Journeys: Discover Montenegro and Bosnia - 9 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female%
- Male%
Age range
12 - 100Start / End
- Dubrovnik
- Sarajevo
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
10Highlights
- Stroll through the lush Kovacevic Family Botanical Gardens surrounded by native flora
- Visit a vibrant organic market and savour the scents of local produce and baked goods
- Learn the craft of cheese making and beekeeping with experts at a countryside apiary
- Join a local guide on a walking food tour through Sarajevo to taste regional specialties
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Summary
From the mountain peaks of the Dinaric Alps to the sparkling shores of the Adriatic, the Western Balkans are a feast for the senses. Cruise to the legendary islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, wander botanical gardens bursting with life, and explore the flavours of the region through food tours, cheese making, and honey tasting. Along the way, uncover centuries-old stories carved into ancient necropolises and meet the passionate locals keeping traditions alive. This is the Western Balkans — vibrant, resilient, and unforgettable.
Map
Itinerary
Days 1-0: DubrovnikArrival Day
Arrive at any time. Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
Days 2-1: Dubrovnik/Kotor
Cross the border to Montenegro to the stunning bayside town of Perast. Enjoy a boat cruise to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. In the National Geographic article “How to plan your pilgrimage to Montenegro‘s sacred spaces“ writer Kimberley J. Graham writes that the church is adorned with more than 2,500 silver plaques donated by sailors who credit the Madonna for their safe return from the sea. Explore the church and treasury before transferring back to Perast for a short walk to the old town and free time to wander the narrow streets and admire the abandoned baroque palaces. Continue onward and soak up the sparkling Bay of Kotor, designated a World Heritage Site for its terraced waterfront landscape and medieval architecture.
Days 3-2: Kotor
Join your tour leader on a walk to the local market this morning, then enjoy a free day to explore. Discover the Mediterranean spirit of Kotor, surrounded by fortifications built by the Republic of Venice. Consider hiking up the medieval steps of the fortress for panoramic views of the city and harbour. Or opt to experience mud therapy at a local spa to test the natural healing properties of the area’s sand. Choose to visit the Risan Roman mosaics, go sea kayaking or if relaxing is more your style, the beaches of Herceg Novi offer a great escape.
Days 4-3: Kotor/Trebinje
Set off to the Kovacevic Family Botanical Garden this morning; home to a diverse collection of approximately 127 species of trees, shrubs, and various other flora – the first protected natural monument of its kind. Walk the grounds before transferring to the Dabovic Winery for a tour and tasting. Whet your palate with sips of wine and brandy paired with local specialties to truly immerse yourself in the local Montenegro culture before crossing the border to Bosnia and Herzegovina, en route to Trebinje. Upon arrival, visit the Hercegovačka Gračanica Temple for spectacular views of the city.
Days 5-4: Trebinje
Today is an indulgence of local flavours, regional specialties. Begin with a tour of the local Green Market; take in the colourful stalls and sample the fragrant fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Next, head to a female-operated apiary to learn about all things honey and the history of this 5-generation-run farm. After, continue to another local farm specializing in the art of cheese making. Learn about cheese production, sample the products and join the family for an authentic farm-to-table lunch.Head back to Trebinje for an evening on your own.
Days 6-5: Trebinje/Buna
Set off for ancient Stolac–one of the oldest cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visit the town centre and stop at the UNESCO-listed medieval Necropolis tombstones of Stecaka. Continue onward to Blagaj for a short orientation walk around town, then enjoy a free afternoon. Perhaps hike to the Blagaj Fortress or if you’re looking for something a little different, visit the Dervish Monastery.
Days 7-6: Buna/Sarajevo
Enjoy a scenic drive to Mostar for a stroll around the ancient town and pay a visit to the famed Stari Most (Old Bridge), considered a symbol of the city’s resilience. This reconstructed Ottoman-style bridge was first built in the 17th century and then meticulously rebuilt after its destruction during the Bosnian War. Later, continue to impressive Sarajevo, a city steeped in history and culture. Head out for an evening food tour, exploring tiny alleys, local restaurants and markets and indulge in delicious Bosnian flavours.
Days 8-7: Sarajevo
Learn about the four-year-long Siege of Sarajevo from a local expert who lived through this devastating period. Gain more insights at the Tunnel of Hope and War Tunnel Museum, and view bunkers, minefields, and trenches at Trebević Mountain, the site of several battles. After, take advantage of some free time to experience the site on your own before an optional farewell dinner.
Days 9-8: Sarajevo
Depart at any time.
Prices & Availability
Please select the number of adults and children to see start dates and prices
What's Included
Meals
Breakfasts: 8, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 1Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.Vegetarian options available
Local Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Departure Tax
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.
Important Notes
1. LOCAL GUIDESIt is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places. 2. LUGGAGEIn Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.3. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.4. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE: During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.)
Packing List
Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear