Compare Budapest to Venice by Intrepid Travel vs The Croatian by Globus

Day 1 Budapest

Szia! Welcome to Budapest, Hungary's vibrant capital. This city, split into two sides – Buda and Pest – sits right on the banks of the Danube River. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, maybe head out with your fellow travellers for dinner, then take a night walk along the Danube to see the buildings and bridges lit up in lights. Why not keep the night going in one of Budapest's ruin bars tonight, home to eclectic décor and a popular spot for a night out.

Day 2 Novi Sad to Belgrade

This morning you’ll head to Belgrade – Serbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in Europe. On the way, stop at Novi Sad on the banks of the Danube River. Head out on an orientation walk of the city with your local leader, then take a few hours to explore at your own pace. Maybe head to the Petrovaradin Fortress, one of the most important landmarks in the city, and enjoy the view over the river. There are also some great restaurants and cafes at the fortress where you can stop for lunch or a coffee. Then, continue to your destination – sitting at the junction of the Sava and the Danube, Belgrade is an important intersection between Eastern and Western Europe. Enjoy some free time to explore the city’s wide boulevards and squares, the historic green heart of Kalemegdan Park and Kalemegdan Fortress, which has overlooked the river for centuries. In the evening, head down to Skadarska Street in the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija to sample some authentic local food and enjoy the lively atmosphere in a place where Orthodox churches vie for space next to nightclubs.

Day 3 Belgrade

Today is another day to discover Belgrade at your own pace. You might like to take a cruise along the Danube River, passing Kalemegdan Fortress, Pancevo Bridge and Zemun. Otherwise, the local market Zeleni Venac can keep you occupied for hours. Take a stroll through the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the life and work of Serbia's greatest inventor or check out the city's Ethnographic or Military museums. If the weather’s warm, you could brave the crowds on Ada Ciganlija beach, where you can swim, take up some water sports or soak up the sun. During summer, Belgrade hosts a variety of musical and cultural events, and the city is abuzz with people and activities.

Day 4 Sarajevo

Travel through the countryside to Sarajevo this morning. The journey is long, so sit back and enjoy the scenery (and grab a window seat if you can!). Sarajevo is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s small but vibrant capital. The city often draws comparisons with Istanbul as a place that mixes east and west – dotted with minarets, mosques, bazaars and the aroma of coffee. When you arrive, maybe head on an optional guided tour to gain insight into the history and culture of the city and explore Bascarsija – Sarajevo's old bazaar. Tonight, maybe grab some of the local speciality – bosanski cevapi (local grilled and spiced meats).

Day 5 Sarajevo

Enjoy a free day in and around Sarajevo today. You can take an optional day trip out to the thermal springs and green parks of Ilidza – the source of the Bosna River. You might prefer to discover local history with a visit to the History Museum, the Sarajevo War Tunnels and Sniper Alley, or learn about the tragedies faced by the city's Jews at the Jewish Museum. Maybe get cultural with a stroll through the Art Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina, or return to Bascarsija and get lost in the mosques, caravanserais and stone-vaulted bazaars while snacking on burek. The Pivnica HS brewery and restaurant is a good place to sample local award-winning beer and spend the night with your travel crew.

Day 6 Mostar

This morning, travel to Mostar. On the way, stop at Tito's Bunker, named after the late leader of the communist country, for a 1.5-hour tour with a local guide. This underground facility served as Yugoslavia's ‘Atomic War Command,’ designed to house a skeleton government of 350 people who would manage the country in the event of nuclear war. Continue to Mostar – thanks to the river Neretva, this city was able to develop in the barren landscape of Herzegovina. When you arrive, maybe head to the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), first built by the Ottomans in 1565 – it was the great architect Mimar Hajrudin who succeeded with the impossible mission to cross the Neretva River with a single span stone bridge. If you’re lucky, you might see the famous brave members of Mostar’s diving club hurl themselves into the icy waters below.

