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Balkan Explorer
Discover the Balkans
Embark on a journey of a lifetime from Venice to Istanbul, experiencing the charm of vintage train travel. Explore the enchanting “City of Water” before venturing through the Balkan Region. Enjoy exclusive excursions along this iconic route, culminating in the magical city of Istanbul.
Highlights:
- Enjoy a gondola ride through the iconic waterways of romantic Venice
- Explore the ethereal Postojna Cave network of limestone caverns and monuments
- Discover Sarajevo’s poignant history through a truly absorbing guided tour of the city
- Visit one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in ancient Plovdiv
- Tour Istanbul’s magnificent Sultan Ahmet Mosque (the Blue Mosque)
Day 1- Venice
Arrivals day in Venice where you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel for a two-night stay.
This evening we will enjoy a welcome reception and dinner, where you can meet your fellow travelers.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: TBC
Day 2- Venice
Discover the enchanting beauty of Venice on a walking tour through its historic streets. Visit iconic landmarks like St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica, and the bustling Rialto Market. Immerse yourself in the romance and history of this captivating city like never before.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: TBC
Day 3- Trieste
Embark on a luxurious journey aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express as we depart from Santa Lucia station in Venice. Travel over the scenic causeway to Trieste, where we will explore Miramare Castle and Piazza Unita d’Italia.
Or opt to visit the historic Church of San Giusto for a glimpse of its stunning Byzantine-style architecture and intricate mosaics dating back to the 13th century.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 4- Postojna & Ljubljana
Today, we explore the wonders of Postojna caves on a thrilling underground train ride through magnificent halls and mysterious creatures. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the charming blend of ancient architecture and youthful culture in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city. Discover Preseren Square, Three Bridges, Dragon Bridge, and more on an afternoon walking tour of Ljubljana’s Old Town.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 5- Sarajevo & Mostar
Embark on a captivating journey to Sarajevo, an enchanting fusion of Eastern and Western culture. Explore its mosques, ancient bazaar, and Turkish quarter while delving into the city’s poignant history through a gripping tour recounting the horrors of the Balkan War. Witness the lasting scars of war as you visit the Tunnel Museum under Sarajevo Airport with a guide who experienced the conflict firsthand.
Later, venture to Mostar by coach, a historic city where civilizations and religions converge. Discover its Ottoman heritage at sites like the iconic stone arch bridge, Turkish House, and mosque. Wander through bustling bazaar streets brimming with traditional souvenirs and handicrafts for a truly immersive experience in this vibrant crossroads of cultures.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 6- Belgrade
Discover Belgrade, Serbia’s captivating capital, located at the meeting point of the Sava and Danube rivers. Explore its rich history through a city tour with highlights like the ‘House of Flowers’ mausoleum of Josip Tito and iconic landmarks such as Town Hall Building, Republic Square, and Knez Mihajlova Street. Don’t miss a visit to the historic Belgrade ‘Kalemegdan’ Fortress. Experience the contrasts of this ancient city, from Communist-era buildings to Orthodox churches and remnants of Balkan wars. Join us for a full day immersed in Belgrade’s vibrant past and present.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 7- Bar & Podgorica
This morning we cross the border into Montenegro, still one of Europe’s largely undiscovered locations. Explore this hidden gem with its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and medieval towns. From the coastal town of Bar to the capital city of Podgorica, immerse yourself in a mix of incredible natural beauty and captivating history.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 8- Skopje
Uncover the hidden charm of Skopje, a city steeped in Ottoman influences. Wander through the historic Old Town’s alleys lined with quaint shops and ornate mosques. Get lost in the bustling Old Bazaar, filled with treasures to discover, and stroll across the iconic Stone Bridge that connects the ancient market to the vibrant modern city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 9- Sofia & Plovdiv
Explore the ancient wonders of Sofia, Bulgaria’s modern capital nestled at the foot of Mt Vitosha. Discover Roman walls, the historic St George church, and iconic landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Turkish Bashi Mosque on a captivating morning tour.
Indulge in a scenic train ride to Plovdiv, the enchanting ‘City of Seven Hills’ boasting over 200 archaeological sites. Uncover the city’s rich history at the Roman Forum and Amphitheatre before strolling through the charming Old Town with its medieval walls and Ottoman baths.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express
Day 10 & 11- Istanbul
Join us for the next two days as we explore the captivating city of Istanbul, where East meets West in a fascinating blend of history and culture. During our two-night stay at a luxurious five-star hotel, we will uncover the wonders of this ancient city.
Experience the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire, with its treasury and striking architecture overlooking the Golden Horn. Step back in time at Hagia Sophia, a stunning basilica turned mosque that stands as a testament to Istanbul’s rich heritage.
Marvel at the beauty of the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets and intricate Ottoman design. Cruise along the legendary Bosphorus and explore the bustling Grand Bazaar for a taste of authentic Turkish culture.
End your journey with a memorable Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the unforgettable moments shared during our time in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: TBC
Day 12- Istanbul
Start your day with breakfast and then head to the airport for your next adventure. Want to see more of Istanbul? Extend your stay for extra days of exploration in this captivating city.
Meals: Breakfast
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