21 Day Balkan Backroads Unveiled Premium Small Group Tour

Welcome to Budapest, the breathtaking capital of Hungary! Upon arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore — stroll along the Danube promenade, discover nearby cafés, or head out for your first taste of local Hungarian cuisine.In the evening, you'll meet your fellow travellers and tour leader for a welcome meeting at the hotel, where you'll receive an overview of the journey ahead. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive 3-hour city tour of Budapest with a local guide, starting with the stunning view from Gellért Hill. From here, you'll enjoy an unbeatable panorama of the city, split into two parts: Buda, the ancient seat of Hungarian kings, and Pest, the modern heart of the city. We'll begin our exploration in Buda, visiting the impressive Buda Castle and wandering through Trinity Square, Fisherman's Bastion, and Matthias Church. After snapping photos of the grand Buda Castle, we'll cross the iconic Chain Bridge to Pest, where you'll be awed by the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building along the Danube's edge. Next, we'll stroll down lively Váci Street, home to bustling shops, before visiting St. Stephen's Basilica, which houses the surprisingly quirky relic of the right hand of King Stephen. We'll then take a walk along the elegant Andrássy Avenue, lined with opulent buildings like the Hungarian State Opera House, before reaching the historical Heroes' Square. For lunch, you might like to sample traditional Hungarian cuisine at a local restaurant—gulyás (goulash) stew is a beloved national dish, but there are plenty of delicious options to explore. For the rest of the afternoon and evening, you're free to spend your time as you wish—perhaps relaxing at one of Budapest's famous thermal baths, exploring more of the city's grand boulevards and historic sites, or, if you'd like, joining a Danube river cruise. As the sun sets, glide beneath the city's illuminated bridges, sip champagne, and enjoy the sounds of Franz Liszt. Inspiring Highlights Gellért Hill Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion St. Stephen's Basilica and Váci Street

After breakfast, we make our way to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Upon arrival, we will head out to explore the city on foot with a local guide. Our walking tour begins in Kaptol Square in the Upper Town, home to the impressive Zagreb Cathedral, whose twin spires dominate the skyline. From there, we continue past Krvavi Most to St. Mark's Church, easily recognized by its vibrant tiled roof, and visit the nearby Jesuit Church of St. Catherine and the historic Parliament building. The tour concludes with free time to explore at your own pace. You might wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit Ban Jelačić Square, or browse the shops and cafés along lively Ilica Street. Inspiring Highlights City tour with local guide Zagreb Cathedral St. Mark's Church Dolac Market Old Town and Ban Jelacic Square Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

After breakfast, we depart Zagreb and make our way to the remarkable Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its cascading waterfalls, 16 terraced lakes, and lush forests—an awe-inspiring display of nature at its finest. You'll explore the park on a guided walk, taking in the beauty of this natural wonder and enjoying plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way. Later, we continue to the coastal city of Split. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to unwind—perhaps with a seaside coffee or dinner at one of the city's many waterfront restaurants. Inspiring Highlights Plitvice Lakes National Park Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, we'll set off for a walking tour of Split's Old Town with a local guide, where the city's rich Roman history comes to life. The heart of the Old Town is the Palace of Diocletian, a remarkable example of Roman architecture, built in the 4th century. This impressive palace is one of the largest and best-preserved of its kind in the world. As we wander through the cobbled streets, we'll see the Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Diocletian, and the Temple of Jupiter, guarded by a headless black sphinx. After our walking tour, you'll have the afternoon free to explore at your own pace. You might choose to take a high-speed catamaran to the stunning island of Hvar, book a Game of Thrones tour, or hike up Marjan Hill for panoramic views of Split. Alternatively, relax on one of Split's beautiful beaches and soak in the Mediterranean vibes. Inspiring Highlights City tour with local guide Palace of Diocletian Cathedral of St. Domnius Temple of Jupiter

After breakfast, we'll drive along the stunning Croatian coast, taking in breathtaking views as we approach Dubrovnik, often called the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic.' Upon arrival, we'll check in and take a short break before heading out for our ‘Old Dubrovnik on Foot' tour. Dubrovnik's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. We'll visit the Rector's Palace, a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance design, and the Sponza Palace, one of the city's most beautiful and best-preserved buildings. We'll also pass by Orlando's Tower in Luza Square, dedicated to the knight who famously saved the city in the 9th century. After the tour, the afternoon is yours to explore. Walk the impressive city ramparts with views over the Adriatic, visit the Maritime Museum in St. John's Castle, or explore Game of Thrones filming locations around the city. Alternatively, you may wish to take a boat ride to Lokrum Island, ride the Dubrovnik cable car, or simply enjoy the charm of the Old Town. Inspiring Highlights Guided walking tour UNESCO listed Old Town Rector's Palace Franciscan Monastery City ramparts and Adriatic views Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in the stunning city of Dubrovnik. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, walk the iconic city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, or relax at one of the charming cafés overlooking the harbor. For those wishing to explore further, an optional full-day excursion to Montenegro is available.