Day 7 Kotor

This morning after breakfast, you’ll travel to Kotor. This fifth-century UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is set on a secluded bay, with towering peaks surrounding a rocky coastline dotted with waterside towns. When you arrive, explore Europe’s most southerly fjord, Boka Kotorska (Bay of Kotor) and Kotor town, with a free afternoon. Maybe check out the 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphun, the South Gates of Kotor (the Gurdich Gate) and the Armoury Square (Trg od Oruzija).

Day 8 Kotor

Today is another free day to get lost in the crooked alleyways of Kotor. Maybe check out the boutiques and cafes or climb the hills behind the city to visit Kotor's ruined fortification walls. A 1.5-hour hike up the stone steps, past churches, gates and bastions to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan at the top, rewards you with magnificent views across the town and the Bay of Kotor. Tonight, maybe hang out in a lookout spot and take in the lights – the city walls are lit up in the evening here to provide a unique night-time perspective.

Day 9 Dubrovnik

Leave Montenegro by bus this morning, riding along the beautiful southern coast of Croatia to Dubrovnik. When you arrive, the day is free for you to explore this medieval city at your own pace. There is so much to see and do here, so ask your leader if you’re stuck for ideas. You might like to take a boat trip to nearby Lokrum Island, where you’ll find the French-built Fort Royal Castle, a monastery and a botanical garden that dates back to when the Austrian archduke Maximilian had his holiday home on the island. Tonight, maybe find a secluded beach spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a harbourside meal with the group for dinner.

Day 10 Dubrovnik

You have a free day in Dubrovnik today. With the sparkling water of the Adriatic in the background, this city is picturesque and full of character, and its Old Town can easily be covered on foot. You’ll have another meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet the new members of your group. After, maybe head out for a walk around town or enjoy a meal with the group to get to know your new travel buddies.

Day 11 Dubrovnik

This morning after breakfast, take a day trip to Elaphiti Islands – a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik. Travel to Lopud, where you’ll hike from the main village to Sunj Beach with your leader. Explore the old churches, old fortress and incredible views along the way. When you arrive at the beach, enjoy some free time to relax, swim, or find a good spot to settle for a couple of hours for a long lunch. After, return to Dubrovnik where you’ll have the late afternoon and night free. Walk along the city walls of ‘Game of Thrones’ fame, enjoying breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain, built by architect Onofrio della Cava in the 15th century to supply water to the city or check out the Franciscan monastery, home to one of the world's oldest continuously functioning pharmacies, founded in the 13th century. Tonight, kick back on Banje Beach or find a good spot with a sunset view for dinner.

Day 12 Split

This morning you’ll take a public bus up the coast to Split. If Dubrovnik is considered the heart of Dalmatia, Split is certainly the soul. On a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, it's the second-largest city in Croatia. Enjoy a free afternoon in this stunning seaside town, exploring the historic streets and making sure you see the World Heritage-listed Diocletian's Palace. For a more in-depth introduction to the city, why not join an optional guided tour with a local guide? Dinner by the sea is recommended, whether you’re a fiend for fresh seafood or just want to catch the deep colours of the sunset.

Day 13 Split

Enjoy a free day in Split today. At the heart of its atmospheric Old Town is a fascinating city-within-a-city – the remains of a third-century palace built for Roman Emperor Diocletian. Some places might have protected such an impressive complex in a museum, but not enigmatic Split. These ancient walls now house a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, restaurants and houses. Step back in time as you stroll the sprawling maze of passageways and courtyards – you’ll also find a 16th-century synagogue and a courtyard often filled with music. If your feet tire, why not sample Croatia’s fine coffee culture with a frothy kava from a cafe on the Riva waterfront promenade – a prime spot for people-watching. In the evening, Split boasts an increasingly bustling nightlife scene, so grab a few of your fellow travellers and hit the bars.

