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• TOURIST TOURS The Balkans, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia and Albania tourist tours.
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Our Recommended Tours

BANJA LUKA – WALKING TOUR

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TRAPISTI + KRCMARICE + SLATINA

KOZARA NATIONAL PARK + PRIJEDOR

Krupa na Vrbasu + JAJCE + Pliva Lakes + Mrkonjic Grad

Jajce + MOSTAR

Knezevo+ Visoko + SARAJEVO

Departure from your apartment or from your desired address in Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Monaco, Italy, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Romania, Bulgaria and Albania.

Safe, reliable, secure and fast transport. Private or tour transport.

• Transport from your address to your destination. • Transport from/to the airport, the railway or bus station in Banja Luka. • Transport to sports and cultural events.

Minimum number of passengers:  1 Maximum number of passengers: 7

Transport by car or van depending on the number of passengers.

Transport for all European countries as agreed.

Banja Luka  ⇄  Sarajevo

Banja luka  ⇄  tuzla, banja luka  ⇄  mostar, banja luka  ⇄  zurich, banja luka  ⇄  vienna, banja luka  ⇄  ljubljana, banja luka  ⇄  zagreb, banja luka  ⇄  split, banja luka  ⇄  dubrovnik, banja luka  ⇄  belgrade, banja luka  ⇄  podgorica, banja luka  ⇄  pristina, banja luka  ⇄  tirana, want to create a tour yourself.

Avoid all reservation fees on other websites and book an apartment on our website.

The apartment.

Our apartment is located in the city centre of Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is a 2-minute walk away from all significant tourist attractions in the city. There is a parking lot.

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THE BEST – SELLING CHOCOLATES IN BANJA LUKA / BALKAN

The battle of banja luka.

BalkanVoyages

Balkan Tours 2024 / 2025

Tailor made tours & packages across the balkan countries.

Discover the Balkans in 2024 & 2025 with Balkan Voyages. We craft unforgettable small group and private Balkan tours, designed to unveil the magic of this captivating region. From ancient history and vibrant cultures to breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures, our escorted Balkan tour packages cater to every travel style.

Explore our best Balkan tours

Western Balkans with Greece

Belgrade to Athens, visit 7 countries: Serbia – Bosnia – Croatia – Montenegro – Albania – N. Macedonia – Greece

per person twin share

Balkan Extended with Budapest

Budapest to Dubrovnik, visit 6 countries: Hungary – Serbia – Croatia – Slovenia – Bosnia – Montenegro

What Makes the Balkan Countries So Irresistible?

• Baščaršija’s  bustling stalls and enchanting Ottoman atmosphere in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Belgrade’s soaring  Temple of Saint Sava , a testament to Serbia’s vibrant spirit.
• Diocletian’s Palace , whispering tales of Roman grandeur in Split, Croatia.
• Byzantine frescoes adorning the Church of St John at Kaneo in Ohrid, North Macedonia, a UNESCO treasure.
• Kotor Old Town , a Venetian gem nestled in Montenegro’s Boka Kotorska Bay, where history whispers from every cobblestone.

• Durmitor National Park , a UNESCO gem in Montenegro. Conquer epic hikes or raft the thundering Tara River Canyon , one of Europe’s deepest.
• Tara National Park , a hiker’s paradise in Serbia, beckons with cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic vistas like Banjsko Brdo overlooking the Drina River Canyon.
• Sutjeska National Park  in Bosnia and Herzegovina, home to the awe-inspiring Tara River Canyon, invites exploration. Trek through dense forests teeming with wildlife, conquer peaks like Maglić, and marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Trnovo .
• Bled Lake  in Slovenia, a picture-perfect paradise where the iconic island church and Bled Castle reflect on the tranquil waters.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park  in Croatia, a UNESCO treasure trove, stuns with cascading turquoise waters, verdant forests, and abundant wildlife. Hike along wooden walkways, marvel at 16 interconnected lakes , and soak in the breathtaking scenery from panoramic viewpoints.

• Zagreb , Croatia: Discover a dynamic blend of Habsburg architecture, vibrant street art, and modern museums. Ride the funicular to Upper Town, visit the Zagreb Cathedral, and enjoy the lively Ban Jelačić Square. Explore Zagreb’s unique cultural tapestry, from bustling markets to cozy cafes.
• Mostar , Bosnia and Herzegovina: Marvel at the iconic Stari Most bridge and wander enchanting cobbled streets. Sample “baklava” and learn about Mostar’s fascinating history.
• Ljubljana , Slovenia: Fairytale adventure in the “Dragon City.” Explore on foot, discover the picturesque Triple Bridge and Ljubljana Castle, and enjoy a scenic boat ride. Sample delicious cuisine, wander the vibrant Central Market, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
• Budva , Montenegro: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Discover beaches perfect for sunbathing, explore the charming Old Town with Roman walls, and delve into the Maritime Museum. Soak up the sunshine and enjoy Budva’s buzzing nightlife.
• Belgrade , Serbia: Ancient Roman meets modern energy. Explore the majestic Kalemegdan Fortress, stroll Austro-Hungarian streets in Zemun, and soak in panoramic Danube views. Dive into trendy Savamala or wander Knez Mihailova street, a pedestrian paradise.

• Serbia:  Explore the rolling hills of Fruška Gora, home to robust reds like Prokupac and Cabernet Sauvignon , and delve into the Danube Valley, where vibrant Žifan grapes thrive.
• Croatia:  Sail the Adriatic coast to Hvar and Pelješac Islands for crisp whites like Pošip and Plavac Mali. Unwind in Istria, where delicate Malvasia Istriana and earthy Teran reign supreme.
• Slovenia:  Discover the cool-climate elegance of the Goriška Brda region, where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes thrive amidst rolling hills and charming villages .  Savor the unique orange wines of Styria (Štajerska in Slovenian), and don’t miss a visit to the  Old Vine House , home to the oldest grapevine in the world still producing fruit – a favorite among our Wine Balkan bus tours!
• Bosnia and Herzegovina:  Traverse the rugged beauty of Herzegovina, where indigenous Žilavka produces vibrant whites, and explore Plešivica’s Ottoman-influenced vineyards for robust reds.
• Montenegro:  Ascend Orjen Mountain, where Krstač grapes bask in the Mediterranean sun, producing bold reds. Unwind in Boka Kotorska Bay, where Vranac grapes whisper tales of pirates and ancient empires.
• North Macedonia:  Delve into the sun-soaked Tikveš Valley for full-bodied Vranec and Kratošija grapes , and taste the unique sweetness of Aleksandria.

Serbia: Trade Belgrade’s urban energy for Habsburg grandeur at Petrovaradin Fortress , a majestic bastion overlooking the Danube. Wander the pastel-hued streets of Sremski Karlovci , a baroque town brimming with charm. Seek an otherworldly experience at Đavolja Varoš (Devil’s Town) , where 202 natural stone pyramids rise from the earth.

Croatia: Discover Istria’s coastal pearls. Opatija , once favored by Habsburg royalty, enchants with elegant architecture and lush promenades. Rovinj , a romantic fishing village perched on a rocky outcrop, invites exploration. In Pula , a Roman amphitheatre whispers of ancient grandeur. Sail to the Brijuni Islands , transformed from a royal retreat into a nature sanctuary teeming with wildlife. Venture inland to Motovun , a medieval gem perched atop a hill. For nature’s majesty, experience Krka National Park ‘s cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes.

Slovenia: Delve into Europe’s largest cave system, Postojna Cave . Emerge into sunlight and visit Otočec , a medieval castle nestled amidst a lake, and Škofja Loka , where colorful houses line a vibrant main square. Relax on the shores of Portorož or discover Piran ‘s Venetian elegance, its narrow streets adorned with terracotta roofs. Seek breathtaking mountain vistas at Lake Bohinj , a glacial jewel nestled amidst the Julian Alps, or trek through the majestic peaks of Triglav National Park .

Bosnia & Herzegovina: Rich history and rugged beauty intertwine in this captivating land. Discover Višegrad , where the iconic Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge graces the Drina River. Find solace in Međugorje , a pilgrimage site renowned for its serene atmosphere. Explore Trebinje , nestled amidst vineyards and olive groves, and uncover Blagaj ‘s hidden gem – a turquoise spring emerging from a cliff face beneath a dervish monastery.

Montenegro: Explore Herceg Novi , where Venetian architecture blends with lush gardens and dramatic cliffs. Sail through Boka Kotorska Bay and discover Perast , a secluded village adorned with Baroque churches and maritime history. Hike through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Lovcen National Park , and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Biogradska Gora National Park , a UNESCO-protected haven of glacial lakes, pristine forests, and diverse wildlife. Discover the former royal capital of Cetinje , and ascend the serpentine roads to Ostrog Monastery , a spiritual sanctuary carved into a cliff face.

Now that you’ve tasted the magic of the Balkan countries, you can browse our selection of best Balkan tours designed to cater to every interest and travel style.

FAQs: Your Balkan Tours Queries Answered

Absolutely! We offer customizable options to tailor your experience to your desired destinations, interests, and travel dates. Just let us know your preferences and we’ll craft the perfect Balkan adventure tour for you.

The fitness level varies depending on your chosen Balkan tour package. In general:

• Historical & Cultural Balkan Tours: Moderate walking and exploration, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Hiking & Balkan Adventure Tours: Expect moderate to challenging trails with elevation gains. Some require good fitness and stamina.
• Activity-Focused Balkan Tours: Activities like cycling and rafting demand varying levels of fitness and prior experience. We categorize each tour for easy matching.

While some of our best Balkan tours utilize comfortable coaches for transportation, we primarily focus on small group experiences with private vehicles or minibuses. This allows for greater flexibility and customization, ensuring you can explore at your own pace and reach hidden gems off the beaten track.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the specific countries in your chosen Balkan tour package. We recommend checking official visa regulations for each Balkan country you plan to visit. (example: Australian passport holders, visit Smarttraveller.com.au for up-to-date information).

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and vibrant fall foliage. Summer (June-August) is ideal for Balkan adventure tours, while winter (December-February) brings magical Christmas atmospheres in various cities across the Balkan countries.

We stand apart by crafting unique Balkan tour packages that go beyond the ordinary. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Balkan Private Tours: Travel at your own pace and tailor your itinerary with our fully customizable private Balkan tours. Explore the Balkans with your dedicated guide and vehicle for a personalized Balkan holiday.
• Small Group Balkan Tours: Join a small group for a more intimate experience. Benefit from expert guides’ knowledge and make lasting friendships on your Balkan trip.
• Beyond the Tourist Trail: We venture beyond hotspots, uncovering hidden gems and authentic experiences that reveal the true essence of the region. Immerse yourself in local life, discover charming villages, and savor the flavors of each Balkan country.
• Local Expertise: Our passionate Balkan experts curate unique itineraries and partner with local businesses to support sustainable tourism practices. We believe in giving back to the communities we visit.
• Unparalleled Service: We handle logistics, from transportation and accommodation to activities and dining, leaving you free to soak up the magic of the Balkan countries. We prioritize your comfort and enjoyment every step of your Balkan tour.

Absolutely! Our Balkan tour packages offer various itineraries that combine experiences in multiple countries. Choose from popular routes like the “6 Country Balkan Tour” encompassing Serbia , Montenegro , Croatia , Slovenia , Bosnia & Herzegovina , and North Macedonia , or explore variations that venture into Albania , Greece , Hungary , Romania , Bulgaria , Austria , Slovakia , and Czechia . We can also tailor a bespoke itinerary that matches your specific interests and desired destinations, creating the perfect Balkan tour.

Similar to our Serbia Tours , flights are generally not included in our Balkan tour packages. This allows for greater flexibility and personalization based on your individual preferences and departure locations.

The Balkan countries use various currencies. While some countries like Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro use the Euro, others have their own, like the Serbian Dinar (RSD) and Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM). ATMs are readily available, but carrying some local currency for smaller purchases is helpful.

Balkan cuisine is a kaleidoscope of flavors, reflecting the region’s cultural diversity. Expect fresh salads, hearty stews, grilled meats, delicious pastries, and local cheeses. Each country has its own unique specialties, so be prepared for a culinary adventure!

Packing depends on your chosen activities and travel season. Comfortable walking shoes, versatile clothing layers, and a waterproof jacket are essential. Consider your specific needs for hiking, cycling, or any other planned Balkan adventures.

Our Balkan tour packages typically include visits to:

• Cities : Belgrade , Serbia’s vibrant capital, and Novi Sad , a charming city known for its cultural scene.
• Fruska Gora National Park: Hiking paradise full of charming vineyards and monasteries. Join our Balkan adventure tours to explore its wonders, or embark on Tasting & Wine Tours to savor its flavors.
• Petrovaradin Fortress: Towering fortress in Habsburg architecture, dominating the Danube.”
• Sremski Karlovci: Charming town known for its baroque architecture and delicious local wines.

Beyond these highlights, our Balkan tours may also take you to:

• Manasija Monastery: A spiritual site with impressive medieval frescoes.
• Resava Cave and Lisine Waterfall: Resava Cave is an 80-million-year-old wonder with stunning cave formations, while Lisine Waterfall is a 25-meter cascade, making them a stunning natural duo in eastern Serbia.
• Mokra Gora Mountain: Home to the Šargan Eight railway and the charming Wooden-town.
• Drina River Gorge: Breathtaking canyon carved by the Drina River, reaching up to 1,000 meters deep in some places.
• Ethno Village Sirogojno: Traditional Serbian charming village.
• Uvac Special Nature Reserve: Canyon carved by the Uvac River, known for its soaring griffon vultures, emerald lake, and mesmerizing meanders.

Our tours typically include visits to:

• Herceg Novi and Kotor:  Charming old towns boasting Venetian architecture and stunning harbor views.
• Island of Saint George and Our Lady of the Rocks:  Picturesque islands off the coast of Perast.

Immerse yourself in the cultural and historical treasures of Cetinje , Montenegro’s former capital, or embark on an unforgettable trek through Durmitor National Park , a hiker’s paradise.

Our Balkan tours may also include:

• Ostrog Monastery: A spiritual center perched high in the mountains.
• Savina Monastery: A historic monastery overlooking the Bay of Kotor.
• Sveti Stefan: A rosy islet crowned by a fortified village, accessible by causeway and exuding Venetian charm – nicknamed “Montenegro’s Monaco.”

Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast is a highlight of any Balkan adventure tour. Immerse yourself in the charm of coastal towns like:

• Opatija:  Renowned for its Habsburg architecture and stunning seaside promenade.
• Rovinj:  A picturesque fishing village with cobbled streets and colorful houses.
• Pula:  Home to impressive Roman ruins like the Pula Arena, a colossal amphitheater.

Explore Dubrovnik and Split , or marvel at the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our Balkan tours may also take you to:

• Zadar: Known for its Sea Organ, a unique sound installation powered by the waves.
• Trogir: A charming island town with a rich architectural heritage

Absolutely! Sustainability is a priority for us. We partner with local businesses, support responsible tourism initiatives, and minimize our environmental impact through activities like minimizing waste and opting for eco-friendly transportation where possible.

We tailor bespoke itineraries to match your specific interests and desired destinations across the Balkan countries. Let Balkan Voyages craft the best Balkan tours for you! Contact us now!

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Balkan sightseeing tours inspiration

Mystical landscapes, unique cultures & ancient history

You won’t miss a thing on our Balkan travel experiences, as we take you from the iconic attractions to the unexpected treasures. Go beyond the ancient beauty of Dubrovnik and discover the spectacular islands off Croatia. See the famous capitals like Bucharest and Sofia before roaming further to fairytale towns like medieval Veliko Târnovo.

All the best Balkan sights

Whether you want to explore the ancient Old Town of Split, sail across the magical lake to Bled Island, marvel at the Plitvice waterfalls, or see Bran Castle, the mythical home of Count Dracula in Transylvania, our Balkan vacations are packed with iconic highlights. And with your expert Balkans travel guide and Local Specialists leading the way, you’ll get the insider’s lowdown on all the top sights and really make the most out of your Balkan adventure.

Plus the local hidden gems

We’ll also reveal the incredible secrets on our Balkan tours. Soak up the Belle-Époque atmosphere of Bucharest, and wander the elegant boulevards of Sofia and the colorful streets of Tirana. See the traditional crafts of Skopje’s bazaars and gaze at the mesmerising fjord-like mountains of Kotor. From the Stari Most bridge to the great fortress of Belgrade, there are endless wonders to explore in the Balkans.

Connect with local cultures

Our Balkan tour packages give you the chance to connect with the locals and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s cultures. Taste the flavors of North Macedonia at a local dinner in Skopje or visit a historic farm in Bled for an exclusive family dinner. Sample indigenous wine from a family-owned vineyard in Skradin, or meet the Muhoberac family for a traditional dinner in Osojnik, where their ancestors have lived for over 500 years.

The best of the Balkans unlocked for you

Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

All you need to know about Balkan Sightseeing Tours

What countries make up balkan.

If you’re trying to choose your Balkan travel destinations, you’ve got plenty of options. There are several countries within the Balkan Peninsula including Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Kosovo. Parts of Croatia, Greece, Italy, Turkey, Slovenia, Romania and Serbia also make up the Balkans.

What is the best time to visit the Balkans?

Spread over half a million square kilometres, the climate varies greatly around the Balkans. In general, the spring and autumn shoulder seasons are perfect for mild temperatures, less crowded cities and blooming national parks, while summer brings hot weather and perfect beach days. If you’re taking on the chilly winter, pack your snow gear!

Why are they called the Balkans?

The meaning behind the name ‘Balkans’ is obscure. The word ‘Balkan’ means ‘mountain’ in Turkish and was aptly used to describe this mountainous region throughout history. While the concept of the “Balkans” was created by a German geographer in 1808, the term became more popular in the 19th and 20th centuries as a geopolitical concept.

What is the best Balkan route?

Dreaming of a Balkans road trip? Our top Balkans itinerary takes you to the best places in the region, starting in Romania’s capital Bucharest. Head to Sofia in Bulgaria, cross to Skopje in North Macedonia, then arrive in Tirana in Albania. Travel up to Montenegro, see the sights of Bosnia and Herzegovina, then finish up in Serbia’s Belgrade for the ultimate Balkan adventure.

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Featured Balkan Tours

Balkan trip: a 13-day heritage and scenery – balkan experience, sofia's historic walking highlights tour, spiritual heritage of bulgaria: rila monastery & boyana church - bulgaria trips.

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Dubrovnik sunset kayaking adventure, discover your next adventure.

• One-Day & Half-Day Tours Quick trips to discover local highlights.
• Multi-Day Tours Extended journeys for deeper immersion.
• Balkan Tours Explore the vibrant diversity of the Balkans.
• Pilgrimage and Religious Tours Spiritual journeys to sacred destinations.
• Culinary Tours Savor the flavors of regional cuisines.
• Family Adventures Tours Fun-filled explorations for the whole family.
• Special Offers Exclusive travel deals.
• Private Transfers Convenient and comfortable transport options.

Uncover the Magic of the Balkans – Go on unforgettable Balkan trips

Unforgettable adventures await you on our Balkan tours! From Croatia’s beautiful landscapes to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s hidden gems and the natural wonders of North Macedonia, experience the rich culture of Serbia, the charm of Montenegro, and the history of Albania and Slovenia. Balkland offers you different Balkan tours where you will get to know the Balkans as it is. Rich in various tastes, natural landscapes, and the best hospitality!

“ The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step „

Explore balkland tours and travel packages.

Explore our travel packages for a seamless and unforgettable experience. From detailed itineraries to helpful tips, we’ve got everything you need. Embark on a journey with Balkland, where each keyphrase guarantees extraordinary adventures in the heart of the Balkans.

Explore Belgrade: Panoramic & Walking City Tour – Serbia Trips

Explore Belgrade's rich history and stunning architecture on our tour. See Kalemegdan, St. Sava Temple, and vibrant city squares.

Spiritual Heritage of Bulgaria: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church – Bulgaria Trips

Explore Bulgaria's UNESCO treasures: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church. Immerse in history and spirituality on this unforgettable tour.

Montenegro in a Day: Lovćen Mountains to Cetinje Royal Towns | Balkland

Unveil Montenegro's gems: Lovćen's majesty and Cetinje's history in a tour blending nature's beauty with cultural richness.

Viscri, Sighisoara & Rupea: Transylvania’s Medieval Wonders Tour

Journey through Romania's medieval treasures: Viscri, Sighisoara, and Rupea, on our enchanting tour from Brasov.

Our Qualities

What does Balkland offer at Balkan trips?

Good organization.

A good road means a good organization. With our organization, you don’t have to worry about accommodation, food, transportation! We stand behind you as a dedicated companion on every Balkan trips!

We cover 10 Balkan countries

Balkland allows you to visit and feel the charms of 10 countries in the Balkans. Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Montenegro, Slovenia, Romania, Kosovo, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia await you to visit their beautiful landscapes and taste their most delicious food!

Different types of travel throughout the Balkans

The Balkans is a landscape of possibilities! Embark on Balkan Tours with your friends, experience Family Adventures with your loved ones, or Balkan food on Culinary Tours.

Your Smart Travel Guide to Balkan Adventures

Experience the Best of the Balkans with our Blogs.

Postojna Cave: Journeying Through the Underground Paradise

Kotor Montenegro – Home to the Adriatic’s Largest Bay

Kotor Montenegro - great bay, historic Old Town, and rich culture.

Plitvice Lakes National Park: An unforgettable experience for every season

Discover the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tour Balkan Countries With Balkland

Have you ever wanted to visit the unreal nature of the Balkans and try Balkan food rich in various flavors? With Balkland you can do just that! Our Balkan trips are unforgettable, diverse, and full of new adventures. Discover all our Balkan tours and pilgrim tours and choose the best one for you!

Why go on Balkan trips with Balkland?

With Balkland you always travel safely. We have provided transportation, hotels, and adventures throughout the Balkans for you, which are above all safe. The safety and security of our passengers is our priority!

Our Balkan trips are adapted to families, newlyweds, and corporate groups; with us, you can find tours that completely suit you!

Balkland was founded by foreign travelers and lovers of the Balkans, so every trip to the Balkans with us is diverse. Tour Balkan countries with us And you will experience all the beauties of the Balkans, from irresistible food to natural beauties.

Balkland FAQ

Is it safe to travel to the Balkans?

The Balkans are a very safe place to visit today. More than 30 years ago, the war that took place in the Balkans ended, and today the Balkans is one of the safer travel destinations.

Is it cheap to travel in the Balkans?

Yes. Compared to many Western European countries, traveling in the Balkans is often more budget-friendly, offering affordable accommodation, food, and transportation options.

Why is Balkan food popular?

Balkan cuisine is popular due to its rich flavors, diverse influences, and use of fresh, local ingredients. The combination of Mediterranean, Ottoman, and Slavic culinary traditions contributes to the unique and delicious dishes.

What is the most popular Balkan food?

Ćevapi, a type of grilled minced meat, is widely popular across the Balkans. Other favorites include Burek, a pastry with meat or cheese, and Ajvar, a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread.

Is the Balkans safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, many parts of the Balkans are safe for solo female travelers. All the locals are friendly and ready to help you if you get lost or need help. Since you are still in a foreign country, we recommend that you do not go out late at night alone and keep your personal belongings safe.

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9-Day Balkan Tour

We’ll tailor your 9-day adventure with airport pick-ups, drop-offs, and visits to your preferred destinations, ensuring a memorable experience.

With the support of friendly, knowledgeable drivers or fully licensed local tour guides, you’ll be immersed in the local colors, flavors, and culture that make the Balkans truly unforgettable.