After breakfast, we'll leave Croatia behind and drive toward Mostar. This medieval town in northern Herzegovina is one of the most iconic sights in the Balkans. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the striking Old Bridge spanning the Neretva River, Mostar is truly a postcard-perfect destination. We'll take a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets and uncover the history of this remarkable place. Crossing the UNESCO-protected Old Bridge, a symbol of freedom and resilience, we may even witness daring divers leaping into the river—a tradition that has endured for centuries. In the late afternoon, we'll continue our journey to Sarajevo, a city steeped in history and cultural richness. After checking in, you'll have some free time to explore. For dinner, don't miss the chance to try ćevapčići, a traditional Bosnian dish of small grilled meat patties beloved by locals. Inspiring Highlights Guided walking tour of Mostar Old Town Mostar UNESCO Old Bridge Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast, we'll begin our exploration of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina — a city rich in history and shaped by a remarkable mix of cultural influences. Our guided tour begins in the charming Turkish Bazaar, Baščaršija, a vibrant quarter filled with traditional workshops, artisan stores and centuries-old trading streets. We'll admire exquisite Ottoman architecture, including the elegant Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Sebilj Fountain, the beautifully restored City Hall (Vijećnica), and the intriguing Spite House, each offering a glimpse into Sarajevo's layered past. We'll then visit the powerful Tunnel of Hope (War Tunnel Museum), a deeply moving site that played a vital role during the Siege of Sarajevo, providing a life-saving underground link for food, supplies and communication. This visit offers meaningful insight into the resilience of the city and its people during the Bosnian War. As we continue our drive through Sarajevo, we'll pass the 1984 Winter Olympic Stadium and the Gavrilo Princip Museum, landmarks tied to key moments in modern history. Along the way, keep an eye out for the poignant Sarajevo Roses — memorials filled with red resin that mark the sites of deadly shell impacts during the war. After the tour, enjoy free time to stroll along the banks of the Miljacka River, relax at a local café, or savour a traditional Bosnian coffee. In the evening, a delicious dinner is included at a local restaurant, giving you the perfect opportunity to sample traditional Bosnian cuisine. Inspiring Highlights City tour with local guide Tunnel of Hope Museum

After breakfast, we'll leave Sarajevo behind and travel north toward Belgrade, the lively capital of Serbia. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes of the Balkans as we make our way through charming towns and scenic countryside. We'll arrive in Belgrade in the afternoon, leaving plenty of time to explore this dynamic city at your own pace. Wander along Knez Mihailova Street, take in the views from Kalemegdan Fortress, or relax at a riverside café and watch the Danube and Sava rivers meet. The afternoon is yours to discover the unique energy and history of Belgrade. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast, we'll set out on a guided tour of Belgrade, exploring some of its most significant landmarks and neighborhoods. We begin at the historic Belgrade Fortress, overlooking the meeting point of the Sava and Danube rivers. Spanning centuries of history, the site includes highlights such as the Victor Monument, Saint Petka Chapel, and the Clock Tower. From there, we take a panoramic drive through New Belgrade, known for its striking modernist architecture, before crossing into Zemun—a charming riverside district with cobblestone streets and a relaxed, Mediterranean feel. Continuing on, we pass through the elegant Dedinje neighborhood and arrive at the Saint Sava Temple, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and a powerful symbol of Serbian spirituality and identity. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. You might visit the Nikola Tesla Museum, browse the National Museum, or simply enjoy the energy of Belgrade's city centre. In the evening, we'll visit Skadarlija, the city's charming bohemian quarter. Often likened to Montmartre in Paris, this lively area is known for its traditional restaurants, local music and warm, artistic atmosphere. Here, you'll enjoy an included dinner, giving you the perfect opportunity to sample authentic local cuisine while soaking up the vibrant surroundings. Inspiring Highlights Belgrade Fortress Zemun Saint Sava Temple

