42-Day Cultural and Scenic Balkans Adventure from Tirana to Budapest

Day 1: Explore Tirana

Tirana, Albania on June 9, 2025

12:00pm

Skanderbeg Square

Starting point in Tirana, this central square is surrounded by important cultural sites and bustling city life.
FREE, 1h0m

1:30pm

National History Museum

Explore Albania's rich history through extensive exhibits including statues, mosaics and traditional artefacts.
ALL20, 2h0m

3:45pm

Bunk’Art 2

A fascinating museum located in a nuclear bunker illustrating communist-era history of Albania.
ALL10, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dajti Ekspres Cable Car

Ride up to Mount Dajti for panoramic views of Tirana and surrounding nature.
ALL10, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 2: Berat Historical Visit

Berat, Albania on June 10, 2025

9:00am

Drive from Tirana to Berat

Scenic 2-hour drive south to Berat, Albania’s UNESCO World Heritage city known for its Ottoman architecture.
N/A, 2h0m

11:30am

Berat Castle

Visit the well-preserved fortress with medieval churches and stunning views over the city.
ALL5, 2h0m

2:00pm

Onufri Museum

Explore sacred art and religious icons in this museum inside the castle.
ALL3, 1h0m

3:30pm

Mangalem and Gorica Quarters

Stroll these historic neighbourhoods, known for traditional white Ottoman houses and cobblestone streets.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 3: Drive to Saranda

Saranda, Albania on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Drive Berat to Saranda

Long scenic drive towards southern Albanian Albanian Riviera on the Ionian coast, about 5 hours.
N/A, 5h0m

1:30pm

Relax at Saranda Beach

Unwind at the beautiful Ionian Sea beaches with crystal-clear water and vibrant small town atmosphere.
FREE, 3h0m

5:00pm

Visit Lekuresi Castle

Perch atop a hill with panoramic views over Saranda and Corfu island, ideal for sunset watching.
ALL2, 1h0m
View Hotels

Day 4: Butrint National Park

Saranda, Albania on June 12, 2025

9:00am

Day trip to Butrint National Park

Explore the ruins of an ancient Greek and Roman city nestled in lush wetlands; UNESCO World Heritage site.
ALL5, 4h0m

2:00pm

Return to Saranda and relax

Spend afternoon strolling the promenade or enjoying a swim at the local beach.
FREE, 3h0m
View Hotels

Day 5: Drive to Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Drive Saranda to Kotor

Travel approximately 4 hours north crossing international border into Montenegro, arriving in the historic seaside town of Kotor.
N/A, 4h0m

1:30pm

Explore Kotor Old Town

Walk through winding cobbled streets with medieval architecture and lively squares.
FREE, 3h0m

5:00pm

Climb Kotor City Walls

Hike the fortress walls for spectacular views of the bay and town; open until sunset.
ALL3, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 6: Bay of Kotor Nature

Montenegro on June 14, 2025

9:00am

Boat trip Bay of Kotor

Take a scenic boat cruise visiting small coastal villages including Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks island.
ALL15, 4h0m

2:00pm

Visit Perast

Explore this charming town with Baroque palaces and churches along the waterfront.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 7: Montenegro Beaches & Montenegro Park

Budva & Durmitor, Montenegro on June 15, 2025

9:00am

Beach time in Budva

Enjoy beaches with turquoise waters and vibrant nightlife and cultural scene in this coastal town.
FREE, 4h0m

2:30pm

Drive to Durmitor National Park

Travel inland (approx. 3 hours) to one of Montenegro's best natural reserves, famous for mountains, lakes and hiking trails.
N/A, 3h0m
View Hotels

Day 8: Durmitor Hiking

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro on June 16, 2025

8:30am

Explore Durmitor National Park

Take in the stunning scenery with hiking routes around Black Lake, Tara River Canyon, and mountain peaks.
ALL3, 6h0m
View Hotels

Day 9: Cross to Bosnia

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 17, 2025

9:00am

Drive Durmitor to Mostar

Scenic 4.5-hour drive crossing into Bosnia with time to rest before exploring Mostar.
N/A, 4h30m

2:00pm

Visit Old Bridge (Stari Most)

Iconic UNESCO World Heritage site symbolising post-war reconciliation and traditional Ottoman-style architecture.
FREE, 2h0m

4:30pm

Old Bazaar Kujundziluk

Stroll through the historical market area with artisan shops and traditional atmosphere.
FREE, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 10: Mostar to Sarajevo

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 18, 2025

9:00am

Drive Mostar to Sarajevo

Approximately 2.5-hour journey to Bosnia’s vibrant capital city surrounded by mountains.
N/A, 2h30m

