Small Group Tour; Central Europe & The Balkans from Vienna to Dubrovnik / Split

After having experienced the cultural and historical splendor of Austria, Vienna (by yourself), our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Vienna. We will continue this 21 days journey by driving towards our first destination Rust in the region Burgenland, known as a wine region of Austria. While we drive through the hilly vineyards, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the Lake Neusiedl, part of UNESCO world heritage. After our scenic drive we will reach Rust, famous for its well-preserved historic center, charming streets, and traditional Austrian architecture. We will walk through the picturesque old town with colorful houses decorated with flower boxes, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Do not miss the possibility to visit one of the small shops, where you can get creative souvenirs and decorations made of natural materials such as tartar or wood form the wine barrel. Have some free time to visit the vineyards overlooking the lake where you can enjoy your meal and sample some of the region's best wines. After our visit to Rust we will drive by the lake and head towards Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Overnight in Bratislava.

After breakfast we will visit Bratislava, a charming city alongside the Danube. Exploring the medieval Old Town Hall, we will learn more about the ancient history of Slovakia. Bratislava's Old Town is known for its many churches and cultural institutions, it is also the location of most of the foreign states embassies and important Slovak institutions. We will head to Michael's Gate, the only gate that has been preserved from the medieval fortifications, and it ranks among the oldest of the town's buildings. After exploring the old town, we will walk up to the iconic Bratislava Castle, overlooking the city. The castle was built in 9th century and it stands on the hill above Danube River. The view from the castle offers an amazing spot worth a picture of Bratislava. In the afternoon we will return to the city center. Bratislava's café culture is legendary, have some free time and try the famous coffee in one of the Bratislav’s traditional coffee shops where the aroma of roasted coffee beans fills the air. Overnight in Bratislava.

Our journey continues towards Hungary. Our first stop will be the picturesque “City of Rivers”, Győr. The city is filled with a rich history, baroque architecture and tasty Hungarian food. The center of the city is surrounded with multi-color homes and churches. We will wander the historic streets and visit the Györ’s Town Hall where you cannot miss the 59-meter tower and its green top. This Neo-Classical building has been open since 1898. Győr has many churches all around the town, however, do not miss a visit to Cathedral of The Virgin Mary which was built in Roman style in the 11th century. After we will walk towards Györ Synagogue, its colossal grey dome can be spotted from far away. The architecture of this building was used as an inspiration for other synagogues across all central Europe. We will walk along the pedestrian-only street Baross Gabor. The street is filled with numerous cafes, shops, bars, and restaurants. Have some free time to taste the delicious Hungarian food and the famous blueberry beer. Later we will drive towards Budapest. Overnight in Budapest.

Today we will explore the “Queen of the Danube”, Budapest. This scenic city is known for its singular mix of Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture. The capital of Hungary is divided by the Danube into two parts: traditional "Buddha" and cosmopolitan "Pest". Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. We will pass by the Saint Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in Budapest with neoclassical style. After we will stroll along the boulevards, the Opera, the Parliament building, Heroes' Square, and the 19th-century Fisherman's Bastion with its spectacular views over the city. We will learn more about the historical and cultural significance of the Hungarian capital by visiting the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of the city. We will cross over bridges and discover the Baroque-style Street. You can't miss Budapest at night when the city dresses up, free evening to explore on your own this amazing city, and take in the atmosphere. Overnight in Budapest.

