Journey to the Heart of the Balkans
From the lakes of Plitvice to the ramparts of Dubrovnik, an authentic crossing of the Balkans between turquoise waterfalls and old Ottoman stones.
Duration
13 days
From
€1,550/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
This self-drive tour takes you from Zagreb to Dubrovnik through Bosnia and Herzegovina : national parks, mountain villages, historic cities and culinary experiences punctuate this journey. With your rental car, carefully selected accommodations and the discreet yet constant support of our local agency, you explore the region at your own pace, while being assisted at every step.
Along the way, discover spectacular landscapes, between mountains, emerald rivers and unspoiled valleys. Stroll through cities rich in history, meet passionate craftspeople and share authentic moments with local people. Local specialties and culinary traditions reveal all the cultural wealth of the Balkans. Each day offers a perfect balance between discovery, nature and free time. An ideal trip to explore Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina at your leisure, at your own pace.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
First Steps in Zagreb
Arrival at Zagreb airport, then transfer to the city center to begin your discovery of the Croatian capital.
You immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city with a stroll through Ban Jelačić Square, the true nerve center of Zagreb, before heading to the cathedral, an emblematic Gothic edifice of the city.
You then continue through the picturesque alleyways and discreet small squares of the Old Town. The walk takes you through the historic district of Gornji Grad, where narrow streets and small squares evoke centuries of Zagreb's history.
During your visit, you can discover the Museum of Broken Relationships, a touching experience that presents, through personal objects, stories of thwarted loves.
You then head to the Dolac market, a lively open-air market, ideal for observing local life and spotting local products. Not far from there, you have the opportunity to take Europe's smallest funicular, an original way to go from the lower part of the city to the top of the hill.
The Grič Tunnel is also among the curiosities of the day: this underground passage, built during World War II to protect the population from bombardments, today hosts a permanent exhibition devoted to Zagreb's history during the war and offers a glimpse of the city from an underground perspective.
Finally, you end with a visit to the Mirogoj Cemetery, with its long arcades and peaceful atmosphere, which make it a striking place of remembrance.
Night in Zagreb.
Plitvice and Rastoke, preserved nature
Zagreb → Bihać
Departure towards the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
On the way, stop at Rastoke, a charming village situated at the confluence of two rivers, where you can discover traditional water mills and waterfalls that contribute to the unique atmosphere of the place. This stop offers a first immersion in a peaceful environment, between water and stone.
You then continue towards the Plitvice Lakes National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site consists of 16 lakes with clear waters, connected to each other by a series of waterfalls, all surrounded by dense forests. On site, you can walk along hiking trails, enjoy different viewpoints over the lakes, take a boat ride on Lake Kozjak and observe the numerous waterfalls that punctuate the landscape. It is a day devoted to nature and tranquility.
After visiting the national park, drive to Bihać for the night.
Bihać and the Una Waterfalls
After breakfast, departure for the discovery of the Štrbački buk and Martin Brod waterfalls, located in the Una national park. You enjoy the panoramic views and wild beauty of the place, before visiting the traditional mills still in operation, testimonies of the rural heritage of the region.
Return to Bihać for lunch in a local restaurant, where you can taste regional specialties based on fresh fish from the Una river.
In the afternoon, several activity options are available to you:
Option 1: Rafting
Rafting course of your choice, with a calm descent suitable for beginners or more technical rapids for those seeking more thrills, to discover the Una river from a different angle.
Option 2: Kayaking
Guided kayaking excursion on the river, with routes adapted to all levels, for full immersion in nature.
In the evening, free time to dine in Bihać or rest after this day of exploration.
Overnight stay in Bihać.
Jajce, Nature and History
Bihać → Jajce
In the morning, departure for Jajce, a small town in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina where history and natural landscapes meet. This destination, both historic and picturesque, invites you to discover a collection of cultural heritage and preserved nature. Along the way, a stop at the small Pliva lake of Mostić.
The exploration begins with the Pliva waterfalls, formed by the river of the same name. These cascades, symbol of Jajce, offer a pleasant setting for a walk along the water, conducive to relaxation while observing this natural landscape characteristic of the region.
The visit continues with Jajce Fortress, situated on a hill that dominates the town. This former fortification allows you to enjoy an unobstructed view over Jajce and its surroundings. A walk within the fortress walls gives the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the town and explore the remains of this strategic site.
You can then continue by discovering several museums:
Museum of the 2nd AVNOJ Session (Museum of the 2nd AVNOJ Session)
This museum recalls the historic 1943 meeting, linked to the founding of modern Yugoslavia. It presents exhibitions devoted to World War II and antifascist resistance.
Franjevački muzej Jajce (Jajce Franciscan Museum)
This museum houses a collection of religious and cultural objects linked to the Franciscan heritage of the region and offers an insight into the local spiritual and artistic history.