Included in Your Tour:

• Insight, guidance, and support: Your licensed guide or driver-guide will provide in-depth information about the events, attractions.
• Comfortable private transportation: Travel around the Balkans in a well-equipped, air-conditioned minivan or van.
• Complimentary, no-obligation quote: Share your preferences for your trip, and we’ll provide a transparent, all-inclusive quote.
• Private tours: we tours for small groups for up to 8 participants.

With Balkan Tales , your tour itinerary will always reflect your own personal tastes and preferences. But we do offer a full range of our favorite itineraries to get you started…

9 Day Balkan Tour Itinerary #1 – Visit 8 countries

9 day balkan trip #2 – visit 5 countries, 9 day balkan trip itinerary #3 – visit 5 countries, 9 day balkan road trip #4 – visit 4 countries, 9 day balkan tour #5 – visit 5 countries, 9 day balkan tour #6 – visit 6 countries, 9 day balkan tour #7 – visit 4 countries.

ROMANIA – BULGARIA – NORTH MACEDONIA – ALBANIA – MONTENEGRO – CROATIA – BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – SERBIA

View Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – bucharest, romania.

The 9 days Balkan tour starts in Bucharest with pick up from your accommodation

→ City tour of Bucharest, Romania Visit the Palace of Parliament, Old town, Piata Victoriei, Cec Palace, unirii Square, Revolution square, National Museum of Romanian history, Constitution square, Lui Carol monument, Palace of justice.

Free time in Bucharest

Overnight in Bucharest

Day 2 – Sofia, Bulgaria

→ Transfer to Sofia, Bulgaria

→ Sofia walking  tour Visit the: St. Nedelya square; Nedelya church; St Sofia Monument; St. Petka Church; The old Serdica Ruins; The mineral springs; The council of ministers; The Rotunda “Saint George”; The Presidency; The mosque “Banya Bashi”; The National archaeology museum (not going inside); The National Bank of Bulgaria; Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Square; The King’s palace; The Russian church; St. Sofia Church; The National Theater; The Monument of the “unknown soldier”; The Alexander Nevski Memorial Church; The city garden.

Free time in Sofia

Overnight in Sofia

Day 3 – Skopje and Ohrid, North Macedonia

→ Transfer to Skopje, North Macedonia (3-4 hours)

→ Free time for Lunch and short walk in the city center (1 – 1.5  hours )

→ Transfer to Ohrid, North Macedonia

→ Walking City tour of Ohrid old town Visit the Ohrid lake, the Monument of St. Naum of Ohrid, the Monument of St Kliment Ohridski, Catcher of a cross monument, the Church of St Sofia, “St Kiril and Metodius” monument, the Ancient theatre of Ohrid; the St John at Kaneo church.

Overnight in Ohrid

Day 4 – Tirana, Albania

→ Transfer to Tirana, Albania

→ City tour of Tirana and free time Visit the “Skanderberg square” (The main square in Tirana) with the Skanderberg Statue; the “Ethem bey” mosque (the Only historical mosque in Tirana) the “Enver Hoxha” pyramid, the Peace bell, the Building of the historical museum of Tirana, a Preserved bunker (In one of the bunkers there is a museum about the victims of the Albanian Communist regime) Maria Theresa boulevard, the University of Tirana, the Old government square; The Clock tower (19th Century)

Overnight in Tirana

Day 5 – Kotor, Montenegro

→ Transfer to Kotor, Montenegro

→ City tour of Kotor Old Town Visit the Kotor old city, Kotor harbour, city walls, St Tryphon cathedral, St Nicola church, Piaza of the arms, Church of St Luke, Gurdich gate, Clock tower, Grubonja palace, Karampana well, Drago palace, Pima palace, Beskuca’s Palace, Grgurina Palace, Bizanti Palace, Prince’s Palace, Sea gate, Old Kotor prison building

→ Transfer to Budva Free time in Budva

Overnight in Budva

Day 6 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

→ Transfer to Dubrovnik, Croatia

→ Dubrovnik city tour Visit the Old town, the Ancient city walls, the Dubrovnik “Saint Saviour” church (16th century church with Renaissance architecture); the Dubrovnik cathedral (Early 18th-century baroque cathedral); The Onofrije’s fountain, The Franciscan Monastery (Landmark monastery built in the 1300s, noted for its cloister, library & historic pharmacy displays); the Gates of Pile; the Old port; the Clock tower, the Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace; the Fort Saint John; the Stradun (The main walking street in Dubrovnik old town);

Free time in Dubrovnik

Overnight in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Day 7 – Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

→ Transfer to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

→ Walking tour of Mostar  old town Visit the Old bridge, The Old city, The Old turkish bazar “Kujundziluk”, The Old turkish quarter, “Koskin – Mehmed pasha’s” mosque, Tito’s palace, “Mehmed Karadoz” Mosque.

→ Transfer to Blagaj Visit the Blagaj monastery

→ Transfer to Sarajevo via Konjic

Overnight in Sarajevo

Day 8 – Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

→ Sarajevo city tour Visit the Bascarsija (The historical Turkish market); Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (Ottoman mosque from 16th century); The Latin Bridge/ The Assassination Bridge (Ottoman-era stone bridge near the site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s 1914 assassination); The Sebilj Monument (Famous 18th century wooden fountain); the “Sacred Heart” Cathedral (Gothic cathedral from the 19th century); The Sarajevo city hall, The Abandoned Bobsleigh Track (Built in 1984 for the Winter Olympic games in Former Yugoslavia The country opened its doors to the international community to celebrate sport, after the breakup of Yugoslavia, during the long Sarajevo siege the bobsleigh track been used as a base for the artillery); The Tunnel of Hope (Military-history museum at the site of a storied Bosnian War–era underground tunnel);

→ Free time in the afternoon

Overnight in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Day 9 – Belgrade, Serbia

→ Long transfer to Belgrade, Serbia

→ City tour of Belgrade in the morning Visit the Belgrade fortress “Kalemegdan” (Enduring fortress built in 535 BCE) with a view to Sava and Danube rivers; The Pobednik Monument (Monument inside the Belgrade fortress); Church of the Holy Mother of God / Crkva Ruzica (Serbian Orthodox church located inside the Belgrade fortress); The “Knez Mihaylova” pedestrian street; t. Sava cathedralS (The biggest Orthodox cathedral in the Balkans ); The House of Flowers (Josip Broz Tito mausoleum); History museum of Yugoslavia; The Republic square, The National Assembly, The bombed buildings.

→ Free time Belgrade, Serbia

Overnight in Belgrade

End of the tour

SERBIA – ROMANIA – BULGARIA – KOSOVO – NORTH MACEDONIA

Day 1 – Belgrade, Serbia

Start the 9 days Balkan private tour in Belgrade, Serbia with pick up from any location in the city (accommodation, hotel)

→ City tour of Belgrade Visit the Belgrade fortress “Kalemegdan” (Enduring fortress built in 535 BCE) with a view to Sava and Danube rivers; The Pobednik Monument (Monument inside the Belgrade fortress); Church of the Holy Mother of God / Crkva Ruzica (Serbian Orthodox church located inside the Belgrade fortress); The “Knez Mihaylova” pedestrian street; t. Sava cathedralS (The biggest Orthodox cathedral in the Balkans ); The House of Flowers (Josip Broz Tito mausoleum); History museum of Yugoslavia; The Republic square, The National Assembly, The bombed buildings.

→ Free time in Belgrade During your free time you can take a walk around the Belgrade waterfront or enter some of the museums in Belgrade: Nikola Tesla Museum; The History museum of Serbia; etc.

Day 2 – Novi Sad, Serbia

→ Transfer to Novi Sad, Serbia after breakfasts

→ Novi Sad walking tour Visit the old town and the Petrovadian fortress

→ Transfer to Timisoara, Romania Free time in Timisoara

Overnight in Timisoara

Day 3 – Sibiu and Sighisoara, Romania

→ Transfer to Sibiu, Romania

→ Sibiu walking tour Visit the Consul tower of Sibiu, the Large Square, the bridge of Lies, Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral;

→ Transfer to Sighisoara, Romania

→ Sighisoara city tour Visit the Sighisoara Citadel, The Clock tower, Vlad Dracul House

Free time in Sighisoara

Overnight in Sighisoara

Day 4 – Transilvania, Romania

→ Transfer to the area of Transilvania Visit the Dracula’s castle (Bran castle) and the Peles castle in Sinaia

→ Transfer to Brasov, Romania

Free time in Brasov

Overnight in Brasov

Day 5 – Bucharest, Romania

→ Transfer to Bucharest, Romania

→ Bucharest city tour Visit the Palace of Parliament, Old town, Piata Victoriei, Cec Palace, unirii Square, Revolution square, National Museum of Romanian history, Constitution square, Lui Carol monument, Palace of justice.

Day 6 – Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

→ Transfer to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

→ Veliko Tarnovo walking tour Visit the Tsarevets fortress and the craft street

Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo

Day 7 – Plovdiv, Bulgaria

→ Transfer to Kazanlak area via the Shipka pass Visit Kazanlak Thracian tomb Golyama Kosmatka

→ Transfer to Plovdiv, Bulgaria

→ Plovdiv city tour Visit the Old town from the 19th century; the Ethnographic museum; Balabanov house; the Ancient theatre of Philippopolis; the Ancient stadium of Philipopolis, The St St Constantin and Elena church, The Djumaya mosque and square, The building of the Regional Historical Museum, the Main walking street, “The Trap” neighborhood; Nebet tepe.

Overnight in Plovdiv

Day 8 – Sofia, Bulgaria

→ Walking Sofia tour Visit the Historical center of Sofia and the most interesting sights in the area. Visit the St. Nedelya square; Nedelya church; St Sofia Monument; St. Petka Church; The old Serdika Ruins; The mineral springs; The council of ministers; The Rotunda “Saint George”; The Presidency; The mosque “Banya Bashi”; The National archaeology museum (not going inside); The National Bank of Bulgaria; Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Square; The King’s palace; The Russian church; St. Sofia Church; The National Theater; The Monument of the “unknown soldier”; The Alexander Nevski Memorial Church; The city garden; The museum of Sofia.

Day 9 – Rila monastery, Bulgaria and Skopje, North Macedonia

→ Transfer to the Rila monastery Explore the biggest monastery complex on Balkans

→ Walking Skopje city tour (1.5 – 2 hours ) Visit the Old muslim quarter, the Stone bridge, the Macedonia square, the Memorial house of Mother Teresa, the “Warrior on a horse” monument, the “Mustafa Pasha” mosque, the Skopje art bridge, the “Daut Pasha” Hamam, the “Mothers of Macedonia” fontain, The Divers statue, Kapan Han, the King Samuil monument, the Archeological museum building

Free time in Skopje in the afternoon

Overnight in Skopje

ROMANIA – BULGARIA – NORTH MACEDONIA – KOSOVO – ALBANIA

Begin the 9 days Balkan private tour with pick up from your accommodation in Bucharest, Romania

Day 2 – Transilvania, Romania

Day 3 – veliko tarnovo, bulgaria.

→ Long transfer to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

→ Walking tour of Veliko Tarnovo Visit the Tsarevets fortress and the craft street

Day 4 – Plovdiv, Bulgaria

→ Transfer to Plovdiv, Bulgaria via Shipka pass and Shipka church

→ Walking tour of Plovdiv

Visit the Old town from the 19th century; the Ethnographic museum; Balabanov house; the Ancient theatre of Philippopolis; the Ancient stadium of Philipopolis, The St St Constantin and Elena church, The Djumaya mosque and square, The building of the Regional Historical Museum, the Main walking street, “The Trap” neighborhood; Nebet tepe.

Day 5 – Sofia, Bulgaria

→ Sofia Walking city tour Visit the: St. Nedelya square; Nedelya church; St Sofia Monument; St. Petka Church; The old Serdica Ruins; The mineral springs; The council of ministers; The Rotunda “Saint George”; The Presidency; The mosque “Banya Bashi”; The National archaeology museum (not going inside); The National Bank of Bulgaria; Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Square; The King’s palace; The Russian church; St. Sofia Church; The National Theater; The Monument of the “unknown soldier”; The Alexander Nevski Memorial Church; The city garden.

Day 6 – Rila monastery, Bulgaria and Skopje, North Macedonia

Day 7 – prizren, kosovo.

→ Depart from Skopje after breakfast

→ Transfer to Prizren, Kosovo via the mountain road

→ Walking tour Prizren Visit the city center; Our Lady of Ljeviš Church (14th-century Serbian Orthodox church); Sinan Pasha Mosque (17th Century mosque)

→ Transfer back to Skopje

Day 8 – Ohrid, North Macedonia

→ Walking Ohrid City tour Visit the Ohrid lake, the Monument of St. Naum of Ohrid, the Monument of St Kliment Ohridski, Catcher of a cross monument, the Church of St Sofia, “St Kiril and Metodius” monument, the Ancient theatre of Ohrid; the St John at Kaneo church.

→ Transfer to the St. Naum Monastery

→ Transfer back to Ohrid

→ Free time in Ohrid

Day 9 – Tirana, Albania

→ Walking city tour of Tirana Visit the “Skanderberg square” (The main square in Tirana) with the Skanderberg Statue; the “Ethem bey” mosque (the Only historical mosque in Tirana) the “Enver Hoxha” pyramid, the Peace bell, the Building of the historical museum of Tirana, a Preserved bunker (In one of the bunkers there is a museum about the victims of the Albanian Communist regime) Maria Theresa boulevard, the University of Tirana, the Old government square; The Clock tower (19th Century)

→ Free time in Tirana, Albania

SERBIA – SLOVENIA – CROATIA – MONTENEGRO

This 9 days Balkan tour begin with pick up from your accommodation in Belgrade, Serbia

Overnight in Belgrade.

Day 2 – Zagreb, Croatia

→ Transfer to Zagreb, Croatia

→ City tour and free time in Zagreb, Croatia Visit the Old Town; The Zagreb Cathedral; St. Mark’s church (Monumental, medieval-style, Serbian Orthodox church); Dolac Market (Large market with many stands offering flowers, fruits, veggies & meats in an indoor/outdoor setup); The Lotrscak Tower; The Medieval Stone Gate; The Lenucijeva Potkova. Ban Josip Jelačić Square (The central square of Zagreb)

Overnight in Zagreb

Day 3 – Ljubljana and Lake Bled

→ Transfer to Lake Bled in Slovenia Explore the lake area

→ Transfer to Ljubljana, Slovenia

→ City tour of Ljubljana The Dragon Bridge; Tromostovje (The Triple Bridge is a group of three bridges which connects the historical part of Ljubljana with the modern part of the city); Preseren Square (The central square in Ljubljana part of the old town’s pedestrian zone), Franciscan Church of the Annunciation (17th-century Franciscan church famous with its interior). Robba fountain (18th-century fountain made of limestone and marble); The Butcher’s bridge; The town square; Ljubljana Town Hall; The city market of Ljubljana; The Ljubljana cathedral (Roman Catholic cathedral with a baroque interior, including gilded columns & ceiling frescoes).

→ Free time in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Overnight in Ljubljana

Day 4 – Plitvice lakes, Croatia

→ Transfer to the Plitvice lakes national park, Croatia Explore the Plivice UNESCO protected lakes

→ Transfer to Zadar, Croatia

Free time in Zadar

Overnight in Zadar

Day 5 – Trogir and Sibenik, Croatia

→ City tour of  Zadar old town in the morning

→ Transfer to Split via Trogir and Sibenik

→ Free time in Split at the afternoon

Overnight in Split

Day 6 – Split, Croatia

→ City tour of Split and free time in the afternoon Visit the old town, The Diocletian Palace; The Cathedral of Saint Domnius (Built in the 4th century AD); The Riva (The central part of Split); The Old Jupiter’s Temple (built in the 3rd century AD); The “Let me pass” street; The Golden Gate (4th-century Roman stone entryway to Diocletian’s Palace, with arches & ornate statues);

Day 7 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

→ Dubrovnik walking tour Visit the Old town, the Ancient city walls, the Dubrovnik “Saint Saviour” church (16th century church with Renaissance architecture); the Dubrovnik cathedral (Early 18th-century baroque cathedral); The Onofrije’s fountain, The Franciscan Monastery (Landmark monastery built in the 1300s, noted for its cloister, library & historic pharmacy displays); the Gates of Pile; the Old port; the Clock tower, the Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace; the Fort Saint John; the Stradun (The main walking street in Dubrovnik old town);

→ Free time in Dubrovnik

Overnight in Dubrovnik

Day 8 – Kotor, Montenegro

Day 9 – cetinje and ostrog monastery, montenegro.

→ Transfer to the Njegushi village in the morning

→ Transfer to the Ostrog Monastery Explore the rock monastery

→ Transfer to Cetinje City tour of Cretinje old center

→ Transfer back to Budva

SLOVENIA – CROATIA – MONTENEGRO – BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – SERBIA

Day 1 – Ljubljana and Lake Bled, Slovenia

This private Balkan tour starts from any location in Ljubljana, Slovenia

→ City tour of Ljubljana, Slovenia The Dragon Bridge; Tromostovje (The Triple Bridge is a group of three bridges which connects the historical part of Ljubljana with the modern part of the city); Preseren Square (The central square in Ljubljana part of the old town’s pedestrian zone), Franciscan Church of the Annunciation (17th-century Franciscan church famous with its interior). Robba fountain (18th-century fountain made of limestone and marble); The Butcher’s bridge; The town square; Ljubljana Town Hall; The city market of Ljubljana; The Ljubljana cathedral (Roman Catholic cathedral with a baroque interior, including gilded columns & ceiling frescoes).

→ Visit Lake Bled in the afternoon

Overnight in Ljubljana.

Day 3 – Plitvice lakes, Croatia

→ Transfer to the Plitvice lakes National park, Croatia Nature walk among through the UNESCO national park

→ Transfer to Split, Croatia Free time in Split

Day 4 – Split, Croatia

→ City tour of Split in the morning Visit the old town, The Diocletian Palace; The Cathedral of Saint Domnius (Built in 4th century AD); The Riva (The central part of Split); The Old Jupiter’s Temple (build in 3rd century AD); The “Let me pass” street; The Golden Gate (4th-century Roman stone entryway to Diocletian’s Palace, with arches & ornate statues);

Day 5 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

→ Walking tour Dubrovnik Visit the Old town, the Ancient city walls, the Dubrovnik “Saint Saviour” church (16th century church with Renaissance architecture); the Dubrovnik cathedral (Early 18th-century baroque cathedral); The Onofrije’s fountain, The Franciscan Monastery (Landmark monastery built in the 1300s, noted for its cloister, library & historic pharmacy displays); the Gates of Pile; the Old port; the Clock Tower, the Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace; the Fort Saint John; the Stradun (The main walking street in Dubrovnik old town);

Day 6 – Kotor, Montenegro

Day 7 – mostar, sarajevo, bosnia, day 8 – sarajevo, bosnia.

→ City tour of Sarajevo Visit the Bascarsija (The historical Turkish market); Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (Ottoman mosque from 16th century); The Latin Bridge/ The Assassination Bridge (Ottoman-era stone bridge near the site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s 1914 assassination); The Sebilj Monument (Famous 18th century wooden fountain); the “Sacred Heart” Cathedral (Gothic cathedral from the 19th century); The Sarajevo city hall, The Abandoned Bobsleigh Track (Built in 1984 for the Winter Olympic games in Former Yugoslavia The country opened its doors to the international community to celebrate sport, after the breakup of Yugoslavia, during the long Sarajevo siege the bobsleigh track been used as a base for the artillery); The Tunnel of Hope (Military-history museum at the site of a storied Bosnian War–era underground tunnel);

→ Transfer to Belgrade, Serbia

→ Belgrade city tour Visit the Belgrade fortress “Kalemegdan” (Enduring fortress built in 535 BCE) with a view to Sava and Danube rivers; The Pobednik Monument (Monument inside the Belgrade fortress); Church of the Holy Mother of God / Crkva Ruzica (Serbian Orthodox church located inside the Belgrade fortress); The “Knez Mihaylova” pedestrian street; t. Sava cathedralS (The biggest Orthodox cathedral in the Balkans ); The House of Flowers (Josip Broz Tito mausoleum); History museum of Yugoslavia; The Republic square, The National Assembly, The bombed buildings.

ALBANIA – MONTENEGRO – CROATIA – BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – SERBIA – BULGARIA

Day 1 – Tirana, Albania

This Private Balkan tour with  begin with pick up at any location in Tirana, Albania

→ Free time in Tirana

Day 2 – Kruje, Albania and Skadar Lake, Montenegro

→ Transfer to Kruje, Albania Explore the Birthplace of Skanderberg Visit the fortress and the old part of town

→ Transfer to Skadar lake (The biggest lake on Balkans) Boat trip to explore the lake

→ Transfer to Budva, Montenegro

Day 3 – Kotor, Montenegro

→ Transfer to Dubrovnik, Croatia Free time in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Day 4 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

→ City tour in the morning Visit the Old town, the Ancient city walls, the Dubrovnik “Saint Saviour” church (16th century church with Renaissance architecture); the Dubrovnik cathedral (Early 18th-century baroque cathedral); The Onofrije’s fountain, The Franciscan Monastery (Landmark monastery built in the 1300s, noted for its cloister, library & historic pharmacy displays); the Gates of Pile; the Old port; the Clock Tower, the Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace; the Fort Saint John; the Stradun (The main walking street in Dubrovnik old town);

→ Transfer to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina Free time in Mostar

Overnight in Mostar

Day 5 – Sarajevo, Bosnia

→ Transfer to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

→ City tour of the old town in Sarajevo Visit the Bascarsija (The historical Turkish market); Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (Ottoman mosque from 16th century); The Latin Bridge/ The Assassination Bridge (Ottoman-era stone bridge near the site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s 1914 assassination); The Sebilj Monument (Famous 18th century wooden fountain); the “Sacred Heart” Cathedral (Gothic cathedral from the 19th century); The Sarajevo city hall, The Abandoned Bobsleigh Track (Built in 1984 for the Winter Olympic games in Former Yugoslavia The country opened its doors to the international community to celebrate sport, after the breakup of Yugoslavia, during the long Sarajevo siege the bobsleigh track been used as a base for the artillery); The Tunnel of Hope (Military-history museum at the site of a storied Bosnian War–era underground tunnel);

Free time in the afternoon

Day 6 – Novi Sad, Serbia

→ Transfer to Novi Sad, Serbia Visit the Petrovadian fortress

Overnight in Novi Sad

Day 7 – Belgrade, Serbia

During your free time you can take a walk around the Belgrade waterfront or enter some of the museums in Belgrade: Nikola Tesla Museum; The History museum of Serbia; etc.

Day 8 – Nis, Serbia

→ Transfer to Nis, Serbia Visit the Red Cross concentration camp, The Nis Fortress, The Skull Tower and the Mediana – The birthplace of Consantine the Great

→ Transfer to Sofia, Bulgaria in the afternoon

Overnight in Sofia, Bulgaria

Day 9 – Sofia, Bulgaria

→ Walking tour Sofia Visit the: St. Nedelya square; Nedelya church; St Sofia Monument; St. Petka Church; The old Serdica Ruins; The mineral springs; The council of ministers; The Rotunda “Saint George”; The Presidency; The mosque “Banya Bashi”; The National archaeology museum (not going inside); The National Bank of Bulgaria; Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Square; The King’s palace; The Russian church; St. Sofia Church; The National Theater; The Monument of the “unknown soldier”; The Alexander Nevski Memorial Church; The city garden.

