Day 1: Meeting in Belgrade
All day
Today is the meeting day, and all tourists are welcome to meet in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, this "Heart of the Balkans" is a crossroads of European history and culture.
We will arrange a [collective airport pick-up service] based on your arrival time. After picking you up, you will be taken to your hotel for check-in. Tourists who arrive earlier can have a meal together or wander around the old town freely. If you want to visit some attractions, we recommend visiting "Tito's Flower House".
That evening, we'll hold a pre-trip briefing at the hotel to meet your fellow travelers and discuss the upcoming itinerary. Bring your curiosity and enthusiasm as you prepare to embark on a Balkan journey through mountains, seas, and civilizations!
Visa Instructions:
Bosnia and Herzegovina: 30-day visa-free, Serbia: 30-day visa-free, Montenegro: visa-free for group entry, related fees are included;
Team Description:
This group is an independent China-TravelNote group, and the group will be arranged with 1 China-TravelNote leader, 1 local tour guide, and 1 local driver.
Flight purchase suggestions:
Currently, there are direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou to Belgrade (airport code: BEG). If you need to transfer, it is recommended to purchase flights with non-Schengen area transfers such as those from Qatar, UAE, Turkey and other airlines. Please note that the above flights are not available every day.
Round-trip direct flight options: Domestic direct flight to Belgrade + one-way flight from Sarajevo to Belgrade or bus/carpool from Sarajevo to Belgrade
Round trip transfer option: Domestic transfer to Belgrade + Transfer to Sarajevo to domestic destination
Since Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina is the only visa-free region in Europe, round-trip air tickets are more than 10,000 yuan when traveling during the peak season every year. It is recommended that you purchase international flights at least 2 months in advance. If you cannot match the flight, please consult the product manager for details.
Day 2 Belgrade + Novi Sad Tour
·morning
After breakfast, we will depart for Novi Sad, the cultural capital of northern Serbia. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was the largest city in the world inhabited by Serbs, as well as the cultural and political center of Serbia. At that time, Serbs did not have their own country, so Novi Sad was often called the "Serbian Athens".
Visit the Petrovaradin Fortress (Interior). Construction of the ancient fortress began in 1692 and was completed in 1780, a century-long process with numerous underground tunnels. The large-scale fortifications completed during the Austro-Hungarian era made it one of the most magnificent military structures in European history. From here, you can enjoy the best panoramic views of Novi Sad.
During lunch time, stroll around the Old Town to experience the local customs and culture of the city, and then find a restaurant for a free lunch.
·afternoon
On the way back to Belgrade, we will make a brief stop in the charming town of Zemun and climb to the top of the Shardush Tower, where we can enjoy a fairytale view of the Danube River and the red-tiled roofs of the town.
Afterwards, we will pass by the ruins of the Chinese Embassy in the former Yugoslavia, stop to pay tribute to the historical memory, and finally visit the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Sava, an important landmark in the Orthodox world.
·night
During dinner time, you can freely explore Belgrade's nightlife. We recommend heading to Skadarlija, a bohemian street on the Danube River, to enjoy a traditional Serbian meal and start your trip off right.
Day 3 Belgrade → Tara National Park
·morning
After breakfast, we'll depart for western Serbia, heading into Tara National Park, known as the "Lungs of Serbia." This vast, ecologically well-preserved national forest park is one of the most pristine nature reserves in the Balkan Peninsula, boasting a forest coverage rate exceeding 80% and home to significant populations of European black pine and white fir.
Upon arrival, we'll begin our forest hike, walking along forest trails between black pines and firs, exploring Tara's unique flora and fauna along the way. We'll then head to the famous Drina River Observation Deck, where we'll overlook the magnificent scenery of the winding river valley and the deep green mountains.
Tip: Since the hiking route may be closed for maintenance from time to time, if it is closed, it will be adjusted to the local interesting "Owl Forest Classroom" route
There are many natural elements in the itinerary. You can see the unique flora and fauna of Tara along the way. In particular, there may be traces of Balkan brown bears that have appeared nearby. Tara National Park is one of the best brown bear reserves in the area.
·afternoon
At sunset, check into a cabin hotel nestled in the woods on the edge of the national park. Outside your window, admire the sound of pine trees and the stars at night, spending a tranquil evening in communion with nature.
Enjoy a simple Western-style dinner that evening.
Day 4: Tara National Park → Wooden Village + Nostalgic Train → Žabljak
All day
After breakfast, we will set off for a fairy tale village located at the border between Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina - [Wood Village]. This small town, created by the famous Serbian director Emir Kusturica, was originally the filming scene of the movie "Life is a Miracle". Now it has become a real utopia.
The village is primarily timber-framed. Houses, churches, cinemas, cafes, restaurants, and even the cobblestone streets are all constructed from natural wood and local stone, exuding a rich rural romance and cultural atmosphere. Stroll through the village to admire the architectural layout, which is strongly influenced by Kusturica's personal style, or relax at an open-air cafe and experience the slower pace of Balkan life.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, board the retro Nostalgic Train, which travels slowly along the zigzag mountain railway laid in the early 20th century. Passing by the train window are forests, fields, streams, and mountains. Along the way, the train stops at observation platforms where you can disembark and gaze out over the canyon.