Finally, the catacombs of Jajce, located beneath the Church of Saint Mary, complete the visit. This site, modest in size, constitutes an interesting historical testimony to include in your discovery of the town.
Overnight stay in Jajce.
Jajce between town and lakes
Breakfast at your accommodation before starting the day.
Then set off for a walking discovery of Jajce's historic center. You will admire the Pliva waterfall and stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, dominated by the medieval fortress that overlooks the valley. This route allows you to soak up the peaceful and historic atmosphere of this city.
Lunch takes place in a local restaurant, with typical Bosnian specialties, for a relaxing moment around the table.
In the afternoon, several activities are offered:
Option 1: Traditional cooking class
Participation in a traditional cooking class on the shores of Lake Pliva, followed by tasting the dishes prepared, accompanied by local juices.
Option 2: Electric bike tour
Guided electric bike ride around Jajce, to explore the surroundings in an accessible and pleasant way, while enjoying the region's landscapes.
Option 3: Boat trip on Lake Pliva
Boarding for a boat ride on Lake Pliva, surrounded by hills, to enjoy the surrounding nature at a leisurely pace.
Option 4: Kayaking on Lake Pliva
Two-hour kayaking trip on Lake Pliva, to discover the lake up close.
In the evening, free time to dine in Jajce or rest after a day full of discoveries.
Overnight in Jajce.
Cultural Route to Sarajevo
Jajce → Sarajevo
This morning, you head towards Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, passing through several villages, including Travnik, a charming little town renowned for its specialties such as ćevapi.
You then continue towards Visoko to discover the Pyramid of the Sun, an enigmatic site often associated with theories linked to ancient lost civilizations. This stage offers a particular experience for travelers who are drawn to places steeped in mystery and history.
Before reaching Sarajevo, a stop is a must at the Sarajevo Tunnel, a symbol of the city's resistance during the siege of the 1990s. This passage, which connected the city to the outside world during the war, remains a powerful testimony to the determination and resilience of its inhabitants.
The day continues with the discovery of the sources of the Bosna River, a peaceful place where clear waters spring forth at the foot of the mountains, creating a setting conducive to a break in the heart of nature.
Night in Sarajevo.
Authentic Discovery of Sarajevo
Start the day with a walking tour of the historic city center of Sarajevo . Discover the picturesque Baščaršija neighborhood, with its cobbled streets, bustling bazaars, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and the Sebilj fountain. This walk helps you better understand the city's multicultural history through its monuments and architecture.
Lunch at a local restaurant, with the opportunity to taste different Bosnian specialties.
In the afternoon, several activity options are available to you:
Option 1: "Roses of Sarajevo" Tour
4-hour guided tour dedicated to the Siege of Sarajevo (1992-1995). Accompanied by a guide who lived through this period, you discover iconic sites such as the Tunnel of Hope and Sniper Alley. Minibus transport and tunnel entry are included for an immersion in the city's recent history.
Option 2: Sarajevo Food & Craft Tour
Stroll through Sarajevo's oldest streets with a local guide. You visit old craft workshops and taste Bosnian sweet and savory specialties, including fresh baked goods. This tour combines history, traditions and flavors for a hands-on approach to old town culture.
Option 3: Traditional Cooking Class
Bosnian cooking class featuring typical dishes such as Sogan dolma, Japrak, Dolma and Bosnian pita, with vegetarian and vegan options. You also taste homemade juice and enjoy a convivial time with appetizers, drinks, wine or beer included.
In the evening, free time to dine in Sarajevo or continue exploring the city at your own pace.
Overnight in Sarajevo.
From Sarajevo to Authentic Mostar
Sarajevo → Mostar
This morning, you leave Sarajevo to head towards Mostar, crossing the landscapes of central Bosnie.
First stop in the mountains, at the village of Lukomir, located at nearly 1,500 meters altitude. This isolated hamlet, considered the highest inhabited village in the country, is distinguished by its stone houses with shingle roofs. You will take a hike through pastures and canyons while getting closer to the daily life of the inhabitants and their traditional way of living.
Continuing your journey, you make a stop in Konjic to visit the Tito Bunker, an underground complex built during the Cold War to protect the Marshal and the Yugoslav government. This discovery offers a direct look at the recent history of the country and its behind-the-scenes workings.
At the end of the day, you arrive in Mostar, an emblematic city of Bosnie-Herzégovine. You enjoy the sunset over the Stari Most, then wander through the cobbled streets and the old town, gradually soaking in its unique atmosphere.
Overnight in Mostar.
Mostar, traditions and nature
Start the day with a traditional Bosnian coffee, then set off to discover Mostar, an emblematic city of Herzegovina, known for its ancient Ottoman bridge, the Stari Most.
Take time to wander through the cobbled streets of the old town, among craft shops, historic mosques and traditional houses.