12:00pm

Baščaršija Old Town

Visit Sarajevo’s cultural and historic bazaar filled with Ottoman-era architecture and shops.
FREE, 2h0m

3:00pm

Latin Bridge & Sarajevo Tunnel Museum

View the site where WWI began and learn about the city's siege during the 1990s through the museum experience.
ALL7, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 11: Sarajevo to Jajce

Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 19, 2025

9:00am

Drive Sarajevo to Jajce

Spend 3 hours driving to this small historic town famous for its waterfalls and medieval fortress.
N/A, 3h0m

12:30pm

Waterfall and Pliva Lakes

Visit one of the most photogenic waterfalls cascading through the town with nearby lakes perfect for relaxing.
FREE, 2h0m

3:00pm

Jajce Fortress

Climb the stronghold walls for a panorama of the town and surrounding nature.
FREE, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 12: Enter Croatia - Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Drive Jajce to Dubrovnik

Approximately 5.5 hours travel with border crossing into Croatia and arrival to the famed coastal city of Dubrovnik.
N/A, 5h30m

2:00pm

Dubrovnik Old Town Walk

Explore the medieval Renaissance feel of this famous city encircled by massive stone walls.
FREE, 3h0m
View Hotels

Day 13: Dubrovnik Walls & Island

Dubrovnik, Croatia on June 21, 2025

9:00am

Walk Dubrovnik City Walls

One of the world's best-preserved fortification systems, offering stunning views over the Adriatic and city rooftops.
EUR35, 3h0m

1:00pm

Boat trip to Lokrum Island

Short ferry ride to this tranquil island with botanical gardens, hiking and a small historic monastery.
EUR20, 4h0m
View Hotels

Day 14: Drive to Split

Split, Croatia on June 22, 2025

9:00am

Drive Dubrovnik to Split

Approximately 3 hours along scenic Dalmatian coast.
N/A, 3h0m

12:30pm

Diocletian’s Palace

Visit the UNESCO-listed Roman emperor’s vast retirement palace, now bustling with shops, cafes and streets.
FREE, 3h0m

4:00pm

Marjan Hill

Hike this green hilltop for views over the city and Adriatic coastline.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 15: Day Trip to Krka or Trogir

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia on June 23, 2025

9:00am

Visit Krka National Park

Famous for its waterfalls, swimming spots and nature trails about 1 hour from Split.
EUR30, 5h0m

3:30pm

Explore Trogir

An UNESCO-listed medieval town known for its old town charm, narrow streets and sea views.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 16: Drive to Zadar

Zadar, Croatia on June 24, 2025

9:00am

Drive Split to Zadar

2-hour coastal drive to the historic city of Zadar known for Roman ruins and unique sea installations.
N/A, 2h0m

11:30am

Zadar Old Town

Visit Roman Forum, St Donatus Church and listen to the Sea Organ's melody.
FREE, 3h0m

3:00pm

Walk along the waterfront

See the amazing Sun Salutation light installation at sunset.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 17: Drive to Rovinj

Rovinj, Croatia on June 25, 2025

9:00am

Drive Zadar to Rovinj

Approximately 3.5 hours drive to picturesque Istrian coastal town with Venetian heritage.
N/A, 3h30m

1:00pm

Explore Rovinj Old Town

Wander charming cobblestone streets, visit the Saint Euphemia Cathedral and enjoy harbour views.
FREE, 3h0m
View Hotels

Day 18: Rovinj & Surroundings

Istria Region, Croatia on June 26, 2025

9:00am

Visit Lim Fjord

Beautiful nature reserve ideal for hiking and seafood dining, located 15 minutes from Rovinj.
FREE, 4h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Punta Corrente Park

A forest park offering tranquil walking paths and beach access near Rovinj.
FREE, 3h0m
View Hotels

Day 19: Enter Slovenia - Ljubljana

Ljubljana, Slovenia on June 27, 2025

9:00am

Drive Rovinj to Ljubljana

Drive approx. 2.5 hours from Croatia to Slovenian capital, a lively and green city with a picturesque old town.
N/A, 2h30m

12:00pm

Visit Ljubljana Castle

Take funicular or hike to this hilltop fortress with a museum and panoramic views over the city.
EUR13, 2h0m

3:00pm

Explore Old Town Bridges & Markets

Walk the iconic triple bridge and discover riverside cafes and open-air markets.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 20: Lake Bled Nature

Lake Bled, Slovenia on June 28, 2025

9:00am

Drive Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Short 45-minute drive to this scenic glacial lake famous for its island church and castle.
N/A, 45m

10:00am

Lake Bled Boat Ride

Take a traditional pletna boat to the island and ring the wishing bell in the Church of the Assumption.
EUR15, 2h0m

