Balkans Rail Adventure

Our journey through the Balkans begins today in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. This historic city lies in the shadow of its old castle and along the banks of the Ljubljanica River, which meanders through the pedestrianised centre.

For those arriving in time, our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm. There are no other activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Ljubljana at any time. If you'd like an airport transfer, you'll need to arrive into Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport (LJU), which is around a 40-minute drive from the hotel.

If your flight arrives earlier in the day - or if you're extending your stay by a night - we recommend visiting the castle today.

This evening, before the welcome meeting, you might like to enjoy dinner in one of the city's gostilna restaurants, where traditional recipes are prepared with local ingredients and paired with good wines.

This morning, we'll take an excursion to Lake Bled, about an hour away by public bus. Located at the foot of the Alps, Lake Bled is famous for its stunning natural beauty. The crystal-clear lake, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountain peaks, creates a picture-perfect setting that has captivated visitors for centuries. The charming resort town of Bled was once one of Europe's most fashionable retreats. In the early 20th century, it was home to the Yugoslav Royal Family and later became the summer residence of President Tito.

You'll have free time here to explore as you wish. You might like to give your camera a workout on a scenic walk along the lakeshore, or take a traditional gondola boat (known as a pletna) across the water to the island at its centre. There, you'll find the Baroque Church of the Assumption. Alternatively, you could visit Bled Castle, perched high on a cliff with spectacular views over the lake and surrounding countryside.

We'll return to Ljubljana in the afternoon. The city is brimming with art, culture and music, all framed by striking Germanic-style architecture. Late this afternoon, we'll explore the city on foot with a local guide, taking in some of its most iconic landmarks - including the Opera House, National Gallery, Republic Square, and the city's most famous sight, Triple Bridge.

This evening is free for you to enjoy dinner wherever you like, or you may wish to join your fellow travellers at a local restaurant recommended by your tour leader.

This morning, we'll board a local train to Zagreb. The journey takes around three hours, following the Sava River for much of the way and offering beautiful views of farmland across eastern Slovenia. During the trip, we'll cross the border into Croatia, arriving later this afternoon.

On arrival, we'll begin exploring Croatia's capital with a guided walking tour while our bags are taken to our hotel. While Zagreb is rich in art and gastronomy, it doesn't attract the same tourist crowds as many European capitals. It's well worth a spot on your bucket list, thanks to its mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture and more austere socialist-era buildings. Key highlights include the Gothic Zagreb Cathedral and the 13th-century Saint Mark's Church.

Please note that the city suffered a significant earthquake in 2020, and some historic buildings are still undergoing renovation-so access to certain interiors may be limited. The walking tour is mostly easy, but Zagreb's hilly terrain means there are quite a few steps to navigate as we move up and down the streets. After the tour we'll have about two hours of free time for lunch and to walk around the city at your leisure. We'll then head to our hotel at around 3pm to check-in.

After check-in, we'll have a free afternoon and evening, and an opportunity to relax or explore more of Zagreb at your own pace. In the evening, you may wish to join your tour leader for dinner at a local Croatian restaurant.

Today, we'll spend the full day visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its chain of turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush woodlands teeming with wildlife. The drive takes around three hours from Zagreb.

On arrival, we'll explore the park by boat and on foot, following well-marked walking trails, many of which are wooden boardwalks suspended just above the water. Around every corner, you'll encounter breathtaking waterfalls and unforgettable views that give the park its fairytale feel. The walk is expected to take around five to six hours, so we recommend wearing sturdy footwear.

After some free time for an optional picnic lunch in the park, we'll return to Zagreb for the evening. Your hotel is well located with plenty of nearby restaurants to choose from for dinner tonight.

This evening, we recommend stocking up on snacks and food in preparation for tomorrow's train journey.

This morning, we embark on one of the longest travel days of the tour as we make our way to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The first leg of the journey takes us by local train from Zagreb to the remote village of Vrpolje, near the Croatian border - a journey of around five hours. Travelling through the southern region of the Pannonian Plain, you'll get a real glimpse of rural Croatian life from the train window.

From Vrpolje, we'll switch to a private vehicle for the border crossing and continue our journey by road to Sarajevo. As we drive, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic - the flat plains give way to rugged mountains and steep valleys, part of the wider Dinaric Alps.