After breakfast, we'll travel towards Novi Sad, Serbia's vibrant second-largest city. Along the way, we'll stop in the charming town of Sremski Karlovci, once the cultural centre of Serbia during the 18th century. As we stroll through its cobbled streets, we'll visit important historical sites, including the first Serbian high school, the Old Patriarch's Court, and the theological complex with the Assembly Church and Theological Lyceum. Situated in the heart of Serbia's renowned wine region, we'll also stop at a local cellar to sample Bermet, a distinctive local wine. Continuing on to Novi Sad, we'll explore the historic centre, wandering through the lively pedestrian zone and seeing key landmarks such as the main square, cathedral, and episcopal buildings. After the tour, enjoy some free time to have lunch, relax at a café, or explore the city at your own pace. Later in the day, we'll continue our journey to Romania, arriving in Timișoara in the late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax or enjoy a gentle first taste of the city. Inspiring Highlights Sremski Karlovci Wine tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

After breakfast and check-out, we'll begin our guided tour of Timisoara's historical center, visiting some of the city's most important landmarks. You'll marvel at the stunning Orthodox Cathedral, the lively Victory Square, Liberty Square with its City Hall, and Union Square, home to the Roman Catholic Cathedral. We'll also explore the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace, each offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. Afterward, we'll take a lunch break at one of Timisoara's cozy restaurants. Following lunch, we'll continue our journey east, with our first stop at Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle. This magnificent Gothic fortress in the heart of Transylvania is one of Romania's most iconic landmarks, steeped in medieval charm and rich with legends. After exploring the castle, we'll drive on to Sibiu, a picturesque city founded by German settlers in the 12th century. Known as ‘The City of Eyes' for the unique roofs that seem to watch over the streets, Sibiu invites discovery. Once we check into our hotel, you'll have a brief break to refresh before we embark on a walking tour. During the tour, we'll visit the Large Square, home to the Brukenthal National Museum, and the charming Small Square. You'll also see the Council Tower, the famous Bridge of Lies, the Stairs Passage, and the Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, inspired by Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. After the tour, you'll have the afternoon free to explore Sibiu at your own pace, soaking in the medieval atmosphere or savoring some traditional Romanian delicacies. Inspiring Highlights Guided walking tour of Timișoara Corvin Castle Guided walking tour of Sibiu Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, we continue our journey through The Transylvanian Triangle, beginning with a visit to Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 12th century by German craftsmen, the Transylvanian Saxons, this town is famous for its well-preserved medieval centre, colourful houses, and impressive watchtowers. But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Sighisoara is its connection to Vlad the Impaler, the real-life figure behind the Dracula legend. During our exploration, we'll visit the Church of the Dominican Monastery, the Clock Tower, Saint Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, the Tailors' Tower, and the Covered Stairway, all while soaking in the medieval charm of this fascinating town. After Sighisoara, we'll continue to Brasov, widely considered the most picturesque town of our journey. Known for its restored medieval buildings, bastions, and fortifications, Brasov is best explored on foot. We'll take a leisurely stroll through its pretty streets, where you'll encounter highlights such as the narrowest street in the world, the iconic Black Church, Catherine's Gate, and the Beth Israel Synagogue. There's plenty of history and charm on every corner, making this town a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Romania's culture. After a day of exploration, enjoy a relaxed evening in Brasov, soaking up the atmosphere and preparing for the exciting adventures that await us tomorrow. Inspiring Highlights Sighisoara's medieval centre The Clock Tower Narrowest street in the world Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, we'll immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes and legendary landmarks of Transylvania. This region is not only known for its striking natural beauty but also its interesting history. Our first stop will be Bran Castle, often referred to as ‘Dracula's Castle'. Once a royal residence, it is now an iconic symbol of Vlad the Impaler, the figure who inspired the Dracula legend. We'll explore the castle's imposing towers, narrow staircases, and winding passages while uncovering the stories and myths surrounding this historic fortress. Next, we'll visit Peles Castle, often regarded as the most impressive castle in Romania. Built by King Carol I as a summer residence, this Neo-Renaissance masterpiece has a fairytale-like structure, surrounded by beautifully landscaped parklands. The castle's striking exterior is adorned with handpainted stained glass windows and sculptures, while the interior features over 160 rooms, each decorated by more than 400 artists and craftsmen, making it one of the most magnificent castles in Europe. After a day steeped in history and architecture, we'll continue our journey to Bucharest, the capital of Romania. After checking into our hotel, enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Bran Castle Peles Castle Transylvanian scenery Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, we'll uncover why Bucharest is often called ‘Little Paris'. With its wide boulevards, treelined avenues, and stunning architecture, the city exudes a charm reminiscent of France's capital. As we explore, you'll see an intriguing blend of French, Byzantine, and communist-era architecture, with buildings that reflect the city's diverse history. We'll visit some of the major sights, including Piața Unirii, home to the massive Palace of the Parliament, which is the second largest building in the world after the Pentagon. We'll also stop by Roman Square and The Arch of Triumph, which showcase the city's French influence. The Romanian Athenaeum, a neo-classical masterpiece, is next on our list, followed by Lipscani Street, the vibrant heart of Bucharest's Old Town, and Calea Victoriei Avenue, lined with grand buildings and theatres. Finally, we'll visit Revolution Square, where pivotal moments of the 1989 revolution took place. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore Bucharest at your leisure. Whether you're strolling through the city's parks, or soaking in the lively dining scene, there's plenty to see and experience. In the evening, immerse yourself in the exciting atmosphere that Bucharest is famous for. Inspiring Highlights Guided city tour Palace of the Parliament Romanian Athenaeum Lipscani Street and Revolution Square

