Basix
Explore the Balkans
5
Excellent
57 reviews
10 days
Start
Budapest, Hungary
Finish
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Trip Code
ZMRC
Min Age
15
Trip Size
1 - 16
Physical Rating
Meals
7 breakfasts
Transport
Public bus, Private vehicle
Accommodation
Hotel (6 nights), Pension (2 nights), Hostel (1 night)
From £1,315(10 days)
Trip Informations
Why you’ll love this trip
Delve into the communist past and progressive present of the Pearl of the Danube - Budapest, a city often underrated by travellers
Visit Novi Sad on the banks of the Danube River and maybe explore the Petrovaradin Fortress – one of the most important landmarks in the city with a great view over the river. Then, immerse yourself in the edgy street scene of Belgrade's Bohemian Quarter.
Explore the sobering Tito’s Bunker in Mostar – an underground facility that served as Yugoslavia's ‘Atomic War Command,’ designed to house a skeleton government who would manage the country in the event of nuclear war.
Admire the restored architecture of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kotor in Montenegro on a climb along the ancient city fortifications. Then, discover the glittering Bay of Kotor in your free time.
Hit the historic hotspot of Dubrovnik along Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline. With medieval walls, Game of Thrones tours, hidden swimming coves and alleyway restaurants, this is the perfect spot to end your adventure.
Is this trip right for you?
As this trip only has limited time in Budapest, we highly recommend staying a few extra days before your tour to enjoy all this amazing destination has to offer.
This trip is made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local guide and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time when your leader will offer suggestions. Please budget spending money for optional activities you want to partake in.
Accommodation on this trip is basic. Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be small, especially compared to American or Australian standards, and in some cases bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite. Some hotels contain stairs only, with no elevators.
Summer temperatures can be very high in many regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s essential to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many European hotel rooms are not equipped with air-conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability for that season.
You'll have to carry your own luggage on this trip, including some short distances between your hotel and public transport (no longer than 30 minutes). Make sure your bag doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find details in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
As this trip only has limited time in Budapest, we highly recommend staying a few extra days before your tour to enjoy all this amazing destination has to offer.
This trip is made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local guide and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time when your leader will offer suggestions. Please budget spending money for optional activities you want to partake in.
Accommodation on this trip is basic. Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be small, especially compared to American or Australian standards, and in some cases bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite. Some hotels contain stairs only, with no elevators.
Summer temperatures can be very high in many regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s essential to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many European hotel rooms are not equipped with air-conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability for that season.
You'll have to carry your own luggage on this trip, including some short distances between your hotel and public transport (no longer than 30 minutes). Make sure your bag doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find details in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
Itinerary
Old-world charm and enduring cultures deep in the Balkans
Veer off the beaten track and discover some of Central Europe’s up-and-coming hotspots on this ten-day adventure. Starting off in cultured and cosmopolitan Budapest, travel to the Serbian capital of Belgrade for a taste of a city on the rise. Learn about Bosnia and Herzegovina’s war years in Sarajevo, stop by the famed Old Bridge of Mostar and finish things up in medieval Dubrovnik of Game of Thrones fame. Melding the past with the present and the raw with the cultivated, this Balkans adventure gives you the power to see Central Europe your way, with a local leader on hand to steer you in the right direction.
Inclusions
Meals
7 breakfasts
Transport
Public bus, Private vehicle
Accommodation
Hotel (6 nights), Pension (2 nights), Hostel (1 night)
Included activities
Novi Sad – Orientation Walk
Sarajevo - Burek Snack in Bascarsija
Mostar - Stari Most
Konjic - Armijska Ratna Komanda ARK D-0 (Tito’s Bunker) tour
Optional activities
Budapest - House of Terror - HUF4000
Budapest - Hungarian National Museum - HUF2900
Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park - HUF5000
Budapest - Central Market - Free
Budapest - Great Synagogue - HUF13000
Budapest - Bike Ride - HUF6000
Budapest - Parliament Tour - HUF12000
Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) - HUF13500
Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour - HUF9000
Belgrade - Danube River Cruise - RSD800
Belgrade - Tito’s Mausoleum (House of Flowers) - RSD400
Belgrade - Nikola Tesla Museum - RSD800
Belgrade - City Tour with Local Guide - EUR60
Belgrade - Sveti Sava Church - Free
Belgrade - Ethnographic Museum - RSD300
Belgrade - Military Museum - RSD350
Belgrade - Bike Tour (from) - EUR30
Sarajevo - City Hall & Old National Library - BAM10
Sarajevo - Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque - BAM3
Sarajevo - Svrzo's House - BAM3
Sarajevo - Brusa Bezistan - BAM3
Sarajevo - Despica House - BAM3
Sarajevo - Sarajevo Museum - BAM5
Sarajevo - City Tour with Local Guide - BAM90
Sarajevo - Jewish Museum - BAM5
Sarajevo - Ilidza Park and Springs - BAM15
Sarajevo - War Tunnel - BAM10
Sarajevo - National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina - BAM8
Mostar - Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque & Minaret - BAM15
Mostar - Old Bridge Museum - BAM10
Mostar - War Photo Exhibition - BAM6
Kotor - Cruise on Kotor Fjord - EUR40
Kotor - St. Tryphon’s Cathedral - EUR4
Budva - Day Trip (by public bus) - EUR6
Kotor - Fortress - EUR3
Kotor - Maritime Museum - EUR5
Dubrovnik - Hike up Mt Srd - Free
Dubrovnik - Church of St. Blaise - Free
Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure - EUR69
Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car - EUR27
Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence - EUR4
Dubrovnik - Rector's Palace - EUR13
Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum - EUR10
Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip - EUR27
Dubrovnik - Franciscan Monastery - EUR4
Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport & entry to sites) - EUR35
