intrepid travel eastern europe and rail journeys

RUSSIA

UKRAINE

HUNGARY

CROATIA

SLOVENIA

SERBIA BULGARIA

ROMANIA

GREECE

ALBANIA

TURKEY

BOSNIA-HERZIGOVINA

MONTENEGRO

eastern europe& rail journeysIntrepid’s real life experiences in eastern europe…

From tiny hamlets to iconic cities, ancient opulence to modern marvels - the countries of Eastern Europe offer enchanting adventures.

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RUSSIA

UKRAINE

HUNGARY

CROATIA

SLOVENIA

SERBIA BULGARIA

ROMANIA

GREECE

ALBANIA

TURKEY

BOSNIA-HERZIGOVINA

MONTENEGRO

Russia & Beyondpage : 30, WBRL

Cross continents aboard a long-distance train, an ideal way to meet the locals. Down in the restaurant car, sample some vodka and let the conversation flow.

Russian Rail Odyssey

Explore Eastern Europe page : 32, WMSY

Stay with a Romanian family and get a taste of local life. Dine on traditional foods, sup on tasty schnapps and wake the next day to the sounds of village life.

Romanian Homestay

Balkan Adventurepage : 33, WMSK

Join monks as they make the pilgrimage along rocky mountain paths to the stunning Ostrog Monastery. Spend the night in a konak and mingle with pilgrims.

Ostrog Monastery

St Petersburg to Budapestpage : 29, WBSH

Make the most of the White Nights and join the locals on a twilight stroll past elegant museums and ornate palaces during St Petersburg’s summer.

St Petersburg Nights

eastern europe& rail journeys

RUSSIA

CHINA

MONGOLIA

Horses by serene lake, Rila Mountains, Romania

28

Rail Jou

rneys

For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (9 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), ger camp (1 nt), overnight train (8 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, minivan, ferry, boat, local train, local bus, metro, taxi GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 11 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Mon GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 775 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.68 out of 5

Start Finish201118 Apr 08 May02 May 22 May16 May 05 Jun30 May 19 Jun13 Jun 03 Jul27 Jun 17 Jul

04 Jul 24 Jul11 Jul 31 Jul18 Jul 07 Aug25 Jul 14 Aug01 Aug 21 Aug08 Aug 28 Aug15 Aug 04 Sep22 Aug 11 Sep

29 Aug 18 Sep05 Sep 25 Sep12 Sep 02 Oct19 Sep 09 Oct26 Sep 16 Oct03 Oct 23 Oct10 Oct 30 Oct19 Dec 08 Jan

26 Dec 15 Jan201223 Apr 13 May07 May 27 May21 May 10 Jun04 Jun 24 Jun18 Jun 08 Jul25 Jun 15 Jul

Above: Photo Competition, Cute local kids, Mongolia - Hayley Anderson Below: Photo Competition, Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Russia - Brendan Corrigan

Trans-Mongolian ExpressPHYSICAL

CULTURAL

ITINERARY... Days 1-3 St Petersburg This rail odyssey begins

in St Petersburg, the shining star of modern Russia. After a boat

tour of the canals and waterways, enjoy free time to explore this

grand city. The illustrious State Hermitage Museum is a must-see

for its huge collection of artistic treasures, while the city’s Baroque

architecture and European atmosphere is sure to charm. Day 4

Suzdal Part of Russia’s famed Golden Ring of ancient capitals,

this town holds a millennium of Russian history. Wander down

rustic lanes and be enchanted by the medieval monasteries and

cathedrals. Relax by the riverside with a glass of medovukha, a local

tipple made from honey. Days 5-7 Moscow Russia’s capital is a

unique blend of Orthodox churches, communist relics and brash

capitalism. Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum and the Armoury Museum in

the Kremlin, then perhaps step inside iconic St Basil’s Cathedral.

Days 8-10 Trans-Siberian Railway The famous Trans-Siberian

train journey travels deep into the dense Siberian taiga - a perfect

opportunity to chill out, sip tea with the locals and watch the

scenery pass by. There are stops along the way, providing a chance

to stock up on tasty dumplings at market stalls. Days 11-12 Lake

Baikal Head to the world’s largest freshwater lake. Experience a

homestay on the banks of tranquil Lake Baikal for a unique insight

into traditional life. Days 13-14 Irkutsk/Trans-Mongolian

Railway Wander the streets of Irkutsk and explore the city’s mix of

traditional Siberian buildings and stark communist-era architecture.

Delve into romantic local history with a visit to the Volkonsky

House Museum - the former home of the ‘Princess of Siberia’, Maria

Volkonsky. Then, depart the land of Lenin and venture into the

grasslands of Ghengis Khan via the border town of Sukhbaatar.

Days 15-18 Ulaanbaatar/Ger Camp Learn about Mongolia’s

turbulent history by exploring some of Ulaanbaatar’s fine

museums, monasteries and palaces. Spend an unforgettable night

in a simple ger camp in the magnificent Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.

Days 19-21 Beijing China’s impressive capital offers up a wealth

of historical sights. Stand atop the Great Wall and marvel at the

might of the Middle Kingdom before heading back to the hustle

and bustle of mighty Beijing.

21 days, St Petersburg to Beijing

Try it in reverse…

Start this epic rail journey in bustling Beijing and finish up in St Petersburg. See trip code CBSU for details.

OrIgInalTRIP CODE WBSB

Discover the canals • of St Petersburg

Visit Lenin’s famed • Mausoleum in Moscow

Unwind aboard the • Trans-Siberian Railway

Enjoy local hospitality • at Lake Baikal

Journey across the • Mongolian Steppe

Have a memorable • stay in a ger camp

Stand atop the • Great Wall of China

This is a wonderful trip for people of all ages and backgrounds. All that is required is a desire to experience foreign countries from a local perspective.

Dennis Snower, Germany Travelled on the WBSB

29

Eastern Eu

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Marvel at the beauty of • St Petersburg

Pay a sobering visit to • the Chernobyl Museum

Sample traditional • Ukrainian food

Cycle the streets of • beautiful Budapest

Experience the mesh of • Moscow’s communist and capitalist cultures

Explore a medieval • Russian capital in the Golden Ring

Hone culinary skills in a • cooking class in Suzdal

Sip delicious mead • alongside a river

Travel to Russia’s • oldest city

Enjoy a relaxing • steam in a Russian banya

Photo Competition, Copper statue at the Opera Theatre, Lviv, Ukraine - Lidia Lipkiewicz

Colours of St Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (8 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (4 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, train, minibus, local bus, metro, tram, taxi, boat, bicycle GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 10 Breakfasts, 1 Russian tea party, 2 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 554 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.58 out of 5

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (5 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight train, local train, public bus, metro, boat, taxi GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner, 1 Russian tea party BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Mon GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 295 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.50 out of 5

Start Finish201115 May 29 May12 Jun 26 Jun

26 Jun 10 Jul03 Jul 17 Jul17 Jul 31 Jul31 Jul 14 Aug

14 Aug 28 Aug28 Aug 11 Sep11 Sep 25 Sep

201213 May 27 May03 Jun 17 Jun

Start Finish201128 Mar 04 Apr25 Apr 02 May02 May 09 May09 May 16 May16 May 23 May23 May 30 May30 May 06 Jun06 Jun 13 Jun13 Jun 20 Jun

20 Jun 27 Jun27 Jun 04 Jul04 Jul 11 Jul11 Jul 18 Jul18 Jul 25 Jul25 Jul 01 Aug01 Aug 08 Aug08 Aug 15 Aug15 Aug 22 Aug22 Aug 29 Aug29 Aug 05 Sep

05 Sep 12 Sep12 Sep 19 Sep19 Sep 26 Sep26 Sep 03 Oct03 Oct 10 Oct10 Oct 17 Oct17 Oct 24 Oct201226 Mar 02 Apr16 Apr 23 Apr23 Apr 30 Apr

30 Apr 07 May07 May 14 May14 May 21 May21 May 28 May28 May 04 Jun04 Jun 11 Jun11 Jun 18 Jun18 Jun 25 Jun25 Jun 02 Jul

St Petersburg to Budapest

Russia Highlights

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 St Petersburg This magnificent city

is abundant in palaces, churches and canals. Get acquainted

with it all on a walking tour before heading off on personal

explorations. A climb up the colonnade of St Isaac’s Cathedral is

highly recommended - the views from the top are exceptional.

Days 3-4 Novgorod With a history stretching back more than

1,000 years, Novgorod is often seen as the cradle of modern

Russian civilisation. On arrival, join a local family for a Russian tea

party. Later, visit the town’s riverside Kremlin for an insight into the

nation’s turbulent past. Days 5-6 Moscow Marvel at the mighty

heart of Russia with a visit to the Kremlin’s grand halls, home to

impressive imperial treasures and Lenin’s Mausoleum. In free time,

why not head to the Izmaylovo Market to snap up a souvenir?

Days 7-9 Kyiv Roam the cobbled streets of Kyiv, the ‘Mother of

Slavic Cities’, and gain valuable insight into Ukraine’s tragic history

with a visit to the Chernobyl Museum. Days 10-11 Carpathian

Mountains Stay with a local family and join in with the cooking of

Ukrainian delicacies. Located near the borders of Romania, Poland,

Hungary and Slovakia, the Carpathians hold an eclectic mix of

Eastern European cultures. Appreciate the immense natural beauty

of this region with a hike. Days 12-13 Lviv Work up an appetite

for delicious Ukrainian borscht on a walk through Rynok Square or

perhaps head up to High Castle. Days 14-15 Budapest The grand

architecture and beautiful boulevards of Budapest offer an outdoor

museum, so take to the streets by bicycle to discover its secrets.

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Moscow A city where old-world

orthodoxy meets audacious free enterprise, Moscow is one of the

greatest capitals of the world. Explore the Kremlin and discover its

huge collection of imperial treasures including exquisite Faberge

eggs and ceremonial regalia. Wander among the cathedrals and

museums within the Kremlin walls and get a glimpse of Lenin in

his eternal resting state. Be sure to see the metro stations - these

lavishly decorated ‘Palaces of the People’ are unlike any other in

the world. Days 3-4 Suzdal Marvel at this glittering town and

former Russian capital, which forms part of the Golden Ring. Suzdal

is home to a remarkable number of churches and a memorable

skyline. Make time to wander past lovingly decorated wooden

cottages and the crumbling churches that line the narrow streets

and alleys of this magical spot. Perfect local specialities in a

cooking class, then wind down with a glass of medovukha - a light

alcoholic drink made from honey - while enjoying lovely views

across attractive meadows. Day 5 Novgorod Russia’s oldest city

is an absolute gem. Take in the many well-preserved architectural

treasures that hint at the city’s former glory. Travel back in time with

a visit to the Millennium of Russia monument and the Cathedral of

St Sophia, both concealed within the Kremlin walls, then join locals

for a refreshing steam at the public banya (bath house). Days 6-8

St Petersburg Take a tour to learn about the historical characters

associated with the sights of St Petersburg. Later, be a special guest

of a local family for a tea party, Russian-style.

15 days, St Petersburg to Budapest

8 days, Moscow to St Petersburg

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

Arriving early?

Soak up the grandeur of this magnificent city on Urban Adventure’s half-day St Petersburg Discovery adventure.

