Experience the vibrant spirit of the Balkans on a journey built around one of Serbia’s most celebrated musical traditions: the Guča Trumpet Festival. In this small town in western Serbia, brass bands fill the streets with infectious rhythms, traditional melodies and an atmosphere of celebration that brings together musicians and visitors from across the world.
Beyond the festival, discover the region’s cultural heritage and spectacular landscapes. Explore the traditional villages of Sirogojno and Drvengrad, ride the nostalgic Šargan Eight railway through mountain tunnels and over bridges, and embark on an unforgettable rafting adventure through a dramatic river canyon. The journey concludes in Sarajevo, where Ottoman heritage, historic streets and the flavors of Bosnian cuisine reveal another fascinating side of the Balkans.
Upon arrival at Belgrade Airport, travel directly to Arilje, a charming town in western Serbia and an excellent base for discovering the region during the festival.
After a short rest at your accommodation, continue to Guča, the home of the famous Guča Trumpet Festival. Known for its passionate brass bands, lively streets and deep musical traditions, the festival celebrates the distinctive sound of Serbian folk music and the cultural heritage of the Dragačevo region.
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, enjoy the music and discover local food and drinks as the celebrations unfold. Later, return to Arilje for an overnight stay.
Overnight in Arilje.
After breakfast, discover Arilje on a relaxed walk along its main promenade. Visit the Church of St. Achillius, founded in the 13th century under King Stefan Dragutin and known for its historical significance and medieval frescoes.
Arilje is also closely associated with raspberry cultivation, and the surrounding region is renowned for its raspberry production. This is an opportunity to discover a different aspect of western Serbia’s rural identity before returning to the festival.
Spend the rest of the day enjoying Guča’s lively atmosphere. Listen to the brass bands, sample traditional Serbian specialties and soak up the unique energy of a celebration where music, food and local traditions come together.
In the evening, return to your hotel in Arilje.
Breakfast and overnight in Arilje.
After breakfast, leave the festival region and head towards the Zlatibor mountains, where traditional architecture and spectacular scenery offer a change of pace.
Visit Sirogojno, home to an open-air museum showcasing the traditional wooden houses and rural way of life of the Zlatibor region. Explore the historic buildings and discover how local families lived and worked in the mountain communities of the past.
Continue to the Šargan Eight railway for a memorable ride aboard the nostalgic Nostalgia train. This historic narrow-gauge railway winds through the mountains, passing through 22 tunnels and crossing five bridges along its scenic route.
The day concludes at Drvengrad, also known as Wooden Town, a distinctive traditional-style village created by renowned film director Emir Kusturica. Explore its wooden buildings and unusual cultural atmosphere before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay in this unique setting.
Breakfast, dinner and overnight in Drvengrad.
After breakfast, travel towards Višegrad in neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina. Discover this historic town on the Drina River before continuing towards the rafting camp in the Šćepan Polje area.
Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and prepare for an exciting outdoor adventure. After a briefing and equipment preparation with the rafting team, set off to explore the river and its spectacular canyon scenery.
Navigate stretches of flowing water surrounded by dramatic rock formations, waterfalls and unspoiled natural landscapes. Depending on river conditions and the selected rafting route, there may be opportunities to stop for photographs and enjoy the water along the way.
After an exhilarating day in nature, return to the camp to relax and share the memories of your adventure.
Breakfast and overnight in the rafting camp.
After breakfast, depart for Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a city where Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and modern influences meet.
Enjoy a sightseeing tour introducing you to the city’s most notable landmarks, including the Miljacka River, the historic City Hall, the Cathedral, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and Baščaršija, the atmospheric old bazaar.
Take time to explore the narrow streets of the historic centre and discover Sarajevo’s rich culinary traditions. This is the perfect opportunity to sample local specialties, including the famous ćevapi, a beloved dish of grilled minced meat served in traditional flatbread.
After lunch, continue to Belgrade for your final overnight stay in Serbia.
Breakfast and overnight in Belgrade.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Depending on your flight schedule, spend some free time in Belgrade before transferring to the airport for your return journey.
Leave with memories of unforgettable festival nights, traditional Balkan music, mountain scenery, thrilling river adventures and the cultural diversity of Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Breakfast and transfer to Belgrade Airport. End of tour.