BULGARIA – NORTH MACEDONIA – KOSOVO – ALBANIA

Day 1- Sofia, Bulgaria

Start the Private Balkan tour with pick up at any location in Sofia, Bulgaria (airport , accommodation)

→ Transfer to Boyana area Visit the Boyana church

→ Transfer back to Sofia

→ Walking city tour of Sofia Visit the Historical center of Sofia and the most interesting sights in the area. Visit the St. Nedelya square; Nedelya church; St Sofia Monument; St. Petka Church; The old Serdika Ruins; The mineral springs; The council of ministers; The Rotunda “Saint George”; The Presidency; The mosque “Banya Bashi”; The National archaeology museum (not going inside); The National Bank of Bulgaria; Knyaz Alexander Battenberg Square; The King’s palace; The Russian church; St. Sofia Church; The National Theater; The Monument of the “unknown soldier”; The Alexander Nevski Memorial Church; The city garden; The museum of Sofia.

Overnight in Sofia.

Day 2 – Rila monastery, Bulagria and Skopje, North Macedonia

→ Transfer to Skopje, Macedonia (3-4 hours) → Walking city tour (1.5 – 2 hours ) and free time in the afternoon Visit the Old muslim quarter, the Stone bridge, the Macedonia square, the Memorial house of Mother Teresa, the “Warrior on a horse” monument, the “Mustafa Pasha” mosque, the Skopje art bridge, the “Daut Pasha” Hamam, the “Mothers of Macedonia” fontain, The Divers statue, Kapan Han, the King Samuil monument, the Archeological museum building

Day 3 – Prizren, Kosovo

Day tour to Kosovo

Visit the city center; Our Lady of Ljeviš Church (14th-century Serbian Orthodox church); Sinan Pasha Mosque (17th Century mosque)

Day 4 – Mavrovo, North Macedonia

→ Transfer to Mavrovo area Visit the St. John the Baptist monastery

→ Transfer to Ohrid at late afternoon

Day 5 – Ohrid, North Macedonia

→ Walking Ohrid City tour in the morning Visit the Ohrid lake, the Monument of St. Naum of Ohrid, the Monument of St Kliment Ohridski, Catcher of a cross monument, the Church of St Sofia, “St Kiril and Metodius” monument, the Ancient theatre of Ohrid; the St John at Kaneo church.

→ Transfer to St. Naum Monastery Explore the monastery complex

Day 6 – Berat, Albania

→ Transfer to Berat, Albania Visit the old part of town and the fortress

Overnight in Berat, Albania

Day 7 – Girocaster and Sarande, Albania

→ Transfer to Sarande, Albania via Girocaster

→ Visit the Blue eye on the way Explore the old part of the city

Overnight in Sarande, Albania

Day 8 – Vlore, Albania

→ Transfer to Vlore via the coastline

→ Short walk in the center and free time for relax

Overnight in Vlore

→ City tour of Tirana Visit the “Skanderberg square” (The main square in Tirana) with the Skanderberg Statue; the “Ethem bey” mosque (the Only historical mosque in Tirana) the “Enver Hoxha” pyramid, the Peace bell, the Building of the historical museum of Tirana, a Preserved bunker (In one of the bunkers there is a museum about the victims of the Albanian Communist regime) Maria Theresa boulevard, the University of Tirana, the Old government square; The Clock tower (19th Century)

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Balkans

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Balkans. There are 1864 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 42 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit Balkans.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Balkans with 14,128 reviews

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

A well organized whirlwind of experiences! Each day introduced us to the most spectacular sights of a new country. At each stop, well educated proffessional local guides explained the history and social complexion of the people. We received a taste of each region and often wished we had more time to explore. This tour could have been twice as long but for limited vacation time. Simon, our Travel Talks representative, masterfully lead a diverse group of 40 through the Balkans using humor, knowledge, passion and compassion. He brought us together as cohesive group and we forged new friendships. Any issue arising was handled in a mannner that left all of us having fun and learning new things.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

Amazing tour guide, bus driver and all the guests. Would have loved to see more of Bosnia

• Coach / Bus

Balkan Explorer

A well-planned, well-executed trip! I very much enjoyed the entire experience. At first, when it was announced to our group of 38 that we would be rotating seats on a daily basis, I was a bit skeptical. However, I soon realized that it was actually a very good idea, as everyone got their turn having the front seat, etc. and nobody could fuss over who sat where. Our guide, Carly, was very experienced with group travel, very knowledgeable, and a pleasure to have as a guide. Our accommodations were great, the meals were very good, and we saw some fabulous sites during the trip. I really liked the 2-night stays in both Dubrovnik and Budapest, with enough free time to go to the beach in Croatia and the baths in Hungary! I would travel with Expat Explorer again in a heartbeat!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

We had an excellent experience. Everything was well organized. The tour company was very receptive to any questions. The guide was very knowledgeable. A couple of the hotels were just OK, but in general, they were just up to our standards. I will say that having an electric car was somehow stressful as our guide could not always find a place to recharge the car at night. He had to go back several times and wait for hours. It made his days very long as it had already been our driver and our guide all day.

• Sightseeing

Tour from Athens to Belgrade: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

I would reccomend this tour 100% for someone who is considering it.

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

Excellent tour with fantastic tour guide (Noddy). It's a tour aimed at younger (under 40) travellers, so the accommodation is mainly hostels and the pace is pretty fast but we still managed to spend a reasonable amount of time in each place. There was a good balance of history/culture and activities, and there is a lot of flexibility with the optional activities and free time to spend more or less time at the beach, museums, etc. Highly recommended as an introduction to the Balkans!

Balkan Adventure (14 Days)

An excellent trip with an outstanding tour director (Sarah Rossi) and highly skilled bus driver (Bruno). Plenty of option excursion choices along with very good included tours with knowledgeable local guides. The only down side were two of the hotels - Hotel Marinela, Sofia Bulgaria, and Mercure Belgrade Excelsior - that were in desperate need of refurbishment not to mention functioning air conditioning and bathroom cleaning. Otherwise, great trip.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Dubrovnik to Athens

Amazing!!! Best thing I’ve ever done

Western Balkans Uncovered

I did not know what to expect and was pleased to find it all very interesting and different from our North American standards. The kindness of the people toward tourists was wonderful to experience especially given the difficult history all of the countries visited had gone through. Food and drink were very good.

Balkan Experience – seven countries in two weeks - SMALL GROUP

I really enjoyed this tour. My guide and driver (Ivan) was excellent. His knowledge was outstanding. His jokes were funny (sometimes) The hotels were very good. Overall I learned a lot about the Balkans and its complicated History. I would recommend Victor tours if you want to see the Balkans. They went out of their way to give me extras so that I always had things to do and see. I highly recommend Victor tours.

Balkan Dreams end Bulgaria

We chose this tour as it had the most comprehensive coverage of the Balkans and were not disappointed. Incredible planning on the part of Europamundo given the modular nature of their tours. Logistically it was challenging due to the distances we had to travel everyday, but there were plenty of rest stops and the border crossings were managed well. We were only 4 English speakers on a full bus of Spanish speakers and were initially apprehensive, having read some of the reviews from English speakers who were on a majority Spanish speaking bus. It could easily have been a disaster but kudos to Europamundo for assigning to our small group one of their most capable English and Spanish speaking guides, Viktor Toshev. He went the extra mile every day to ensure that we were not treated as an afterthought (as some other reviewers have commented). He was organised, his commentary clear and thorough but succinct, and his energy and enthusiasm was infectious, making the sites come alive. Due to the level of care we were given, it often felt like we were on a private customised tour and not a big bus package tour. A good guide makes all the difference! Thanks Europamundo!

Treasures of the Balkans (Classic, 16 Days)

Dubrovnik to Athens: Beachfronts & Fortresses

This trip was absolutely amazing! And it was all due to our amazing guide - he was, hands down, the most knowledgeable and charismatic tour guide a person could have dreamed up! He not only made it possible for our diverse group to get to know one another, he introduced us to experiences, places and persons that a local would only know. He was meticulously organized down to a "T", arranged for upgrades at his own expense, and left the group with little to no worries about where/what would be done next. If I could book tours with this guide solely - I would. In fact, for my next adventure I do plan on booking with G Adventures and requesting his tour.

Balkan Kaleidoscope

This was also few years back touring several Balkan countries Bulgaria, Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, North Macedonia and Albania. If I remembered the hotel that my wife & I stayed in North Macedonia is like an attic room, I mentioned to the tour guide and our hotel in Albania with no elevators, we were in the top floor, not easy for old people to use the stairs. But nothing was done to resolve my complain. Ditto, the bus driver kept on stopping because he wants to smoke. But overall the tour satisfied my curiosity on this part of the globe.

Treasures of the Balkans (Small Groups, 16 Days)

What people love about fully guided tours in balkans.

Itinerary - Great. Good mix of hotspots like city capitals, and some lesser known places like smaller towns and hidden gems. Guide - Excellent, 10 stars to both of my guides this trip. Organization - Everything went extremely smoothly, also in part to other travelers being amazing.

This was my first time booking through TourRadar and I am NOT disappointed. My son and I had an amazing adventure and I will definitely recommend and be using TourRadar again. Our Balkan Discovery tour was well organized. Our guide Vijor was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, as was our driver.

Fast paced, and enjoyable. Ten countries in sixteen days, organized to the point it was a pleasure to experience. Our guide Rogan kept us informed and gave great background information of things we were about to experience. I will relive this adventure many times in my head.

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided

9-Day Balkans Tour – The Ultimate Guide (2024)

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most diverse regions?

If you answered YES, a Balkans tour could be right up your alley, allowing you to discover many hidden gems across Eastern Europe.

From historical sites to beautiful coastlines, there are many unique experiences that make this region exceptionally alluring.

I have put together this Balkans itinerary based on my experience on the 9 Day Best of Balkans Tour with Travel Talk Tours .

Read on to learn everything you need to know about booking a Balkans trip!

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – 9 DAY BALKANS TOUR

Here is an overview of the 9-day Balkans tour with Travel Talk Tours:

• Day 1: Arrival in Sofia
• Day 2: Sofia to Belgrade
• Day 3: Belgrade to Sarajevo
• Day 4: Mostar and Trebinje
• Day 5: Dubrovnik
• Day 6: Kotor and Shkoder
• Day 7: Tirana and Ohrid
• Day 8: Ohrid and Skopje
• Day 9: Skopje and Sofia

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE 9-DAY BALKANS TRIP

Below is a list of what is included in the Balkan itinerary with Travel Talk Tours:

• Accommodation in 4-star hotels
• 8 breakfasts, 5 dinners
• Air-conditioned, modern coach to get around the Balkans
• Where available, complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi
• Airport transfer from Sofia Airport on day 1
• Experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism

BOOK NOW: 9 DAY BEST OF BALKANS TOUR

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE 9-DAY BALKAN TRIP ITINERARY?

Below is a list of what is not included on the tour:

• Flight tickets
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities
• Tips and donations
• Entrance fees to the sights and museums
• Other services not stated in the itinerary

9-DAY BALKANS TOUR ITINERARY

So without further ado, let’s dive into this Balkans trip itinerary!

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SOFIA

The first stop on this Balkan itinerary is Sofia, Bulgaria. As you arrive at the airport, you’ll be taken to the hotel with your Travel Talk guide since airport pick-up is included.

Get ready to settle in and meet your fellow travelers, and at around 7 pm your guide will host a welcome meeting where you’ll receive all the essential information about the tour.

Be sure to listen carefully, as this will set you up for an unforgettable adventure!

After that, around 8:15 pm, join an optional group dinner where you’ll taste some delicious local cuisine and explore the charming streets of Sofia.

I recommend getting a good night’s rest as day 2 is a travel day from Sofia to Belgrade, Serbia.

DAY 2: SOFIA TO BELGRADE

Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel yourself for an adventure-packed day in Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia.

You will be staying at the luxurious 4-star Abba Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the city, with easy access to all the tourist hotspots.

Upon arrival, your tour guide will give you a 1-hour walking tour of the city and after that, you’ll have free time to grab some lunch at a local restaurant and explore the sights.

From the Belgrade Fortress, enjoy the breathtaking view of the Danube and Sava rivers, and experience the bustling main street of Knez Mihailova.

Discover the fascinating stories behind St. Sava Temple, Republic Square, Terazije Square, and much more – that’s right, your guide knows it all!

Be sure to indulge in the local cuisine, visit the traditional Sarma stalls, and sip on the infamous Slivovitz.

As the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun, but don’t worry, you have the entire afternoon to explore the bustling capital city of Serbia.

DAY 3: BELGRADE TO SARAJEVO

The tour continues on day 3 from Belgrade to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital city, a place that has been through the ruffest of times.

Discover the scars of war through the bullet and cannon holes that are scattered throughout the city, while also discovering its unique beauty during a walking tour of the old town.

The local cuisine is also not to be missed, especially the mouthwatering lamb dishes.

After fueling up, you’ll have free time to roam around, soaking up the history and beauty of this vibrant city.

For a panoramic view of Sarajevo, head up the hill to the Yellow Fortress, afterward grab a cold beer at the local brewery, or simply walk along the edges of the river that cuts through the city.

The accommodation in Sarajevo is the stylish and comfortable Hotel Ibis Styles where you can get some well-deserved rest before the next leg of this Balkans itinerary.

DAY 4: MOSTAR & TREBINJE

On day 4, you’re in for a treat as you venture to the pearl of Herzegovina – Mostar. I guarantee you’ll be in awe as soon as you arrive.

A walking tour is included with a local guide where you can bask in the beauty and history of the Old Town.

You’ll have free time to explore the iconic Stari Mostar Bridge, go shopping at the markets, and have lunch at one of many local venues in town, each offering breathtaking views of the bridge.

After that, an optional activity you won’t want to miss is the trip to the Kravice Waterfalls.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters and enjoy a relaxing afternoon beneath the falls. It’ll be the cherry on top of a perfect day on the Balkans tour!

Finally, jump back on the coach for a 2-hour drive to Trebinje for an overnight stay at the 4-star Central Park Hotel.

DAY 5: DUBROVNIK

Day 5 on the Balkan itinerary is a full-day trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia’s most popular city, especially for Game of Thrones fans!

The UNESCO Heritage Old Town is surrounded by towering city walls and the striking orange-tiled roofs can be seen from afar.

Start the day with a guided walking tour that will take you on a journey through the town’s rich history.

Afterward, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore on your own. Some highlights include walking atop the mighty walls, getting lost in the narrow streets, and swimming at one of the many stunning beaches along the coast.

I also recommend joining today’s optional activity which is a boat trip to Kolocep Island where you can enjoy free drinks on the boat, lunch at a seaside restaurant, and a swim at the beach to cool off.

This day trip to Dubrovnik was personally the highlight of the Balkans trip, and the day ends back at the hotel in Trebinje for the night.

DAY 6: KOTOR & SHKODER

On day 6, the Balkan trip itinerary continues to Kotor and Shkoder from Trebinje. Try your best to score a window seat on the coach because this route boasts picturesque views.

Once you arrive, prepare to be taken aback by the beauty of Kotor, a fortified town in Montenegro.

Your expert local guide will take you on a walking tour of the old town, where you’ll get to admire the charming medieval citadel and characteristic architecture.

And of course, you’ll have a few hours of free time and I recommend taking the hiking trail to the Lady of Remedy Church for a panoramic view of Kotor.

After that, it’s time to venture to Shkoder, Albania where you’ll experience the true authenticity of Albanian culture.

And while Albania has an infamous reputation, it’s a stunning country part of this Balkans trip.

Spend the afternoon exploring the city center where you’ll see stunning landmarks like the Ebu Bekr Mosque, as well as a selection of great restaurants for a hearty dinner.

After a jam-packed day, get a good night’s rest at the Grand Hotel Europa.

DAY 7: TIRANA & OHRID

The next destination on this Balkans trip itinerary is Tirana, Albania’s capital city, which is home to a vibrant art scene and boasts impressive architecture.

Enjoy a walking tour of the city which will give you a glimpse of its wonders, from the stunning Skanderbeg Square to the famous Et’hem Bey Mosque.

Afterward, the tour continues to Ohrid in North Macedonia, and after a breezy check-in at Hotel Aqualina, you’ll have to opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the lake.

On this night is the optional Balkan dinner and performance where you can experience authentic Macedonian culture and cuisine.

There’s simply no better way to enjoy the 7th day of this Balkans itinerary!

DAY 8: OHRID & SKOPJE

Before leaving this wonderful lakeside city, a guided tour is included for you to discover its UNESCO-protected lake , the Monastery of Saint Naum, the medieval fortress, and more!

Of course, you’ll have free time to take a stroll along the lake and through the charming Old Bazaar, where traditional crafts and cuisine blend seamlessly with modern-day shops and cafes.

Then it’s time to head off to Skopje, the bustling and modern capital of North Macedonia.

Once checked into the hotel, you’ll have free time to explore and grab dinner in the nearby neighborhood, or simply take some rest and save your energy for a city tour the following day.

DAY 9: SKOPJE & SOFIA

On day 9, the last day of this Balkans itinerary, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before exploring the mesmerizing city of Skopje with a local guide.

Have your camera ready to take photos of this stunning city including the legendary statue of Alexander the Great, the Macedonian Arc de Triumph, Macedonia Square, and more!

After this exhilarating tour, enjoy some free time to check out other landmarks and bustling streets filled with bars and cafes.

You’ll then leave for Sofia in the afternoon where the Balkans tour will come to a close.

BALKANS ITINERARY – FAQ

Now that we’ve covered everything you must know about the Balkan itinerary with Travel Talk Tours, here are some frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

WHERE ARE THE BALKANS?

The Balkans, also known as the Balkan Peninsula, is a geographic region in southeastern Europe.

It’s bounded by the Adriatic Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea (including the Ionian and Aegean seas) and the Marmara Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the east.

Its northern boundary is often given as the Danube, Sava, and Kupa Rivers.

The region includes many countries, which are Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Romania, Croatia, Greece, and Slovenia.

Parts of Turkey and Italy are also located within the geographical region of the Balkans.

HOW TO GET TO THE BALKANS?

The Balkans is easily accessible from many parts of Europe.

The best way to get to the Balkans is to fly to Sofia, Bulgaria. Sofia International Airport (SOF) is well-connected with major cities worldwide.

Airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, and Turkish Airlines, among others, operate regular flights to Sofia.

Once you’ve landed in Sofia, I highly recommend taking a guided tour with a reputable company like Travel Talk Tours.

They offer various tours that explore different parts of the Balkans, providing deep insights into the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

COST OF A BALKANS TOUR?

If you’re considering a tour of the Balkans, it’s essential to budget accordingly.

On average, for an organized tour with a company like Travel Talk, you can expect to pay around $1050 per person.

This typically includes accommodation, transportation between destinations, local tour guides, and some meals.

For optional tours, activities, additional meals, and souvenirs, it’s wise to budget an extra $50 per person per day.

This allows you to enjoy local experiences, taste regional cuisine, and bring home some souvenirs.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE BALKANS?

The optimal time to visit the Balkans depends on your personal preferences and planned activities.

Generally, the most pleasant times are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) when the weather is typically mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.

Summers (June to August) can be hot and crowded but are perfect for beachgoers. Winters are cold, especially in mountainous areas, but they’re great for winter sports.

DO I NEED DIFFERENT CURRENCIES & SIM CARDS?

In the diverse Balkans region, different countries use different currencies and sim cards.

For instance, Montenegro, Kosovo, Croatia, and Greece use the Euro, while nations like Bulgaria and Albania have their own currencies.

Therefore, it’s wise to have some local currency on hand for each country you visit.

To stay connected, consider purchasing prepaid SIM cards from local telecom providers in each country.

When traveling in multiple countries, like on this Balkans tour, I recommend getting an e-sim card, so you won’t need to buy a local sim in each country.

That said, remember that WiFi is always available at hotels on tour with Travel Talk!

Forget plastic SIM Cards… Get an eSIM!

Say hello to eSIM – a virtual SIM card pre-loaded with mobile data so you can get online and stay connected around the world.

OneSimCard is the best eSIM for travel, with low-cost data packages available in 150+ countries.

Simply buy online, install it on your smartphone, and you’re good to go!

DO I NEED A VISA FOR THE BALKANS?

Visa requirements for the Balkans vary depending on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit.

Most Western tourists, including those from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, can enter many Balkan countries without a visa for stays up to 90 days.

These countries include Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia, Albania, and Bulgaria.

However, some countries like Kosovo might have specific entry requirements.

For other nationalities, a visa may be required. It’s always recommended to check online for each country you plan to visit for the most up-to-date visa information.

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE BALKANS?

When visiting the Balkans, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

SUMMARY – BALKANS ITINERARY

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about this Balkans tour, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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Balkan Road Trip + Travel Itinerary with Coasts, Parks, & More

Posted on Last updated: November 28, 2021

So this Balkan road trip itinerary is one that I carefully planned out and actually did myself along with some close friends, so not only do I think is it reliable and doable – I KNOW!

I expertly crafted this Balkan road trip itinerary according to my group’s pace and needs, using my four years worth of knowledge from the Balkans and a wee bit of research. It was at least my second (or 30th – no joke!) time in most of these places, and I know them well enough  to lead an actual tour around them, let alone a virtual one.

This road trip around the Balkans includes Croatian islands at the beginning, after which you will rent a car (because you don’t need one for the islands, and who wants to waste money?! Not us!) and drive for the rest. You’ll then visit some Croatian National parks, Istria (northern Croatia), Slovenia, Bosnia + Herzegovina, and Montenegro.

These countries comprise the Western Balkans – one day I’ll make a longer itinerary including all the other incredible Balkan countries as well.

Specifically, this Balkans Itinerary Includes:

Dubrovnik – Elaphite Islands – Korcula – Hvar – Split – Zadar – Plitvice Lakes National Park – Pula – Motovun (Istria) – Ljubljana – Lake Bled/Lake Bohinj (Slovenia) – Makarska – Mostar – Blagaj Spring – Kravice Waterfalls – Pocitelj Castle (Bosnia + Herzegovina) – Kotor – Montenegro Road Trip (Ostrog Monastery, Podgorica, Lovcen National Park, Skadar Lake National Park, Sveti Stefan) – Budva – Dubrovnik.

I‘ll let you know where there are options to visit other places if you have more time. This Balkans itinerary as it is written lasts just under 3 weeks , but it’s designed so you can go at your own pace using the route I have outlined. There are only 18 specific days below, so pick your favorite place(s) and add extra days in here and there to suit your needs (or go super fast like we did and do it in 17-18). Choose your own adventure!

As with most of my itineraries, this Balkans road trip is for those of you who like a bit of adventure and aren’t afraid to move at a fast pace to allow you to experience more. You can always add more days wherever you like; I recommend to take this itinerary as a guide and go at a slower pace if you aren’t a fast travel type person (even a month or more if you like).

But First, If You Want More Info in Specific Places…

Did you know I used to be a tour guide in Croatia? When I had that job I was able to familiarize myself a LOT with the country and those that surround it. You can read my Super Guide to All of Croatia or my specific guides linked in each section below (most of which are outlined again in this EXTREMELY comprehensive itinerary).

When is the Best Time to Visit the Balkans?

This is a tough question depending on where you want to go, but I will almost ALWAYS tell you May/June or September/October. July and August (and late June really) are ‘peak season’ in the Balkans (especially coastal Croatia) and some places are so overrun with people you’ll wish you just stayed home.

Places like Dubrovnik are especially crowded, with cruise ship passengers taking over the entire old town when they descend upon the poor unsuspecting thing like a cheetah pouncing on its prey.

Renting a Car for your Balkan Road Trip

As I mentioned, the easiest way to get around is by renting a car (which you will see on day 6). You can also take busses, but some of the destinations on this Balkan road trip are a bit farther off the beaten track.

If you are on a bit of a budget or looking for adventure, you can also travel this region amazingly well with a camper van. You can rent one from Balkan Campers to combine cooking, sleeping, and driving all in one package! They have 13 awesome old school VW buses and 6 newer ones to rent. They are based in Slovenia but deliver the vans to Croatia as well, which would fit in with this itinerary!