OrIgInalTRIP CODE WBSR

OrIgInalTRIP CODE WBSH

Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com

30

Eastern Eu

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Visit Soviet icons in • marvellous Moscow

Spend a memorable • night staying with Nomads in their ger

Marvel at the beauty of • St Petersburg

Uncover Moscow’s • many treasures

Discover a tragic • past in Ukraine

Get swept up in the • romance of Budapest

Experience peasant life • in a Maramures village

Go for a hike in • the picturesque Bulgarian mountains

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

Sitting outside a ger camp, Mongolia - Michael Chandler

Ivy-covered walls, Budapest, Hungary

ACCOMMODATION Hostel (6 nts), basic hotel (1 nt), homestay (2 nts), nomad camp (1 nt), overnight train (7 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, minivan, local bus, metro, taxi GROUP SIZE Max 16 MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Wed GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 664 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.71 out of 5

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (16 nts), guesthouse (4 nts), homestay (6 nts), overnight train (5 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, coach, train, minibus, local bus, metro, tram, taxi, bicycle GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GUARANTEE Subject to min 4 CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 1181 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING Not applicable as this is a new itinerary

Start Finish201127 Apr 14 May25 May 11 Jun

22 Jun 09 Jul13 Jul 30 Jul27 Jul 13 Aug10 Aug 27 Aug

24 Aug 10 Sep07 Sep 24 Sep21 Sep 08 Oct05 Oct 22 Oct

201225 Apr 12 May23 May 09 Jun27 Jun 14 Jul

Start Finish201115 May 15 Jun12 Jun 13 Jul

03 Jul 03 Aug17 Jul 17 Aug31 Jul 31 Aug14 Aug 14 Sep

28 Aug 28 Sep11 Sep 12 Oct201213 May 13 Jun

03 Jun 04 Jul

Russia & Beyond

St Petersburg to Istanbul

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 St Petersburg Begin this rail odyssey in

Russia’s opulent St Petersburg. Head to Nevsky Prospekt for a stroll

through its heart, visit one of its many quirky museums or even

follow in the footsteps of Rasputin on a walking tour of the city.

Days 3-4 Moscow Orthodox churches stand proudly alongside

Soviet icons and chic modern boutiques in the nation’s capital.

Be transported back in time at the Kremlin and wowed by the

onion domes of St Basil’s Cathedral. Days 5-7 Trans-Siberian

Railway Sit back and relax as the lush forests of the taiga roll by

on this once in a lifetime journey along the world’s most famous

train line. Days 8-10 Lake Baikal/Irkutsk Be a special guest

of a local family during a traditional homestay on the shores of

Lake Baikal. Later, enjoy time wandering through the streets of

Irkutsk exploring the city’s interesting mix of traditional Siberian

and communist-era architecture. Days 11-12 Ulan Ude Chill

out in this Mongolian-influenced city, a place with a unique mix of

indigenous and Russian cultures. From here, travel into legendary

Genghis Khan territory. Days 13-16 Ulaanbaatar/Nomad Camp

Witness the old and new facets of Ulaanbaatar. Make time to see

the Winter Palace of Bogd Khan, Mongolia’s last emperor, as well

as the beautifully restored Gandan Khiid Monastery. Then, head

out of town for an unforgettable stay with a family in their ger tent.

Days 17-18 Beijing The last stop is the impressive Chinese capital

of Beijing. Perhaps stay a few days longer to walk a stretch of the

Great Wall - a fitting conclusion to this epic journey.

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 St Petersburg Be dazzled by this city’s

multitude of opulent palaces. Days 3-4 Novgorod Explore the

graceful Kremlin with a local guide. Days 5-6 Moscow Grab some

pirozhki - Russian pastries - to fuel explorations of the Kremilin.

