Balkan Gorges
10 days in Bosnia and Herzegovina - Serbia - Montenegro
Services
Accommodation in 4-star hotels on a half-board basis
Arrival and departure transfer without assistance (TIV/TGD) – sharing basis
Bus service to/from hotel from day 2 to day 9, as well as local guides according to language profile.
1x ride on the Šargan narrow-gauge railway, Day 3
1x Dinner with beer tasting at Mammut Brewery in Nikšič Day 7
City tax is paid by customers on site.
Included admissions
Entrance to Biogradska Gora National Park
Entrance to Durmitor National Park
Entrance to Ostrog Monastery
City tax Kotor
Also available as a package:
Boat trip on the Drina
Entrance to Stopiča Cave
Entrance Staro Selo in Sirogojno
Entrance to Morača Monastery
Entrance to Skadar Lake National Park and boat trip with snacks
Boat trip in the Bay of Kotor from Perast to the island of Maria am Felsen (including entrance fee) and back
Boat trip Pivsko Jezero
Entrance to the bunker in Konjic
Tour itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Sarajevo
Today the journey begins from the home airport to the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Check-in to the hotel and overnight stay.
Day 2 : Sarajevo – Višegrad
Sarajevo bears the visible traces of its history in its cityscape: Ottoman mosques and bazaars, Habsburg splendor buildings and the scars of the recent war stand side by side in a very small space – a cityscape that embodies the eventful past of the Balkans like hardly any other place.
The city tour leads through Baščaršija, the 15th-century Ottoman old town, with its sprawling market maze of coppersmiths, teahouses, and the wooden Sebilj fountain, which has been a symbol of the city for centuries. At the Latin Bridge over the Miljacka River, a moment of world-historical significance comes to the fore: Here, on June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated – an act that plunged the world into the First World War and forever etched Sarajevo into the history books.
In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Višegrad, a small town in the picturesque Drina Valley. The town's centerpiece is the Old Bridge, built in the early 17th century on the orders of the Ottoman Grand Vizier Sokollu Mehmed Pasha and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elegant arched bridge spans the emerald-green Drina and is also a literary monument: Ivo Andrić made it a timeless metaphor for history, destiny, and life on the border of two worlds in his novel "The Bridge on the Drina"—awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1961. A boat trip on the Drina offers impressive perspectives of the bridge, the riverbanks, and the quiet power of the water.
Immediately adjacent to the bridge lies Andrićgrad, a cultural-historical project by director Emir Kusturica. The complex combines architectural elements from different eras – Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and medieval – into an atmospheric urban composition that is also a homage to Andrić and his characters. Cobblestones, arcades, small museums, and squares create a stage that transports visitors into a literary world.
Check-in at the hotel in Višegrad. Overnight stay.
Day 3 : Višegrad – Mokra Gora – Tara National Park – Zlatibor
After breakfast, the journey continues through the wooded hills of eastern Bosnia to Mokra Gora, where a special highlight awaits: a ride on the legendary narrow-gauge railway "Šargan 8". This historic route, a technical masterpiece of the early 20th century, winds its way through the mountainous landscape in a figure-eight pattern, overcoming an altitude difference of approximately 300 meters in just 15.5 kilometers. Five bridges, 22 tunnels, and a continuous succession of views into narrow valleys, dense forests, and rocky slopes make this train journey an extraordinary experience.
The route then leads to Tara National Park, one of Serbia's most beautiful and pristine nature reserves. Dense fir forests, rugged gorges, and tranquil mountain meadows characterize this region, which is also known for its cheese production.
A short and easy hike along the Rača Trail follows. The trail begins at Rača Monastery, an important cultural and spiritual center dating back to the 13th century, picturesquely situated on the edge of the forest. The path leads across soft forest floor alongside the clear Rača stream and ends at the Ladeva thermal springs, whose warm waters have long been valued for their purported healing properties.