Sarajevo itself is dramatically set in a narrow river valley, surrounded by mountains on all sides - a striking setting that hints at the city's complex history and unique blend of cultures. The drive to the city takes around six hours, including a stop at a local restaurant for dinner. We expect to arrive in Sarajevo by mid-evening.

This morning, we'll head into the city centre to meet our local guide for a walking tour exploring Sarajevo's complex and fascinating history. We'll visit the site of a pivotal moment in world events - the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on 28 June 1914, which triggered the outbreak of the First World War. As we walk, we'll admire elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture, including the grand City Hall, and learn about the city's rich heritage that once earned it the nickname 'Little Jerusalem'.

Sarajevo has long been a cultural crossroads, where East meets West and mosques, synagogues, Catholic and Orthodox churches all sit within walking distance of one another. This unique blend of influences is visible throughout the city - from the Ottoman-era Bascarsija bazaar to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Cathedral of Jesus' Heart, and the Old Synagogue. On the walking tour, we'll also visit local artisans who practice traditional hand-hammered metalwork, crafting beautiful copper and tin pieces using techniques passed down through generations.

The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. You might like to continue wandering through the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, relax in a café with a strong Bosnian coffee, or simply soak up the city's atmosphere. Alternatively, you can join an optional visit to the Tunnel of Hope Museum. Built during the 1992-1995 siege, this tunnel was a vital lifeline for residents under blockade - and the museum provides a powerful insight into life during the longest siege in modern history. The visit includes transport to and from the museum, as well as a local guide, since the site is located just outside the city. You'll be dropped back in the afternoon with free time to explore more of Sarajevo or sample the city's excellent culinary scene at your own pace.

This evening, you're free to enjoy dinner wherever you choose. Sarajevo's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural roots, with strong Ottoman influences. Expect to find grilled meats, pita-style breads, fresh salads and rich stews on the menu - and be sure to leave room for some syrup-soaked baklava for dessert.

This morning we have an early start due to limited train timetables - but the scenic rail journey from Sarajevo to Mostar more than makes up for it. The trip takes just under three hours, though timings can vary slightly depending on signalling as we pass through the mountains. As the train winds through dramatic landscapes once occupied by Bosnian Serb forces during the war, the views serve as a poignant reminder of the region's recent past.

We'll arrive in Mostar in the late morning and take taxis to our hotel to drop off our luggage before heading into the city centre for a guided walking tour during which we'll visit a traditional Turkish house and a mosque.

Set in the Herzegovina region, Mostar still bears visible scars from the 18-month siege it endured during the 1990s. Yet despite its turbulent history, the city now has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere - a striking contrast that speaks to its resilience. The Ottoman influence is still strongly felt in the cobbled lanes, historic mosques and traditional architecture. We'll explore the old bazaar, visit a mosque, and wind our way through the heart of the city to one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most iconic landmarks - Stari Most (Old Bridge).

Spanning the Neretva River, the bridge once connected the city's Muslim east bank with the predominantly Christian west. Destroyed during the Balkan conflict and later rebuilt, the UNESCO-listed Stari Most stands today as a powerful symbol of unity, reconciliation and cultural heritage.

This afternoon and evening are free for you to explore Mostar at your own pace. You might like to return to the bazaar, try traditional Herzegovinian dishes, or simply relax by the river with a coffee or cold drink.

Today is another full day of travel as we make our way from Mostar to the Adriatic coast. Leaving behind the dramatic landscapes of the lower Dinaric Alps, we'll cross the border back into Croatia. As we approach the sea, the scenery shifts - with drier karst mountains and glimpses of the deep blue Adriatic coming into view.

Depending on how smooth the border crossing is, the journey to Dubrovnik should take around 4.5 hours. Once we arrive, we'll have approximately three hours to explore the city's extraordinary Old Town. Surrounded by towering medieval walls and perched along the sparkling coast, Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich and complex history. Though it suffered heavy shelling during the conflicts of the early 1990s, the Old Town has been meticulously restored.

During your free time here, we recommend wandering through the narrow, marble-paved streets, finding a spot for lunch, or - if you're up for it - climbing the city walls for panoramic views. Just be prepared for queues in the summer months, as it's one of the city's most popular activities.

Later this afternoon, we'll continue our journey south along one of the region's most scenic coastal roads, crossing into Montenegro and heading to the stylish port town of Tivat, where we'll spend the night. Depending on traffic, the drive from Dubrovnik to Tivat can take up to three hours.