Days 7-9 Kyiv Pay a visit to the Chernobyl Museum. Days 10-11

Carpathian Mountains Stay with a local family and help with the

cooking of Ukrainian delicacies. Days 12-13 Lviv Be captivated

by the crumbling facades of Lviv’s lovely Old Town. Days 14-15

Budapest Head out on a cycling tour to uncover all this wonderful

city has to offer. Day 16 Eger Sip on Egri Bikaver - a local red wine

- during an optional trip to the evocatively named, Valley of the

Beautiful Women. Days 17-18 Maramures Discover one of the

last peasant cultures in Europe. Day 19 Sighisoara Uncover the

myths of Transylvania. Day 20 Viscri Enjoy a delicious dinner with

a local family. Days 21-22 Brasov Be sure to sample the nightlife

at some of the bars in this medieval town. Day 23 Sinaia Drop by

Bran Castle en route to Sinaia. With its fairytale turrets, this castle

will impress. Days 24-25 Veliko Tarnovo Explore the imposing

fort which overlooks this picturesque town. Day 26 Sofia Admire

the gold domes of the Aleksander Nevski Church. Day 27 Gorno

Draglishte Be a guest of a local family during a homestay in the

Rila Mountains. Days 28-29 Bansko Stretch legs on a invigorating

hike through alpine scenery. Days 30-31 Plovdiv Wander among

impressive Byzantine ruins. Day 32 Istanbul Finish up among the

many mosques and bevy of bazaars of Istanbul.

18 days, St Petersburg to Beijing

32 days, St Petersburg to Istanbul

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

OrIgInalTRIP CODE WBSIC

BasIxTRIP CODE WBRL

One of the best trips of my life. I loved the itinerary, the people, the landscape, the cultural differences and most of all, our leader. I’d recommend this to everyone.

Catarina Carona, Portugal Travelled on the WBRL


31

Cro

atia & Slo

venia

Walk the famed city • walls of Dubrovnik

Dine on traditional • treats in Korcula

Sip a cocktail at a • waterside bar in Hvar

Explore the palace of • Emperor Diocletian

Explore the ruins of the • Diocletian’s Palace

Marvel at Split’s • Temple of Jupiter

Soak up coastal Croatia • during a stay in Zadar

Listen to the • enchanting sounds of an unusual Sea Organ

Relax on the Adriatic • island of Rab

Hike or bike through • the Kalifront forests

Be captivated by • enchanting Bled

Two wooden boats, Croatia

Photo Competition, Church towers by the sea, Rab Island, Croatia - Gabor Pali

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (1 nt), private room (6 nts) TRANSPORT Coach, ferry, local bus GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Dinner BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 87 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.64 out of 5

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (2 nts), private room (5 nts) TRANSPORT Coach, ferry, local bus GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS No meals included BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 87 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.68 out of 5

Start Finish201130 Apr 07 May14 May 21 May28 May 04 Jun11 Jun 18 Jun18 Jun 25 Jun

25 Jun 02 Jul02 Jul 09 Jul09 Jul 16 Jul16 Jul 23 Jul23 Jul 30 Jul30 Jul 06 Aug06 Aug 13 Aug

20 Aug 27 Aug27 Aug 03 Sep10 Sep 17 Sep17 Sep 24 Sep201207 Apr 14 Apr21 Apr 28 Apr

05 May 12 May19 May 26 May02 Jun 09 Jun16 Jun 23 Jun30 Jun 07 Jul

Start Finish201107 May 14 May21 May 28 May04 Jun 11 Jun18 Jun 25 Jun

25 Jun 02 Jul02 Jul 09 Jul16 Jul 23 Jul23 Jul 30 Jul30 Jul 06 Aug13 Aug 20 Aug

27 Aug 03 Sep03 Sep 10 Sep201212 May 19 May26 May 02 Jun09 Jun 16 Jun

23 Jun 30 Jun30 Jun 07 Jul

Explore Croatia

Croatia & Slovenia

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Dubrovnik With its steep, cobbled

streets, stunning architecture and paved squares, Dubrovnik

bursts with fascinating history. Post-war restoration work has been

extensive and the views from the city walls - over terracotta roofs

and out to nearby islands and the sparkling sea - are spectacular.

