Discover the Best of Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia: 14-Day Guided Tour for USA Travelers

Visit Lake Bled: After breakfast, we head to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia's most famous landmarks. We will take a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island and visit the Church of St. Mary, known for its beautiful bell tower. Tour Bled Castle: Perched on a hilltop, Bled Castle offers stunning views of the lake and the Julian Alps. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle’s museum and courtyard. Lunch by Lake Bled: After the castle visit, we’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch with a view of the lake. Return to Ljubljana for a free evening to relax and explore at your leisure.

Postojna Cave: Our day begins with a visit to the Postojna Cave, one of the largest and most visited cave systems in Europe. We’ll explore the underground world via a mini-train ride, marveling at the limestone formations. Visit Predjama Castle: After Postojna, we’ll head to Predjama Castle, dramatically built into a cliffside. Explore this medieval fortress and its fascinating historical significance. Lunch in Postojna: Enjoy a traditional Slovenian lunch before continuing our journey to Istria, where we will stay in the coastal town of Umag for the night.

Morning Visit to Rovinj: Today, we travel to Rovinj, a picturesque town on the Istrian Peninsula. Wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets and enjoy the view from St. Euphemia Church, the town's iconic landmark. Explore Poreč: After lunch, we head to Poreč, where we will visit the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning mosaics. Return to Umag: After a day of exploration, we return to Umag for dinner by the sea and a relaxing evening.

Zadar’s Sea Organ: After breakfast, we drive to Zadar, known for its Roman ruins and the Sea Organ, an architectural wonder. We’ll enjoy a stroll through Zadar’s Old Town, with its mix of Roman, Venetian, and modern architecture. Krka National Park: In the afternoon, we will visit Krka National Park. Enjoy a boat ride along the Krka River, passing by beautiful waterfalls and walking paths in this serene park. Return to Split for the evening.

Tour of Diocletian’s Palace: Split is home to the Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most important Roman structures in Europe. We’ll visit the Peristyle, the Temple of Jupiter, and the St. Domnius Cathedral. Lunch and Free Time: After exploring the Old Town, we’ll have lunch and leave some free time for relaxation or shopping. Evening at Leisure: Enjoy Split’s famous promenade, Riva, and relax by the sea with a refreshing drink.

Drive to Mostar: After breakfast, we drive to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, famous for the Stari Most (Old Bridge) and its charming Ottoman-era streets. Old Bazaar: Enjoy a stroll through the Old Bazaar and visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Lunch by the River Neretva: Savor Bosnian dishes such as ćevapi and sarma by the river.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic morning drive to Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Known for its diverse culture, Sarajevo has often been referred to as the "Jerusalem of Europe" due to its rich blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. Explore Baščaršija: We will begin our tour by walking through Baščaršija, the Ottoman old bazaar, which dates back to the 15th century. The vibrant streets are lined with traditional shops, selling everything from handmade copperware to authentic Bosnian coffee sets. Baščaršija is not only a cultural heart of the city but also a great place to taste traditional treats like burek (a savory pastry) or sip a cup of Turkish-style Bosnian coffee. Visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: One of the most important Ottoman buildings in Bosnia, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque dates back to the 16th century. Its stunning interior and peaceful courtyard provide a perfect introduction to Sarajevo’s Islamic heritage. The mosque is an excellent example of Ottoman architecture. Vrelo Bosne Spring: In the afternoon, we will take a scenic drive to Vrelo Bosne, a natural spring located at the foot of the Igman Mountain. It’s a peaceful spot where you can walk along the river or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the beautiful greenery. The spring is the source of the Bosna River and is considered one of the most beautiful natural sights in Sarajevo. Lunch: Enjoy a delicious Bosnian lunch at a traditional restaurant in Sarajevo. You'll have the chance to sample some of the region’s finest dishes, including ćevapi (grilled minced meat) and sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), paired with fresh bread and local wine. Afternoon at Leisure: After lunch, enjoy a few hours of leisure time. You can explore the city’s vibrant cafés, visit local markets, or simply relax and watch the world go by. Sarajevo is known for its welcoming atmosphere, so take your time and enjoy the laid-back pace of this fascinating city. Overnight in Sarajevo: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay. You’ll have the evening free to either relax or explore more of Sarajevo's nightlife and cultural offerings.

Morning: Departure to Slavonia & Arrival in Đakovo

After breakfast, we will begin our journey to Slavonia, located about 4.5 hours drive from your current location. Our first stop will be in Đakovo, a charming town known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Upon arrival, we will embark on a guided tour of Đakovo. First, we will visit the Đakovo Cathedral, a monumental example of neo-romantic architecture. The cathedral’s towering spires and intricate details make it one of Croatia’s most stunning religious buildings.

Visit to the Lipizzaner Stud in Đakovo
Next, we will visit the famous Lipizzaner stud farm in Đakovo, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the tradition and breeding of these majestic horses. The Lipizzaner breed has a long history in Croatia, and a visit to this stud farm offers a unique glimpse into the world of equestrian excellence.

Wine Tasting at the Bishop's Cellars & Lunch in Ambar Restaurant

Afterward, we will head to the Bishop's Cellars, where we will enjoy a wine tasting session. The history of these cellars dates back to the 18th century when the bishops of Đakovo and Srijem started cultivating viticulture in this fertile region. Today, the cellars are famous for producing high-quality wines from local grape varieties. You will have the chance to taste some of the finest wines while learning about the winemaking heritage of Slavonia.

Lunch will be served at the Ambar Restaurant in Đakovo, where you can enjoy traditional Slavonian dishes, including pork, lamb, and local cheeses, all paired with the wines from the Bishop's cellars.

