followed by a chance to enjoy a freshly baked slice. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore Vienna at your leisure.

For those with an interest in Vienna’s 19th-century culture, you may choose to experience a performance at the Vienna State Opera or the historic Burgtheater, both offering a glimpse into the city’s sophisticated artistic heritage.

Please note: the Vienna State Opera or the historic Burgtheater visits, are based on availability, please let us know at the time of booking to ensure tickets can be secured.

Vienna - Prague (Czech Republic). Today, we will start our second day in Vienna, focusing on Europe's royal families. We will start with a panoramic drive, passing the parliament building, Burgtheater, and Rathaus, the city hall. As we spot the Votivkirche’s towers and travel by the calm Danube, our city’s past and present blend seamlessly.

We will then continue our journey on foot to the Maria Theresia Memorial, where the empress watches over the city. We then go to the Hofburg Palace, once known for royal intrigue and lavish events that filled its halls. Our final stop in the Vienna tour is St. Stephen's Cathedral. Its soaring spires embody Vienna’s spirit, while each step echoes the Habsburgs' lasting influence in Europe.

Later, we will make our way to the medieval capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague. As we cross the border from Austria, we will notice that change in scenery. Once we have arrived at our hotel, you will have the rest of the day to relax or further explore.

Dive into the enchanting Prague today. Recognised as the 'Golden 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 our sightseeing adventure at the home of the Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) as we visit the Hradčany castle district. You'll be able to enjoy great views of Prague Castle, officially recognised as the largest ancient castle globally. Within the city walls, admire 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.

Our final stop for the day will be a local Czech restaurant, where you’ll have the chance to try traditional and authentic local dishes. Dishes like crispy pork knuckle, homemade goulash, or other specialties, each served with a handpicked starter and dessert.

Prague - Karlovy Vary - Loket - Prague. Today, we will travel to Karlovy Vary, a quaint historic spa town. Named after Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor, who founded the city in the 14th century. Renowned for its graceful colonnades and healing mineral springs, it is the ideal spot for rest and rejuvenation.

We then make our way to the village of Loket, set against the scenic backdrop of the Ohře River. As we cross the bridge, we will notice the historic Loket Castle perched on the cape. Known as the "Key to the Kingdom of Bohemia" it influenced Charles IV. With the riverside at view, a setting for live music performances and beauty of Loket.

Next, we will enjoy a unique beer tasting at a 14th century Czech brewery, giving us an insight into the country's brewing history. We will sample 3 craft beers, choosing from Dark, Lager, Ruby beer, and others, tasting flavors that have been perfect over the centuries. We will then make our way back to the hotel in Prague.

Prague - Česky Krumlov - Austrian Countryside. Departing Prague, we travel to Česky Krumlov, a picturesque town divided by the Vltava River, with views of a medieval castle blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The castle boasts a 17th-century Baroque theatre, one of only two in Europe. As we explore the Old Town’s cobbled streets, we admire the mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with 12th-century Gothic foundations beneath the facades.

We then make our way to Austria’s Salzkammergut region, renowned for its stunning lakes, lush plateaus, and vibrant natural beauty. As the day draws to a close, we reflect on the striking contrast between the elegant architecture of the Czech Republic and the breathtaking landscapes of Austria.

Austrian Countryside - Hallstatt - St. Wolfgang - Austrian Countryside. After breakfast, we travel further into the Salzkammergut region of Austria. Renowned for its lakes, rolling hills, and pristine beauty, this area offers a stunning mix of shimmering waters, lush mountains, and alpine peaks.

Our first stop is Hallstatt, where views of pastel houses reflect in the tranquil lake, surrounded by towering mountains. Hallstatt’s charming beauty offers an unforgettable experience. As we stroll through the Market Square and narrow streets, we uncover the village's rich history, culture, and stunning views at every turn. We then visit the Hallstatt Skywalk, offering panoramic views 360 metres above the town. This thrilling skywalk gives us a unique perspective of the stunning alpine landscape. You will have free time to explore the trails, you can take in the Hallstatt high valley or relax, soaking in the vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Afterward, we will make our way to St. Wolfgang, near Lake Wolfgang, shadowed by Schafberg Peak rising up to 1,200 meters above the town. You will have some free time to explore the local shops, offering handcrafted souvenirs that capture the essence of the Alpine region. In the afternoon, we will then have a chance to explore Lake Wolfgang on an electric boat ride, where you will have the opportunity to sail the lake on your own. After we will make our way back to our accommodation in the Austrian Countryside.

St. Gilgen (Austrian Countryside) - Salzburg - Lake Bled (Slovenia) - Ljubljana. Today, we leave the Austrian countryside and journey to Salzburg, renowned as Mozart’s birthplace. As we explore the city's baroque old town, our guide will share fascinating local legends and hidden tales. We’ll then make our way to the Salzach River, where we can savour a traditional marzipan-filled chocolate, Mozartkugeln.

Next, we stop at Lake Bled, an alpine gem famed for its picturesque island and stunning scenery. A cherished landmark of the Slovenian Alps, it has captivated visitors for centuries with its natural beauty and charm.

As we arrive in the capital city of Slovenia, we’ll encounter a blend of historic architecture and modern sustainability, reflecting Slovenia’s eco-conscious ethos. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants, explore or relax.

Ljubljana - Postojna - Ljubljana. After breakfast, we will start with a city tour of Ljubljana, a picturesque city known for its greenery, stunning architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. Ljubljana lies between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea. one of Europe’s greenest capitals, it boasts a range of attractions, including dining options and museums.

As we stroll along the riverfront, we’ll pass landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the Town Hall, Mestni Trg, Robba's Fountain, the central market, and the Triple Bridge, all embodying Ljubljana's charm along the Ljubljanica River.

After, we will make our way to the Postojna Cave, where we will travel by an electric train to explore the underground landscape filled with stalactites, stalagmites, limestone pools, subterranean gorges, and mesmerising underground waterfalls.

Our final stop for the day is the Goriska Hills, a region shared by Slovenia and Italy. Known for its white wines like Rebula and Sauvignon. This region is also known for the 14th-century medieval village of Smartno, where we will have a chance to step back in time and uncover Brda. Amidst the vineyards and scenic views, we’ll visit a local winery to sample the region’s finest wines.

Your European adventure comes to an end! After breakfast and hotel check-out, make your own way to the airport. Safe travels!