There is plenty of time to uncover the hidden treasures of the Old

Town or perhaps take a boat ride to the island of Lokrum, where

it is said that Richard the Lionheart was once shipwrecked. These

days, Lokrum is the perfect place to head to for a sunbathe and

swim. Days 3-4 Korcula Travel to Korcula by ferry or bus and stay

in simple accommodation with welcoming local hosts. Korcula

boasts pristine forests, tranquil inlets and character-filled vineyards

- and its residents are justifiably proud of their island home. Try

traditional delicacies at a local farm and wash them down with

travarica, a grappa-like drink, followed by the island’s famous

cakes for dessert. There is plenty of time here to shop, swim or

just soak up the ambience. Days 5-6 Hvar Known as the ‘Queen

of the Dalmatian Islands’, Hvar’s beauty is undeniable. Wander

past wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades and vast fields

of lavender and rosemary. Enjoy frolicking on the beach or have a

cocktail in one of the many waterside bars. Days 7-8 Split The site

of Emperor Diocletian’s well-preserved palace, bustling Split is the

soul of Dalmatia. Dynamic and vibrant, this World Heritage-listed

town is easy to see on foot, so spend some time out and about

discovering its golden past and present-day delights.

ITINERARY... Day 1 Split Arrive early to explore the many sights

in this busy centre of the Dalmatian Coast including the impressive

ruins of the Diocletian’s Palace with its sprawling Roman-style

basements and Temple of Jupiter. Day 2 Zadar Board a local

bus and take a scenic coastal route through vineyards and olive

groves to seaside Zadar. Perhaps spend the afternoon admiring

stunning collections of gold and silverwork housed in elaborate

churches, then watch a magnificent sunset while listening to

the harmonic sounds of the bizarre Sea Organ. Take time out to

embrace the warm atmosphere of coastal Croatia at a small bar or

cafe - perhaps try maraskino - a liqueur produced in Zadar since

1821. Days 3-5 Rab Island Soak up the sun on pristine, sandy

beaches or sail to a nearby island to find a more secluded spot. Rab

has been welcoming visitors for centuries and the paved village

streets, gleaming, white bell towers and warm locals are sure to

charm. Be immersed in the natural beauty of the island on a hike

or a bike ride through the lush Kalifront forests. Days 6-8 Bled

Cross the border into Slovenia and travel into the Julian Alps. With

a mountainous backdrop, picturesque lake and impressive fortress,

Bled is a wonderful place to conclude the adventure. Perhaps cycle

around the Lake Bled shoreline, row a boat out to the island or hike

in the nearby Vintgar Gorge. Be sure to take in the sweeping views

from Bled Castle - a medieval fortress perched on top of a cliff,

overlooking stunning Lake Bled. Celebrate the end of the trip by

indulging in a slice of kremsnita, the local dessert.

8 days, Dubrovnik to Split

8 days, Split to Bled

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

Got extra time?

Continue this Eastern European adventure in to lovely Slovenia. See trip code ZMSUC for a trip ending in Bled.

OrIgInalTRIP CODE ZMSY

OrIgInalTRIP CODE ZMSF

DEPARTUREGUARANTEED

DEPARTUREGUARANTEED


32

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Relax by the Danube • in elegant Budapest

Dive into a Communist • past in Bucharest

Travel through the • scenic Rila Mountains

Admire Istanbul’s • majestic Aya Sofya

Explore the jewel of • the Dalmatian Coast

Enjoy the pristine • beaches of Montenegro

Admire exquisite • frescoes in Albania’s Et’hem Bey Mosque

Discover Berat’s • crumbling castle

Be captivated by • charming Corfu

Lose yourself in • the ancient streets of Athens

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

Intricate religious fresco, Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

White bell tower, Corfu, Greece - Oliver Hoffmann

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (10 nts), guesthouse (4 nts), homestay (2 nts), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight train, train, coach, minibus, local bus, metro, tram GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Breakfast, 2 Dinners BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 196 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.75 out of 5

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (10 nts), private room (2 nts), homestay (2 nts) TRANSPORT Ferry, local bus, metro GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Dinner BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 164 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.62 out of 5

