Savor the Balkans: A Culinary and Cultural Odyssey

Begin your adventure with an overnight flight from Chicago to Belgrade, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through the Balkans. Relax and enjoy the in-flight amenities as you prepare for the cultural and historical wonders that await you.

Upon arrival in Belgrade, enjoy a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel for an early check-in. After a brief rest, embark on a panoramic and walking tour of Serbia's vibrant capital. Marvel at the grandeur of St Sava Church, explore the historic Belgrade Fortress, and delve into the past at the Museum of Yugoslavia. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner in the bohemian Skadarska Street, where the ambiance of the 19th century comes alive with traditional music and cuisine.

Venture into the picturesque wine region of Fruska Gora. Begin your day with a visit to Milanovic Winery, where you'll savor authentic Danube wines. Continue to Fruska Gora National Park for an exhilarating ATV ride through its lush landscapes. Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Kovacevic Winery, pairing exquisite wines with local delicacies. Explore the baroque town of Sremski Karlovci, a cultural gem of Serbia, before returning to Belgrade for a relaxing evening.

Depart Belgrade and journey southwest to Topola, the heart of the Sumadija Wine Region. Explore the Royal Complex of the Karadjordjevic Family and enjoy a wine tasting at Aleksandrovic Winery. Continue to the stunning Mt Zlatibor, where you'll visit the enchanting Stopica Cave and Gostilje Waterfall. Discover the traditional highland lifestyle at the open-air museum of Sirogojno. Conclude your day with a hearty meal at the historic Pecinar restaurant, savoring the flavors of West Serbia.

Embark on a scenic journey to the Drina River, a natural border between Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Cruise through the breathtaking Drina River canyon and visit the historic town of Visegrad. In the afternoon, return to Serbia and explore the raw beauty of Mt Tara, a UNESCO-protected National Park. Discover the ethno complex of Serbian director Emir Kusturica and enjoy a sunset dinner atop Mt Tara, surrounded by nature's splendor.

Begin your day with a visit to the Mileseva Monastery, home to the iconic White Angel fresco. Cross into Montenegro and explore the stunning landscapes of Mt Durmitor and the Tara River Canyon. Admire the breathtaking views from Djurdjevica Bridge before continuing to Kolasin. After a short break, enjoy an authentic Montenegrin dinner at Savardak cottage, nestled in the highlands.

Travel south to Skadar Lake, the largest in the Balkans, for a scenic cruise. Visit the historic village of Crnojevica River for lunch before heading to Cetinje, Montenegro's royal capital. Explore the Cetinje Monastery and its sacred relics. Descend to the Adriatic coast for a breathtaking view of St Stephen Island and conclude your day in Budva, where you'll have free time to explore the charming Old Town.

Explore the stunning Boka Kotorska Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the medieval town of Kotor and its beautiful Cathedral of St Tryphon. Continue to Perast and take a boat ride to the iconic island of Our Lady of the Rocks. After lunch, journey through the highlands to Bosnia and Herzegovina, arriving in Mostar. Discover the city's Old Town and the famous Crooked Bridge before enjoying a delightful dinner by the Buna River.

Depart Mostar and visit the medieval town of Pocitelj, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Continue to Trebinje, where you'll enjoy the serene atmosphere before reaching Dubrovnik. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik's Old Town, with its medieval ramparts and charming streets. After a day of exploration, check in at your hotel and enjoy a free evening in this stunning coastal city.

Travel to the Peljesac Peninsula to visit local oyster farms and savor fresh seafood. Embark on a ferry to Korcula Island, the birthplace of Marco Polo, and explore its ancient towns. Continue your journey with a catamaran ride to Split, enjoying spectacular views of the Dalmatian archipelago. Arrive in Split, check in at your hotel, and enjoy a free evening in this vibrant city.

Explore Split's rich history with a visit to Diocletian's Palace and the Cathedral of St Domnius. Stroll along the Riva promenade before heading to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its magnificent palaces and churches before continuing to Zadar. Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring Zadar's Old Town and learning about its pirate past.

Depart Zadar and journey to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the stunning lakes, waterfalls, and cascades that make this park a natural wonder. In the afternoon, continue to the Istrian Peninsula and arrive in Pula for an evening of leisure.

Explore Pula's ancient Roman heritage with a visit to the well-preserved Pula Arena. Continue to Motovun, the heart of Istrian wine and truffle culture, for a special tasting experience. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque town of Rovinj and admire its Venetian architecture. Return to Pula for a free evening to unwind.

Dedicate a full day to exploring the Brijuni Islands National Park, once the favored residence of Yugoslav President Tito. Discover the island's villas, presidential palace, private zoo, and archaeological sites. Learn about the fascinating history and notable guests who visited this magical island. Return to Pula in the afternoon for leisure time.

Cross into Slovenia and visit the iconic Postojna Cave, one of Europe's largest caves, with a train ride through its stunning formations. Explore the nearby Predjama Castle, a medieval marvel built into a cliff. Enjoy a Slovenian lunch at Petrich Winery before arriving in Ljubljana. Stroll through the charming Old Town, visiting Presern's Square, the Town Hall, and the iconic Dragon Bridge. Check in at your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Visit the enchanting Lake Bled, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and visit Bled Castle for panoramic views. Continue to Zagreb, Croatia's capital, and explore its Old Town. Discover Zrinjevac Park, Ban Jelacic Square, and the Zagreb Cathedral. Experience the Gric Tunnel and ride the Zagreb Funicular to Lotrscak Tower and St Mark's Church. Check in at your hotel for a leisurely evening.

Travel through the picturesque Slavonia region to Osijek, where you'll admire its Art Nouveau architecture. Enjoy a traditional Slavonian lunch before visiting Kopacki Rit Nature Park for a serene boat ride through the marshlands. Continue to Novi Sad, Serbia's cultural hub, and check in at your hotel. Conclude your day with a farewell dinner at the foot of Petrovaradin Fortress, savoring Vojvodina's culinary delights.

Discover Novi Sad, known as 'Serbian Athens,' with a visit to Liberty Square and the enchanting streets of Dunavska and Zmaj Jovina. Cross the Danube to explore the formidable Petrovaradin Fortress, learning about its historical significance. Conclude your journey with a transfer to Belgrade's Nikola Tesla International Airport for your departure, taking with you memories of an unforgettable Balkan adventure.