Day 14 Plitvice Lakes National Park / Zagreb

Today you will visit one of Croatia's most beautiful sites – Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park was given UNESCO World Heritage status 20 years ago and is 19 hectares of wooded hills surrounding 16 stunning turquoise lakes, all connected by a series of waterfalls. The area is populated by deer, bears, wolves, boars and some rare bird species, and the thick, primeval forest vegetation of beech trees, fir spruce and white pine adds another element to the park's beauty. You’ll have free time to explore or simply follow your leader to see the best spots – all trails in the national park are well marked, so it's difficult to get lost (but make sure you follow the national park rules, which your leader will outline). Look to the canopy for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls. After your memorable visit to the lakes, you’ll drive to Croatia's capital Zagreb.

Day 15 Zagreb

This morning after breakfast, take an orientation walk with your leader as they point out the local amenities and attractions in Zagreb. For lunch, you’ll head to Dolac Market – the main market in the city and a great spot to pick up local favourites. The upper level offers seasonal fruits, vegetables, preserves and olive oil and the bottom level sells cheese and meats. Stop by a bakery for a taste of cevapcici (grilled minced meat) – a traditional market snack. The rest of the day is free, so you might want to check out the gothic Zagreb Cathedral, with its twin spires that dominate the city's skyline. Maybe start at Ban Jelacic Square, the city's central point, and visit one of the excellent museums like the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships.

Day 16 Ljubljana

Travel by train this morning across the Slovenian border and arrive in the cosmopolitan capital of Ljubljana (pronounced 'Lyub-Li-Yana'). Check in to your accommodation and then head out on a short orientation walk with your leader. The rest of the day is free for you to delve deeper into this beautiful city. Located in the centre of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a city full of style and sophistication, history, monuments, churches, museums and great restaurants. Maybe wander around the old city centre, renowned for its unique architectural appearance. The Old Town consists of three main squares and Baroque houses, and you can visit the Ljubljana Castle, the Town Hall, the Cathedral of St Nicholas, and the Dragon Bridge. Stop at the central Preseren Square, dedicated to the Slovenian romantic poet France Preseren.

Day 17 Ljubljana

Today is a free day to explore Ljubljana further. You have the option of heading on a day trip to Bled – gifted with immense natural beauty, Bled ranks among the most beautiful of alpine resorts. Its fairy tale-like scenery includes a castle, a stunning lake and a picturesque island topped with a church, which is a dream to explore. Take a Pletna boat ride (a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman) across sparkling Lake Bled to its island, then climb the 99 steps to St Mary's Church. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, too – nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims their cream cake is the best! There's also plenty of action for adrenaline junkies on offer today, like rafting, caving, cycling, canoeing, boating or swimming.

Day 18 Venice

This morning, travel by bus to one of the world's most unique and romantic destinations – Venice. Renowned for its canals, Venice comprises hundreds of small islands connected by nearly 400 bridges. Its famous sights – such as the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace (the ruler of Venice), the Piazza San Marco and the evocative Bridge of Sighs – are easily explored by foot. Don't miss the chance to take a gondola ride through the romantic canals! It’s also heavily recommended that you sample a slice of tiramisu (coffee-soaked sponge cake), the region’s specialty. Tonight, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner and try two other local specialities – fresh lobster and squid ink pasta. 

Day 19 Venice

With no activities planned for today, you’re free to depart the accommodation any time after check-out. Venice is a charming city with lots to do, so it’s highly recommended that you stay an extra day or two. If you would like to spend more time in Venice, just speak to your booking agent.

Day 1: ARRIVE IN ZAGREB, CROATIA

Welcome to Zagreb! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (Dinner)

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Day 2: ZAGREB–LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA

Landmarks & Legends ZAGREB Guided sightseeing includes sights of the Parliament and Stone Gate. Scenic drive into Slovenia en route to Ljubljana. (Breakfast,Dinner)
106 mi / 170 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & MYSTERY Explore the ancient city of Zagreb where Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Europe meet with a magnetic culture amid medieval architecture and offbeat cafes and bars to enjoy. In the Upper Town of Zagreb admire the historic Croatian Parliament building and see the Stone Gate, the only fortification entrance that is still standing, and now home to the city’s most important shrine.