Dubrovnik from up on the mountain

Balkan Road Trip Day 0: Arrive in Dubrovnik

Your Balkans itinerary conveniently begins and ends in Dubrovnik – you’re welcome 😉 Dubrovnik is one of the most famous cities in Europe and pretty much like a fairytale in real life. It’s a walled medieval town right on the Adriatic, with tons of beautiful streets and alleyways to explore, places to swim, and history to learn.

Getting to Dubrovnik

I can assume for the sake of this itinerary that you will be flying into Dubrovnik. I always use Skyscanner to compare fares from all flight providers to find the best deals. The busses in Croatia are also very reliable.

Make sure you read my in-depth Things to Do in Dubrovnik Travel Guide  for all the nitty-gritty on this awesome place. But for now, planning the day!

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

I would always recommend to stay inside the old town walls in Dubrovnik, so you don’t have to worry about traveling to get in on the action. There are also some really nice resorts that are quite removed. If you’re doing Airbnb, definitely get one inside the walls. Here are my best options for all budgets:

• Airbnb – There are TONS of awesome airbnb’s in Dubrovnik. We stayed in this one and loved it (there were 5 of us). There are tons of options, small and large, often overlooking the old town. Just make sure to book early.
• Hostels – Villa Angelina is a great on in old town (I stayed there years ago). City Walls Hostel is right near the cliff jumping bar.
• Hotels – Some amazing Dubrovnik resorts are Rixos Libertas (a few coves over from the main town but really lovely), and The Hilton (just outside the main gate of old town and really nice, gym and pool etc).

What to Do in Dubrovnik

Today you will fly in and get yourself situated; that’s pretty much it! Depending on what time your flight gets in you may have more or less time to explore. We got in quite late, and spent the evening wandering through the beautifully lit streets and eating a delicious meal at Veritas , one of my favorite restaurants I’ve been to dozens of times.

It’s in a main square of old town, and has some great options of classic Croatian food to introduce you to the cuisine. Try the ‘kiss of Dubrovnik,’ the Gunduluc Steak, the seafood platter, or the chicken a la bocar. 🙂

If you are in Dubrovnik on a weekend (which we were for the first night), make sure to check out the famous club Revelin . It’s inside the fortress walls of old town and is really incredible, decked out with amazing (loud) speakers, dancers, aerialists, and more. Just know that it gets good around 2am (but you can get free entry before about midnight with a voucher people give out all night in old town). You’re in Europe now – things go quite late!

Where to Eat in Dubrovnik:

• Veritas – classic Croatian Food
• Bona Fide – a Mexican/Italian restaurant for something different
• Lady Pipi – classic Croatian food with a view
• Alleyway Restaurants – there are tons of restaurants with tables in the narrow streets of old town. Many of these will serve classic Croatian food and seafood in a lovely atmosphere.

View from walking the city walls

Balkan Itinerary Day 1: Dubrovnik – Old Town

Rise and shine, it’s time for your first full day! Today you’ll do all the best things to do in Dubrovnik old town and surrounding areas – best done in order. There are loads of spots to check out so make sure you give yourself time to do it all (aka get going in the morning)!

Overlooking the City

• Tours: You can book the cable car with a buggy safari   (which are quite  popular) or together with a Dubrovnik walking tour.
• Museum of the Croatian War for Independence – At the top of the cable car hill, you’ll find a museum dedicated to the Croatian War for Independence, which happened a mere 26-27 years ago in 1991-2. You will come upon lots of recent history in this Balkans itinerary, so it will be good to familiarize yourself with the turbulent history right off the bat. Tickets are about 30kn and the experience is eye-opening.
• Panorama Bar/Restaurant – Grab a coffee, meal, or cocktail at the Panorama bar overlooking the cable car and city before you go back down. It might be one of the best views ever!

Dubrovnik Museums

• Rector’s Palace Museums – ethnographic, maritime, and archeological museums in the same building
• Sponza Palace – Art exhibits and Memorial Room for the defenders of Dubrovnik
• War Photo Museum – photos from the Croatian and other wars
• Marin Drzic house – home of a famous Croatian poet
• Or, just grab a 5 Euro street mojito on the main street 😉

Final Old Town Adventures

• Swim at the Buza (cliff) Bars – If it gets quite hot mid-day, it would be silly not to have a dip in the crystal blue Adriatic waters. The best place to do this is right off the walls of the town. There are two cliff bars (called buza bars) that you can find on the western edge of the old town. The entrances may be a bit hard to find, but it will be so worth it! One of the bars has steps into the water and the other is popular for jumping from high cliffs into the deep water.
• Walk the Walls of Old Town – When it gets a bit later (maybe a few hours before sunset, just make sure to check the opening times) it’ll be time to walk the old town walls of Dubrovnik. You can get tickets to the walls just inside the main Pile gate (see my Dubrovnik post for more preliminary info) and there are two entrances to the walls. People walk them in a counter clockwise direction. Make sure to give yourself at least an hour (preferably two) and to bring your camera!

At Night: Since you tried Veritas last night, you can now check out one of my other favorites: Bona Fide Mexican cafe . If you’re from California/Mexico you may not enjoy this Mexican food as much, but if you have been traveling and could use a Mexican fix, this food is really good. If you’d like something local again, head to Lady Pipi (go early because there may be a line!) or sit down to a romantic alleyway meal anywhere in old town.

Balkan Itinerary Day 2: Dubrovnik – Day Tours

After checking out the city yesterday, today it’s time to see why people from all over the world flock to swim in the waters of the Adriatic. Today jump on a boat tour of the Elaphite islands, which are gorgeous islands just outside the city’s port. You will be able to explore tiny island towns, swim in crystal clear waters, and maybe explore even more beaches and caves. If you have time, you can also go sea kayaking, Game of Thrones’ing, or more.

Note: You’ll want to buy online/ pick up ferry tickets to get Korcula tomorrow, today. You can purchase them in advance online or get them from a store called Travel Corner in port Gruž. Today, it’s a good idea to get them if/when you leave for your Elaphite islands tour from port Gruž, which is where the ferries leave from.

Elaphite Islands Tours

There are two different kinds of Elaphite islands tours, choose which sounds best to you:

• Big Boat Tour – The ‘galleon’ tour will take you to the three islands ( Šipan , Koločep, Lopud) and will drop you in the towns on each island. You’ll have free time in each little town to eat, swim, or explore.
• Speedboat Tour – The speedboat tour is an adventurous Elaphite islands tour, and will take you swimming through a blue cave, exploring and swimming through other island caves, swimming to a sandy beach, and more. Choose which one is best for you and click the bold letters to book.

When You get Back:

• Sea Kayaking: This is one of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik. Sea Kayaking Tours go from the old town, to a cave/beach down the coast, around some spots on Lokrum island, and back. It’s hard but beautiful and it includes lunch.
• Game of Thrones Tour: Dubrovnik was one of the main filming locations for Game of Thrones, and you can see lots of filming sites like King’s Landing and the Shame Steps on a GoT tour. You can also see some filming sites from the recent Star Wars movie.

Dinner: Today grab some takeaway after a long dayor choose from the recommended restaurants above.

If you aren’t too tired, there’s a lovely town called Cavtat about 30 mins south of Dubrovnik. They call it ‘Dubrovnik’s Monaco’ and it has some fancy resorts, nice restaurants, and beautiful shopping. You can get there by bus route 10 or by ferry boat from the old port in town.

Balkan Itinerary Day 3:  Dubrovnik to Korčula

Before you leave Dubrovnik: Get ready to check out, and spend your morning in Dubrovnik catching up on any activities you missed, exploring Lokrum Island, or relaxing on Banje Beach.

Getting from Dubrovnik to Korčula

You’ll take the ferry from Dubrovnik to Korčula (korch-uh-luh). Grab ferry tickets online or the day before you go while in port Gruz. We took the 4pm ferry which worked well. There’s also a very early one and a late one, maybe more dependent on the time of year.

Where to Stay in Korčula

I would recommend staying in or close to the old town since you won’t have much time here.

Airbnb – There aren’t as many airbnb’s in Korčula, especially for bigger groups, but there are options if you book early. We stayed in this one and had a great experience (with 5 of us).

Hostel – Hostel Korčula  is the most well-rated and central

Hotel –  Hotel Korčula  is central with a great view

What to Do in Korcula

Korčula is called a ‘mini Dubrovnik’ because it is similarly an old walled town on the water. It’s quite small, so this afternoon and tomorrow morning should be enough to explore.

They say that Korcula is the birth place of Marco Polo, and you can visit the Marco Polo house (where he is rumored to have been born), a Marco Polo museum, and tons of Marco Polo gift shops. If you’d like more back story and info about Korcula and a complete guide, check my Tour Guide’s Super Guide to Korcula linked below.

[irp posts=”4326″ name=”A Tour Guide’s Travel Guide to Korčula Island, Croatia”]

• Once you arrive, drop your bags and get ready to explore! I recommend today that you check out a cocktail bar called Massimo’s , which is a repurposed 14th century fortress where you climb up a ladder to get to the roof. It usually opens at 5.
• For sunset, climb the Bell tower in the main square of St Marko . It costs about 30kn, and is a one-way spiral staircase up the tower that has traffic lights to dictate when to go up and when to wait for people to come down! It’s the best view of the city and a great sunset spot.
• At some point, make sure to check out the hilariously interesting Marco Polo museum . It’s right outside the old town walls, and is comprised of a few different rooms with elaborate scenes/mannequins laid out to tell the story of a different part of Marco’s life/adventure. It usually closes late (9pm) so going after dinner today is not out of the question (that’s what we did).

Where to Eat in Korčula

Dinner in Korčula will fall sometime between the visiting the bell tower and the museum, or any time you get hungry! There are a few options:

Kavana No. 1 : This is probably the best place to eat in the city, and has an amazing view whether it is light out or not. It’s a bit of a climb to get to, but this restaurant is up on a hill overlooking the old town. If you want to try something authentic, order the meat peka (meat slow-cooked on hot coals under a bell). It’s absolutely delish. You might have to pre-order it if you have a few people though, since it takes a few hours of preparation. Just call in the afternoon. Tramonto : This is also another amazing sunset view, with a terrace facing west. You can grab cocktails here if you have time before dinner (it’s the second best sunset view), or they have some amazing dishes (the beefsteak Tramonto is one of my favorites).

Optional: If You Have More Time:

Stay another/a few more days and spend some time wind surfing, relaxing on the shore, or exploring other places around the island such as Lumbarda.

Check if there is a ‘Moreška’ dance during your stay. This is a traditional sword dance that reenacts a battle that the Korculans had with the Ottoman turks in the medieval times. It’s a huge part of Korcula culture and a spectacle to see.

Balkan Itinerary Day 4: Korčula to Hvar

Before you leave: Korčula: Today you’ll wake up in Korčula and take the time to go have breakfast on the eastern shore of town, where there are loads of restaurants in the shade of trees overlooking the water. Next, walk up the (western -the direction of the sunset last night!) coast away from town – this is the best place to swim.

You’ll pass by some rickety wooded docks shaded by palm trees along the road. Eventually you’ll come upon a pebbly beach where you can lay out and have a swim in the crystal clear water while gazing at a perfect view of the old walled town.

Getting from Korcula to Hvar

You’ll take another ferry today, from the same place, to Hvar. I recommend the 1pm ferry so you have a morning in Korcula to swim. The ferry takes about an hour.

Where to Stay in Hvar

Airbnb: We stayed in this one (6 guests) but I recommend this one for smaller groups/central.

Hostel: White Rabbit Hostel

Hotel: Hotel Adriana or Hotel Amfora

What to Do in Hvar

Hvar is another stunning island known for its nightlife. There will be options for both history and partying today, and enjoying Hvar’s great food. I also have a super-guide to Hvar, so if you’d like more in-depth info click below.

[irp posts=”4692″ name=”A Tour Guide’s Guide to Hvar Travel – All You Need to Know”]

• Spanjola Fortress – Once you enjoy the scenic ferry ride, arrive in Hvar, and drop your bags (might also be a good idea to grab your Split ferry tickets if you don’t have them already), it’s time to check out another fortress. The walk to Spanjola is about 15 mins from the town, and is one of the best views in Croatia. Pay about 30-40kn to enter the fortress and revel in the views and interesting information to learn about this site, which was built in the 1550’s.
• Adriana Rooftop Bar –  Ok guys, this is my secret spot that I would never tell my tour groups about. Don’t tell! There’s a lovely bar on the top story of hotel Adriana, right in the port. It’s a great place to relax and have a coffee or cocktail before heading to Hula Hula.
• Shopping + Markets – There are also lots of markets in town that sell souvenirs, jewelry, and lots of lavender, which is grown on the island. Get yourself some lavender oil/scent/soap for an authentic souvenir.
• Hula Hula Beach Cocktail Bar –  Hula Hula is one of the best bars in Croatia. It’s the perfect place to go a few hours before sunset, and will get crazier as the sun nears the horizon. It’s a cocktail bar that you can swim at, right on the water. They have blended strawberry daiquiris, pina coladas, and peach margaritas on tap, so enjoy a few of these (or cut right to the chase and get the 1L version!) before jumping into the sea and enjoying the music.

Where to Eat in Hvar

After Hula Hula, choose from one of  my recommendations below/in my Hvar Super Guide for dinner. Hvar has AMAZING food so it would be good to choose wisely or spend a few more days.

Spice Thai Food/Burgers in the Main Square: If you want something a bit different, there’s  a fantastic burger place right next to a Thai restaurant in the main square of Hvar town. They’re both owned by the same person and are both very reliable.

Black Pepper: Black Pepper is a beautiful restaurant in an alleyway of Hvar that focuses on modern and creative twists on classic Croatian dishes. You can’t go wrong here!

Dalmatino : Dalmatino is also right in the stone alleys of the town and is known for being one of the bet restaurants in town, with more traditional dishes and also different flavors of Croatian rakija to sample with your meal.

At Night: Hvar is known for having the best nightlife in southern Croatia. If there’s a place to have a night out, this would be it (along with Dubrovnik). After dinner I recommend getting ready and hitting up a few bars around 8-9pm, if that’s your thing. If not, relax with a drink in the square or along the harbor and watch the night come to life!

• Kiva Bar is infamous in Hvar. It gets really crowded around 9 so make sure to get in early! Expect delicious cocktails in some small crowded rooms in an alley, ‘tequila boom boom’s’ going around (thank me later), and all the possible singalong songs.
• Sidro Bar – home of the best espresso martini I’ve ever had. No joke. Also some fun singalongs and other great cocktails, but outdoors on a patio.
• Carpe Diem: this is a famous club on an island. There are free water taxis that go back and forth to an island off Hvar’s coast all night every night, and it’s one of the most unique clubs in Europe.

If You Have More Time:

Rent a car/vespa scooters and explore the island, rent a boat to explore the surrounding Pakleni islands, have a beach day, or take a 30 minute bus to explore to oldest town in Croatia, Stari Grad, and taste some Hvar wine.

Balkan Itinerary Day 5: Hvar to Split

Before you go: Today you’ll wake up and spend a morning in Hvar before heading to Split. Either relax before your ferry (I recommend the 1pm) or head down to one of a few small beaches to have a morning dip. Leisurely get your stuff together, have lunch if you desire (Vita Health Food Bar has good coffees), and head to the early afternoon ferry.

Getting from Hvar to Split

You’ll take your last ferry today, from the same place the previous one dropped you off. I recommend the 1pm Split ferry to have a last swim in Hvar before you go. The ferry takes about an hour.

Where to Stay in Split

Airbnb – Main Square Apartment  (we stayed here)/ Silver Luxury Apartment  for smaller groups

Hostel – Booze & Snooze (for central + party) Hotel – Palace Judita Heritage Hotel 

What to Do in Split

Split is the capital of the Croatian coast. Although a large city, Split’s center is quite small, relaxed, and full of history. I also have a specific guide to Split if you are interested about reading about things to do in Split in more depth.

[irp posts=”7775″ name=”A Tour Guide’s Guide to Split, Croatia: Adventures, Food, + Nightlife”]

• Cellars: These are the cellars underneath the palace which still retain their original form from a few thousand years ago. You can explore them and learn about their history.
• Peristyle: The main square, where the emperor used to address his people.
• Bell Tower: Built much later in the 1700’s, but with an amazing view over town (climb up for 30ish kuna).
• Vestibule: Often has an acapella group singing inside because of amazing acoustics
• Museums: Split City Museum, Ethnographic Museum, Museum of Fine Art
• Gelato: there are lots of good places in town
• Takeaway pizza/pastry: Croatia and especially Split is known for its cheap takeaway food
• Marjan Hill/Bell Tower – After exploring around old town, walk up Marjan Hill for a great view overlooking the city. If you still have time before sunset, climb the bell tower too!

Where to Eat in Split:

Visit my Split guide for more in-depth info. For sit-down places, I recommend Fife (cheap, quick, traditional food), Bokeria (fancy food and wine), or Diocletian’s Wine House (lovely atmosphere and wine selection).

Another option would be to get takeaway food/drinks and sit in the peristyle, which has live music most nights. You can get takeaway snacks from bakeries like Bobis for very cheap, or Toto Burger has great burgers, Mama Burger has burgers and wraps, and M Cafe has lots of takeaway meals. There are a few grocery stores in town where you can get a bottle of wine and cups to drink on the steps of the square as you eat.

At Night : I assume you’re very tired, so you might want to spend this night in! If not, Gaga Bar has great cocktails, and Charlie’s Bar is a great backpacker bar. Clubs include Bacvice Beach Club, Vanilla, Inbox, and Centar. I highly prefer a night out in Hvar though!

If you want to stay longer in Split, you can spend time either doing day trips from Split or relaxing on the beach. You can visit the blue cave of Vis, visit Krka National Park, or more as day trips from Split below that are not included in this Balkans Itinerary.

[irp posts=”7795″ name=”12 Must-See Day Trips from Split, Croatia”]

Balkan Itinerary Day 6: Split to Zadar

Today you’ll be soaking up your last moments in Split. In the morning, I recommend my favorite breakfast at Braserie on 7, which is an outdoor restaurant on the main Riva. They have an absolutely delicious special iced coffee, and a two tier sweet+savory breakfast that comes with a savory omelette and sweet french toast.

Pick up your rental car around 11am-noon, and head north to begin the true Balkans road trip. Check out some tips for driving in the Balkans if you like.

Getting to Zadar from Split:

You’ll need to figure out in advance which day you’ll be leaving from Split, and reserve a rental car. Make sure that the company you rent from allows border crossing.We found that the cheapest Balkans car rental is from Sixt , which has an office near the Old Town in Split (and allows your to cross country borders). Set your destination in Zadar and get on the road!

Quick Tips for Driving in the Balkans

Traffic laws in the Balkans are not too difficult too grasp. They drive on the right side of the road and have similar streets and freeways to the rest of Europe. Some roads may be narrow. Make sure you have a navigation system (even if offline Google Maps) to guide you on your way, as signs will obviously be in Croatian.

Where to Stay in Zadar:

Airbnb: We stayed at  Apartment Blue Sun Aurora – right in the middle of town.

Hostel: Downtown Boutique Hostel 

Hotel: Bastion Heritage Hotel

What to Do in Zadar

The first stop is Zadar, a historical ancient Roman town a few hours up the coast.

• Old Town – Zadar has another incredible old town centered around some ancient Roman ruins – they aren’t as well-preserved as Split, however! You can check out the Roman Forum (in the center) and learn a bit about it, wander through many shops and alleyways, walk on the old town walls, and try some delicious takeaway food and pastry.
• Museums – After exploring the Old Town, there are a few museums that may be of interest. We visited the Museum of Illusions , which was light hearted, trippy, and fun. It’s also next to a Museum of Ancient Glass if you’re into that kind of thing.
• Sea Organ – After walking around and visiting the museums, grab a drink from a market and head to Zadar’s most famous attraction, the Sea Organ . Located on the brim of the old town, the sea organ was constructed so that whenever the waves from the sea hit different sized openings in a platform over the water, they play different notes. Find a place to sit near the sound, crack open a drink (you  can have alcohol in public here), and enjoy a perfect view of the sunset over distant islands.
• Waterfront/Markets – After the sunset, meander along the waterfront towards the restaurant of your choice. Take your time and stop to check out artisans selling goods along the path, food vendors, and also lost of small market stalls in town.

Where to Eat in Zadar

For a sit-down meal, try Bruschetta (delicious higher-end restaurant) or Restaurant Kastel . Or, grab takeaway and sit in the lively main square near the forum. There are tons of great gelato places as well, which will be begging you to buy them and eat in the square also.

At Night: There are lots of cocktail bars and an outdoor club or two in Zadar. Check out Ledana for an outdoor patio club if you like. You have an early morning tomorrow, so choose wisely!

If you have more time:

There are some really cool full-day tours to do in/around Zadar if you have another day. Check out this kayaking through caves tour to Dugi Otok, or this popular river canoeing tour.

Plitvice Lakes National Park + Pula Arena

Balkans Road Trip Day 7: Zadar to Plitvice Lakes to Istria

Before you leave: Today is a big day! You’ll want to have breakfast in the accommodation and head back to the car quite early – by 8 or 9am. It will take 1.5 to 2 hours to drive to Croatia’s most famous National Park, Plitvice Lakes, from  which you will drive to Istria.

Plitvice Lakes is a beautiful green national park full of emerald lakes and prolific waterfalls. There are tons of trails surrounding it. Don’t underestimate it’s size, though – it’s very big and you’ll have to move fast to see it all!

Getting to/What to Do in Plitvice Lakes

Have your navigation direct you to one of the two main entrances to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Now, you will spend the next few hours exploring one of Croatia’s most beautiful and famous national parks, spotting fish in clear blue water, and marveling at waterfalls.

One part of the park has larger lakes and taller waterfalls, whereas the other part has tons of smaller waterfalls above each other. Once you enter, the best advice I can give is to walk counter-clockwise, which is going to be the opposite way as most people. Check out these tips for visiting Plitvice lakes for an in-depth look!

I recommend taking the long ferry boat that connects two sides of the park to each other (see map). The line may be long, but it’ll save you lots of energy! Follow the map route for the best self-guided views in Plitvice Lakes National Park, bring your camera, and prepare for a bit of walking!

Getting to/What to Do in Pula

You’ll want to shoot to be back at the car by about 4pm or earlier, to make the 3 hour drive to Istria. Rather than drive straight to Motovun, which is where you’ll be spending the night, I recommend driving the the capital of Istria, Pula, first. Pula is home to the second best preserved ancient Roman Colosseum in the world (after the actual colosseum) and is an extremely lively and historic port town.

In the summer months, it will be bustling even if you arrive around 7pm. First, visit the Pula Arena (ancient colosseum), which will be l it up even at night. Have a wander around the old town – the shops will still all be open – and then choose somewhere to grab food (sit down or takeaway).

Getting to Motovun

Finally, after dinner, make the hour drive to Motovun. Make sure you confirm a late arrival with your accommodation – around 10-11pm. Find your bed and crash – it’s been a LONG day!

Where to Stay in Motovun

Airbnb: We stayed in this gorgeous villa – outside of town next to  the Fakin winery (it’s okay to be out of town now you have a car!) or Galerija Motovun

Hostel: None, sorry!

Hotel: Hotel Kastel 

If You Have More Time

Stay a night in Pula and explore it more fully! You can try to Pula Hop on Hop Off bus for a relaxed tour, or a Pula caves + kayaking tour as well.

Balkans Road Trip Day 8: Motovun/Istria

You might want to sleep in today, adventurers, you’ve done well and moved fast thus far if you’ve followed this Balkans road trip Itinerary exactly. But today we have our first scheduled two-night stay so far… PHEW!