You then head to Blagaj, a village nestled at the foot of a cliff, renowned for its tekija, a dervish lodge located on the banks of the Buna river spring. The peaceful setting is perfect for a lunch break on the terrace, by the water.
In the afternoon, several options are available to you:
Option 1: Excursion to Kravica waterfalls
Departure for a half-day dedicated to the Kravica cascades, nestled in verdant surroundings. In summer, possibility of swimming in clear, refreshing water.
Option 2: Bosnian cooking workshop
Participate in a culinary workshop to learn how to prepare traditional dishes with a local chef, in a friendly atmosphere centered on the flavors of Herzegovina.
Option 3: Guided tour of Mostar
With a passionate guide, discover Mostar in depth: multicultural history, Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav architecture, as well as the still visible traces of the recent conflict.
Option 4: Local wine tasting
Commented tasting of Herzegovina wines, in a wine estate or cellar in town, to better understand the character of local grape varieties.
Option 5: Boat trip on the Neretva
A moment of relaxation on the Neretva river, with a small boat ride departing from Mostar or its surroundings, to appreciate the city and its landscapes from the water.
The day ends with a free dinner and an evening at Mostar's pace, between ancient illuminated stones and the soft atmosphere of the river banks.
Overnight in Mostar.
Mostar, Trebinje and Dubrovnik
Mostar → Dubrovnik
From Mostar, you head south today to reach Trebinje, a pleasant town located in southern Bosnie-Herzégovine, just over an hour's drive away. With its Ottoman bridges, cobbled streets lined with plane trees and its lively market, Trebinje offers a calm and authentic atmosphere. Take the opportunity to discover the old town center, the Arslanagića Mosque as well as the Tvrdoš Monastery, known for its wine produced by monks.
In the early afternoon, you continue heading south and stop at the Provalije Waterfall, a natural site nestled in vegetation. The sound of water, the freshness of the place and the surrounding landscapes make it a restful stop before reaching the coast.
At the end of the day, you head back to Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic. You arrive as the evening light illuminates the ramparts and the sea. Check in to your accommodation, then enjoy a free evening to stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town or choose dinner with a sea view.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik between history and sea
Breakfast at your accommodation.
Spend this day discovering Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic", inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Start with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, where every corner reveals a new point of interest.
Among the must-see sites:
The Rector's Palace, former residence of the Republic of Ragusa, with its museum tracing the political and cultural history of the city.
The Dominican Monastery, which houses a collection of religious art and a historic library.
The Franciscan Monastery, known for its 14th-century pharmacy, one of the oldest still in operation in Europe.
The Church of Saint Blaise, dedicated to the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and the Onofrio Fountain, a testament to medieval engineering.
In the afternoon, several options are available to you:
Walk on the ramparts: take time to explore the ramparts that surround the historic center to enjoy the rooftops of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
Cable car ride to Mount Srđ: reach Mount Srđ to enjoy a wide panoramic view of Dubrovnik, the surrounding islands and the coastline.
Visit to Fort Lovrijenac: located outside the ramparts, this bastion offers another perspective on the city and its coastal defenses.
Time to relax by the sea: stroll around the harbor or settle on a terrace to experience the atmosphere unique to Dubrovnik.
In the evening, to conclude this journey, treat yourself to dinner on the heights or by the sea, in a peaceful setting.
Night in Dubrovnik.
Last Steps in Dalmatia
After your breakfast, you head towards Dubrovnik airport.
It's time for your return flight, after these final steps in Dalmatia.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Lunches and dinners
- All personal expenses and services not mentioned in the program
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
- The round-trip flight
- All activities mentioned in the program and entrance fees to monuments
Included
- The transfer between Zagreb airport and your hotel on day 1
- Car rental from Zagreb from day 3 to Dubrovnik airport on day 13 (Nissan Qashqai type or similar)
- Nights in 3*, 4* hotels and guest houses in double/twin rooms, according to local standards and subject to availability
- Telephone assistance throughout the duration of your tour, provided by our local team
- The travel journal bringing together all practical information: addresses, contacts, restaurant suggestions
- Insurance for the car in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Les informations ci-dessous concernent les voyageurs ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen (EEE), de la Suisse et du Canada se rendant en Bosnie-Herzégovine dans le cadre d'un séjour touristique. Les règles d'entrée pouvant évoluer, nous vous recommandons de vérifier les informations auprès des autorités officielles avant votre départ.
Passeport
Pour entrer en Bosnie-Herzégovine, votre passeport doit être valide pour toute la durée du séjour et comporter au moins une page vierge pour les tampons d'immigration.
Le document doit être en bon état (pas de pages détériorées, déchirées ou modifiées).
Les ressortissants de l'Union européenne peuvent également entrer en Bosnie-Herzégovine avec une carte d'identité nationale en cours de validité.