Once a quiet town, Tivat has undergone a striking transformation in recent years, now known for its sleek marina and upscale waterfront that draws the global yachting crowd each summer. This evening, you might like to stroll through the town and enjoy some of the excellent seafood on offer.

Please note that we'll be crossing two international borders today. Delays are possible, especially during peak travel season - so bring a book, snacks, and a bit of patience for the road.

We've got a free morning in Tivat to take things at a relaxed pace. If the weather's nice, you might like to wander down to the nearby public beach for a swim - it's just a short walk from the hotel. Do bring your water shoes, as it's a pebbly beach. If a dip's not your thing, there are plenty of beachfront cafés, restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a coffee or a leisurely brunch.

Around midday, we'll set off on a short drive (about 30 minutes) to the beautifully preserved town of Kotor where we'll have a tour of the town with a local guide. Tucked beneath steep cliffs and protected by medieval walls, Kotor's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best examples of medieval architecture along the Adriatic. If there's any spare time after the tour, you'll have chance to explore at your own pace - stroll the narrow cobbled lanes, grab a coffee, check out the local shops, or even head to the beach for another swim. If you're feeling active, there's the option to climb the 1,400 steps up to the San Giovanni Fortress - the views over the Bay of Kotor are well worth the effort.

Later this afternoon, we continue south along the scenic coastal road to Bar (approx. 2 hours, depending on traffic), where we'll board our overnight sleeper train to Belgrade - a rail journey of around 12 hours. This route has a fascinating history, having been built during the Yugoslav era by Tito himself. He famously hosted guests such as Queen Elizabeth II along this very line.

We travel in second-class sleeper compartments, usually with two or three bunk beds per cabin and all bedding provided. While we always try to keep the group close together, train bookings on this route can be tricky - so it's possible we may be split across a few carriages. Your tour leader will be there to help everyone find their spot and settle in. Please note that single rooms or private compartments aren't available tonight.

We recommend having a read through the 'Accommodation Notes' section to get a clear idea of what to expect - this is an old-style train journey, full of character, and a memorable way to travel across the Balkans.

We\ re due to arrive in Belgrade around 7am this morning, although this may vary slightly depending on the train journey. From the station, we'll take taxis to our hotel, where we'll be staying for the next two nights. Please note that check-in won't be available at this early hour, but we'll be able to leave our luggage at the hotel. Breakfast will be available there once we arrive.

After breakfast, we'll set off on a three-hour walking tour with a local guide to discover the highlights of Belgrade. We'll begin in the city centre at Republic Square - a central meeting point and home to the National Museum and National Theatre - before making our way to Kalemegdan Park. From here, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers and have time to explore the historic Belgrade Fortress, which has stood watch over the city for centuries.

This afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You might choose to stroll through the bohemian Skadarlija district, revisit Republic Square, or relax by the riverbanks and soak up the atmosphere.

Today, there's the option to visit the city of Novi Sad by train. We'll head to the station using public transport and board the train for the one-hour journey to Serbia's second-largest city. Set along the Danube River, Novi Sad offers a more laid-back pace than the capital and is known for its cultural charm and riverside setting.

Our visit begins with a guided tour - partly on foot and partly using local buses - taking in some of the city's key sights. These include the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress, which has stood watch over the river for centuries and is steeped in Roman, Greek, and Byzantine history, as well as the Greek School and the Orthodox Cathedral.

After the tour, you'll have free time to explore the pedestrianised centre. You may wish to unwind at one of the riverside cafés, enjoying a drink while taking in the relaxed atmosphere, before we return to Belgrade by train later in the afternoon.

This evening, we'll have free time to relax and have dinner, your tour leader will be able to recommend some typical Serbian restaurants to enjoy this evening.

We'll have an early start today, as we're restricted by local train timetables, and will take taxis to Belgrade train station for the final rail journey of our tour - this time to the historic city of Nis. The journey takes around six hours and offers a glimpse into the Serbian heartland, with views of rolling countryside along the way.

Nis is one of Europe's oldest cities, with a fascinating blend of history and culture. Upon arrival, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace. You might choose to visit the Constantine the Great Memorial Complex, marking the birthplace of the Roman emperor, or head to the 18th-century Nis Fortress - a sprawling site with panoramic views over the city, dotted with museums, cultural landmarks, and cafes.