When you wake up and look outside, surely you’ll be stunned by the new daytime view of the beautiful countryside you arrived in late last night. Istria is often compared to Tuscany, and showcases a truly different side to Croatia than the southern coast.

To learn about Motovun more in-depth, red my guide below:

[irp posts=”11807″ name=”Things to do in Motovun Croatia: A Truffle-tastic Medieval Hilltop Town”]

What to do in Motovun

Today you will be exploring Motovun, a scenic medieval hilltop town known for its truffles, wine, and gastronomy.

• Truffle Hunting Tour – One of the most unique things to do in Motovun is take part in a truffle hunting and tasting tour put on by some famous family-owned truffle companies. On these you can taste local food and hunt with truffle-hunting dogs through dense forest as they sniff out one of the world’s delicacies: truffles. Check this site or my guide linked above for tours.
• Photos and Tastings in Old Town – Next, you’ll want to explore the hilltop town. Motovun is the foodie capital of Croatia, and has tons of small shops that give tastings of olive oil, truffle paste/oil, wine, rakija, and more. Pop into as many as you can and maybe you’ll find something you just can’t resist!
• Walk the Walls – Like many medieval towns, you can walk the walls of Motovun for 25kn. Enjoy views of the rolling green hills and understand why many people call Istria “the Tuscany of Croatia!”
• Wine Tasting – If you have time, there are a few wineries in the area. Fakin Winery was right next to our airbnb and offered tastings through the day.

Where to Eat in Motovun:

I recommend a truffle-tactic sit-down meal here. Each restaurant has many dishes based upon the white and black truffles of the area, and this is truly the time to indulge!  Fakin Restaurant overlooks the sunset and serves their own truffle and wine – you can’t go wrong!

After Dinner: Grab your favorite bottle of wine, take it back to your accommodation, and relax!

Predjama Castle + Ljubljana, Slovenia

Balkans Road Trip Day 9: Motovun to Predjama Castle to Ljubljana

Before you leave: Enjoy a lazy morning in Motovun; I recommend having breakfast in your accommodation and getting ready to go to Slovenia at your earliest convenience – maybe 8 or 9.

Getting to Slovenia/Driving in Slovenia:

You’ll drive past some lovely little hilltop towns on your way into Slovenia. As your rental car company will have hopefully told you, you’ll need to purchase a tourist tax sticker at your earliest convenience once you enter the country. Driving here should be no different than Croatia; just make sure you have your passports to cross the border and purchase the blue tourist tax emblem once you are in at the nearest service station.

Currency Change: They use the euro in Slovenia. You’ll want to exchange euro or get some out before the trip. Montenegro also uses euro.

Predjama Castle

The first stop in Slovenia will be an incredible castle built into the  side of a cliff face – Predjama Castle. Driving here from Motovun should take about 1.5 hours, assuming the line at the border isn’t too long. You can either admire Predjama from outside, or pay a bit extra to go inside. You can visit Postojna caves and Predjama castle together as they are right next to each other, if you’d like a bit of extra adventure before getting to Ljubljana.

What to do in Ljubljana

After visiting the castle/caves, you should arrive in Ljubljana in less than an hour. If you time it well, you can arrive into Slovenia’s capital by 1-2pm, giving you a free afternoon to explore. Once you check  into your accommodation, get out into the city!

• Walk around the city:  marvel at the old streets + town, visit the three bridges , the main square, and more
• Try some coffee at a local cafe – I recommend Cafe Cokl 
• Walk through the large + grassy Tivoli park
• Visit the National Gallery + Art Museum (near Tivoli Park)
• Walk up to the Ljubljana Castle for sunset.

Surprise! I also have a guide to Ljubljana, Bled, and Bohinj which will go farther in depth than this Balkans Itinerary. Read it below.

[irp posts=”4396″ name=”Slovenia Travel Guide: Make the Most of Ljubljana, Bled, and Bohinj”]

Where to Eat in Ljubljana

• Restaurants along the river – these have a great view
• Ljubljana Castle – has a restaurant inside
• Try a Horseburger – an original Slovenian creation, the ‘Horseburger’ is lean and healthy and can be obtained from the fast food restaurant Hot Horse. 

Where to Stay in  Ljubljana

• Airbnb: We stayed at Martys Place in a Villa – lovely + just a  short walk from town. Or, stay in Loft Above the Main Square  for extra-central.
• Hostel: Hostel Tresor 
• Hotel: Grand Hotel Union

Lake Bohinj from Mt. Vogel Cable Car

Balkans Road Trip Day 10: Ljubljana to Lake Bled/Lake Bohinj

Today you will do a day trip from Ljubljana to some GORGEOUS lakes in the Slovenian countryside. Most people know about Lake Bled, which is quite famous, but not Lake Bohinj, which is just 30 minutes away. The true adventurers can squeeze highlights of both into one day by following the itinerary below.

Getting From Ljubljana to Lake Bohinj

You’ll start off by driving to the far end of Lake Bohinj, which is about 1:15 hours away from the city. Set your navigation to Ukanc, or the Mt. Vogel Cable Car.

What to Do in Lake Bohinj

Once you arrive at the Mt. Vogel cable car, buy a ticket (they depart every 30 mins) and ride it to the top of the mountain. This will give you an idea of the extent of the Slovenian Alps right away. You’re in a MASSIVE mountain range known for climbing, snow sports, and more!

Mt Vogel is a ski resort in the winter, but a fantastic view in summer. You don’t need too long here unless you want to hike (for which you’d need extra days). Simply take some photos of the lake below and marvel at the view of the Julian alps, which will be a big scenery change from the coasts.

Next, drive to the other end of Lake Bohinj (Ribcev Laz) and park. Now, you can either have a leisurely walk around part of the lake, lay in the sun if it’s warm enough, or (my personal favorite) rent some kayaks . Many agencies rent kayaks near the water. Rent some for about an hour, which is just enough time to paddle to the nearest side of the lake and have a swim.

Where to Eat In Bohinj

After some exploring and kayaking, surely you’ll be hungry… and why not try some authentic Slovenian food?! Gostilnica Strudl is as authentic as it gets, and is just in the main town outside of Lake Bohinj. I can’t remember the specific dish names, but make sure to get the Strudl tasting platter with the sour milk to dip bread into (trust me), and the noodles with brown sugar and jam for afterwards.

What to Do in Lake Bled

Next, drive 30 mins to Lake Bled. First, hike to the Ojstrica  Viewpoint , giving you sweeping views of Lake Bled (about 20-25 minutes). Next, walk along the water and consider having one last swim near the pebbly beach there.

Lastly, drive up to Bled Castle for sunset (we’ve done enough physical activity today!) and enjoy the surroundings. If you like, make a reservation at the restaurant for a 5 course dinner menu with a view. If not, grab some takeaway food either in Bled, or when you get back to Ljubljana! The drive will be about an hour.

Slovenia would be a great place to extend your trip for a few days. Spend an extra day exploring Ljubljana more fully, and then book accommodation near Bled OR Bohinj. You can do a 12k hike around one side of Lake Bohinj, go river rafting in Bled , do an organized tour + boat ride to Bled Lake/Castle,  or go canyoning in the Bohinj Valley .

Balkans Road Trip Day 11: Slovenia to Mostar (+ Makarska!)

Today is our first big driving day! There is an option to stop in my one of favorite places in Croatia: Makarska. The drive would be 6.5 hours to Mostar without stopping, or 7.5 hours with it (plus however long you want to spend there – I recommend 2 hours).

Getting from Ljubljana to Makarska

Leave by 10ish, or earlier if you can. Drive straight to Makarska, which is my favorite Croatian coastal town at the base of Croatia’s tallest rocky mountains. Stop off for a swim, lunch, and maybe a bit of shopping!

• Swimming/Cliff Jumping – the best place to swim would be directly across from Deep Cave Bar , which is actually also a really cool cave bar. You can jump off the cliffs a few minutes down the coast from there as well.
• Wander Along the 2km Pebbly Beach + Markets – Makarska has a very long beach lined with restaurants along the water and tons of markets. Grab a bite to eat, a takeaway crepe or slushie, wander through the markets, or have another swim along the (often crowded) beach.
• Water Sports – you can also rent a jet ski or go parasailing in Makarska. If you have time I strongly recommend it!

Getting from Makarska to Mostar

When you’ve had your fill, the drive to Mostar from Makarska is less than 2 hours. Have your passports out to cross into the third country of your trip!

Once you arrive at your accommodation, have your first look around the Old Town, which completely lights up at night. If you haven’t already shopped till you drop, check out the markets of this old Turkish town, and marvel at the difference in feel between the Croatian Coast less than two hours ago, and now.

I have a complete travel guide to Mostar, too! Click below for more in-depth info.

[irp posts=”11690″ name=”Things to Do in Mostar Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Mostar Travel Guide “]

Tonight, grab a bit to eat at The Food House – a more casual and affordable yet authentic food option right outside the old town.

Where to Stay in Mostar

Airbnb – The Villa Secret Gardens for bigger groups (I stayed here and loved it) or Downtown Vintage Room for central/smaller

Hostel – Hostel Nina

Hotel – Muslibegovic House (historic + upscale) or Shangri La Mansion (central)

Balkans Road Trip Day 12: Mostar Sights + Surrounds

Now you have a full day to explore Mostar! Get going whenever, and head to some of the sights of the city. Below are the sights I recommend for today; don’t forget to check out my Mostar Travel Guide for more in-depth information about each.

• Kajtaz House – a historical authentic Turkish house
• Old Town and Old Bridge – obviously! See if you can catch anyone jumping from it.
• Mosques – Climb to the top of the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and revel at the historic Nesuh-Aga Vučjaković Mosque.
• War + Genocide Museum – Learn about the atrocities of the Yugoslav War in Bosnia
• Bosnian Coffee – Try one from Cafe de Alma

At some point, get a takeaway lunch (try the cevapi!) and go down to the square below the old bridge and see if you catch anyone jumping. Head back to the car around 4-5pm for a slight road trip to Blagaj Springs 15 minutes away.

• Blagaj Springs – Blagaj is the source of the Buna River and the deepest spring in Europe. It’s home to a historic Dervish house, which is a branch of Islam. First, go to the ‘Vrelo Bune’ viewpoint across from Dervish House for some great photos. Then head inside the house! You’ll have to cover up to go inside this traditional place of worship, but they have scarves for you.

When you’ve had your fill of views and more markets, head back to Mostar. This evening it’s time to shop at the markets for any final souvenirs, and have a fancier and bona fide Bosnian dinner at Šadrvan . This restaurant is one of the best known, and has great tasting platters where you can try a variety of cuisine.

At Night: Check out the Black Dog Pub – see if they have live music on (they usually do) and try some local beers or different flavors of rakija. If you want to keeo going into the night, Ali Baba club is the way to go – located inside a cave next to the Old Bridge!

You could definitely spend longer in Bosnia + Herzegovina. We touch on the main sights of Mostar in this Balkans road trip itinerary, but if you have more time, you could spend a couple days in Bosnia’s capital, Sarajevo . Sarajevo is even more heavily Turkish than Mostar, with a heavier war history, too.

Mosques ring out through the hills in a call to prayer throughout the city every few hours, putting the soukhs in a brief pause from their usual activity. There are great viewpoints looking over the city, fascinating ruins, and rich history.

Balkans Road Trip Day 13: Bosnian Highlights to Kotor, Montenegro

Before You Leave Mostar: Have a leisurely morning – no need to leave before 10/11 today. Put on your swim suit for a brief stop at some gorgeous waterfalls (and a castle) on the way out of the country and into Montenegro.

Mostar to Kravice Waterfalls and Počitelj Castle

It will take you less than an hour to drive from Mostar to the region of two  more famous viewpoints of the region: Kravice Waterfalls and Počitelj Castle. Stop first at Kravice Falls. Spend an hour or two swimming in the chilly water and exploring the gorgeous waterfall systems and rock pools. Read my guide to visiting Kravice waterfalls below for more info:

[irp posts=”11744″ name=”Visiting Kravice Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina: All You Need to Know”]

After your swim, get changed and drive 10 minutes to the impressive hillside fortress of  Počitelj . This was a Hungarian fort before the area was under Ottoman rule, and now it’s an old walled town up a hill with a few great lookout points.

One side is all done up and preserved with glass, but the rest are more authentic ruins crumbling at the edges. You can climb some old winding stairs in one of the fortresses to see an amazing view of the river and countryside.

You’ll notice millions of pomegranate trees in the town – this area is known for them! Old ladies will be selling homemade juices of pomegranate, elderflower, and rose, and little cones full of fresh nuts and dried fruit. You can buy lots of fresh fruit here also – it’s very cheap and delicious!

Počitelj to Kotor, Montenegro

After Pocitelj, it’s time to head into Montenegro. This border sometimes takes a little while, and you must make sure you have your car registration (and passports of course) ready to show at the border.

It should be about 3 hours from Pocitelj to Kotor, not counting any waiting time at the border. You will probably end up arriving in the late afternoon/evening, giving you time to check into your accommodation and wander into town for dinner.

Where to Stay in Kotor

Airbnb: We stayed in this one – about a 10 minute walk from town. Try Apartment Karampana for smaller/more central.

Hostel: Old Town Hostel West Wing – one of my favorites

Hotel: Boutique Hotel Astoria

What to Do in Kotor

It might be late when you get in today, so simply walk into the old walled town (are you tired of them yet?! 😛 ) and have a bit of an explore and dinner before retiring for the night.

Balkans Road Trip Day 14: Explore Kotor

Today you have a full day to explore Kotor!

• Explore Old Town:  Marvel at the old Venetian gates, get lost in the impossible streets of old town, explore the shops, enter old churches, walk the walls, drink coffee in the alleyways, etc.
• Cat Museum + Cat Gift Shop (and all the actual cats!) – Kotor is known for having TONS of stray cats – so much that they have created an entire cat gift shops and museum!
• Swimming – There is a small beach to swim outside of town (although it’s not the nicest of this balkans road trip itinerary)

A few hours before sunset, hike up to the fortress! You’ll notice that the walls of the old town actually zigzag all the way up the rocky cliffside and connect to the fortress to make one continuous walled town. It’s pretty impressive, and the view from the top is even more so. The Bay of Kotor is truly a sight to behold, with the distant boats and dramatic mountains jutting out from the water.

There’s an option to hike even higher, to farther mountaintops that present an even better (if that’s even possible) view. I did this once a few years back. If you want to hike higher, I recommend doing the hike in the morning and exploring the town in the evening.

Where to Eat in Kotor

After the hike, it’s time to get your tired self some food. Some top rated restaurants are Galion and Tanjga. We went to Restaurant city (on google maps as ‘grad’) on my most recent trip, and it was fairly good and very central.

You can do bigger hikes or sailing trips around the mountains and Bay of Kotor. However, I recommend spending more time exploring the rest of Montenegro… so keep reading!

Lovcen National Park

Balkans Road Trip Day 15: Montenegro Road Trip to Budva

For this part of the Balkans road trip, I’m going to give you a couple options. If you have more time, you can follow my comprehensive Montenegro road trip route linked below (will take 2+ days).

[irp posts=”11752″ name=”The Best Things to Do in Montenegro in a Montenegro Road Trip Itinerary”]

If you only have one day, you can follow the stops below. Either way, your road trip will start in Kotor and end in Budva, so bring your stuff and get started early! Budva is another (you guessed it) walled coastal town. It is larger and more lively than Kotor, and you’ll have a full day here after your road trip to relax and take in the epicness of your Balkans travel.

One-Day Shorter Montenegro Road Trip Route (See post above for timings + more info)

• Slansko Lakes – stop for a photo as you drive
• Ostrog Monastery (+ mountains views along the way) – this is a famous monastery built into the side of a tall mountain. It’s a picturesque Montenegrin icon, and the views on the way there are equally stunning as well.
• Podgorica/Niksic – These are two main Montenegrin cities/capital that you can drive through on your way through the countryside.
• Pavlova Strana Viewpoint in Skadar Lake National Park – This is a famous 180 degree river bend on the outskirts of Lake Skadar National Park, on the border or Albania. The roads will be a bit sketchy, but the view is worth it!
• Lovcen National Park – weave your way to a mountaintop mausoleum in the stunning rocky Lovcen National Park. Prepare for picturesque views and a creepy yet fascinating mausoleum for an old leader.
• Sveti Stefan –  After making your way back to the coast, make one final detour to a famous island. Sveti Stefan is connected to the coast by a thin bridge, and is home to a VERY fancy hotel. Don’t get any ideas about walking onto the island itself (unless you’re very rich), but it’s a fantastic photo op and  swimming spot.

Now – head to the final stop of your Balkans road trip – Budva, Montenegro!

Where t0 Stay in Budva

• Airbnb:   Sea View Studio  for a view/removed,  or  Old Town Budva Authentic Apartment  for central
• Hostel:  Freedom Hostel Budva
• Hotel:   Apartment  Alex Viewpoint

Where to Eat in Budva

• Konoba Portun – a quaint alleyway restaurant with great food
• Kafana Rivijera  – classic montenegrin food + atmosphere

Spend up to an entire week on you the Montenegro Road Trip.  Click here to read my post about canyoning, river rafting, zip lining, hiking, alpine lakes, scenic overpasses, and more amazing things you can do in Montenegro when you stray from the coast.

Balkans Road Trip Day 16: Budva

Budva is easily worth a few days time – it’s a much bigger city than Kotor and is the place young and old come at night time to wander the busy old town streets, listen to live music, and go clubbing.

What to Do in Budva

Hopefully you aren’t tired of exploring old towns, because you have one last one to explore! Today, you can:

• Wander through old town – get lost in the alleyways, browse through shops, find out what makes Montenegro different than the other countries you’ve seen
• Museums – Check out the Maritime Museum, City Museum, and a few art galleries
• Statua Ballerina – look at the ballerina statue up the coast from the town
• Sveti Stefan – You can also do Sveti Stefan today (rather than yesterday) to spend more time there. You could even relax on the beach all day! It’s great for a morning or sunset swim.
• Old Town Beach – if you’re just exhausted and can’t do anything else – plop down onto a beach chair on the beach outside old town, and don’t move ALL day. That’s fine too!

After the sun sets, choose a spot from the list above to have a last meal from your Balkans road trip. I’d suggest checking out what’s on in the town, too. It’s always bustling at night in the summer months with street fairs, open air clubs, and more. Soak in the final moments of an incredible trip – you’ve earned it!

Balkans Road Trip Day 17: Back to Dubrovnik

Well, now it’s time to drive to Dubrovnik and return your rental car… sad face. BUT FIRST – we can squeeze in one final stop, depending on the time of your flight (or if you are spending your final night in Dubrovnik like we did). If you missed out on Cavtat during your first bout in Dubrovnik… you can visit on the way back today!

Even if just for a coffee and a break from driving, pull a few minutes off the main road to soak up the last few moments of Croatian sun.

Next,  return your rental car at Sixt. They have a location near Hotel Rexos and at the airport. If you’re staying the night, return it near the hotel. Ideally, stay there or nearby. If you’re flying out, return it at the airport and be on your way!

If you have a night, spend your last afternoon relaxing and having one more swim at Bellevue beach , and have a last dinner in port Gruz. Catch a taxi to the airport in the morning, and there you are done and dusted!

Made it all the way to the end?! Don’t forget to PIN me! 

Thursday 20th of June 2019

Great tips. Shame to miss Serbia, Kosovo and Albania and the less touristy parts of Montenegro though. :)

Monday 24th of June 2019

Thank you! :) In three weeks it would be pretty much impossible to include it all, so I had to prioritize due to the schedule I had and the needs of my group. One day I'll make a separate itinerary for those countries as well! Also, my Montenegro road trip post that I linked to quite clearly a few times in the Montenegro section includes many more parts of Montenegro that I mentioned it would be great to go to if you had more time. It covers pretty much the whole country - check it out! :)

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3 Perfect Balkans Itinerary Options: 10 Days, 1 Month, and More [+PDF]

Traveling and backpacking in the Balkans is an extraordinary experience that offers the best of Europe on a backpacker budget. This Balkans itinerary will deliver the best of Europe. Delicious, Italian and Turkish-inspired food and drink. World-class beaches and Rivieras. Towering alps and the southernmost fjords in Europe. The Balkans backpacking experience offers so much to love in such a small area and at a great price that it should be top of every traveler’s list.

Read on to discover the best of the Balkans, the essentials for a perfect experience wandering the Balkans, including the best route and itinerary for 10 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and 4 or more weeks.

My experience exploring Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia, Serbia, and more was one of the highlights of my European backpacking experience. Amazing food, plenty of great drink (wine and Rakja), never-ending parties, captaining a boat, extraordinary nature of towering mountains in bays, fantastic beaches, plenty of friends and friendly locals, and more. In this Balkans itinerary, I’ll share the must-see sights and experiences and how to make them happen to help you craft the perfect Balkans backpacking experience for you.

CONTENTS OF THIS PERFECT BALKANS ITINERARY

• Quick Balkans Itinerary for 10 Days to 14 Days
• The Full Balkans Travel Itinerary (3+ Weeks)
• Why The Balkans
• Balkans Tour Options to Consider
• Slovenia : Fairy tale like nature, lakes, and forests
• Croatia : Castles, Game of Thrones, wine, Italian inspired cuisine, an exquisite coastline
• Bosnia and Herzegovina : History, Ottoman influenced culture and cuisine
• Serbia : Never ending parties on the riverfront, fusion foods, rakija culture
• Montenegro : Norwegian styled fjords in warm, welcoming waters
• Albania : The Albanian Riviera’s amazing beaches and the Albanian alps
• Bulgaria : Artsy neighborhoods, nature, and gourmet locavore food culture for cheap

The Additional Balkans Destinations

• Kosovo (Optional)
• Macedonia (Optional)

Logistics of Traveling the Balkans

• Balkans Travel Budget & Tips
• Visas and Crossing Borders in the Balkans
• Travel Insurance: Do You Need It In The Balkans?
• When To Visit The Balkans
• Tips for Staying In The Balkans On A Budget
• Balkans Packing List Essentials
• How To Get Around The Balkans
• Balkans Travel FAQ

BALKANS ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS: THE TOP 10 THINGS TO EXPERIENCE IN THE BALKANS

• Montenegro: The southernmost fjords in Europe and beautiful waterways
• Albania: Undiscovered escapes, beautiful rivieras that rival the Greek isles, Albanian Alps
• Croatia: Medieval architectural beauty and a “Balkans meets Venetian Italy” vibe
• The Albanian Riviera
• The Albanian Alps
• The fjords of Montenegro
• The castles of Croatia
• National Parks throughout
• World-class beaches in Albanian, Croatia, and Montenegro
• Scandinavian style fjords and towering mountains in Montenegro
• Rich food and amazing wine influenced by the Italians, the Ottomans, and Eastern Europe
• Medieval castles and city centers along the entire Balkans backpacking route

WHAT TO SEE AND DO WHILE YOU’RE IN THE BALKANS

KEY BALKAN ITINERARIES

THE TWO PERFECT BALKANS ITINERARY OPTIONS FOR YOUR TRIP: 10 DAYS AND MORE

The Balkans is such an impressive destination for backpackers and travelers because it offers so much for every type of traveler – and it just so happens to be budget-friendly too. Any one of the core Balkan countries could easily be a multi-week destination.

To balance maximum experience with enjoyment, we’ve created 2 separate itineraries.

The first option is the Balkans itinerary for 10 days , which focuses on the highlight destinations and experiences of the Balkans that no one can miss and skips the countries with redundant views or experiences.

