Balkan Capitals & Imperial Cities - 12 days

Balkan Capitals & Imperial Cities - 12 days

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Balkan Capitals & Imperial Cities - 12 days

12 Days Starting and ending in Belgrade, Serbia

Visiting: Belgrade, Novi Sad, Budapest, Vienna, Prague, Salzburg, Ljubljana, Zagreb

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

0-

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, History

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 12-day journey through the heart of Europe with the "Balkan Capitals & Imperial Cities" tour. This small group adventure takes you through eight countries, including Austria, Serbia, and the Czech Republic, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Begin in Belgrade, exploring its vibrant streets and iconic landmarks, before venturing to Budapest's enchanting Fishermen’s Bastion. Marvel at Vienna's grand Schonbrunn Palace and Bratislava's historical charm. Discover Prague's medieval allure and Regensburg's UNESCO World Heritage center. Experience Bavarian hospitality in Munich, the musical legacy of Salzburg, and the alpine beauty of Bled. Conclude your journey in Zagreb, having traversed a diverse array of cities, each with its unique story. Enjoy guided sightseeing, comfortable 4-star accommodations, and the convenience of air-conditioned transport, all while being escorted by knowledgeable local guides.

Highlights

  • Belgrade - Explore the dynamic capital of Serbia, including the Temple of Saint Sava and Republic Square.

  • Budapest - Tour iconic landmarks, including the enchanting Fishermen’s Bastion, set against the backdrop of Gellért Hill.

  • Vienna - Marvel at the grand Schonbrunn Palace and the renowned Vienna State Opera.

  • Prague - Uncover the medieval charm of Prague Castle.

  • Regensburg - Step into Regensburg's UNESCO World Heritage medieval center.

  • Salzburg - Experience Salzburg, the birthplace of musical legend Mozart.

  • Bled - Unearth the enchantment of Bled's alpine lake and indulge in the famous Bled cream cake.

  • Ljubljana - Wander through charming streets, visiting landmarks including the iconic Triple Bridge.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Accommodation Name: hotel

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 like the Usce Tower. Your driver will also point out landmarks such as the Western Gate of Belgrade, Belgrade Arena, and Palace of Serbia. After checking in at your hotel, you will have free time to rest and prepare for the tour.





During a brief meeting with our guide at 7pm, you will be introduced to the tour and provided with all necessary information.

Day 2: Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Belgrade, starting at the iconic Temple of Saint Sava. Explore Slavija Square, Saint Mark’s Church, the Serbian National Parliament, and the White Palace.





Move on to Republic Square, surrounded by cultural landmarks like the National Theatre and National Museum. Stroll along Knez Mihailo Street, visit the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, and hear intriguing tales about the nearby tavern, playfully named “?” (Question Mark). Conclude the tour at Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, a pivotal cultural-historic complex at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.

Day 3: Belgrade

Location: Novi Sad

Meals Included: Breakfast

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, Matica Srpska cultural foundation, 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.

Day 4: Budapest

Location: Budapest

Meals Included: Breakfast

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, Margaret Bridge, the Castle District with Matthias Church, and the scenic Fishermen’s Bastion.





Head to Gellért Hill (Citadel) for the most spectacular view of Budapest, and witness other notable landmarks such as Elisabeth Bridge, the Central Market Hall, the largest synagogue in Europe, City Park, Heroes’ Square, the Opera House, Saint Stephen’s Basilica, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.





Come evening, opt to experience the best of Budapest aboard a 1.5 hour Danube River Cruise, including a welcome drink, glass of wine and traditional Hungarian buffet dinner. This can be booked and paid locally with your guide.

Day 5: Vienna

Location: Vienna

Meals Included: Breakfast

Budapest - Vienna (Austria). Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Vienna, arriving around noon. Vienna, a city of architectural wonders, boasts iconic landmarks that showcase a rich artistic history.





The guided sightseeing tour commences within Ringstrasse, where 16th and 17th-century architecture shines. Highlights include the neo-gothic Vienna City Hall, the Parliament building, Burgtheater, Naturhistorisches Museum, Kunsthistorisches Museum, and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.





Walking along the main pedestrian street, you'll witness the modern and renovated side of Vienna before reaching Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Continue on to Stephenplatz, where the magnificent Vienna State Opera takes center stage, recognized globally as a premier opera house and the venue for the prestigious Vienna Opera Ball.





After the tour, enjoy time at leisure. Explore Vienna's renowned museums or try local specialties like the famous Wiener Schnitzel.

Day 6: Vienna

Location: Vienna

Meals Included: Breakfast

Vienna - Bratislava (Slovakia) - Prague (Czechia). Begin your second day in Vienna with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schönbrunn Palace, a historical landmark with over 300 years of legacy representing Austria's monarchy. While here, stroll through the palace labyrinth gardens or enjoy cup of original Viennese coffee paired with a piece of apple strudel.





In the afternoon, head to Bratislava in Slovakia. Discover the city's key landmarks, including the Presidential Palace, Eurovea (the modern city center), the National Theatre, and an Art Nouveau church. Stop at Bratislava Castle for photo opportunities, then proceed to the Slavín memorial monument - a poignant reminder of war against a backdrop of panoramic views.





The journey continues to Prague, where you will stay for the next two nights.

Day 7: Prague

Location: Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dive into the enchanting Prague today. Recognised as the '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 your sightseeing adventure at Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), officially recognised as the largest ancient castle globally. Within its walls, explore 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.





