5 DAY
BALKAN
EXPRESS
TOUR
DAY 1:
LJUBLJANA
The balmy summer air brings everyone out into the Baroque streets and riverside cafés of Slovenia’s jewel-like capital. It’s like walking into the most civilised street party in Europe, with the bonus of exquisite architecture and top-notch cuisine.
Ljubljana is a picturesque city whose image is the product of various historical periods, though it has been marked most notably by the creations of the architect Jože Plečnik.
It is distinguished by Ljubljana Castle located on the hill above the city, the Ljubljanica with its wondrous bridges and romantic banks, as well as testimonials and numerous stories from its rich and abundant past accompanying you with every step.
DAY 2:
LAKE BLED
This Alpine lake with the only island in Slovenia has been a world-renowned paradise for centuries, impressing visitors with its natural beauty, wealth of legend, and special powers to restore well-being.
Bled was nominated one of the seven new wonders of the world. On this island, which is the subject of legendary tales, listen to the church bell and ring it yourself. Legend has it that this will make your wishes come true. As you return to the lake shore, indulge in the famous Bled cream cake.
DAY 3:
PLITVICE
The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO heritage site due to an ensemble of 16 natural lakes, breathtaking views, its fauna and the unique turquoise waters.
DAY 4:
MOSTAR
Despite the scars of war, Mostar is stunning. The sightseeing — mosques, old Turkish-style houses, and that spine-tingling Old Bridge that is also one of Bosnia’s three UNESCO world heritage sites — is more engaging than much of what you’ve ever got to see.
Named after the bridge keepers who guarded the Stari Most in medieval times, Mostar is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most popular cities. The bridge swoops over the Neretva River and was rebuilt in 2004 after the original Old Bridge, which stood for over 400 years and was destroyed in the Bosnian War.
DAY 5:
SARAJEVO
Bascarsija is a must – the heart of Ottoman Sarajevo and the historical and cultural center. Centuries of Ottoman rule may have left an impact, but one thing’s for certain – you can never call their coffee Turkish.
Bosnia and Hercegovina is one of the few places where calling the coffee by an eponymous name isn’t just a point of national pride. It’s a matter of distinction.
After exploring the market, join the hospitable locals and take a little time to enjoy the small things in life.