After getting off the bus, we will drive to the Tara River Bridge. This bridge across the Tara River Canyon is not only an important channel connecting Serbia and Montenegro, but also an architectural miracle. It was built in 1940 and was one of the tallest concrete arch bridges in Europe at that time. The canyon under the bridge is hundreds of meters deep. Standing on the bridge, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of green mountains, green waters and deep canyons.
After crossing the Tara River Bridge and officially entering Montenegro, we will continue to Žabljak, a small town in the heart of the national park. This alpine town, over 1,400 meters above sea level, is the gateway to Durmitor National Park. Surrounded by mountains and glacial lakes, it is one of the most "alpine" summer resorts in Europe.
Overnight at the hotel in Žabljak and enjoy a simple Western-style dinner.
Day 5 Durmitor National Park Safari
All day
Today, we'll explore the heart of Durmitor in a more untamed way—a full-day jeep excursion into the heart of the national park. We'll climb over plateaus, hills, canyons, and ridges, exploring hidden areas inaccessible to conventional buses.
Our first stop is the Tara River Canyon Observation Deck, located at 1,625 meters above sea level. For a light hike of approximately one hour, we offer a breathtaking view of Europe's deepest canyon. The Tara River winds through the thousand-meter-deep gorge like a green ribbon. Beneath the vast rock face, pine forests intersect with snow-capped peaks in the distance. This is Durmitor's heartbeat.
At noon, we'll be treated to a Durmitor Plateau Family Lunch at a local home, a truly authentic high-altitude dining experience. You'll savor authentic Montenegrin dishes, and your host will share stories of how they survive the cold winters on the plateau, their winemaking, and cheesemaking. Stories of alpine herding and traditional bread ovens are the true meaning of travel.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we continue our off-road adventure, enjoying breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains. We then reach Prutovi Hills, one of the most unique landforms in the Durmitor Mountains, known as the "Wand of the Gods."
The day concludes with a visit to Durmitor's skyline: Sedlo Pass, at 1,907 meters above sea level. Known as the "Saddle of the Gods," it offers a breathtaking view of the entire national park. Overlooking the skyline, a crisscross of snow-capped mountains and cloud shadows, this is the visual climax of your Durmitor trip.
We'll return to Žabljak in the evening, concluding this journey through the plateau, a blend of wildness and grandeur. We recommend you take care of your own dinner and rest early to reserve your energy for the coastal area tomorrow.
Tips: The Safari itinerary may be subject to change depending on the weather and route conditions. Please understand.
Day 6 Zabljak → Budva
·morning
After breakfast, we will depart and bid farewell to the alpine town of Žabljak. We will head south along the winding mountain road. We will cross the heart of the Montenegrin Mountains and gradually drive from an altitude of 1,400 meters to the Adriatic coastline, starting our Montenegrin journey with a magnificent in-depth experience from "snow line to sea line".
En route, we'll visit Ostrog Monastery, one of Montenegro's most renowned religious sites.
Built in the 17th century, the monastery is miraculously carved into the sheer limestone cliffs, seemingly growing from the very edge of the cliff face. Not only is it a pilgrimage site for Eastern Orthodox Christians, but it's also known as the "Holy Mountain of the Balkans" for its mystical and stunning architectural wonders.
We will climb to the upper monastery, enter the quiet cave church, listen to the story of the Orthodox Saint Vasily, and feel the power of faith and architectural wonders of this pilgrimage site.
At noon, you will enjoy a simple Western-style meal at a restaurant along the way.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, the mountain road turns into hills and transitions to the coastline. The air becomes humid and salty - we are about to arrive at Budva, one of Montenegro's charming coastal cities.
Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, with a history spanning over 2,500 years. Surrounded by stone walls, its cobblestone alleys, red-tiled roofs, and seaside bell tower create a still from the Middle Ages.
You can freely explore the Old Town of Budva, or go to the beach to find a restaurant facing the sea and enjoy dinner accompanied by the sea breeze and the sunset.
This is also one of the filming locations for "Casino Royale." At night, the city is bustling with bars and cafes, and it's full of life. We'll stay in Budva for two consecutive nights, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this relaxing seaside holiday.
Day 7 Budva: Walking along the Mediterranean Fjords
·morning
After breakfast, depart Budva and drive along the golden coastline of the Adriatic Sea, heading towards the Bay of Kotor, known as the "Southern Fjord of Europe." The road, weaving between mountains and sea, resembles a ribbon wrapped around a canvas, a breathtaking beauty.
Upon arrival at the Old Town of Kotor, embark on a challenging and scenic hike along the city walls. The 4.5-kilometer-long walls of Kotor, with 1,350 stone steps, wind their way up the mountain, a relic of their importance in resisting Ottoman attacks.
When you climb to the top of the [Fortress of San Giovanni] and overlook the entire Bay of Kotor, the picture composed of the blue sea and sky, the red tile roofs and the reflection of the mountains is like a sapphire surrounded by mountains.
·afternoon
After descending the mountain, you can have a free lunch in the old town of Kotor. We recommend trying local Montenegrin seafood dishes such as squid ink rice, fried fish platter or Mediterranean-style pasta.
In the afternoon, you can enjoy free time to explore the ancient city: find treasures in the alleys where Baroque and Gothic architecture intersect, or enjoy a drink in an open-air cafe.
On our return journey, we'll visit the dreamy island of Sveti Stefan. Originally a 15th-century fishing village, this small island is now privately owned by a luxury hotel group. Connected to the mainland by a thin isthmus, we'll take photos from the observation deck, capturing the stunning sight of red-roofed stone houses floating above the azure sea.
Return to Budva and stay in the old town or seaside hotel. You can still explore the port nightlife of Budva freely at night.
Day 8 Budva → Perast → Mostar
All day
After breakfast, we drove north along the winding Adriatic coastline to Perast, one of the most romantic towns in Montenegro.
Standing on the observation deck overlooking the bay, the red roofs, white walls, winding stone steps, and the two small islands on the sea - [St. George Island] and [Our Lady of the Rocks Island] complement each other, forming a rare Mediterranean oil painting.
At noon, enjoy a simple Western-style meal at a restaurant along the way.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we officially departed Montenegro and entered Bosnia and Herzegovina. The journey, with its ever-changing scenery, blended with mountain and sea, was one of the most breathtaking stretches of our Balkan travels. Arriving in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina's iconic historical and cultural city, we embarked on a journey across time and space.
The first thing that catches your eye is Mostar's iconic landmark, the Old Bridge. This Ottoman-era masterpiece, spanning the Neretva River, has endured wars and reconstructions, becoming a symbol of peace and renewal. We'll then walk through the Old Bazaar, a charming blend of Islamic and European architecture, along the cobblestone streets. The area boasts a dazzling array of handmade carpets, bronze artifacts, Turkish coffee pots, and leather goods.
During free time, it is recommended to go to an open-air cafe by the old bridge, enjoy a cup of authentic Bosnian coffee, listen to the gurgling river, and watch the night fall.
Day 9 Mostar → Sarajevo
·morning
After breakfast, we set off to bid farewell to this small town that spans thousands of years, and drive north along the Neretva River to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
This drive, taking approximately 2.5 hours, offers stunning scenery, with lush mountains and valleys running parallel to each other. It's an ideal way to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina's mountainous landscape. We'll pass through several towns and villages, with stops for snacks or coffee along the way.
·afternoon
This afternoon, we'll embark on a City Walk, exploring the intertwined worlds of history and religion. Though small, Sarajevo boasts a rich cultural heritage, earning it the nickname "the Jerusalem of Europe."
Wandering through the ancient streets, you'll pass the Ottoman-style Old Market, where cobblestone streets are lined with coppersmiths, cafes, and carpet shops, brimming with Arabic charm. Kazandžiluk Street is a particularly iconic spot. While other commercial streets around the world have been replaced by tourist goods, this street still retains its historical charm: selling a variety of dazzling metal crafts.
Next we arrived at the Latin Bridge, which was the starting point of the First World War. Today, a monument to the incident and a simple museum exhibition can still be seen at the bridgehead, and the heaviness of history seems to extend right under our feet.
Along the way, you'll find mosques, Orthodox churches, Catholic churches, and synagogues coexisting side by side. Though small, the city boasts a vast cultural diversity. Don't forget to look for the "Sarajevo Rose," a commemorative pattern colored by the remnants of war, symbolizing a profound prayer for peace.
·night
That night, everyone gathered together to enjoy Bosnian-style Western food, which brought the trip to a successful conclusion.
Day 10 Sarajevo Dissolution Day
All day
Today is the last day of this Balkan circuit. After breakfast at the hotel, we will arrange a centralized airport pick-up service based on our respective return flights.
If you have plenty of time, you may want to walk into the streets of Sarajevo again in the early morning to feel the tranquility and tolerance of this city in the morning light, or go to the old market to buy a cup of Bosnian coffee and bring back a copper plate to let the warmth of the journey continue in your life.
During our ten-day journey, we enjoyed the mountains, rivers, and culture. We journeyed through the turquoise Adriatic Sea, the dense forests of Tara, the icy lake of Durmitor, and the chiming mosque bells of Sarajevo... Thank you for your company. May this journey become a tender chapter in your Balkan memories. We look forward to meeting you again!
How to leave:
You can take a connecting flight from Sarajevo (airport code: SJJ) to the country; or take a bus (about 7-8 hours) or a shared car (5-6 hours) from Sarajevo back to Belgrade, and then take a flight back to the country in Belgrade (airport code: BEG).