1:00pm

Visit Bled Castle

Perched on a cliff with museum exhibits and stunning lake views.
EUR13, 2h0m

4:00pm

Walk or cycle around Lake Bled

Enjoy the picturesque 6km promenade with viewpoints and cafes.
FREE, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 21: Coastal Slovenia: Piran

Piran, Slovenia on June 29, 2025

9:00am

Drive Lake Bled to Piran

Approximately 2.5-hour drive to this charming medieval Venetian town on Slovenia's Adriatic coast.
N/A, 2h30m

12:00pm

Explore Piran Old Town

Experience narrow streets, Tartini Square and views from the city walls.
FREE, 3h0m

3:30pm

Visit St. George’s Parish Church

Climb the bell tower for spectacular sea vistas and explore the rich Baroque interior.
ALL2, 1h0m
View Hotels

Day 22: Drive to Balaton

Lake Balaton Region, Hungary on June 30, 2025

9:00am

Drive Piran to Lake Balaton

Long drive approx. 5 hours including border crossing into Hungary’s popular lake region.
N/A, 5h0m

3:30pm

Explore Tihany Peninsula

Stroll this picturesque area famous for its Abbey and stunning views over Balaton lake.
FREE, 3h0m
View Hotels

Day 23: Relax Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton Region, Hungary on July 1, 2025

9:00am

Lake Balaton swimming and walking

Enjoy beaches, lakeside biking and nature paths around Europe’s largest freshwater lake.
FREE, 6h0m
View Hotels

Day 24: Wine & Towns around Balaton

Balatonfüred & Badacsony, Hungary on July 2, 2025

9:00am

Explore Balatonfüred

Historic spa town with lake promenades, parks and classic architecture.
FREE, 3h0m

1:00pm

Visit Badacsony Wine Region

Discover local vineyards offering tastings with fantastic volcanic hill scenery.
Varies by winery, 4h0m
View Hotels

Day 25: Travel to Eger

Eger, Hungary on July 3, 2025

9:00am

Drive Balaton to Eger

Approximate 2.5-hour journey to famous historic town known for its baroque architecture and wine.
N/A, 2h30m

12:00pm

Visit Eger Castle

Tour this medieval fortress associated with heroic resistance against Ottoman invasion.
HUF1500, 2h0m

3:00pm

Walk around Eger old town

Discover the impressive main square, baroque buildings and thermal baths.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 26: Eger Wine Cellars

Eger, Hungary on July 4, 2025

10:00am

Explore Valley of the Beautiful Women

A famous wine cellar street where visitors can sample Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) red wine.
Varies by cellar, 4h0m
View Hotels

Day 27: Drive to Budapest

Budapest, Hungary on July 5, 2025

9:00am

Drive Eger to Budapest

Approximate 2-hour drive to Hungary’s captivating capital.
N/A, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Buda Castle District

Explore historic castle complex with museums, gardens and commanding views over Danube and Pest side.
FREE to walk, 3h0m

3:00pm

Walk Chain Bridge to Parliament

Cross iconic bridge to Pest side for photos and admire the Parliament building from Kossuth Square.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 28: Budapest Baths & Markets

Budapest, Hungary on July 6, 2025

9:00am

Visit Széchenyi Thermal Bath

One of Europe’s largest medicinal baths, enjoy traditional thermal pools in a beautiful art nouveau setting.
HUF6200, 3h0m

1:30pm

Great Market Hall

Browse Hungary’s biggest and oldest indoor market filled with local produce, crafts and souvenirs.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 29: Explore Budapest Cultural Sites

Budapest, Hungary on July 7, 2025

9:00am

Hungarian National Museum

Discover Hungary’s history from ancient times to modern era through diverse exhibitions.
HUF1500, 3h0m

1:30pm

Heroes’ Square & City Park

Visit iconic statues and relaxing park with Vajdahunyad Castle.
FREE, 2h0m
View Hotels

Day 30: Day Trip to Szentendre

Szentendre, Hungary on July 8, 2025

9:00am

Train to Szentendre

Short train ride to charming riverside town filled with art galleries, baroque architecture and museums.
HUF750, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Old Town & Museums

Wander cobbled streets, visit open-air ethnographic museum and numerous artisan shops.
Varies, 5h0m
View Hotels

Day 31: Relax & Final Day Budapest

Budapest, Hungary on July 9, 2025

10:00am

Danube River Cruise

Enjoy leisure cruise viewing Budapest’s landmarks from the river, ideal for final sightseeing.
HUF5000, 1h0m

12:00pm

Free time for last exploration

Relax at cafes, do last-minute shopping or wander areas like Gellért Hill for city panoramas.
FREE, 4h0m
View Hotels