At night, you can opt to join our Vltava Cruise with dinner - sip a glass of Moravian plum brandy and enjoy the views of Prague’s illuminated attractions during a leisurely 3-hour cruise. This can be booked and paid locally with your guide.

Day 8: Prague

Location: Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast

Prague - Regensburg (Germany) - Munich. Today, we drive to Regensburg in Germany, where the medieval center of the city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical prominence during the Middle Ages. Explore key landmarks such as the old stone bridge over the Danube, the cathedral, Krauterermarkt square with the Collegiate Church of Saint John, the Cathedral Treasury Museum, Heuport house, and the historic Adler Pharmacy.





As the evening approaches, continue your exploration to Munich, celebrated for its captivating architecture and the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration. Munich, home to pretzels, BMW, and the Bayern Munich football club, boasts the title of the most liveable city in Germany. Roam through the city center, witnessing iconic sights including the Pinakotheken art museums, the legendary Hofbrauhaus, the National Theatre with the Royal Palace, Marienplatz, and the vibrant Viktualien market.

Day 9: Salzburg

Location: Salzburg

Meals Included: Breakfast

Munich - Salzburg (Austria) - Hallstatt - Villach. After breakfast, we return to Austria to explore Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided walk takes you through the picturesque old town, featuring landmarks like Mirabell Gardens, Mozarteum, Marionette and Regional Theatres, Markart Square, and Mozart’s Square. Enjoy a stroll along the Salzach River or visit the Hohensalzburg fortress. Don't forget to try the iconic Mozartkugeln, chocolate-covered marzipan balls inspired by the renowned composer.





Next, venture to the village of Hallstatt with its pastel-coloured houses. Explore key attractions, including the Kalvarienberg Church, Market Square, Hallstatt Museum, and the Charnel House in Michael’s Chapel, featuring a display of 1200 skulls, among other archaeological artifacts.





End your day in Villach, the second-largest Austrian city, renowned for its legendary carnival. Explore the city's highlights, including Villach Main Square with the Trinity Column, Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of Saint Jacob.

Day 10: Ljubljana

Location: Ljubljana

Meals Included: Breakfast

Villach - Bled (Slovenia) - Ljubljana - Otočec - Zagreb (Croatia). Get ready for Slovenia, beginning with a visit to Bled. This alpine lake, featuring a beautiful island, has captivated visitors for centuries with its natural beauty. Why not try the famous Bled cream cake while soaking in the breathtaking views?





Continue to Ljubljana, the enchanting capital of Slovenia, known for its genuine charm and vibrant cultural scene. Stroll along the riverfront to explore the city's cultural landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, the medieval town square "Mestni Trg," Robba’s Fountain, the central open-air market, and the iconic Triple Bridge. Following the tour, break for lunch on the banks of Ljubljanica River.





While enroute to our next stop, you'll pause at Otočec Castle, a unique water castle above the Krka River. Refresh with a short break before proceeding to Zagreb, where we'll spend the night.

Day 11: Zagreb

Location: Zagreb

Meals Included: Breakfast

Zagreb - Indjija - Belgrade (Serbia). After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Zagreb, exploring its main attractions, including Kaptol, the Franciscan monastery, the 13th-century Church of Saint Francis, Dolac farmers’ market, and the baroque architecture of the 18th-century Church of Saint Mary. Last stop on the tour will be at Ban Josip Jelačić’s monument in the heart of Zagreb.





On the return journey to Belgrade, indulge in shopping at Fashion Park Outlet, Serbia's largest retail shopping center. Finally, arrive in Belgrade for hotel check-in and an overnight stay.

Day 12: Belgrade

Location: Belgrade

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    4 star hotels (upgrade available)

  • 11 breakfasts

  • 11 nights in 4 star hotels (5-star upgrade is available)

  • Transportation in a mini-bus with air-conditioning & Wi-Fi

  • Airport arrival transfer on Day 1

  • Escorted by a local tour leader with local guides for some sightseeing

  • Guided sightseeing in Belgrade, Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Villach, Bratislava, Prague, Regensburg, Munch, Bled, Ljubljana & Zagreb

  • Entrance to Hallstatt Charnel House

  • 1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger, accommodation taxes and city taxes

  • Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

What's Not Included

  • International flights & visas

  • Departure transfers

  • Meals not specified in itinerary

  • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!

  • Entry fees unless specified & optional activities

Age Policy

No min or max age (children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Age policy for children is as follows:Children 0-2 = FOCChildren 2-6 (sharing a bed) = 50% DiscountChildren 6+ = Need to be booked into a triple room (triple room prices are the same for adults and children)

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with transportation provided by a mini-bus equipped with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, including an airport arrival transfer on Day 1 for a seamless start to your adventure.

Accommodation

Enjoy 11 nights in comfortable 4-star hotels, with an option to upgrade to 5-star accommodations, ensuring a relaxing stay throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 11 nights in 4-star hotels, with an option to upgrade to 5-star accommodations.

  • Is there a transfer service provided from the airport?

    Yes, an airport arrival transfer is provided on Day 1 of the tour.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided in a mini-bus equipped with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by a local tour leader, and local guides are provided for some sightseeing activities.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Optional activities include a Danube River Cruise in Budapest and a Vltava Cruise with dinner in Prague, which can be booked and paid for locally with your guide.

  • Is there any special note regarding the operation of this tour?

    This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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