Afternoon: Departure for Osijek & Leisure Time
After lunch, we will depart for Osijek, a vibrant city in the heart of Slavonia. Upon arrival, you will have some leisure time to relax at the hotel or explore the city at your own pace.

Dinner Suggestions in Osijek
For dinner, we recommend visiting one of Osijek’s local restaurants, where you can taste regional specialties such as kulen (a spicy sausage), sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), and freshly grilled fish from the Drava River. You can enjoy your meal while experiencing the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this hidden gem in Croatia.

Overnight in Osijek
After dinner, enjoy a relaxing overnight stay in Osijek, preparing for the next day’s exploration.

Morning: Cathedral Tour & Tvrđa Exploration

After breakfast, we will begin the day with a visit to Osijek Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic and Baroque architecture. Afterward, we will head to Tvrđa, the historic old town of Osijek, which is also known as the Osijek fortress. This stunning complex is a prime example of Baroque architecture shaped by both the Ottoman and Austrian rulers in the 18th century. The colorful facades, ornate details, and stone streets will transport you back in time as we explore this well-preserved section of the city.

You will also have time to relax and enjoy a coffee at one of the cafés on Tvrđa Square, soaking in the historic atmosphere of this charming part of Osijek.

Departure for Baranja & Visit to Belje Winery
In the afternoon, we will depart for the Baranja region, stopping at a viewpoint in the vineyards. From here, you will have a stunning view of the vineyards that stretch across the landscape, offering a picturesque backdrop to our journey. We will then visit Belje Winery, the largest winery in the region. Located on the slope of Banovo Brdo, the winery offers breathtaking views of the vineyards.

The Vina Belje winery is equipped with the latest technological advancements in wine production, and we will explore the modern winery, as well as the historic 1526 wine cellar with its oak barrels and rich wine archive. We will enjoy a wine-tasting session and learn about the region’s rich winemaking heritage.

At Belje Winery, we offer a comprehensive experience that combines the art of winemaking with the rich culinary traditions of the Baranja region. Our tasting room, designed in the traditional ethno-style of Baranja, provides an authentic setting to sample our premium wines. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to taste a selection of our finest wines, including Graševina, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Blaufränkisch, each reflecting the unique terroir of the Baranja region.

To complement the wines, we offer traditional meat specialties such as Baranja kulen, a spicy sausage with protected geographical indication, Baranja bacon, and Baranja sausage. These delicacies are crafted using time-honored methods, providing a true taste of local flavors.

For those interested in a more in-depth experience, we offer guided tours of our historical wine cellar, which dates back to 1526. This medieval cellar, dug into the hill in the center of Kneževi Vinogradi, houses three levels of long halls filled with barrels made of the finest Slavonian oak. The cellar also features an extensive wine archive, showcasing our rich winemaking heritage.

Our wine boutique and gift shop provide an opportunity to take home a piece of Baranja. Here, you can purchase our wines, traditional cured meats, and other local products, allowing you to continue enjoying the flavors of the region long after your visit.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, a visit to Belje Winery offers a unique and immersive experience into the heart of Baranja's winemaking and gastronomic traditions.

Visit to Goldberg Estate & Lunch with Music
After the winery visit, we will head to the Goldberg estate on Banovo Brdo for lunch. Known for its history dating back to Roman times, the hill was once called Mons Aureus (Golden Hill) and later renamed Goldberg by Maria Theresa. During the Austrian imperial court, wines from Goldberg were highly esteemed, including the famous Banski Šiler wine.

We will enjoy a traditional local dinner with specialties such as lamb and other regional dishes, accompanied by local wine. The live music will enhance the relaxing atmosphere as we indulge in delicious food and wine.

Goldberg Hill in Popovac, Baranja, is renowned for its exceptional terroir, making it one of the premier wine and fruit-growing regions in Croatia. The hill's fertile slopes are home to numerous vineyards and orchards, producing high-quality wines and spirits. Notably, the Weinpert family has established a guest house near Karanac, on micro-location Goldberg, offering visitors a chance to experience the local hospitality and flavors of the region.

A highlight of the Baranja region's culinary tradition is roasted lamb on a spit, a dish embodying local gastronomy's essence. This method involves slow-roasting a whole lamb over an open fire, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with a smoky aroma. The lamb is typically seasoned simply with salt, allowing its natural flavors to shine. Accompaniments often include young potatoes, spring onions, and homemade bread, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Afternoon: Return to Osijek
After lunch, we will return to Osijek, where you can enjoy the evening at your leisure or walk around the city to reflect on your journey.

Overnight in Osijek
Enjoy an overnight stay in Osijek, with the memories of a beautiful day spent in the heart of Slavonia and Baranja.

Morning: Departure for Belgrade or Budapest
After breakfast, we will depart for Belgrade or Budapest, both located approximately 3 hours from Osijek. The drive offers a chance to relax and reflect on the wonderful experiences of the past days. Enjoy the scenic views as we travel through the countryside, with charming villages and picturesque landscapes along the way.

Arrival & Support with Services
Upon arrival in either Belgrade or Budapest, we will assist you with transportation to the airport for your return flight. If you have some free time before your flight, our team can offer additional services, such as recommendations for last-minute sightseeing or assistance with any travel needs to ensure your journey is smooth.

Tour Concludes
This marks the end of our Balkan tour. We hope you’ve enjoyed your time with us and have taken home unforgettable memories of the Balkans. Thank you for trusting us with your travel experience, and we look forward to welcoming you on future adventures.