The second is the full Balkans itinerary for 2-3 weeks or more , the itinerary achieves the same (maximum enjoyment and unique experiences), but at a slower, more enjoyable pace and more sites in each country added to ensure constant enjoyment. This itinerary includes everything you need to see in the Balkans if time is no issue and you’re one of the lucky backpackers on the long trail. If you’re backpacking in the Balkans, this full Balkans itinerary is the option you need.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A FREE PDF OF THIS GUIDE!!

BALKANS ITINERARY (10 DAYS)

Balkans travel is something that every traveler should experience, but not all travelers have the full month necessary to backpack and slow travel the Balkans. This Balkans itinerary for 10 days packs the best sites, tastes, and experiences of the region into a smooth, 10-day jaunt.

With this 10 day Balkans itinerary, every single day will be mind-blowing and enjoyable and leave you wanting to return to the Balkans very soon.

If you are pressed for time, this 10-day itinerary delivers the best of the Balkans – beaches, food, Roman ruins and architecture, and more. However, if you have more time to spare, I highly recommend spending a month or more moving slowly through the Balkans and staying a little longer anywhere that catches your interests.

Read on to discover the places I recommend for a full Balkans itinerary of a few weeks or more.

THE FULL BALKANS TRAVEL ITINERARY (2 TO 6 WEEKS)

The Balkans has just as much richness, beauty, and culture as much more popular and crowded Western Europe, without the crowds and at a far cheaper price tag – fjords, mountains, and national parks as good as any in Scandinavia, wine that rivals Italy and France, rich hearty food that is unmatched, ruins that rival Rome, beaches that are on par with the islands of Greece, Spain, and France, and nightlife that puts Barcelona and Majorca to shame.

If you have a month or more to spare, I highly recommend backpacking the Balkans with this full Balkans travel itinerary.

This itinerary traces a trail through the Balkans, traversable by bus with manageable stops along the way every few hours, giving you a “best of the Balkans” tour, doable on a budget easily by bus.

For those travelers with more time for wandering and backpacking the Balkans, this itinerary shares every place you need to visit and see.

HOW TO USE THESE ITINERARIES

Both of the itineraries above, the Balkans 10-day itinerary and the itinerary, are perfect. Which itinerary you choose obviously depends on how much time you have to travel. For the longer itinerary, you should choose or eliminate destinations based on your own travel style – backpacker, budget traveler, outdoorsy, or party hungry.

If you only have ~10 days, stick to our 10-day itinerary, and you’ll hit the highlights of the regions and the best thing that each country has to offer.

If you’re traveling for 2+ weeks or backpacking, use the full itinerary omitting Kosovo, Macedonia, and Macedonia if you need to save time. Otherwise, hop the bus and enjoy each destination on our list.

If you find a city or country that you particularly enjoy, you should absolutely stay longer in that city or country.

Stay longer in countries where you love the sights, food, people, and lifestyle. As you travel, if you find a country/culture you love, stay longer and add more cities from that country to your itinerary (I recommend a few for each country).

The experience will change drastically once you leave each country as each Balkan country is very unique, so soak it up while you’re there – food, drink, people, architecture, and nature.

Plus , you can always go back and explore other destinations, so live in the moment as much as possible when you travel.

WHY I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE BALKANS

If you’re looking for some of the most diverse (in culture, religion, language) and untouched parts of Europe, Balkans is a great place to go. The Balkans region has seen it all: from Macedonia’s Roman ruins and stunning mountain ranges in Kosovo to Croatia’s stunning shades of blue lagoons and epic beaches. What attracted me and my experience backpacking the Balkans

• European experience on a Southeast Asia travel budget
• Plenty of “ vacation nature ” and natural beauty – fjords, rivieras, waterfalls, and alps – within a short ride
• The best beaches in Europe for extremely cheap
• “Old World” and medieval cities and architecture bring Game of Thrones to life with castles and walled city centers.
• The varied and rich food : everything from Italian-inspired Istrian, hearty Slavic, and Ottoman/Middle Eastern -inspired Bosnian.
• The drink: Croatian, especially Istrian, wines are underrated, and world-class thanks to Italian influence, and the Rakija (local firewater) is interesting, complex and varied across the Balkans
• Compact and accessible traveling : most of the adventures are hours away from each other by an easily booked and cheap bus or train
• Easy visa situation: whereas the rest of Europe in the Schengen zone only allows 90 days per six months in all of the European Union, each Balkan state offers easily renewable and free visas from 30 days to 6 months
• Less crowded than the rest of Europe with all of the experience
• Plenty of history intact with cities built by Roman emperors , recent wars, and recently opened borders (Albania)

The Balkan region – Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Slovenia, Serbia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina – offers amazing food, hearty and rich, that will satisfy any taste buds and wine as good as anywhere else in Europe. If you are looking for a “European vibe” but want an experience that’s cheaper, less crowded, and less touristy than the typical destinations, then the Balkans is a perfect place to visit.

The Balkans will give you an unforgettable experience – just make sure to pack your swimsuit, hiking shoes!

BEST BALKANS TOUR OPTIONS

If you’re not in the mood for indie travel, or if you’re pressed for time and want to see all of the Balkans in two weeks but want to skip the logistics planning, I highly recommend attending one of these reputable Balkans tours.

THE FULL BALKANS ITINERARY

Click to Jump to The itineraries

| SLOVENIA | | CROATIA | | MONTENEGRO | | BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA | | SERBIA | | ALBANIA | | BULGARIA |

———-

THE ADDITIONAL BALKAN TRAVEL ITINERARY DESTINATIONS

| MACEDONIA | | KOSOVO |

Quaint European towns and Insta-worthy lakes, forests, and caves

For nature lovers and sober travelers, Slovenia is a picturesque and green destination that may be worth adding to your itinerary.

Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital and Europe’s greenest city, is a charming and quintessentially European city – walkable with cobblestone streets and a Riverwalk with plenty of coffee shops to enjoy the cool weather and peacefully picturesque views.

One hour away from the capital Slovenia’s biggest tourist destinations – Bled and Lake Bled – are nestled in the Julian Alps and deliver tons of Insta-worthy views. Hike up to Bled castle, boat to a church on an island, visit the charming village of Ribcev Laz on the shore of Lake Bled and take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Vogel for a panorama view.

End this leg of the trip by visiting the most toured cave in Europe (Postojna cave) and seeing the castle built into it (Predjama Castle) on your way to Croatia.

If you want to jump right into sunny beaches and lively nightlife, I suggest going straight to Croatia.

TIME NEEDED:

3 Days (1 Day in Ljubljana, 1 Day in Bled, 1 Day visiting Postojna Cave And Predjama Castle)

ESSENTIAL FOOD & DRINK

• Kremna rezina
• Kranjska klobasa
• Bograč
• Idrijski žlikrofi
• Pogača
• Štruklji
• Prekmurska gibanica

SLOVENIA VISA

Slovenia is part of the Schengen zone, so the Schengen visa applies – 90 days in a 180 day period, shared with all of the Schengen zone / EU countries

BUDGET/PRICES: ~$50 per day

• Hostel Dorm: $25/night
• Budget Hotel: $45/night
• Food: $15/day
• Transportation: $10 to $15 per day average, to visit attractions
• Attractions: ~$25

MOVING ON: From Ljublana, or anywhere else in Slovenia, if you are on a shorter itinerary (2 weeks or less), hop a bus (~8 hours) or a train (~10 hours + $38) to Split, Croatia, from Ljublana . If you are on a longer itinerary, hop a 5-hour bus or train (~$15) to Pula, Croatia and enjoy Istria .

GETTING THERE: As Slovenia is the start of many travelers’ and backpackers’ trails in the Balkans, the cheapest option is to fly into Bupadest, Hungary, enjoy the beauty of Budapest for a few days and then travel from Budapest, Hungary, to Ljublana, Slovenia by 7-hour train (~$30) or 7-hour bus (~$30) .

SLOVENIA ITINERARY

Slovenia has some amazing natural beauty that is world-class and that travelers rave about – but so do Montenegro, Croatia, and Albania, without being as far from the central Balkans backpacking route. Additionally, Slovenia offers very little outside of nature – while the rest of the Balkans offer rich food, drink, entertainment, and history.

Though Slovenia is remarkably beautiful, if you’re short on time traveling the Balkans, I recommend skipping Slovenia and starting your tour further south, closer to the action.

The Ljubljana city center was planned like an old baroque town, with cobbled streets and a Roman-style canal, catering to a day of walking and a leisurely lifestyle. This is a city that has been preserved in its original form, with buildings from all periods represented, all the while still moving forward. In 2014, Ljublana was awarded the Greenest City in Europe for its dedication to and advancements in sustainability, proving that Ljublana’s soul matched its surrounding beauty of turquoise lakes and sprawling forests.

Ljubljana also has a rich literary and artistic tradition, possibly cultivated by its welcoming cafes, with writers such as Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andric and poets like France Preseren make it their home for much of the 19th century. These literary giants influenced not just Ljublana but also much of the Balkans region as well through their work and by inspiring other writers.

WHAT TO DO IN LJUBLJANA

• Preseren Square and Tromostovje Triple Bridge
• Ljubljana Old Town, walking its two main streets
• Visit the Ljubljana Castle by funicular or hike
• Dragon Bridge
• Walk the riverfront
• Visit Congress Square
• Tivoli Park
• Museum of Illusions

TIME NEEDED: 1 Day

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS LJUBLANA:

WHERE TO STAY IN LJUBLANA

The hostel or hotel standards in Slovenia are great, so just choose one that fits your style. However, be choosy about the location to maximize your experience – either the Old Town or the Modern City Center are where you should look for accommodation. H20 Hostel comes highly recommended.

LAKE BLED / BLED

Bled, Slovenia, is a charming little town tucked up in the Julian Alps with the farily tale like Lake Bled situated right beside it. For those backpackers and travelers that love calm, pristine outdoor beauty and just the experience of strolling through a new place, Bled (just like the rest of Slovenia) will capture your heart.

Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the historic and beautiful city center, eating traditional Slovenian cuisine at one of many cafes or restaurants, or just picnic on flat rocks that jut out into the lake. Bled’s historic core is the winding castle on the hill on one side of the lake and the church on top of the hill on the other side of the lake. There are also many tours to take to explore the tiny, hidden, and less well-known, but still equally if not more stunning, parts of Slovenia that are offered by many different tour operators.

On the other side of the lake, on an island in the middle of the Krasna zalza (beautiful grove), stands a small, beautifully constructed church. It is said to be one of the most photographed churches in all of North-Eastern Europe.

Bled Castle was built in the 13th century by the Habsburgs as a summer residence. It has medieval turrets, and its view can be seen from throughout Slovenia. The castle is richly furnished and houses many treasurers; one that should not be missed is called “Prince Luitpold’s Treasure.” The treasure becomes more interesting because it contains some of Napoleon’s personal effects, including a memento made for the French emperor by a craftsman from Bled.

• Postojna Cave and Predma Castle inside
• Visit the town of Piran – full of Venetian architecture and coastline the rivals Italy and Croatia + Tartans Square, Saint Georges Church, and amazing seafood.

WHAT TO DO IN BLED, SLOVENIA

• Boat to the Church of the Mother of God on Lake Bled
• Hike to Bled castle
• Cable car to the top of Mount Vogel

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS AND CAFES

Sun-soaked beaches, Game of Thrones-style walled cities, and Venetian influence culture

Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is filled with countless amazing beaches and medieval-style cities worthy of Game of Thrones. The Croatian islands are party havens in the summertime that give you the must-experience opportunity to rent and captain your own boat for about ~$50 per day.

Between wanderings in Croatia, the rich food inspired by Italy just across the Adriatic Sea, and the great wine a rakija culture will keep you entertained. You could easily spend an entire trip in Croatia alone.

Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb, is a contemporary wonder. Its pedestrian-friendly streets lined with galleries and interesting shops hold fantastic treasures to be discovered at every turn. Foodies delight in the wide array of restaurants where one can sample everything from the old regional delicacies (try ćevapčići Slavinski) to original Southeast Asian fusion combos.

Endless nightlife options throughout Croatia offer partying high atop skyscrapers, in underground subterranean nightclubs nicknamed ‘catacombs,’ to islands that exist solely for nightlife and run until sunrise when they morph into normal beaches.

From its regal castle in Dubrovnik on the coast to modern marvels like The House of Croatian Parliament (Sabor) by architect Vjenceslav Richter, Croatia is filled with cultural riches that dance along pristine, unspoiled coastlines.

The Balkans are not only about wild mountains and alpine vistas – but they’re also home to some of Europe’s most spectacular coastline – the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia. The Dalmatian Coast, with its countless islands (think Hvar or Vis), packs in everything from laid-back fishing villages to cosmopolitan beach resorts. And did we mention the water? Well, it’s just turquoise, but it’s warm, clear, and everything you hope for in a riviera paradise.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, Croatia has something for you.

CROATIA ITINERARY

CROATIA TRAVEL INFO

HIGHLIGHTS OF CROATIA

• Cheap truffles
• Great wine in Istria inspired by the Italian style, and heavier, “Balkan style pasta.”
• Castles and medieval cities
• Rocky beaches with warm, clear water
• Never-ending nightlife

ESSENTIAL FOOD & DRINK ACROSS CROATIA

• Istrian cuisine
• Raznijci (meat skewers),
• Zagrebacki odrezak (veal stuffed with ham and cheese)
• Janjetina (lamb and herbs)
• Istrian wine
• Raznijci (meat skewers)

GETTING AROUND CROATIA:

Throughout Croatia, your travel mode of choice will be either by bus or rideshare. https://www.buscroatia.com/ is your best option for researching bus routes, and Rome2Rio.com is your second best option for researching routes, times, and prices. In both cases, book your ticket at the bus terminal as listed times can change and there are usually more routes and times listed than on these sites.

MOVING ON FROM CROATIA

From Croatia, I highly recommend going into Montenegro then Albania if you are on a shorter trip (less than two weeks). If you are traveling for longer (more than two weeks), travel by bus into Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mostar, then Sarajevo), up to Belgrade, Serbia, then back to Croatia, and continue south into Montenegro and Albania.

Leaving Croatia, you are perfectly situated in the Balkans to go anywhere – Slovenia, Bosnia, Montenegro, or a little further to Albania. If you travel to one of the adjacent, nearby countries (Bosnia, Montenegro, or Albania), traveling by bus is your best option, and you can research routes on Rome2Rio and book accordingly. Be sure to read the country sections in this guide to find out visa guidelines for each country.

For travel to Slovenia (Ljublana) and Serbia, a flight (~$90) is your best bet, as the bus to Ljubljana is 14 hours and the bus to Belgrade is 8 hours.

VISA: No visa is required for tourist visits less than 90 days – Croatia is not part of the Schengen zone

BUDGET/PRICES:

• €10-15 for a dorm bed in a hostel, ~25 per night for a private hostel room or budget hotel room

PULA, CROATIA

Pula is a low-key highlight of Croatia. Whereas the rest of Croatia boasts Game of thrones vibes and never-ending nightlife, Pula has a uniquely Istrian feel, heart food that combines Italian influence with Croatian traditions, fantastic wine (in the Italian tradition), low key beaches, and plenty of ruins.

Pula has been occupied by exactly 22 countries, and each has left its mark, although now the area feels very much like forgotten Italian countryside as the city was part of Italy up until 1942. Many of the residents do still speak Italian.

The colosseum that sits in the middle of town, a remnant of the Roman Empire’s occupation, is one of many ruins and archeological sites to explore. Last, there is a vast, still unmapped underground tunnel network beneath the city.

HIGHLIGHTS OF PULA, CROATIA

• Roman ruins and restored Roman empire era structures
• Rocky Beaches and cliff diving
• Food: Cheap truffles, great wine in Istria inspired by the Italian style, and heavier, “Balkan style pasta”
• Malvasia – The local white wine – normally the house wine

WHAT TO DO AND SITES TO SEE IN AND AROUND PULA

• See the Roman Coliseum (The Amphitheater), walking distance from downtown Pula.
• Pula – Built in the 1600s by the Venetians, designed by a French architect
• Roman Temple in Town
• The Triumph Arch
• Pula Daily Market from 7am to 3pm
• Archeological Museum of Istria
• Hop a bus and take the Nr1 line to Stone for 11 Kuna (1.5€) or take an Uber for 5€. Take the bus from the bus station is in front of Corso Kavana & Tapas Bar / Your Private Kingdom Cocktails.
• Go to the café in the campground behind the bus station in Stoja for decent Calamari (60 Kuna) and cocktails.
• Rt Kamenjak – rent a bike in the city at the last bus stop in the city of Premantura. Pick a bike shop at any place in that city.

WHERE TO EAT IN PULA

• Jupiter: Delicious, hearty, Istrian cuisine at an amazing price. Great wine selection too. The Local Wine (Malvasia), Istarski odrezak, and gnocci were the highlights
• Vodnjanka: Great seafood
• Parabuto: Call for reservations as it books up quickly each night
• Tappo: Next to the coliseum. Great for wine and tapas
• Hook & Cook: “Sea to table” restaurant
• Kod Kadre: Meat Restaurant. LOTS of meat

BEST CAFÉ’S IN PULA Have coffee in the main square, in view of a Roman Temple and Ruins. These were my favorite café’s

• Cjvajner Café
• Bistro Nonno
• Caffe Djana

GOING OUT AND NIGHTLIFE IN PULA If you’re planning to party, then you may want to skip Pula. This mellow town is wonderful, filled with great food and wine and plenty of rocky beaches, but the nightlife is scant compared to the rest of Croatia. However, if you plan to go out, these places are your best bet:

For the local scene, go out Thursdays. Start with drinking in the park until about 1 and then move to Uljanik, the local club that specializes in Electronica and Croatian Rock.

For more excitement, go out on the weekends. Pietras Julias – Pizzeria by day, club by night. The music can be a toss-up, depending on the DJ, but this is still the place to go during the weekend.

BARS AND NIGHTLIFE IN PULA

• The Shipyard
• Old City Pub
• Click (the James Joyce Bar)
• Enoteca Istriana – A bar near the Amphitheater that showcases regional wines
• Tapos – next to the amphitheater. Stylish and creative Tapas bar with a very cool/chill vibe

Drinking Tip: Check if the house wine is local; if it is, go for it. It’s usually delicious and always cheap.

PULA WALKING TOUR PATH

• Amphitheater
• Hercules Gate
• Arch of the Surgai (for a family that ruled for 1600 years, the family that won the battle that arose after the death of Julius Ceasar).
• Roman Mosaik – hidden underground House. Punishment of Darci
• Forum (City Center)
• Temple of Augustus
• Front wall from the Middle Ages
• Back Wall from The Temple of Dianna (Goddess of Hunting)
• Sidewall – 1970’s

WHERE TO SLEEP IN PULA

• Crazy House Hostel
• Antique hostel

OTHER TIPS ON PULA

• Summer is the best time to visit, and the most popular restaurants generally close between October and May.

SPLIT, CROATIA

Travelers should visit Split, Croatia, to explore Roman ruins, beautiful beaches, and amazing architecture.

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, the main port on the Adriatic Sea coast of Dalmatia. The entire town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its most famous landmark is Diocletian’s Palace, a centuries-old historical site that was once one of the most important sites in the Roman Empire. Interesting fact – Roman Emperor Diocletian was the only Roman emperor to leave his station peacefully and avoid being murdered after. He did this by dividing the Roman Empire into fourths appointing a ruler over each so that they may quarrel with each other and leave him in peace. While Diocletian was executing this plan, he built the walled fortress of the palace in Split to retire peacefully and live out the remaining years of his life – as he did – and defend it if necessary. You will see when you arrive that this “palace” is the size of a small town and remained just as peaceful.

A guided tour will take you through its awe-inspiring corridors to some of the highlights, like its vast peristyle with an intricate mosaic floor and golden four-headed animal symbol of old imperial power.

Besides exploring this incredible palace, there are a number of other must-see sights in the area, like the ancient Titus’ Arch on its main promenade and Marjan Hill—a popular park that offers great views of the town.

Moderate to low-budget travelers can still enjoy Split by simply strolling along the seafront promenade where you will see all different kinds of cafes and shops, as well as many outdoor activities including volleyball, table tennis, star gazing or just hanging out on one of many sandy beaches. For those more interested in historical sites or some nightlife and partying, there are plenty of clubs where nightly events featuring both local DJs and international acts. The city’s Old Town is also jam-packed with restaurants offering some great Dalmatian cuisine; however, it can be for the more expensive side.

After soaking up the history and views of Split, hop a boat to the island Hvar to purely soak up the sun, party through the night, and captain your own boat…literally.

WHAT TO DO IN SPLIT, CROATIA

• Visit Diocletian’s Palace
• Enjoy a great, local lunch or dinner on the oceanfront boardwalk – aim for the north end for better prices.
• Specifically, eat at Konoba Matejuska or Hvar Harbor Restaurant
• Explore the city on foot and see all the sights of Split or with a free walking tour
• Visit Paskval Street in the old town for local jewelry and souvenirs.
• Visit the nearby Paklenica National Park for a little fun in nature (2 hours away)
• Take a boat to one of many Croatia islands like Korcula, Mljet and Vis for a day trip, or overnight to Hvar or Brac.
• Firstly, hop a ferry (1 hour, ~$8) to Hvar island to the sun and sip in a place that exists solely for pleasure. Hvar is a Croatian highlight not to be missed. After Hvar, continue by ferry (3.5 hrs, ~$30) from Hvar to Dubrovnik , or return back to Split and travel from Split to Dubrovnik by bus (~4 hours, ~$25)

HVAR, CROATIA

Hvar is a beautiful island in the Croatian Adriatic with amazing architecture, beaches, outdoor activities, and calm urban centers.

Hvar is a Croatian island located in the Adriatic Sea with some of Croatia’s most incredible scenery.

Hvar is also famous for its wines, handcrafted jewelry made out of volcanic stone & silver sea urchins. Tourists can visit different wineries to sample local wines by the glass. The island is very well known for its jewelry, made from the rare Lapis lazuli stone found in nearby mines all over the Balkans, which was highly prized by ancient societies as well as today’s fashion designers.

The vibrant nightlife scene is not necessarily as chaotic as other party islands, but it has its moments – especially if you make your way to the legendary “Carpe Diem.” There are plenty of bars and cafes that have live music every night of the week, and there is also an annual cultural event called “Cherry Night” held every July, during which Hvar celebrates the first sour cherries harvest every year. Local restaurants offer up amazing Mediterranean dishes that will make any foodie happy, including fresh fish and traditional Croatian cuisine like a filet of beef served with a delicious truffle sauce.

WHAT TO DO IN HVAR

• Visit the day bars, Hula Hula Hvar (bar) and Majerovica
• By night visit the never-ending party island of Carpe Diem
• Visit the beaches to the east and west of the main harbor. Beaches in the east rent kayaks for cheaper
• Rent a boat and motor you and your crew around the islands surrounding Hvar

WHERE TO STAY IN HVAR

• Villa Skansi
• The White Rabbit Hostel (Party centric)

MOVING ON FROM HVAR

After Hvar, continue by ferry (3.5 hrs, ~$30) from Hvar to Dubrovnik , or return back to Split and travel from Split to Dubrovnik by bus (~4 hours, ~$25)

DUBROVNIK CROATIA

Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik offers more sights and activities than any other city in Croatia. The “Game of Thrones” esque old town is a prime destination for anyone looking to explore some Croatian history and culture and enjoy some amazing views from up high. The city was nearly destroyed during the 1992 war. Since then, Dubrovnik was rebuilt impeccably, maintaining a look that conjures feelings of a “Slavic Venice” considering Dubrovnik (and much of Croatia) were once ruled by the Venetian Empire.