After breakfast and check out, we'll journey into Bulgaria, making our way towards the village of Ivanovo. Our first stop will be the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches. This remarkable complex, dating back to the 12th century, is a series of churches, chapels, monasteries, and cells carved directly into the rock. It was here that the first hermits created their homes and places of worship, and today it stands as a testament to early monastic life. Next, we'll visit the picturesque village of Arbanasi, which feels like an open-air museum. With its 80 beautifully preserved houses, Arbanasi retains its medieval charm, showcasing the quiet, timeless beauty of Bulgaria's rural architecture. Our final stop for the day is Veliko Tarnovo, often referred to as the ‘City of Tsars'. Nestled on the banks of the Yantra River, the city is home to the impressive Tsarevets Fortress, the ruins of the former royal palace, and the Patriarchal Church. The city's medieval atmosphere is beautifully preserved in its narrow streets and ancient architecture, where you can also admire the craftsmanship of local artisans. After checking in at the hotel, you'll have the evening free to relax and explore this charming town. Inspiring Highlights Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches Arbanasi Village Veliko Tarnovo Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast and check out, we'll set off for the Regional Ethnographic Open-Air Museum Etar, an open-air museum which showcases Bulgarian life during the National Revival. This museum features 50 objects, including water-powered installations and artisan workshops. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Bulgaria's traditional architecture, craftsmanship, and way of life, focusing on 20 regional crafts. Next, we'll head to Kazanlak, known for its fragrant rose fields. Here, you'll have the chance to take in the stunning landscape and capture some incredible photos of the blooming roses, which play a crucial role in Bulgaria's rose oil industry. From there, we'll continue to the Damascene Ethnographic Complex, located in the heart of the Valley of Roses. Learn about Bulgaria's renowned rose oil production and the importance of roses in the country's culture. After a break for lunch, we'll visit the famous Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 4th century BC. This tomb provides a glimpse into the region's rich Thracian history. Our final stop for the day is Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in Europe, where we'll check in and enjoy a free evening. Plovdiv is known for its cultural blend, sitting on seven hills and showcasing a mix of architectural styles from different civilizations. The city is often referred to as a ‘museum under the open sky' due to its remarkable history and preserved heritage. Inspiring Highlights Regional Ethnographic Open-Air Museum Etar Kazanlak rose fields Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, we'll embark on a Plovdiv sightseeing tour. Our walking tour will take us through some of the city's most historic and cultural landmarks. We'll visit the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, a well-preserved Roman theatre still used for performances today. We'll also see the Roman Stadium, an ancient structure that once hosted public events, and the Church of Saint Constantine and Helena, a beautiful example of Bulgarian Orthodox architecture. Our tour will conclude in Kapana, a fun pedestrian district known for its thriving arts scene, filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Here, you can enjoy the creative atmosphere and have lunch at one of the local spots. In the afternoon, travel from Plovdiv to Sofia, Bulgaria's vibrant capital. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city independently. In the evening, enjoy an included Bulgarian traditional dinner with a folklore show featuring live music, dance performances, and local culinary specialties—a festive, memorable cultural experience. Inspiring Highlights Plovdiv's Ancient Theatre and Roman Stadium Kapana District Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast, we'll begin our Sofia sightseeing tour. Our walking tour will take us through the ruins of the Serdica-Roman fortress walls, and we'll stop at St. George Rotunda, the oldest building in Sofia, as well as the St. Sofia Basilica, the oldest active church that gave the city its name. We'll also visit St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, and the National Theatre, among many other historical sites that blend the ancient with the cosmopolitan city life of modern Sofia. In the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional tour to Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bulgaria's holiest places. This revered monastery is a significant spiritual and literary centre, with a rich history stretching from the Middle Ages to the present day. Inspiring Highlights St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral St. George Rotunda

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to this unforgettable journey and your new tour friends for now! We will transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your incredible Balkan adventure. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.