From Milan to Macedonia: Northern Italy & Balkan Highlights Tour

The journey begins in Milan with an introduction to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Time is set aside to admire the magnificent Duomo di Milano, a symbol of Gothic architecture. Later, the group travels to Venice to explore the iconic Piazza San Marco and visit the splendid St. Mark’s Basilica. The evening is spent in Venice.

The tour continues to Slovenia with a stop at the breathtaking Lake Bled, framed by the Julian Alps. An optional boat ride offers the chance to visit Bled Island and the Church of the Assumption. The journey proceeds to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital, where the group visits Ljubljana Castle, the Old Town, Prešeren Square, and the renowned Triple Bridge. Accommodation is provided in Ljubljana.

The next destination is Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. The exploration includes Ban Jelačić Square, the historic Upper Town (Gradec), and several key landmarks. The day concludes in Slunj, a peaceful riverside town surrounded by nature. Overnight in Slunj.

The group visits the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cascading lakes and lush forest trails. Afterward, the tour crosses into Bosnia and Herzegovina, arriving in Bihać. Highlights include the scenic Una National Park and the tranquil Una River. Overnight in Bihać.

The journey continues with visits to Pliva Lake and the historic town of Jajce, famous for its unique waterfall and medieval old town. Travnik offers a chance to explore its Old Town and the picturesque Plava Voda (Blue Water) spring. The day ends in Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Key sites in Sarajevo include Baščaršija, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Tunnel of Hope, Trebević Mountain, and Vrelo Bosne natural park. Overnight in Sarajevo.

A scenic drive through Herzegovina leads to Konjic Old Town and the lakeside town of Jablanica. In Mostar, the group explores the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge (Stari Most) and the charming Old Town streets. The journey continues to Blagaj to visit the mystical Dervish Monastery (Tekke) located beside the source of the Buna River. The day concludes with a visit to the beautiful Kravice Waterfalls. Overnight in Mostar.

Travel proceeds to Dubrovnik, often referred to as the pearl of the Adriatic. The group walks the ancient City Walls, visits Dubrovnik Cathedral, and explores the UNESCO-listed Old Town. The tour continues to Kotor in Montenegro, with visits to the Old Town, Kotor Fortress, and the picturesque Bay of Kotor. The day ends in Budva, where the group tours its historic walled Old Town. Overnight in Budva.

The next stop is Skadar Lake National Park, renowned for its serene landscapes and diverse birdlife. The journey then continues to Tirana, the capital of Albania, with visits to Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Tirana Clock Tower. Overnight in Tirana.

The tour heads to Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Time is spent exploring Ohrid’s Old Town and its collection of historical churches and traditional streets. The day concludes in Skopje, North Macedonia’s capital, where the itinerary includes Macedonia Square, the Old Bazaar, Skopje Fortress, and the iconic Stone Bridge. Overnight in Skopje.

The tour concludes with breakfast and a transfer to Skopje International Airport for departure.