Along with walking along the old city’s high walls and exploring fortifications (complete with cannons), there are also plenty of beautifully secluded beaches not too far away by car or public transportation from Dubrovnik. Just minutes outside of Dubrovnik, you can take it easy lounging on a beach that feels worlds away from busy Old Town. There are smaller gems like Ston where you can see some beautiful medieval architecture, go diving off its limestone rocks nicknamed “The Rocks,” and peaceful Lokrum island, littered with tons of peacocks.

Top your Dubrovnik experience with a sunset towering over the city after a cable car ride up Mount Sryoy, and you cap an epic experience before moving on to even better Balkans destinations.

WHAT TO DO IN DUBROVNIK

• Walk Stradun street, the main street in the Old Town, flanked by Venetian style buildings and Game of Thrones backdrops, ending at the clock tower
• Walk the Old Town city walls
• Old Town sites to see: Rector’s Palace,
• Hop a boat to Lokrum Island for the view, the experience, and peacocks
• Cable car ride up to 412 meters tall Mount Srdj for a birds-eye view of Dubrovnik
• Do a Game of Thrones walking Tour
• Enjoy the beaches that flank the city

TIME NEEDED: 1 to 2 days

ISLANDS NEAR DUBROVNIK TO CONSIDER

• Korcula: Beautiful Venetian architecture and the childhood home of Marco Polo, Princeton Beach, and winemaking
• Elite archipelago of 14 small islands: orchards and fruit groves, white sands beaches, more beautiful architecture and each island has a character all its own

COOL NOTES ON DUBROVNIK:

• The Old Town was a set for Star Wars as well as Game of Thrones

GETTING AROUND DUBROVNIK: On foot is your best and easiest bet as the best parts of Dubrovnik are walkable

WHERE TO STAY: The Old Quarter is a highlight and a great place to stay but pricey. Budget travelers should aim for the surrounding neighborhoods of Pile, Ploce, and Lapad. I highly recommend Hostel Angelina , and there are plenty of options on Airbnb

After you’ve finished exploring Dubrovnik, you’ve likely reached the end of your adventures in Croatia if you are taking the “from north to south” route through the Balkans. If you are in the Balkans for less than two weeks, hop a bus from Dubrovnik to Kotor, Montenegro (~3.5 hours, $8), for insanely beautiful fjords, towering green mountains, and warm, deep blue waters.

If you are on the extended tour through the Balkans, hop a bus on to Mostar, Bosnia, to begin the tour through Bosnia & Herzegovina and Serbia.

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Ottoman food, culture, and heritage in the Balkans, with dense European history

Bosnia and Herzegovina deliver a unique experience in the Balkans thanks to heavy Ottoman influence in their culture, food, religion, and architecture, and due to the Bosnian history of war – from the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo, which started World War I, to the Bosnian War in the mid-1990s.

Bosnia used to be a small, medieval kingdom (and existed before Sarajevo); however, in the late 15th century, the Ottomans conquered the Bosnian kingdom, destroying much of the original history and leaving behind much of the culture and architecture we observe today.

Beyond the history-laden walking tours, Sarajevo delivers a rich experience of “Little Vienna meets Little Istanbul.”

Whereas other Balkan destinations deliver pure sunshine and pleasure, Bosnia and Herzegovina deliver culturally enriching and educational experiences in a way any travel will appreciate.

INTERESTING BOSNIAN FACTS: WHY THE BOSNIAN COASTLINE IS ONLY 17 KM LONG

Bosnia &Herzegovina have only 17km of coast: During the period of the Ottoman and Venetian empires, the Venetians controlled present-day northern Croatia. The Ottomans controlled Bosnia (without a coast at the time). Croatia (south of Bosnia) was the Dubrovnik republic. The Dubrovnik republic agreed to give the Ottomans the 17km of coastline to aid trade via access to the oceans, under the conditions that they would fight the Venetians if they ever attempted to invade. This is why present-day Bosnia has this coastline

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA ITINERARY

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA TRAVEL INFO

• Mostar: Cliff diving and a small-town feel
• Sarajevo: Vienna meets Istanbul, intense history (Balkan wars, WW2), unique foods,

ESSENTIAL FOOD & DRINK OF BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

• Dolma: Served many ways, but stuffed in onion and stuffed in peppers are the most common ways.
• Bey’s Soup or Begova Corba – slow-cooked chicken or beef and vegetables make a thick, slightly creamy, but extremely (simply) delicious soup.
• Klepe: Bosnian meat dumplings served with a creamy yogurt-like cream infused with garlic
• Cevapi: Simple, grilled rounds of minced meat served with a traditional bread somewhat like pita. Simple, yet filling. Good for an uneventful but tasty lunch
• Burek: A savory pastry filled with cheeses, meats, spinach, and the like (comes from Turkey and was brought to the Balkans by the Ottomans). Try it for a quick breakfast.
• Baklava: A layered pastry of flaky bread covered in honey and sugary sweet sauce. Common in many Middle Eastern countries and Greece. Absolutely delicious! Similar to everywhere else in the Balkans and the Middle East, it’s no less enjoyable here. Perfect with a cup of coffee

VISA: Most nationalities can stay for 90 days free without a visa but need to have at least 6 months validity on their passport on arrival

BUDGET/PRICES: $45/ Day for hosteling backpackers and ~$75 for budget travelers staying in budget hotels

CONNECTIVITY: HT Eronet SIM cards for 3G coverage

MOSTAR, BOSNIA  

The famous Old Bridge, built-in 1566 over the Neretva River, is one of Mostar’s most recognizable features. It was destroyed in 1993 when Croat forces bombed it in order to create a dividing line across the Balkans. Reconstruction began in 2002 and ended ten years later; today, it is again one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s top tourist attractions.

But there isn’t just cultural significance here–this city also has plenty of natural beauty: nearby peaks can reach 3,000 meters high (10,000 feet). Take a hike through Medjugorje (30 minutes away) or its surrounding hillsides for some epic views that are rarely seen by anyone but locals–as well as perhaps sightings of wild animals like deer.

Also, check out Kravice waterfalls – some of the tallest in the Balkans at 80 feet tall – between Split, Croatia and Mostar, 45 minutes away from Mostar. There is a swimming pool at the foot of these falls, and you can take a walk along a path that goes behind them to see where it all comes from. Many day hikers picnic along the shores and enjoy the paradise.

If you need one more destination around Mostar and in Bosnia, consider experiencing some local cuisine on Pliva Lake’s shore, featuring plenty of fresh fish and other delicacies, but expect a 2+ hour drive to get there.

The Balkans are known for their hospitable locals–and this is no different in Mostar! Take the time to talk with some of the friendly people who help run shops and cafes. You’ll be able to get a taste of local life that you wouldn’t otherwise see as a tourist.

HIGHLIGHTS OF MOSTAR BOSNIA

• The Stari-Mos Bridge: The iconic bridge, the “stari most” (meaning “old bridge”), has existed since the 1400s. The bridge was used to connect the commerce and residential neighborhood sides of the river. Now, you can jump from the Stari Most after getting certified by the local coaches – or jump from the lower platform. During my time in Mostar, Red Bull was running a cliff diving competition from the Stari Most Bridge.
• Terrace café by Day and Ali Baba disco by night
• Central mosque
• Top of Franciscan Church
• Heavy Ottoman influence
• Fantastic rich food with strong Turkish notes
• Do the free Mostar walking tour

AROUND MOSTAR

• Kravca Waterfalls
• Roman Ruins
• Pocitjeli: A medieval fortress and walls surrounding a town that dates back to 1444. 30 minutes from Mostar.

TIME NEEDED: 1 Day for Mostar, an additional ½ day today for each day trip out of town

WHERE TO EAT

• Restaurant Sadrvan – a plethora of local, Bosnian cuisine at great prices despite the touristy location and feel. Perfectly situated next to the UNESCO heritage bridge ” Stari Mos.”

GETTING TO MOSTAR

• From Dubrovnik or Split, go to Mostar, then Sarajevo, then depart to Serbia (east) or Montenegro (South)
• Traveling by bus, booking on the GobyBus site is your bet

The capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most varied and historically significant cities in Europe. The heritage of the rule of the Ottoman empire remains clear in the cuisine, architecture, and half of the city’s downtown. Museums host the memories of the Yugoslav wars, a product of the splitting of Yugoslavia, as well as the assassination of Franz Ferdinand by student revolutionaries that kicked off World War 2.

The highlight of the Sarajevo is absolutely standing at the border of east meets west in the downtown border between little Vienna and little Istanbul.

HIGHLIGHTS OF WHAT TO DO IN SARAJEVO

• Monday night party at the “unofficial bar.”
• Walking tour (hopefully with Neno)
• A museum (there are so many)
• Crimes against Humanity Museum (I had no idea of the atrocities, genocide, and torture that took place in Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Sarajevo Tunnel
• Latin Bridge – site of the assassination of Franz Ferdinand and the start of WW2
• Walk the Main Street
• “The cultural meeting point” is the line between mini Istanbul and mini Vienna

BEST RESTAURANTS IN SARAJEVO AND WHAT TO EAT:

• Dalmatinska.
• Amazing Burgers
• Walnut Rakija Aperitif
• Stuff peppers and Zucchini
• Gastro Pub Vucko
• Sarajevo eating tip: Stick to the Old Town for cheap, authentic, and delicious food

GETTING AROUND

• Unofficial shuttles 8, 12, 5 for 25 Euros or 50 Marks

WHERE TO SLEEP

• Hostel Kucha
• Doctors Hostel – comfy private beds, clean facilities, and a relaxed yet welcoming atmosphere
• 6:00AM bus to Belgrade from the east bus station

A proud country with a very Eastern European feel, robust history, and intense nightlife.

Serbia is a Balkan country that, through the countless empires and booms of tourists, has been able to hold on to its history and culture more than its neighbors. At times Croatia feels consumed by summering Europeans and GoT tours, and other cities can feel more Ottoman than Balkan at times. Serbia, on the other hand, feels 100% Slavic and 100% Serbian in a unique way for the Balkans. Serbia offers travelers a chance to experience the Balkans untouched, so it is nearly impossible not to have an amazing time during a trip there.

A uniquely Serbian experience awaits in Belgrade and beyond – from Rakia bars to floating nightlife to college-style warehouse parties, then waking the next day to absorb and discuss culture; Serbia will surprise you with its variety and uniqueness.

Serbia, formerly part of Yugoslavia, has a long tradition of hospitality and welcoming people epitomized by the Balkan proverb: “Whoever visits Serbia in wintertime knows what hospitality is.”

If you’re looking to get away from the tourist traps that can sometimes make traveling feel less personal, Serbia is one of the best places to go.

SERBIA ITINERARY

SERBIA TRAVEL INFO

• Insane Nightlife
• Deep History
• Experiencing a Slavic country that remains very true to its culture, unbent by tourism and other invaders

TIME NEEDED: 2 Days

• Ćevapi
• Karađorđeva šnicla
• Punjena Paprika
• Čvarci

VISA: Serbia is not part of the Schengen zone and offers a free 90-day visa for most visitors

• Hostel: $12/night
• Budget breakfast: $1
• Diner or Café Meal: $5
• Coffee: $1.50
• Beer: $1.50
• Inter-city Train: $4.50
• $60 for budget travelers staying in budget hotels

CONNECTIVITY: SIM Card from VIP, Telenor, or MTS for best 3G connectivity

BELGRADE, SERBIA

Belgrade has a rich history, ranging from Roman times to the Ottoman occupation and Serbian Christianization when Serbs converted to Orthodox Christianity in order to counter moves by Catholic clergymen coming from Rome. It was later captured by Turks in 1459, conquered briefly by Habsburgs in 1688, taken by Austrians in 1717–39 during the Great Turkish War, when it was known as “Belgrad” (Turkish: “Novo Brdo”), and liberated by the Serbian army in 1876 during the Serbian–Ottoman War of 1876–78.

Belgrade was also the capital of several Yugoslav states until the dissolution of the former Yugoslavia in 1992. Belgrade is still the capital and largest city of Serbia. It is the only major Serbian city with a population above one million.

• Do the free Belgrade walking tour, hosted by Hostel Hedonism
• Visit the Belgrade Fortress and hang out at the Park in front of it
• Visit old town (Zaman)
• Visit Sajmiste (remnants of a concentration camp)
• Walk Belgrade’s “Stari Grad” (Old Town), seeing the main walking
• The main pedestrian walk of Kneza Mihaila and plenty of places to eat, drink, and people watch
• Visit Republic Square, at the end of Kneza Mihaila
• The Belgrade Fortress, which has never been overtaken
• Kalemegdan Park surrounding the fortress, which includes the military museum and a zoo
• Walkthrough Skadarjila, Belgrade’s most stylish and bohemian neighborhood
• Enjoy the never-ending nightlife at the riverfront bars and clubs
• Visit Zeleni Vanac farmers market
• Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum
• Visit the neighbors of Zemun and Novi Beograd for a taste of what local life is like outside of the city center.
• Noteworthy landmarks to see: National Assembly, Church of St Mark, Church of St Sava
• Belgrade is the largest city in the Balkans
• The Belgrade fortress has never been captured by a rival

TIME NEEDED: 1-2 Days

ESSENTIAL FOOD, DRINK, AND WHERE TO EAT

• Fabrika (Restaurant)
• Leila Records (Radio-Televizija Beograd) – A café, bar, and record located a 10 minutes walk from the tourist strip but authentically (hipster) Serbian.
• Go to new Belgrade or Zamun for food
• Cafeteria (coffee bar in tourist center)
• Fabrika Restaurant

BARS AND NIGHTLIFE

• Go to Passenger Café (have a Kas beer) next to Hedonism Hostel
• Rakia Bar – The name says it all!
• Splavoli (floating clubs built into houseboats on the Rivershore)
• Drugstore (Warehouse District – Bus 16), Old factory clubs complex

GETTING AROUND: Most of the parts of Belgrade you’ll want to see are situated in the downtown and historic areas, so you’ll be able to explore the entire city on foot

• Bongo Hostel
• Hostel Hedonism
• Take the train (11 hours) or fly back to Podgorica, Montenegro and continue on the Balkans backpacking route.

Novi Sad is the second-largest city in Serbia. It’s known for its significant role at the end of World War I, when it was occupied by Serbian troops and became an important anti-Bolshevik base. This great deed earned it a reputation as a Christian bastion that turned out to be undefendable against merciless Ottoman forces.

The dynamic atmosphere attracts many visitors and workers from abroad, who come to experience this Mediterranean Balkans feel during their Balkans tours. Novi Sad is also famous for its thriving art scene as well as the annual jazz festival attracting celebrities and musicians from around the world every October.

As one of the youngest European capitals, Novi Sad’s restaurants, bars, galleries and concert halls all reflect its cultural diversity, which in turn gives the city an alluring nightlife that is often described as unique.

Novi Sad’s strategic position on the Danube River makes it a natural hub for inland waterway transport, and there are good road connections to all major cities around the Balkans.

• Smaller version of Belgrade
• Student city
• Lively nightlife
• EXIT festival in July – biggest music fest in the Balkans

WHAT TO DO IN NOVI SAD

• Visit the Petrovaradin Fortress
• Walk Dunavska pedestrian street
• Enjoy peace and quiet in green Danube park
• Visit the Museum of Vojvodina which documents 8,000 years of history in the region
• Enjoy the architecture: Name of Mary Church, Novi Sad Synagogue, Vladičanski Dvor (the Bishop’s Palace), St. George’s Cathedral
• Enjoy Strand, the sandy beach on the shore of the Danube
• Visit the Matica Srpska Gallery housing 7,000+ pieces of Serbian art from 1500 to present
• Visit Fruška Gora 30 minutes from town, a National Park of vineyards, pastures, and woodlands that was the shores of an island in the Pannonian Sea 90 million years ago
• Drive 35 minutes away to the vineyard laden small town of Sremski Karlovci

TIME NEEDED: 1 day

MONTENEGRO (HIGHLIGHT OF THE BALKANS)

The southernmost fjords in Europe tower above pristine, beautiful waterways and castles

Montenegro is a small yet intensely beautiful country dominated by the southernmost fjords in Europe, waterways, and towering mountains with centuries-old, medieval-style cities dotting in between. Montenegro’s views and stories feel unreal, whether walking a cobblestone road in the afternoon, taking a cheap boat tour through the waterways with the captain narrating the hidden history, or hiking to a monastery.

For many travelers, Montenegro is the highlight of their Balkan itinerary.

You’ll find the popular sites, Kotor and Budva, frequented by cruise ships and locals (Croatians and Serbians). Montenegro delivers all of the enjoyment of Croatia at about 1/3 the price.

MONTENEGRO ITINERARY

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL INFO

TIME NEEDED: 2 to 3 days for the essentials

• Moussaka (in general)
• Musaka od Ketola

GETTING TO MONTENEGRO

• International travelers coming from outside the Balkans will need to fly into Dubrovnik and then bus to their destination in Montenegro.
• No matter where you come to Montenegro from (within the Balkans), traveling by bus is your best bet.
• From Dubrovnik to Kotor, take a 3-hour bus ($10) .
• From Albania, bus from Skoder (3 hours) or Tirana (6 hours).
• From Mostar, Bosnia, or Sarajevo, taking the bus will be your best option.
• From Belgrade, take the train from Belgrade to Podgorica, and hop a bus from Podgorica to your next destination in Montenegro

VISA: Montenegro is not part of the Schengen zone, and a free 90-day visa is offered on arrival

CONNECTIVITY: Telenor SIM Card best for 3G access countrywide

• Hostel: $12/day
• Transportation: $7 between cities, most cities are walkable and need no transport
• Tours: $35 for Kotor Bay and Lady of the Rocks Tour
• $75/night for budget travelers option for hotels

KOTOR, MONTENEGRO

Kotor is one of the most picturesque cities in Montenegro and a popular destination to visit for people all over the Balkans and beyond!. It’s located on a dramatic bay where the Adriatic crashes into towering limestone walls, forming cliffs and caves. Kotor is home to UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town, which begins at the foot of Stari Grad (Old Town) and ends at Lovrjenac Rock in the center of the bay, and is considered one of the most beautiful places along the Adriatic Coast. Nearby seaside villages include Tivat, Budva, and Sveti Stefan. With its beautiful beaches, magnificent fortresses and interesting history, Kotor is perfect for travelers of all ages.

Roman Emperor Augustus spent time in Kotor in the 3rd century BC and praised it as a “city defended by strong walls” back then.

If you are planning a Balkans itinerary, be sure to put Kotor on your list. The beauty of this coastal town, as well as its historical significance, will not disappoint.

HIGHLIGHTS (BLURB)

• Kotor Bay Boat Tour
• Visit Our Lady of the Rock Church (UNESCO Site)
• The Kotor Bay Boat tour (€35) is a must-do. 3 hours on a boat spent cruising the crystal clear, blue waters up to the border with Croatia, visiting some interesting sites in between (includes lady of the rock church, underwater tunnel)
• Beaches abound around Kotor , walking distance with water so warm and calm. I went for midnight, moonlit swims every night in Kotor.
• Two fishermen found a picture of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the middle of the water. It was gone the next day but reappeared a week later. The locals decided to build a church on the rock but needed to build an island first. For 100 years, sailors in the bay would drop small rocks from their boats each time they went out, and the town sank enemy ships over the rocks to build the island. Today, the church and the island are UNESCO world heritage sites.
• Old Town and the Castle: The old town is an ancient, walled complex and castle that crawls up the steep mountain behind the city. This complex houses most of the nightlife in Kotor and caters to partiers and backpacker life.

TIME NEEDED: 1 to 2 days for the essentials

GETTING THERE: The destinations in Montenegro are close together, so, anywhere in Montenegro you go, travel by bus. Rome2Rio will be your best tool for planning bus travel, but be smart and book at the train station beforehand.

GETTING AROUND: Kotor is a small and beautiful town that is tightly packed and very walkable. Plan on just walking to get anywhere you’d like to go.

WHERE TO SLEEP IN KOTOR

• Hostel 4 U Montenegro : A hostel on the beach and an anomaly. When I stayed, they had 2000+ reviews and a rating of 9.9 out of 10. On arrival, you won’t check-in. Instead, you’ll be handed a shot of homemade Rakia.
• Old Town Hostel
• Use www.getbybus.com to find your bus out

LOGISTICS VISA: Montenegro is not part of the Schengen zone, and a free 90-day visa is offered on arrival

BUDGET/PRICES: (1 NIGHT ACCOMMODATION, 1 MEAL, 1 BEER)

NOTES : Next to the old town is Kotor’s only shopping complex with a grocery store and anything else you’ll need

BUDVA, MONTENEGRO

Budva is a coastal town with great nightlife and vibrant atmosphere, long sandy beaches, beautiful residences, hotels and hostels. Its off-season city is charming as well – not too big yet numerous things to see and do. The city’s old town centers around its signature pedestrian street, which is the center of activity for visitors, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. The Old Town is bordered by the site of a 14th-century Franciscan monastery on one side and a 17th-century Orthodox church on another. A walk through this picturesque area also gives a breathtaking view of mountainside villages and the shores leading up to the Adriatic Sea.

• Soak up the sun on the Budva Riviera
• Walk the Budva Old Town
• Visit the Cathedral of Saint Stephen
• Sail the bay and view Kotor fjord

GETTING AROUND: Just like Kotor, Budva is tightly packed and walkable, so plan out using your feet to get around for the best experience

Undiscovered and packed with experience: the Albanian Alps and the Albanian Riviera are Balkan highlights

Albania is one of the highlights of the Balkans – “young,” undiscovered, and filled with some of the best beaches (the same coastline as you’ll find on the Greek Riviera) and Alpine views in all of Europe, at a travel price that is easily the lowest in the Balkans and Europe.

Albania opened up to the west and abandoned communism much later than its neighbors, leaving Albania with a very young and “new” and somewhat adventurous feel as a country. Though traveling through Albania can be slightly more difficult than its neighbors, the natural beauty you get in return makes Albania a highlight of the region thanks to two things – the Albanian Riviera and the Albanian Alps. As you travel through this country, you will experience the highs of travel and the calamity of “adventure travel.” Some parts will feel like the Greek isles and riviera or Alps of other countries, while other places will feel as chaotic as urban India – in all situations, though, the experience is exquisite and worth the trip.

The Albanian Riviera is the coastline shared with Croatia (to the north), but more interestingly, it is shared with Greece to the south. This is the same immaculate beaches and coastline that would cost 5x as much to travel in Greece, but (in Albania) you experience it with a more authentic, less touristy feel, and without the crowds.

The Albanian Alps are tucked just across the Albania-Montenegro border, near the Albanian towns of Theti, the Valbona River Valley and deliver sights as amazing as the Swiss Alps and Dolomites, surrounded by charming rural towns, yet just a few hours drive from warm beaches. All of this is still under traveled, undiscovered, and perfect for budget travels.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ALBANIA

• Albania was the first atheist country in the world in 1967
• The clock tower in Tirana has been rebuilt several times because, at the start of wars, it was usually the first thing destroyed, and after wars, it was usually the first thing rebuilt
• Albania has over 170,000 bunkers strewn throughout the country
• Albania is the international name based on the first tribe that was found here.

ALBANIA ITINERARY

Consider Albania route –> Tirana –> Shkoder –> Albanian Alps –> Albanian Riviera (Vlore, Sarande, Himare) –> Berat –> Gjirokaster –> Tirana to do the adventurously strenuous experiences (trekking) first, and end the trip on the beachy riviera

Or reverse the route if you would prefer to get adventurous first and then end on the beach.

HIGHLIGHTS ALBANIA

• Tirana (capital) and learning of the country’s history
• The Albanian Riviera and exquisite beaches for insanely cheap
• Sarandë (Best coastal destination)
• Rough camping on the beaches of Albania
• Shkodër
• Berat and Berat National park (UNESCO heritage site)

ESSENTIAL FOOD & DRINK IN ALBANIA

• Byrek: Savory pastry
• The Mediterranean Staples: Olives, cheeses, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, baklava, byrek
• Stuffed Peppers
• Fried Eggplant

WHEN TO VISIT: Shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October are best, with great temperatures and thin crowds. July and August are great, too but expect heavier crowds.

