7D6N Hungary, Croatia & Bosnia - Join Group Every Thursday

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Budapest to Lake Balaton, often referred to as the "Hungarian Sea." This vast freshwater lake is one of the largest in Central Europe, covering an area of over 600 square kilometers. With its crystal-clear waters, charming towns, and lush vineyards surrounding it, Lake Balaton offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, it's a popular resort destination, especially during the summer months. After enjoying the lake's serene ambiance, you will continue your journey southward to the Croatian capital, Zagreb. Zagreb is a city steeped in history, with many buildings that have survived wars and the test of time. The city is known for its magnificent Gothic and Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming squares. The Zagreb Cathedral, with its soaring spires, is a must-see, as is Ban Jelačić Square, the central hub of the city. The Church of St. Mark, famous for its colorful tiled roof, is another highlight. As you explore Zagreb, you will also have the opportunity to sample delicious Mediterranean cuisine and locally produced wines, making for a truly immersive Croatian experience.

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Museum of Broken Relationships (€7)
On your first day, you can choose to visit the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, a unique cultural experience showcasing personal objects that symbolize past relationships. The museum offers a thoughtful and poignant experience for visitors, inviting reflection on love, loss, and the passage of time. The entrance fee is €7, and it's an optional activity for those interested in an emotional and artistic exploration of human connections.

Your adventure continues with a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the most iconic natural wonders in Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as the Jiuzhaigou of Europe, this park consists of 16 stunning turquoise lakes, all connected by a series of waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests. The lakes are famous for their vibrant colors, ranging from deep greens and blues to crystal-clear silvers. The park’s waterfalls cascade down travertine barriers, creating a dramatic landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale. The calcium-rich waters form unique mineral deposits that give the lakes their characteristic silver hue. As you walk along the well-maintained trails, you’ll be surrounded by the peaceful sounds of flowing water and the sights of wildlife in their natural habitat. After immersing yourself in the tranquility of the lakes, you will drive to Zadar, a historic city on the Adriatic Sea. Zadar is known for its rich history, with ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches, and Venetian walls. A must-see attraction is the Sea Organ, a unique musical instrument that uses the sea's waves to produce haunting sounds, and the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered light installation that creates a spectacular light display as the sun sets.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park Entrance Fee (€11 - €40)
One of the highlights of this day is a visit to the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning natural wonder in Croatia. The park is known for its cascading waterfalls and vibrant turquoise lakes, surrounded by lush forest. The entrance fee for the park varies depending on the season and age. For those aged 7-18, the cost is €17.5, while children under 7 can enter for free. The ticket price ranges from €11 to €40, with lower prices available during the off-season and higher prices during peak season.

Zadar Sunset with Transfer (€10) (only in July and August)
During the summer months (July and August), you can also opt for a Zadar Sunset with Transfer for just €10. This optional activity allows you to experience a breathtaking Adriatic sunset with a scenic transfer, providing a picturesque view of Zadar's coastline. The sunset over the city’s famous Sea Organ and Sun Salutation is a truly unique experience, making it a perfect way to conclude your visit to Zadar.

After breakfast, you will head to the ancient city of Split, Croatia’s second-largest city. Split is known for its impressive Roman architecture, most notably Diocletian's Palace, built in the 4th century AD. The palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast complex that once served as the retirement residence of the Roman emperor Diocletian. Today, the palace is a vibrant part of Split’s city center, with narrow alleys, shops, and cafes nestled within its ancient walls. As you wander through the palace, you’ll get a sense of the city’s layered history, blending Roman, medieval, and modern elements. After exploring Split, you will continue your journey to Dubrovnik, a stunning coastal city often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, limestone buildings, and historic landmarks. The City Walls, which date back to the 10th century, offer breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding sea. The Rector’s Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance building, is another highlight, showcasing the city’s architectural heritage. A ride on the cable car to Mount Srd provides a panoramic view of Dubrovnik and its turquoise waters. As you explore the city, you’ll quickly understand why Dubrovnik is a place of exceptional beauty and historical significance.

Dubrovnik is so captivating that it deserves an entire day to explore. This UNESCO-listed city has been an inspiration for countless artists, writers, and filmmakers. Most famously, it served as the backdrop for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. As you walk through the cobbled streets, you’ll visit the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, and the City Walls, which offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-roofed buildings of the Old Town. Don’t miss the Rector’s Palace, a magnificent Renaissance building that once served as the residence of the city’s rulers. The Defensive Towers, including the iconic Minceta Tower, stand guard over the city and offer breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. For a truly magical experience, take the cable car up to Mount Srd, where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. The day concludes with a peaceful evening in Dubrovnik, a city that many people fall in love with at first sight.