Start Finish201101 May 18 May29 May 15 Jun

26 Jun 13 Jul17 Jul 03 Aug31 Jul 17 Aug14 Aug 31 Aug

28 Aug 14 Sep11 Sep 28 Sep25 Sep 12 Oct

201206 May 23 May27 May 13 Jun17 Jun 04 Jul

Start Finish201107 May 21 May21 May 04 Jun

04 Jun 18 Jun02 Jul 16 Jul13 Aug 27 Aug03 Sep 17 Sep

201228 Apr 12 May19 May 02 Jun09 Jun 23 Jun

Explore Eastern Europe

Albanian Adventure

ITINERARY... Day 1 Budapest Be greeted by elegant palaces

and a vibrant nightlife in this city on the Danube. Day 2 Eger

Explore Eger Castle or sample some excellent local wines, including

a drop known as ‘Bull’s Blood’. Days 3-4 Maramures Call into

the town of Debrecen then cross the border into Romania to

experience peasant culture in the rural villages of Maramures.

Day 5 Sighisoara Be spooked by the bloodcurdling myths that

surround the land of Transylvania. Day 6 Viscri Enjoy dinner with

a local family and perhaps sample schnapps. Days 7-8 Brasov

Flanked by mountains and city walls, this medieval town boasts

a bevy of ornate buildings including the Biserica Neagra, or Black

Church. Day 9 Sinaia Once a quiet monastery settlement, Sinaia

quickly became a booming resort town with the construction of

King Carol I’s summer residence, the Peles Castle. Days 10-11

Veliko Tarnovo Drop into Bucharest before crossing the

Friendship Bridge into Bulgaria. Head to the picturesque town of

Veliko Tarnovo. Day 12 Sofia Walk along tree-lined boulevards

and see the Aleksander Nevski Memorial Church. Day 13 Gorno

Draglishte Journey into the Rila Mountains and join a family as

guests for the night. Days 14-15 Bansko Unwind in charming

stone taverns - known as ‘mehanes’ - and indulge with local cuisine.

Days 16-17 Plovdiv Wander among Byzantine ruins and be

sure to see the ancient Roman Amphitheatre. Day 18 Istanbul

Whether happily lost in the Grand Bazaar or reflecting in the Aya

Sofya, Istanbul is sure to delight.

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Dubrovnik Admire the terracotta roofs

and ancient ramparts of Croatia’s ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. Walk along

the city walls, taking in glorious vistas over the azure coastline.

Day 3 Ulcinj The sands of Velika Plaza are believed to hold potent

healing powers - a great excuse to lie back on these Montenegrin

shores and relax. Days 4-5 Tirana Albania’s compact capital is

best explored on foot. Turkish and Italian influences are apparent

in the architecture - the Et’hem Bey Mosque is a must-see for

its intricate frescoes. Days 6-7 Berat Thought to be one of the

oldest cities in the country, charming Berat is better known to

Albanians as the ‘City of a Thousand Windows’. With an incredible

concentration of historical buildings - including a crumbling castle

- there’s much to explore. Days 8-9 Gjirokastra Step back in time

and discover this perfectly preserved Ottoman town. Get a taste of

the region’s tumultuous past at its magnificent citadel and be sure

to visit the 17th century bazaar. Days 10-11 Saranda Gateway to

the beautiful Albanian Riviera, Saranda is a lively seaside town full

of Mediterranean-flavoured cafes and bars. Head out to explore

the ruins of Butrint and stop by the Blue Eye Spring. Days 12-13

Corfu Sickle-shaped Corfu offers a World Heritage-listed Old Town

and miles of scenic coastline. Perhaps stroll along the elegant

Liston or delve into the myths of ancient Greece with a trip to the

Archaeological Museum. Days 14-15 Athens The journey ends

in Greece’s 3,400-year-old metropolis. Be sure to try Greek souvlaki

and to visit the Parthenon for impressive panoramas of the city.