After a day full of impressive nature and cultural experiences, we continue across the Serbian border to the popular mountain resort of Zlatibor. Check-in at the hotel and overnight stay.
Day 4 : Zlatibor – Stopiča – Staro Selo – Biogradska Gora – Kolašin
The day begins in Stopiča Cave, one of Serbia's most impressive karst caves. Vast underground chambers open onto a labyrinth of limestone formations, terraced natural pools, and a small but atmospheric waterfall. The interplay of light, stone, and water creates an almost mystical ambiance.
The journey continues to Sirogojno and the open-air museum "Staro Selo." The site showcases authentically preserved residential and farm buildings from the 19th century, offering a vivid glimpse into the region's traditional rural life. Among wooden houses, looms, and antique tools, a compelling picture of the past emerges, impressively reflecting the culture and way of life of the Serbian mountain people.
The route then leads through the mountainous region of southern Serbia and across the border into Montenegro. Extensive forests, steep slopes, and open alpine pastures accompany the journey towards Biogradska Gora, one of the oldest nature reserves in Europe. The national park is home to one of the last true primeval forests on the continent – a place where centuries-old trees, rare animals, and dense vegetation form a virtually untouched ecosystem.
A leisurely stroll along Lake Biogradsko at an altitude of 1099 meters is one of the most beautiful experiences of the day. The mirror-like water, framed by steep mountain slopes and lush greenery, resembles a natural cathedral of silence and light.
In the late afternoon, continue to Kolašin. Check into the hotel and overnight stay.
Day 5 : Kolašin – Durmitor National Park – Žabljak – Kolašin
The day takes us deep into one of the most impressive high mountain landscapes in the Balkans. From Kolašin, the journey begins towards Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic formations and largely untouched nature. Along the way, breathtaking views of densely forested mountain slopes, steep cliffs, and expansive high plateaus, characteristic of this region, unfold.
A first highlight is the monumental Tara Bridge, which spans the canyon and, with a depth of up to 1,200 meters, is the second deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. The emerald-green Tara River has shaped this immense landscape over millennia – a natural spectacle of overwhelming power and beauty.
Durmitor itself is a mountain range of superlatives: 48 peaks reach over 2,000 meters in height, the highest – Bobotov Kuk – soars 2,522 meters into the sky. Glacial lakes, karst formations, mountain forests, and open pastures create a diverse landscape that serves as a refuge for numerous animal and plant species.
The central point of the region is Žabljak, the highest town in the Balkans at 1,456 meters. From here, the route continues to the famous Black Lake (Crno jezero). Nestled between dense forests and towering peaks at almost 1,500 meters, this glacial lake is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Montenegro. The still waters reflect the mountain massif, creating a scene that ranks among the country's most iconic natural images.
After experiencing the high mountain scenery, we return to Kolašin. Overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 6 : Kolašin – Morača Monastery – Ostrog Monastery – Lake Skadar
The day begins with a drive to the impressive Morača Gorge, one of Montenegro's most spectacular natural landscapes. Far below, the emerald-green Morača River winds its way through narrow rock passages, where the steep walls rise so closely in places that hardly any light penetrates to the riverbed. This dramatic landscape served, among other things, as a filming location for the Karl May classic "Der Schut".
Nestled on the riverbank lies the idyllic Morača Monastery, one of the country's most important religious sites. The medieval monastery complex impresses with its simple architecture, ancient frescoes, and an atmosphere that exudes a special tranquility amidst the wild natural surroundings.
The route continues to the famous Ostrog Monastery, one of the most important centers of the Serbian Orthodox Church. Built high into a vertical cliff face, the monastery appears almost miraculous. It attracts pilgrims from all over the world seeking spiritual renewal. At the same time, the terrace offers a sweeping view across the fertile Bjelopavlićko Plain – a panorama that further enhances the unique character of this place.