Séjour touristique sans visa
Les ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen, de la Suisse et du Canada bénéficient d'une exemption de visa pour les séjours touristiques.
Cette exemption permet un séjour pouvant aller jusqu'à 90 jours sur une période de 180 jours sur le territoire bosnien.
Les autorités peuvent également demander :
un billet de sortie du territoire (vol retour ou continuation),
une preuve de ressources financières suffisantes pour la durée du séjour,
une réservation d'hébergement pour la durée du voyage.
Enregistrement auprès des autorités locales
Tout voyageur séjournant en Bosnie-Herzégovine est tenu de s'enregistrer auprès des autorités locales dans les 24 heures suivant son arrivée.
En pratique, cette démarche est généralement effectuée automatiquement par l'hôtel ou la structure d'hébergement. En cas de logement chez un particulier (location privée, chez l'habitant), il appartient à l'hébergeur ou au voyageur lui-même de procéder à cet enregistrement auprès du poste de police le plus proche.
Le non-respect de cette obligation peut entraîner des difficultés lors de la sortie du territoire.
Voyage avec des enfants
Les mineurs doivent être titulaires de leur propre passeport ou carte d'identité valide couvrant la durée du séjour.
Dans certains pays européens, lorsqu'un mineur voyage sans l'un de ses parents, une autorisation de sortie du territoire peut être exigée selon la réglementation du pays de résidence.
Autres nationalités
Les conditions d'entrée peuvent varier selon la nationalité. Les voyageurs concernés doivent se renseigner auprès de l'ambassade ou du consulat de Bosnie-Herzégovine de leur pays de résidence.
Pour participer à nos voyages, il est fortement conseillé d'être assuré en assistance-rapatriement et frais médicaux à l’étranger.
Votre agence locale vous encourage à prendre connaissance du contrat spécifique élaboré avec notre partenaire CHAPKA ASSURANCES et AXA ASSISTANCE.
Pour souscrire à une assurance, connaître les garanties et les tarifs, suivez le lien ci-dessous.
CAP EXPLORER : La solution d’assurance complète conçue pour vivre sereinement votre voyage !
Choisissez la formule qui vous correspond le mieux:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Spécifiques à nos voyages, nous suggérons fortement d’y souscrire.
Si vous choisissez de souscrire à l’une de ces formules, la convention détaillant l’ensemble des garanties et les modalités de déclaration du sinistre sont disponibles sur le site Internet de l'assureur.
Votre agence locale en aura connaissance, mais seul le participant est responsable du respect des procédures de déclaration de tout sinistre. Le participant doit donc conserver cette convention avec lui pendant toute la durée de son voyage.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Non, les ressortissants français peuvent séjourner jusqu'à 90 jours sur 180 en Bosnie-Herzégovine sans visa. Passeport valide au moins 3 mois après l'entrée requis (carte d'identité acceptée dans certains cas, vérifiez). Confirmez les conditions à jour auprès du consulat.
Rendez-vous dans la section Mes Voyages pour retrouver tous vos projets.
Vous pouvez envoyer un message à votre hôte directement depuis le Salon de Thé.
Pour un voyage sur mesure de qualité, comptez entre 100 et 170 euros par jour et par personne, incluant hébergement, repas, transports internes et activités. Les vols internationaux (200-450 euros A/R) sont en supplément. La Bosnie reste très abordable, souvent combinée avec la Croatie ou le Monténégro.
Vos documents sont accessibles dans l'onglet Documents de votre voyage.
Absolument. Nous adaptons chaque circuit au profil des voyageurs. Pour les familles, nous privilégions des rythmes détendus, des hébergements familiaux, des activités ludiques et pédagogiques, et des transferts privés confortables. Nos guides locaux francophones savent capter l'attention des enfants avec des anecdotes adaptées à leur âge.
C'est simple. Vous échangez avec notre équipe locale pour définir vos envies, votre budget et vos dates. Vous recevez une proposition d'itinéraire détaillée sous 48 heures. Vous ajustez ensemble chaque détail jusqu'à la version parfaite. Vous confirmez et partez l'esprit tranquille. Votre agence locale reste disponible 7j/7 pendant toute la durée du voyage.
En cas d'urgence, contactez immédiatement votre agence locale.
Le paiement s'effectue généralement en deux fois.
Notre agence fait partie du réseau Nomadays, immatriculé en France. Vous bénéficiez de la garantie APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) qui couvre 100% de vos fonds. Paiement sécurisé, assurance rapatriement incluse, et assistance francophone 24h/24 sur place pendant tout votre séjour.
Let's talk about your adventure — Sarajevo Surroundings
Characterful Balkans Explorer, based in Pristina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country that moves you with its authenticity. You come for the landscapes and history, but you often leave touched by the encounters.
— Louis