Dates and availability
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Important notes
1. A single supplement is not available on this trip.
Reviews (62)
5 stars
59
4 stars
3
Nick
Sep 08, 2025
Great trip, good accommodation, local food brilliant and the tour leaders made the trip. Intrepid needs to acknowledge the hard work more.
Chloe
Aug 28, 2025
This trip was incredible! Action packed and educational. The destinations were beautiful, accommodations were comfortable, and included activities engaging. Vojin was an amazing trip leader. His passion, friendliness and care always shone through his work. We had the best time with him!! Until we meet again everyone, thanks for a great trip!!
Sammy
Aug 28, 2025
Exploring the Balkans with Vojin was one of the most enriching travel experiences I've ever had. From our first meeting to the final farewell, Vojin consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail. His deep knowledge of the region’s history and culture, combined with his personable nature and genuine passion, made every moment memorable. Whether we were strolling through picturesque towns, tasting Rakia, or visiting heritage sites, each experience was thoughtfully curated and executed with care. Vojin was always responsive and helpful—even outside regular hours. His coordination ensured smooth transitions between locations, comfortable accommodations, and a well-balanced itinerary that blended adventure with relaxation.
Jennie
Aug 28, 2025
This was the trip of a lifetime. Such an unreal experience with so much history and culture. I would do this all over again in a heartbeat. Our trip guide Vojin was spectacular, and made the trip more special and unforgettable than I thought possible. The accommodations were all amazing, and Vojin answered all of our inquiries about the various locations we visited kindly.
samar
Aug 23, 2025
This Balkans Adventure trip was incredible. It was a perfect mix of adventure, learning and leisure. There was a perfect balance between group activities and solo time. I had the best tour leader and trip mates. Honestly, the best Intrepid trip I've taken.
Andrea
Aug 23, 2025
A terrific way to be introduced to the Balkan states; thoughtful experiences with local people. Now I know where I want to return to in future. This is my 2nd Intrepid trip, fantastic itinerary and awesome guide - will book again.
trish
Aug 20, 2025
This tour of the Balkans far exceeded my expectations in most every way! Such magical countries and extraordinary cities with rich histories and culture! Our group of 10 was a perfect size. Everyone added their own bit to our adventure, making the overall experience just incredible. Filip, our leader, was beyond exceptional. He is so knowledgeable, kind, informative, relatable, organized, and FUN! He was always willing to answer any of our questions, give us directions, and recommendations. He participated in activities with us, seeming to enjoy the trip just as much as we were! He also handled an initial mishap with urgency, competence, professionalism and compassion. He truly went above and beyond to ensure each of us had a safe and memorable experience! I highly recommend the tour of this unique, distinctive locale, and if you are lucky enough to have Filip as your leader, you’ll experience the Balkans with insight, humor, and a genuine passion that makes every stop unforgettable.
Trent
Jul 17, 2025
Incredible experience! A perfect mix of culture, nature, and fun. Well-paced itinerary, passionate guides, and great group vibes. Loved the hidden gems and the local insights. Some touristy spots were a bit crowded, but overall, unforgettable memories made. Highly recommend for solo travelers wanting connection, adventure, and personal growth.
Hannah
Jun 24, 2025
As a solo female traveler, this trip was wonderful. I got to see excellent and unique places with wonderful locals who have a lust for life and sharing their stories. Our guide, Filip Sostaric, was excellent - creating a positive, safe, enriching, and fun environment whilst on the journey! Could not recommend this trip enough - breathtaking in every aspect of the word!!
Susan
Jun 24, 2025
Great trip, made extra enjoyable by Ante. Good mix of organised activity and free time. Thanks for a fascinating introduction to the complex history of the Balkan region.
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