As the day draws to a close, the landscape opens up to Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the entire Balkans and a significant natural paradise. A boat trip takes you across the sprawling lake, past islets, reed beds, and bird sanctuaries. Along the way, the abandoned prison island, often called the "Montenegrin Alcatraz," comes into view – a silent reminder of the region's history.
Local specialties and drinks are served on board, rounding off the day with culinary delights.
Overnight stay in Budva.
Day 7 : Budva – Kotor – Perast – Nikšič
The day begins with a drive to Kotor and the bay of the same name. This natural wonder, often called the southernmost "fjord" in Europe, stretches far inland and forms the dramatic backdrop for the medieval town of Kotor, which is completely encircled by imposing city walls. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts a rare concentration of churches, palaces, and narrow streets that transport visitors back in time. A walking tour reveals the main sights and the unique atmosphere of this extraordinary place.
The journey continues along the bay to Perast, an elegant Baroque town whose history is inextricably linked to seafaring. From here, a short boat trip leads to the small island monastery of Maria am Felsen (Our Lady of the Rocks), which, with its church and views over the surrounding waters, is one of the region's most iconic sites.
In the afternoon, the journey continues into the Montenegrin highlands. The landscape becomes more rugged, the villages more scattered, until finally Nikšić is reached – the country's second-largest city and a major economic center. Here, the Mammut Brewery opens its doors. It is one of Montenegro's few craft breweries, combining modern brewing techniques with regional ingredients and traditions.
The evening concludes with a shared meal, accompanied by a beer tasting of local specialties. Overnight stay in Nikšić.
Day 8 : Nikšič – Pivsko Jezero – Foča – Bjelašnica
The day begins with a drive into the impressive mountain scenery of the northwest. The destination is Pivsko Jezero, Montenegro's largest reservoir, nestled deep within the dramatic Piva Gorge. With its intensely blue-green water, the lake appears almost unreal – a narrow, fjord-like mirror stretching between towering rock faces. During a boat trip, ever-changing perspectives of this wild landscape unfold, where water, stone, and forest form a harmonious whole.
The route then leads back into Bosnia and Herzegovina. Crossing the border mountains, the route reaches Foča – a city on the banks of the Drina River whose history is closely intertwined with its Ottoman heritage and ancient trade routes. A stroll through the city reveals traces of bygone eras, including the colorfully shimmering Aladža Mosque, one of the region's most important cultural monuments. The tranquil river landscapes surrounding Foča further enhance the city's unique charm.
Foča is also the gateway to Sutjeska National Park, the oldest and largest national park in Bosnia. Its imposing mountain ranges, deep gorges, and pristine forests are among the most biodiverse natural areas in Southeast Europe and vividly convey the character of a largely untouched wilderness.
In the late afternoon, the ascent into the Bjelašnica Mountains begins, the site of the 1984 Winter Olympics. The idyllic Hotel Nomad is located right next to the old sports facilities and offers a peaceful, natural setting for the night – an ideal place to reflect on the day's experiences.
Day 9 : Bjelašnica – Konjic – Bjelašnica
The day begins with a drive down from the Bjelašnica mountain range into the Neretva Valley. Passing the former 1984 Olympic venues, the route opens up to reveal a pristine mountain landscape before reaching the small town of Konjic. Konjic is one of the oldest settlements in the country and boasts a charming old town with narrow streets, traditional houses, and workshops where centuries-old crafts are still practiced. The old stone bridge over the Neretva is particularly impressive, a historical masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and one of the region's most famous landmarks.
An extraordinary chapter of recent history unfolds with a visit to the secret nuclear bunker dating back to Tito's era. Located deep within a mountain massif – some 270 meters below the surface – this bunker, built over decades, became one of the most important shelters in the former Yugoslavia. Its existence remained a closely guarded secret until the 1990s, offers a fascinating glimpse into the political past and the strategic vision of the then-ruling government. Today, its expansive spaces serve as the venue for an international art exhibition that connects the present and the past.
Overnight stay in Bjelašnica.
Day 10 : Departure
Transfer to the airport and departure.