18 days, Budapest to Istanbul

15 days, Dubrovnik to Athens

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

Budapest up close…

Get acquainted with some of this capital’s hidden gems on Urban Adventure’s half-day Budapest Explorer.

OrIgInalTRIP CODE ZMSO

OrIgInalTRIP CODE WMSY

DEPARTUREGUARANTEED

DEPARTUREGUARANTEED


33

Eastern Eu

rop

eBalkan Adventure

PHYSICAL

CULTURAL

ITINERARY... Days 1-2 Budapest Built on the banks of the

Danube River, this beautiful city is best seen from the water.

Admire architecture, cross the iconic Chain Bridge to explore the

Castle District and take in incredible vistas, then discover history

on a visit to Heroes’ Square, or head to the Szechenyi Baths for a

soak in the healing thermal waters. Days 3-4 Osijek Cross the

border into Croatia and travel to the beautiful city of Osijek. Explore

grand buildings, stroll along the Drava River and search out otters,

beavers and other unique wildlife in the beautiful wetlands of the

Kopacki Rit Nature Park. Day 5 Novi Sad With a fascinating blend

of old Serbian culture and Austro-Hungarian architecture, the

historic town of Novi Sad will enthral. Call into a family-run vineyard

and a unique honey museum while visiting the picturesque town

of Sremski Karlovci. Days 6-7 Belgrade Soak up the history of

one of Europe’s oldest cities and experience a mix of progressive

flamboyance and conservative tradition. Built on the confluence of

two major rivers, the Sava and the Danube, this city is an important

intersection of Eastern and Western Europe. Stroll through the

Bohemian quarter or explore the boulevards to see Orthodox

churches vying for space amid fashionable nightclubs. Days 8-10

Sarajevo/Mostar Travel through serene countryside to the

capital of Bosnia-Herzegovina. In the evening, be sure to head to

Bascarsija, the main street of Sarajevo, to find the best bosanski

cevapi - grilled minced meat mixed with mild spices. A day trip to

Mostar affords an opportunity to see the famous town and bridge,

both reduced to rubble during the Yugoslav wars. Since being

rebuilt, this town has become an important symbol of the new

Balkans. Day 11 Ostrog Monastery Follow pilgrims up the rocky

mountain path to this 17th-century monastery. Hike to the upper

monastery where relics of the founder, Saint Vasilije, are kept, then

head down to the lower monastery to spend the night in humble

konaks. Days 12-13 Kotor Get delightfully lost in the crooked

alleyways of Kotor. Climb the hills behind the city to discover the

ruined castle of the former ruler. In free time, a cruise on the Kotor

Fjord is a must. Days 14-15 Dubrovnik Walk the city walls for

views of the Adriatic Sea or climb Mt Srd for an aerial perspective.

Cross the iconic • Chain Bridge from Buda to Pest

See unique wildlife • in Kopacki Rit Nature Park

Sip Serbian wine at a • family-run vineyard in Sremski Karlovci

Head out to • experience Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife

See the beloved town • of Mostar and its famous bridge

Mingle with pilgrims • on the rocky paths to the Ostrog Monastery

Spend an evening • in a hillside konak

Wander the winding • alleyways of Kotor

Admire the sparkling • Adriatic Sea from Dubrovnik’s city walls

15 days, Budapest to DubrovnikDeparts every Saturday from April - October

Hungarian spa…

Get ready for the journey ahead with a relaxing soak on Urban Adventure’s Budapest Sights & Spas tour.

DEPARTUREGUARANTEED

OrIgInalTRIP CODE WMSK

ACCOMMODATION Hotel (5 nts), pension (7 nts), private room (1 nt), monastery dormitory (1 nt) TRANSPORT Train, coach, private minibus, local bus, metro, tram GROUP SIZE Max 12 MEALS 2 Breakfasts BUDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sat from Apr-Oct GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 164 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATING 4.68 out of 5

Above: Photo Competition, Local woman, Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina - James Johnson Below: Delicious traditional food, Hungary - Dusko Matic


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