Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro are a fascinating microcosm of Western and Eastern, European and Ottoman Turkish, Christian and Islamic influences. Located in the western part of the Balkan peninsula, a strategic position that was a crossroads between Europe and the East throughout history, this area became the home of Slavic tribes, starting in the 6th century AD. Before and after the arrival of the Slavs, the area was coveted by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottoman Turks, Venetians and Austrians, among other powers. In addition to their long and eventful history, the lands we will explore feature magnificent cultural monuments, old villages and towns, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites,
stunning scenery, and a flourishing contemporary lifestyle and culture.
We will begin our exploration of the three countries that were formerly parts of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, the bustling and urbane capital of Serbia, situated beautifully at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. We will explore its most important sites and savor its vibrant contemporary scene, but also travel in the Serbian countryside to visit historic places
such as the great medieval monasteries of Studenica and Sopoćani, both listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Entering storied Bosnia-Herzegovina, we will explore two
of southern Europe’s most interesting cities, Sarajevo and Mostar. After the civil war in the early 1990s, Sarajevo’s fabled historic center is as attractive and lively as ever, its stone-paved alleyways lined with inviting shops and cafés, while in Mostar its iconic gracious stone bridge, built originally in the 16th century, still connects the banks of the Neretva River.
Montenegro is the smallest in size of the three countries we will explore, but it is big in natural beauty and historic old towns. Along the shores of the incredibly beautiful Bay of Kotor, the only fjord-like waterway in southern Europe, grew towns in the Middle Ages that became wealthy and powerful from their maritime trade. The walls, palaces and mansions of Kotor and Perast, which we will tour, speak loudly of their glorious past.
Our journey focuses on a region of Europe that remains outside its main tourist destinations. This adds to the allure of discovering Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro.
Price details forthcoming.
Travel insurance is available through our trusted partner USI – they can be reached at 800.937.1387 or at USI Travel Insurance.
Reserve your space below, call us at 800.942.5004, or email travel@wacphila.org for any questions.