Our destination for today will be Subotica in Serbia, rich cultural heritage assets, intricately Our destination for today will be Subotica decorated buildings, multicultural spirit and European charm – these are the features that make this city distinctive. In Subotica, you will be eye-full of the vibrant colors, and outstanding architecture of the city due to its once importance and wealth during the Austro-Hungarian empire. We will visit the center of Subotica which is not dominated by a cathedral or a church, but by the City Hall. It is surrounded by the park, fountains and a huge square. Subotica is known for its relaxed atmosphere, good food, and quality wines. After a walk through the city center, enjoy time to explore Subotica’s streets and squares and taste the far-known local cuisine. We will visit the Cathedral of St. Teresa of Avila and the Synagogue. After the city center visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the town center by yourself and enjoy a coffee in the Austro-Hungarian influenced city. Overnight in Novi Sad

Right after breakfast, we will start with a city tour of Novi Sad, considered to be the cultural capital of northern Serbia. Located on the historical border of two former empires – the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman, as a result you will be able to distinguish among the mixture of melting cultures influencing the town through centuries. You will immediately notice the Austro-Hungarian as well as the Ottoman influences. The town has a unique Baroque architecture characterizing some of its most important buildings. Not to be missed is the Petrovaradin Fortress also known as the Gibraltar on the Danube. We will be able to explore the old town walking through the pedestrian streets passing by Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska. Have some free time to enjoy the city on your own. Overnight in Novi Sad.

Novi Sad region is also very famous about the culture of wine production and high quality of fine wines. We will learn more about the region’s tradition on wine production in Sremski Karlovci, the center of Serbian culture in the 18th century and famous for the well-respected wine cellars. Sremski Karlovci is a real gem of Serbian culture and spirituality, which feels like a ‘museum town’ with its Baroque center. It is said that every building, house and street in the city have their own stories to tell. Sremski Karlovci has its own legend which claims that whoever drinks from the Four Lions fountain located in the city center will surely return to Karlovci and get married there. After the tour you will have some free time to taste different wine specialties of the region, by enjoying the spectacular views of the vineyards. Overnight in Belgarde.

After breakfast we will visit Belgrade. Our first stop will be Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, built on the confluence of two big rivers Sava and the Danube. The view of the city from the Fortress is breathtaking. In the Upper Town of the Belgrade Fortress, you will visit the Pobednik monument with a history dating back to 1913. The park is a huge green area with beautiful trees and peaceful paths. We will walk through Knez Mihailova, the social midpoint of Belgrade locals until we reach Republic square.
After we will drive towards Bosnia and Herzegovina. Zvornik is a captivating town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated along the banks of the serene Drina River, Zvornik offers a unique experience for both travelers seeking historical insights and those yearning for a tranquil escape. Have some free time to have lunch and try the local dishes or simply walk around the charming streets of Zvornik. Overnight in Sarajevo.

Today we will visit Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today’s itinerary includes walking on uneven terrain, while visiting some of the ruins during our Sarajevo tour. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. The tour will cover the stories of origins of Sarajevo and the medieval Bosnian Kingdom. We will visit the Ottoman and Austria-Hungarian parts of Sarajevo, which both with its stunning markets, bazaars, mosques, churches and synagogues will reveal the true nature of the real European Jerusalem. We’ll make sure to visit the Latin Bridge and learn the story about how WWI was triggered right here, in the heart of Sarajevo. The bridge received its name because it connected the right bank of the Miljacka with the Catholic quarter of the city, which was informally called "Latinluk" in Ottoman times. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. Our tour continues to the city of Mostar. We will, of course, visit the iconic Old Bridge also known as Stari Most, part of UNESCO world heritage and built in a typical Islamic architectural style in the 16th century. We will also wander through the Old Bazaar with its colourful streets and lively atmosphere. The city has stones with “Don’t Forget” all around the town, commemorating the city’s history. Mostar combines the old with the new, which you will notice while wandering through the streets. There are several beautiful old mosques, bustling Turkish bazaars, and a maze of cobbled alleyways. In the afternoon you will have some free time to explore and wander around Mostar, this splendid UNESCO site. Overnight in Mostar

This is the last day of your Central Europe and Balkans adventure marking the end of this amazing experience through the rich history and culture of this part of the World. Your tour leader will take you to the Croatian border. Our local representative (driver) will shuttle you to your hotel in Dubrovnik or Split. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories to cherish for a lifetime.