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Day 3: LJUBLJANA

Castles & Dragons LJUBLJANA Guided sightseeing features the Town Hall’s inner court. Hear the history and heritage of the Hapsburg Dynasty here, and see St. Nicholas Cathedral. Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS If you’re wondering why there are so many dragons decorating the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana, it’s thanks to the mythological heroes Jason and his Argonauts who stole the Golden Fleece and fled here. Legend has it that the dragon that lived here wasn’t too welcoming. For ages, the dragon of Ljubljana has been the protector and mascot of Ljubljana. Aside from green dragons seen from the cafes and bridges, this university town was voted 2016 Green Capital of Europe.

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Day 4: LJUBLJANA–POSTOJNA–OPATIJA, CROATIA

Going Underground POSTOJNA [LF] Take a guided tour through the caves before continuing to Opatija. (Breakfast,Dinner)
81 mi / 130 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
NATURAL WONDER Explore the world's most captivating cave on an unforgettable ride on an underground train. Enter the surreal subterranean world of shiny white stalagmites shaped by millions of years and millions of drops of water in the Postojna Cave. See the baby dragons (Olms) who call the caves home - in the mysterious underground caverns of Slovenia.

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Day 5: OPATIJA. EXCURSION TO PULA

Theatrical Sights Scenic drive through the Istrian Peninsula to Pula.
PULA Guided sightseeing features the Amphitheatre and the Temple of Augustus. Free time to browse before returning to Opatija.
OPATIJA Free time to walk along the seaside promenade and see the Maiden with the Seagull. (Breakfast)
130 mi / 210 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & HERITAGE Marvel at the well-preserved Roman temple of Augustus in the ancient town of Pula which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. Visit the amphitheatre used during Roman times as a venue for Gladiator fights, it is still used today for many important events.

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Day 6: OPATIJA–PLITVICE–ZADAR

Into the Woods PLITVICE Join a guided walking tour of the national park. Take a scenic drive along the coastline en route to Zadar. (Breakfast,Dinner)
199 mi / 320 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Croatia’s first national park, Plitvice Lakes is the oldest and largest national park in the Republic of Croatia. Lush forests, pristine lakes and wondrous waterfalls share this natural paradise with a wealth of wildlife, including wolves, bears, bobcats, and a bountiful species of birds. Words can’t do justice to this spectacular natural wonderland, so join us and see this spectacle of pure nature for yourself.

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Day 7: ZADAR–TROGIR–SPLIT

Traditions & Tastes ZADAR Take a guided walking tour through the Old Town to the main square with free time for lunch.
TROGIR Visit the historic city.
SPLIT [LF] Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)
99 mi / 160 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES After exploring the historic squares of Zadar and Trogir, settle in for a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant in the Croatian town of Split, for the perfect place to spice things up with authentic Croatian cuisine.

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Day 8: SPLIT

The Emperor’s Escape SPLIT Walking tour with a Local Guide includes Diocletian’s Palace. Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGEND SLEPT HERE Discover one of the world’s best-preserved monuments to Roman architecture with a walking tour in Split. You’ll see the spectacular Diocletian Palace that was built for the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the 4th-century ADinner, and forms nearly half of the Old Town of Split. Having served as the emperor's villa, summer house, and military camp, this ancient palace evokes the power and strength of the Roman Empire.

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Day 9: SPLIT–BOSNIA–HERZEGOVINA–DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

A King’s Landing DUBROVNIK Walking tour with a Local Guide includes views of Rector’s Palace. Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)
162 mi / 260 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE It isn’t hard to see why the city of Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The old town surrounded by its remarkable city walls is protected by UNESCO. Over the centuries this breathtaking city has been an inspiration to many artists. Game of Thrones fans may recognize this formidable setting and the Rector’s Palace as a film location for the epic TV series.

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Day 10: DUBROVNIK

Mediterranean Magic DUBROVNIK Enjoy a free day in Dubrovnik, followed by a farewell dinner at your hotel this evening. (Breakfast,Dinner)

FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE with lots of ways to spend your day. Stroll along the streets of the old town, browse the shops, try out some more local specialties, try out some more local specialties. Tonight, raise a glass with your travel companions and toast an unforgettable vacation.

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Day 11: DUBROVNIK

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

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