Sarajevo to Belgrade: Sargan Eight Rail Tour with Visegrad & Drvengrad

In the heart of Visegrad, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Mehmed Pasa Sokolovic Bridge extends its arches across the waters of the Drina River. Built in the 16th century, this architectural gem, funded by Grand Vizier Mehmed Pasa Sokolovic. It defied the fierce currents of the Drina, but also withstood the test of numerous wars throughout the centuries. The bridge's legacy extends beyond its impressive arches. Renowned writer Ivo Andric found inspiration here, writing  "The Bridge on the Drina". Through the pages of his work, the bridge became a symbol of both unity and division, witnessing the rise and fall of empires. But the true magic comes when you take a short boat ride on the Drina River, passing beneath the bridge's arches. The view from below unveils a different perspective, allowing you to fully appreciate the bridge's grandeur as it towers above. UNESCO recognized its historical significance, granting it World Heritage status.

Andricgrad was not born from the pages of a book but from the fertile imagination of renowned filmmaker Emir Kusturica (name you will hear on multiple ocasions on this tour). The result is nothing short of remarkable! Andricgrad is a cultural and historical complex that transports you back in time of different eras of the country. Its stone streets wind their way through a maze of buildings, each one designed to reflect the architectural aesthetics of the period. Here, you'll find a blend of history, art, and culture.

Located 12 kilometers from Višegrad, Dobrun Monastery, also known as Kruševo, stands as a testament to history's challenges and faith's resilience. Built in 1343 by Prefect Pribil and later expanded by Prefect Petar (Jovan), the monastery saw periods of growth and destruction, especially during the Ottoman era. Despite repeated demolitions and reconstructions, it remained a refuge for monks. In 1884, thanks to local support and Baroness Vilhelmina Nikolić, the monastery was revitalized. However, it suffered damage in both World Wars. During World War II, the Germans used the church as a mine warehouse, destroying it in 1945. The community rallied to rebuild in 1946, preserving the narthex and bell tower. Though many frescoes were lost, significant ones remain, such as Emperor Dušan and founder Prefect Pribil with his sons and son-in-law. In 1993, monastic life returned, bringing renewed spirituality to this ancient place. Marking the 200th anniversary of the First Serbian Uprising in 2004, the monastery complex expanded to include Karađorđe's inn, housing historical museums and a monument to Karađorđe himself, reminding all of the enduring spirit of Dobrun Monastery.

Šargan Eight proudly claims its place as Europe's premier tourist-museum railway. Over its 22.8 km length, this railway overcame a 354 m height difference, featuring 5 bridges and 22 tunnels, including the impressive 1,666 m Šargan tunnel.

For years, this railway served as a vital route connecting Belgrade with Sarajevo and Dubrovnik.

After decades of passenger service, Šargan welcomed its last passenger train in 1974. But in 1999, it was revived for tourism, offering a scenic journey through enchanting landscapes.