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Dubrovnik City Walls Entrance Fee (€34)
No trip to Dubrovnik would be complete without exploring its world-renowned City Walls. The entrance fee to these historic fortifications is €34. The City Walls are among the best-preserved in Europe, offering magnificent views of the Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and the nearby islands. Walking along these ancient walls provides an insight into Dubrovnik's rich history, particularly its medieval defense systems. The views from the walls are truly spectacular and worth every penny of the entrance fee.

Dubrovnik Cruise + 1 Drink (beer/coke) (€20)
For an additional €20, you can enjoy a relaxing Dubrovnik Cruise, where you can explore the city from the water while sipping a drink of your choice, such as beer or coke. This optional cruise offers a different perspective of the city, with views of the City Walls, the fortresses, and the charming coastline.

Excursion to Dubrovnik Mountain (90 mins) (€30)
Alternatively, you can embark on an Excursion to Dubrovnik Mountain, which takes about 90 minutes and costs €30. This excursion will take you to the top of Mount Srd, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Dubrovnik and its surrounding area. The cable car ride up the mountain offers stunning vistas of the Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea below.

Today, you will cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country rich in history and culture. The first stop is Počitelj, a medieval fortress village perched on a hill overlooking the Neretva River. With its cobbled streets, stone houses, and ancient fortress, Počitelj feels like a step back in time and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. From Počitelj, you will head to Blagaj, a tranquil village nestled at the foot of a steep cliff. Here, you will visit the Dervish Monastery, which is located near a spring that feeds into the Buna River. The monastery is set in a breathtaking location, surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters. Next, you will travel to Mostar, known for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a 16th-century Ottoman bridge that spans the Neretva River. The bridge is an architectural marvel and offers stunning views of the surrounding city. After crossing the bridge and soaking in the beautiful scenery, you will continue to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, for an overnight stay.

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Bosnia Local Lunch (incl. 1 drink) (€25)
On this day, you will have the opportunity to experience a traditional Bosnian lunch for €25. The meal includes one drink and offers a great way to taste the flavors of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Local dishes often include hearty stews, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables, with a strong Mediterranean influence. It’s a great chance to enjoy Bosnian hospitality while indulging in authentic local cuisine.

Sarajevo is a city of contrasts, where East meets West, and history is ever-present. The city’s Old Town, known as Baščaršija, is a maze of narrow streets lined with shops selling traditional goods, including copperware, jewelry, and rugs. One of the most significant historical sites in Sarajevo is the Latin Bridge, where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 triggered the outbreak of World War I. Sarajevo’s diverse cultural heritage is evident in its mix of mosques, Orthodox churches, and Catholic cathedrals. The modern city has also undergone a transformation, with sleek new buildings and a thriving café culture. After exploring Sarajevo’s rich history, you will cross the border back into Croatia, heading toward Vinkovci for an overnight stay.

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Tunnel of Hope Guided Tour (€25)
One of the most significant historical sites in Sarajevo is the Tunnel of Hope, which was used during the Bosnian War to transport goods and people into the city, which was under siege. The Tunnel of Hope Guided Tour costs €25 and gives you an in-depth look at the war’s impact on the city and how the tunnel played a crucial role in the survival of Sarajevo’s residents during the conflict. This is a sobering yet fascinating experience, offering insights into Sarajevo’s resilience and history.

On the final day of your journey, you will visit Pecs, one of Hungary's most charming cities. Nestled between the Danube and Drava rivers, Pecs has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. The city is famous for its Pécs Cathedral, a grand structure that dominates the central Szent István Square. Pecs is also known for its Turkish ruins, which date back to the Ottoman period, and its vibrant arts scene, including music, opera, and ballet. After exploring Pecs, you will return to Budapest in the afternoon, where your journey concludes, leaving you with memories of an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Europe.

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Pecs Cathedral Entrance Fee (2200 HUF)
On your final day, you will visit the stunning Pecs Cathedral in Hungary. The entrance fee to this grand structure is 2200 HUF. The cathedral, located in the heart of Pecs, is an architectural masterpiece that has stood for centuries. The building is a symbol of the city’s rich history, with its impressive design and beautiful interior. The cathedral is a must-see for those interested in religious architecture and the history of the region.