Depending on our arrival time and the train schedule, you may also have the chance to visit the Crveni Krst concentration camp. Please check with your tour leader, as opening hours can vary and it may close earlier on certain days.

This evening, you might like to stroll along the banks of the Nisava River and dine at one of the riverside eateries. Alternatively, head to Obrenoviceva Street - the city's lively pedestrian zone - which offers plenty of food and drink options at the heart of the old town.

Today, we'll travel by private transfer to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The journey takes around three hours and offers scenic views as we pass through changing landscapes and cross an international border. Please be aware that border delays are possible - especially during peak travel periods - so it's a good idea to bring a book, some snacks, and a little extra patience for the road.

On arrival, we'll head straight to the city centre to begin our walking tour. Skopje's rich and varied history will become immediately clear as we explore some of its key landmarks.

We'll start at the city's ancient fortress, which offers sweeping views over Skopje and the surrounding valley. From there, we'll continue to the Old Bazaar - a lively 12th-century marketplace and the largest and best-preserved of its kind in Southeast Europe. Wandering its cobbled streets, you'll pass traditional shops, Ottoman-era mosques, and historic buildings that reflect the city's layered past. We'll also visit St. Saviour Church, a quiet sanctuary known for its ornate wood carvings and beautiful frescoes, before stopping at the Holocaust Museum, which offers a moving look at the history and legacy of Jewish communities in the region.

Skopje has long been at the crossroads of empires - shaped by Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Yugoslav rule, and heavily affected during both World Wars. Its architecture, religious life, and traditions reflect this diverse and often turbulent past. Today, Skopje is a peaceful, multicultural city where residents freely practise their faiths - with Macedonian Orthodoxy and Islam the most prominent.

This afternoon is free for you to relax or continue exploring Skopje at your own pace.

This evening, we'll come together for dinner at a traditional North Macedonian restaurant.

Today, we'll drive for around four hours, arriving by mid-afternoon in the 3,000-year-old town of Ohrid. Located on the border between North Macedonia and Albania, Lake Ohrid is one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes. Recognised as both a cultural and natural UNESCO World Heritage site, its emerald-green waters are home to 212 species of endemic plants and animals.

Upon arrival, we'll join a local guide for a two-hour tour of this historic town. We'll explore Ohrid's rich heritage, including a visit to the National Workshop for Handmade Paper - one of only seven in the world still using the ancient Chinese paper-making technique dating back to the 2nd century BC. We'll also discover the town's famous Ohrid pearls and visit the spectacular Church of Saint Jovan the Theologian at Kaneo, along with the Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid. Weather permitting, we'll conclude our walking tour with a boat trip on the lake, offering a unique perspective of the town from the water.

To finish the day, you'll have several local restaurants to choose from, many featuring live music- a popular attraction in this vibrant lakeside town.

This morning, we'll set off on our full-day journey to Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. The drive can take up to 11 hours depending on the border crossing, but we'll make regular stops along the way to stay comfortable.

Our first stop is the Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and built nearly 1,000 years ago. Renowned for its striking architecture, intricate wood carvings, and valuable relics, the monastery is one of North Macedonia's most significant religious and cultural landmarks. It also offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

From there, we'll continue through Mavrovo National Park, stopping in a local village for lunch before heading towards the border and on to Pristina.

Please be aware that the border crossing into Kosovo can sometimes take an hour or more during busy periods, so our arrival time may be earlier or later than expected.

You might be wondering why we visit Kosovo after North Macedonia rather than heading there directly from Serbia. The reason is largely political- Serbia does not recognise Kosovo's independence, and crossing between the two can be difficult. To ensure a smoother journey and fewer delays, we enter Kosovo from North Macedonia instead. Your tour leader will be happy to explain more during the journey if you're curious.

Still relatively untouched by tourism yet surprisingly modern, Kosovo offers a unique window into a lesser-known corner of Europe. We'll spend the night in Pristina, and depending on our arrival time, you'll have a chance to freshen up before gathering for our final farewell dinner.

Our trip ends this morning in Pristina.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Pristina at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer, you'll need to depart from Pristina International Airport 'Adem Jashari' (PRN), which is a 25-minute drive away.

Depending on the time of your flight, or if you're extending your stay by a night, we'd recommend exploring more of the city. It might not be the most attractive city on the tour but what it lacks in lustre, it makes up for in lively atmosphere.