GETTING THERE: From within the Balkans, international busses connect to Tirana from Montenegro, Kosova, Greece, and Macedonia. From outside of those countries, expect to fly in. Momondo is your best bet for finding cheap flights.

GETTING AROUND: Albania is small and easy to get around. You can travel from north to south in a single day, all via public transport (no need to rent a car). Fulgoni and busses are your best options for travel.

Fulgoni are shuttle buses or minivans that run between cities in Albania. They’re accessible and cheap but often only leave when full. To find them, it is best to ask your hostel or hotel where to find the appropriate one for your next destination.

Long-distance busses are another great option, more reliable, easier to book, and my preferred option.

If you are pressed for time and don’t want to waste time sorting transport, consider a tour from G Adventures or Intrepid Travel.

MOVING ON: From Albania, take a cheap flight into Bulgaria (Sofia and Bansko) for great food adventures, a Bohemian café scene, low-key yet engaging nightlife, and some great day hikes.

VISA: 90 days free with no visa required for citizens of EU countries and 59 other countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom ( Source )

ALBANIAN BACKPACKING BUDGET/PRICES: Albania is the cheapest country to travel in the Balkans

• $35 per day total
• Hostel: $11/night
• Good meal: $5
• Transport: $75 to $100 for bussing the entire loop of Tirana to the Riviera to the Alps

WIFI AND CONNECTIVITY:

• Vodafone SIM for 3G is best, also Eagle Mobile, Telekom
• Larger, chain cafes will have wifi, don’t expect strong wifi in small cafes

RECOMMENDED TOURS: (G Adventures, Intrepid, Contiki)

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Albania is adventurous enough that I recommend travel insurance, and Safetywing and World Nomads both suffice

Tirana is the Albanian capital and full of history in Tirana, dating back to about 3000 BC. Tirana was once the crown jewel of the Balkans and was considered Europe’s newest and most modern city. But the Balkans lost a lot of its charm following World War 1 which destroyed major portions of the Balkans, including Tirana and many other cities in Albania.

After the war, a communist government was established, and Albania became a communist state, isolating itself from not but the west, but even China, the Soviet Union, and neighboring Yugoslavian countries.

In 1992, Albanians voted to end communism and instead embrace democracy. Since then, Albanian has been gradually reopening and recovering from decades of isolation.

Tirana is the perfect place to learn about, experience, and absorb this history from walk tours, wherein guides share the history that they lived through, museums, and daily life that has eery remnants of a time passed.

• The City Square: Has a plant from every region of Albania and has 100+ small fountains, so the square stays cool in summer.
• The National Museum located next to the square
• A Free Walking Tour for a firsthand account of Albania’s history
• Block Ware (former place of the elite – now a place to go out)
• Sky Bar – a bar that rotates completely every hour, giving a 360-degree view of the city
• The Bunker Museum
• Visit the Bunk’Art 2 museum: A nuclear bunker turned Albanian dictatorship history museum.
• Take a free walking tour to discover the history
• Visit the National Museum
• Visit Skanderberg Square
• View Et’hem Bej Mosque in the Square
• Cable car up to Dajti Mountain for sunset after bussing to Daytime National Park for a panoramic view of Tirana
• Visit Tiranas New Bazar for food and people watching.

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN TIRANA

• Oda Restaurant
• Sofra Beratase Restaurant
• Head to Himare, on the Albanian Riviera
• By bus from the south bus station (1000 Leke) at 5:45, 6:15, 1:00pm, 6:00pm
• From center to bus station ~700 Leke

RECOMMENDED TOURS

• Any free walking tour
• The Bunk’Art Tour

The gateway to the Albanian Alps and an ancient city that was home to Illyrian tribes that ruled Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later, this city was ruled by the Serbs, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans, and the remnants of these cultures still remain today.

A prep town before heading into Theth and the Albanian Alps. One of the oldest cities in the Balkans.

When not prepping gear and planning transport for the Theth to Valbona hike, walk the city streets to absorb the vibe. The main street (G’juhadol), the shopping street (Kole Idromeno) are great places to walk through.

• Hike up to Rozafa Castle
• Prep for the Theth to Valbona hike (food and equipment are best gathered here)

TIME NEEDED: 1 Night

SHKODER LOGISTICS NOTES

• Plan on going to the SPAR Market in town to stock up on everything you’ll need for the hike
• Bring enough cash for your time in the Alps because there is no ATM in Shkodra.
• Transport to Theth will be best arranged through your hostel or hotel, including transport back from Valbona.

THE ALBANIAN ALPS

The Albanian Alps is a high-altitude mountain range in southern Albania, with the highest peak, Mount Korab towering at 2,764m above sea level. The range spans 100km from north to south and rivals the beauty of the alpine regions elsewhere in Europe, making for the same amazing outdoor experience at a fraction of the price and with a fraction of the crowds.

You already know Albania is already a country that has maintained its beauty with charming rural villages untouched natural landscapes. A relatively small Balkans country, to begin with, having an area of only 28,750 km2, the Albanian Alps continue to be an unexplored gem tucked in the northeast corner of Albania. The Albanian Alps stand as a national park immaculate and pristine trekking and hiking by summer and international ski resorts to explore by winter. Throughout your wanderings here, you’ll find scenic views of snowy peaks surrounded by green pine forests as backdrops to crystal blue watering holes and waterfalls. Tourists choosing to hike and make the most of their time in the region here, around Theth and Valbona, can choose from different levels of difficulty in treks, from easy to difficult, making the adventures here suitable for everyone.

The Albanian Alps offer many activities beyond just hiking, such as sightseeing, kayaking, horse trekking, and skiing. This destination is a perfect escape where you will get to travel throughout the Balkans but have the feeling that you are far away from civilization.

An Alpine Mountain town with hiking as its main draw, and that’s plenty.

• The Theth to Valbona hike through the Albanian Alps (7 hours)
• Hike the trail to Danielle (5 hours)
• Hike to the Blue Eye (7 hours) + Grunas Waterfall on the route

TIME NEEDED: 3 Days

The destination city of an amazing, 7-hour one-way hike from Theta to Valbona. You will complete the hike with a walk through the town with a beautiful view on both sides, ending with dinner at your guesthouse.

Be sure to go out after sunset and take in the night sky. Then rest up and prepare to go back to Shkodra the following day.

• Arrange transport back to Shkodra through your guesthouse for the following day.
• The travel back will require a furgon from Valbona to Fierce, a ferry across Loman Lake to Koman, and another Furlong from Koman to Shkodra.

A central town on the Albanian Riviera surrounded by beautiful beaches and a great base for comfortably exploring as many as your trip allows.

• Gjipe Beach (accessible by kayak)
• Jala Beach (accessible by kayak from Himara)
• Filikuri Beach (accessible by rented kayak)
• Rent a kayak and explore the coastline by day, visit the beaches and coves that dot the shoreline.

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS & ESSENTIAL FOOD & DRINK

• Sunset Restorat Bar (more for sunset than the food)

UNESCO World Heritage site and city of 1000 windows and home to Ottoman era homes and fortresses on the route to the Albanian beaches

• Berat Castle
• Holy Trinity church, and Byzantine church from the 13th century
• Walk the Mangalem Quarter (home to Muslims) and Gorica Quarter (home to Christians)
• Make the hour-long hike up the hill behind the Gorica quarter for sunset
• Walk Bulevardi Republika just after sunset to experience “xhiro hours” when friends and family come out to walk and socialize
• Two buses daily run from Berat to Gjirokaster from the Berat Bus Terminal, one at 8 am and the second at 2 pm for ~200 LEK. The ride will be ~3 hours.

GJIROKASTER

A UNESCO world heritage site known as the “Stone City of a Thousand Steps.” One of the Balkans’ oldest cities, Gjirokaster, is worth a visit for its architecture, ancient ruins, and abundant Ottoman-era houses.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN GJIROKASTER

• Gjirokaster Castle, a beautiful Ottoman-era fortress sitting atop a hill
• Gjirokaster Museum
• Explore the hundreds of bunkers in Gjirokaster
• Gjirokaster Old Bazar
• Do the Free Walking Tour hosted by Stone City Hostel if staying there
• Hike to the Ottoman era Ali Pasha Bridge

WHERE TO STAY

• Stone Coty Hostel

Calm, quiet, and potent for foodies and lovers of pub culture

Quaint, calm, and charming in a peaceful way, Bulgaria is a wonderfully relaxed destination in the Balkans that is less about natural beauty, architecture, and nightlife than its neighbors and more about food and absorbing culture by osmosis. Additionally, you will constantly be surprised by the history, culture, and cuisine of Bulgaria that you’d never even heard of. At night, the restaurants and nightlife make Sofia and Bansko places that a nomad could hang their hat.

Food in Sofia, Bulgaria is surprisingly amazing ; a strong locavore food scene encourages restaurants to commonly experiment with the foods of the region in a gourmet way. The yogurt you commonly eat started here. My favorite meal in Bulgaria was local wild boar that fed on a particular berry in the forest, served with greens and salad foraged from the same forest, paired with a wine made from the same plucked berry from that forest, and finished with ice cream made from the same berry – and this was a standard meal for my entire time in Sofia for cheaper than an average meal in a western European country.

Bulgaria’s history can be explored with day trips (to Plovdiv) and walking tours wherein you’ll discover ruins and remnants from the Ottoman Empire’s former footprint, as well as how the Bulgarians protested the deportation of Bulgaria’s Jews to concentration camps and came up with a scheme to save the Jews in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria’s pub and local bar is an adventure on its own. Whereas Croatia’s nightlife rivals Barcelona’s, Bulgaria’s dark pubs seem reminiscent of Game of Thrones pubs. As contrasted and low-key as the vibe is, the locals are welcoming, and a few beers on the town in Sofia can be a great time.

All in all, Bulgaria is a less exciting destination, but calmly pleasing in many ways and a great way to end a trip through the Balkans.

BULGARIA ITINERARY

• Shopska Salad
• Tarator Soup
• Shkembe Chorba
• Chushka Biurek (Stuffed Peppers)
• Madradjisko (Egg & Cheese in Clay Pot)
• Palačinka (Bulgarian Pancakes)

BULGARIAN VISA: You can travel in Bulgaria for up to 90 days every 180 days. Visits to Bulgaria do not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit in the Schengen area.

CONNECTIVITY and SIM Cards: Telenor, Vivacom, A1 Bulgaria

• Accommodation: $11/night
• Transportation: $10 between cities, $17 to taxi across the entire city
• Attractions: $10
• Accommodation: $25/night
• Food: $25/day
• Attractions: $10  

Sofia, the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, is a fascinating blend of European and Slavic styles with architecture that encompasses many different periods. The Balkans itinerary would be incomplete without at least a short stopover in Sofia.

This city may seem dull on the surface, but it is actually cultured, entertaining, and has a heavy hipster influence beneath the surface.

A strong gourmet and locavore food scene at insanely low prices (as expected in the Balkans), a great pub and dive bar scene, tons of kitsch coffee shops, and more add up to a destination that doesn’t quite blow your mind but is a perfectly enjoyable and relaxing stopover for backpackers, digital nomads, and anyone who can appreciate artsy and “low key.”

WHAT TO DO IN SOFIA

• Food Tour with Balkan Bites
• Free walking tour with Sofia free tours
• Go on a graffiti tour or simply wander the town and admire the street art
• 10 pm pub crawl every night from Hostel Mostel
• Consider day use of the spa and sauna at Central Hotel Sofia if you’ve been running too hard.
• Wander and explore the countless cafes as there’s a strong bohemian scene in this city
• Hike up Vitosha Mountain, just outside the city
• Visit “ The Red Flat ” for a peek into what life was like under communism
• Do the Seven Rila Lakes Hike, glacial likes high in the surrounding mountains
• Day trip outside the city to the colorful Rila Monastery
• Landmarks and architecture to see: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

TIME NEEDED : 1 day for Sofia proper, 2 days including hikes

GETTING THERE:

• Fly in as Sofia is one of Europe’s most affordable cities to fly into. I paid $32 for my flight in and $1.50 to get from the airport to my hostel.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Hostel Mostel: At $11, I got a dorm bed, made tons of friends, and all-you-can-eat breakfast and free dinner. The crowd here was the best part.
• Consider heading to Turkey as a train ticket to Istanbul is only $29.
• Balkan Bites Walking Tour
• Sofia Free Walking Tour
• Free Sofia Graffiti Tour (or just wander on your own)

Bansko is best known as a budget-friendly ski location and mountain town for digital nomads. If you’re traveling to Bulgaria in the winter, stop off for some snowboarding and skiing. Outside of winter, your trip to Bansko will be filled with hikes and day trips to nearby cities.

If you’re on the long trail, backpacking for months, Bansko is worth stopping at for some outdoorsy relaxation. If your schedule is tight, skip this destination and allocate more time for other Balkan cities.

WHAT TO DO IN BANSKO

• Ski-in the wintertime
• Hike to Vihren Peak
• Rila Monastery Day Trip
• Pirin National Park Day Trip

TIME NEEDED: 1 Day + 1 day for each of your chosen hikes/day trips

RESTAURANTS

• Hadjidragana Tavern
• Skaptoburger
• Salted Cafe

ALTERNATE DESTINATION: THE BULGARIAN BLACK COAST

City 1: Varna – The Marine Capital of Bulgaria (1 Day)

• The Retro Museum
• The Stone Forest
• Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin
• The Butterfly House

City2: Sunny Beach – A sunny vacation spot filled with nightlife (1 Day)

• Erma Turkish Bath
• Church of Saint Sophia

THE ADDITIONAL BALKANS DESTINATIONS

Kosovo (optional).

Honestly, many other countries in the Balkans have more to offer, but the act of visiting this formerly war-torn country will help you open your mind and shed stereotypes that will enhance your travels down the road. Though Kosovo lacks the sights to see that its neighbors do, Kosovo is very safe to travel to, and visiting can open your mind.

If you are traveling the region for less than three weeks, skip Kosovo and save the travel days for another highlight destination (Albania, Montenegro, or Croatia).

If you are backpacking in the Balkans and have plenty of time, stop through Pristina, Kosovo and walk the town, and be sure to read the history of Kosovo to truly appreciate how far this country has come.

KOSOVO ITINERARY

WHAT TO DO IN PRISTINA

• Take the cathedral elevator up for a good vantage point of the new city
• Check out the statue of Bill Clinton
• Walking tour – 11 AM daily from the steps of the National (Library)?
• Walk down the main drag (??name and Mother Theresa road) in the evening to see normal life.
• National Museum

VISA: For most nationalities, no visa is necessary for up to 90 days

MACEDONIA (OPTIONAL)

With all of the other amazing sights to see in the Balkans, it is difficult to justify detouring to Macedonia instead of spending extra days in one of the country’s neighbors.

Skopje’s Bazar, reminiscent of Turkey, is topped by Little Istanbul (and Little Vienna) in Sarajevo, Bosnia. The countless statues in Skopje’s downtown are interesting but more reminiscent of Las Vegas than a Balkan backpacking adventure and are one-upped by the old walled cities in Croatia and Montenegro.

At the same time, Lake Ohrid’s, and Ohrid’s, beauty are topped by that of Kotor Bay in Montenegro and Lake Shkoder/Shkodra on the Montenegro /Albania border.

Plus, all of these other options above are a shorter distance to other worthwhile sites.

If you are traveling or backpacking the Balkans for less than three weeks, skip Macedonia and spend more time in the other, highlight locations.

If you are traveling the Balkans for more than three weeks and want to include Macedonia, do a quick layover in Skopje and add Ohrid and Lake Ohrid if you are enchanted enough.

MACEDONIA ITINERARY

• Poletti Peperki

VISA: Visas are not required for tourist or business trips of less than 90 days within a six-month period.

VISA INFO FOR THE BALKANS

General: For most borders in the Balkans, you can show up to the border and easily get a 90-day visa or a 90-day entry, visa-free as long as you have 6 months validity on your passport. Slovenia is the only Schengen zone country in the Balkans, sharing its 90 visa with the entire Schengen zone.

Country by Country Balkans Visa Information:

• Slovenia: Schengen Zone country meaning 90 days in a 180 day period, shared with all of the Schengen zone / EU countries
• Croatia: No visa is required for tourist visits less than 90 days – Croatia is not part of the Schengen zone
• Montenegro: Montenegro is not part of the Schengen zone, and a free 90 day visa is offered on arrival
• Bosnia & Herzegovina: Most nationalities can stay for 90 days free without a visa but need to have at least 6 months validity on their passport on arrival
• Serbia: Not part of the Schengen zone and offers a free 90-day visa for most visitors
• Albania: 90 days free with no visa required for citizens of EU countries and 59 other countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom
• Bulgaria: You can travel to Bulgaria for up to 90 days every 180 days. Visits to Bulgaria do not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit in the Schengen area. Bulgaria is an EU country but is not in the Schengen zone.
• Macedonia: Visas are not required for tourist or business trips of less than 90 days within a six-month period.
• Kosovo: For most nationalities, no visa is necessary for up to 90 days

CROSSING BORDERS IN THE BALKANS

Border crossings in the Balkans are fairly easy, for the most part. Just be sure to have at least 6 months validity on your passport.

The only border crossing difficult will happening attempting to travel from Kosovo into Serbia. You will have no issues traveling from Serbia into Kosovo, however, traveling from Kosovo to Serbia is forbidden and you will not be allowed through the border.

MONEY AND CURRENCIES ACROSS THE BALKANS

With the exception of Slovenia, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Greece, each country in the Balkans uses its own currency, so be sure to limit the amount of cash you convert to avoid losing too much on the exchange when you exit.

Better yet, aim to keep the bulk of your cash in Euros or US dollars and only exchange as necessary.

The respective currencies for each country in the Balkans are:

• Euros are the standard currency in Slovenia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro
• Croatia – Kunas/HRK
• Bosnia and Herzegovina – Bosnia Herzegovina convertible mark/KM –
• Serbia – Serbian Dinar
• Bulgaria – Bulgarian Lev
• România – Romanian Leu
• North Macedonia – Macedonian Denar
• Albania – Albanian Lek

You will receive the best exchange rate at ATMs, so avoid exchanging at money changers if all possible.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: DO YOU NEED IT IN THE BALKANS?

If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

As often as this saying is repeated, it doesn’t make it any less true.

Despite the fact that most of the travel in the Balkans is slow-paced and far from danger, it is wise to pick up travel insurance just in case you get a stomach bug, have an unexpected accident, or fall victim to something related to the recent pandemic.

I normally recommend World Nomads for adventurous travel and high-risk travelers, thanks to World Nomads’ robust coverage.

However, the Balkans is low-risk enough that I recommend inexpensive (yet still reliable) Safetywing travel insurance, as that is the insurance I currently use and have had for the past two years. At ~$40 a month, you can’t afford not to.

GETTING TO THE BALKANS

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and Dubrovnik’s Čilipi Airport are the cheapest airports in the region with the most flight options per day.

If you are flying into the Balkans, where you should fly into depends on whether you plan to travel from south to north or north to south through the Balkans.

If you plan to travel from the north (Slovenia, northern Croatia) to the south, I recommend flying into Budapest’s international airport. Budapest will have the cheapest inbound international flights in the region.

If you plan to travel south to north, beginning in Albania, fly into Dubrovnik’s international airport (this will be the cheapest airport for inbound international flights in the south), then travel south into Albania, looping back up to Dubrovnik and Montenegro and continue your tour of the Balkans.

WHEN TO VISIT THE BALKANS

Anytime is a great time to visit the Balkans, but the shoulder season is by far the best season to visit the Balkans. Spring and fall, between April to June and September to October, are the shoulder seasons and the best times to visit the Balkans. If you can visit in either window, you’ll have warm waters and sunny skies, yet not too hot, while exploring mostly empty streets. Additionally, prices will ½ the normal tourist season (summertime) prices.

During the Balkans summer of July to September, you’ll have perfect beach weather with amazingly warm waters but plan on sharing the views and beaches with throngs of travelers. Plan on Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Budva to be exceptionally crowded. Also, plan on any of the old town destinations at sea level, such as Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar, to be scorching hot on the pedestrian streets.

For more open-minded travelers, winter has appeal as well. Winter brings a cold and eerie calm to the Balkans with an equal amount of beauty. If you can brave the cold, you’ll have the cities to yourself. However, plan on the guesthouses, hostels, and hotels closing shortly after tourist/summer and being closed for the winter. You should book accommodation well in advance to avoid booking issues.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE BALKANS

Based on my experiences booking accommodations in the Balkans, both good and bad, I recommend the following booking guidelines

• Hostels & Boutique Hotels for Backpackers and Budget Couples
• Booking.Com for Stays 3 Days or Shorter
• Airbnb for Stays Longer Than 4 Days Or Longer

SOLO TRAVELERS, BACKPACKERS, AND BUDGET COUPLES: OPT FOR THE GREAT HOSTELS IN THE BALKANS

The Balkans are extremely developed, just as well developed as Western Europe, so you will have plenty of accommodation options to fit your tastes or budget.

For solo travelers and backpackers (especially if on a budget), I highly recommend hostels. The hostel standard in the Balkans, especially in Croatia and Montenegro, is very good while being very cheap. For instance, Hostel 4U in Kotor Montenegro is about $12 per night, has maintained a well-deserved 9.8 or 9.9 rating for the last 5 years, and is literally situated on a beach. The beds are comfy, the dorms are clean, and the building seems more similar to a chalet from Game of Thrones than a hostel. Best of all, this is the general standard throughout the Balkans – with the exception of Albania and Kosovo.

For couples and more private budget travelers who still want to be social, private rooms in hostels throughout the Balkans deliver a great balance between the social and the isolated feel of hotels while being friendlier on the pocket.

Bottom Line: For solo travelers, backpackers, and budget travelers, hostels are a great bet. I recommend booking on Hostelword as the site has most of the hostels (or at least the good ones) available on the site.

TRAVELERS STAYING FOR 3 DAYS OR LESS: BOOK VIA BOOKING.COM

If you’re staying less than four days and not interested in hostels, you’ll find the best value for your money and selection on Booking.com. Simple as that.

TRAVELERS STAYING FOR 4 DAYS OR LONGER: AIRBNB

If you’re staying for four days or longer, I recommend booking via AirBnB for a more cost-efficient experience and to better experience what life is truly like off the tourist circuit. While hotels (on Booking.com) tend to be in touristy areas, AirBnB’s and hostels are more often in real neighborhoods where people actually live. As a result, you’ll naturally be exposed to the restaurants, bars, and experiences that locals frequent in their daily lives – which adds a whole new layer to your travels.

BALKANS TRAVEL BUDGET

The Balkans are the cheapest place in Europe to travel and one of the best places in the world in terms of “bang for buck”.

10 TIPS FOR TRAVELING THE BALKANS ON A BUDGET

• Book hostels . Hostels for your Balkans accommodations instead of booking hotels. Hostels in the Balkans can be as cheap as $10 to $15/night and often offer free breakfast too.
• Spend more time in fewer places. The longer you stay in a destination, the cheaper it gets, as room accommodation is cheaper by the week or month than by the day, you learn the great “local” restaurants with cheaper and better food, and you spend less money per week traveling between towns.
• Go in the shoulder season between April to May and September to October when the tourists are fewer, and everything (sites, accommodation, food) is as much as ½ high season prices.
• Sleep, eat and drink off the main street . Sleeping, eating, and drinking on the tourist thoroughfare, a couple of streets over, will cost you 25% to 50% more than walking an extra 5 minutes.
• Use “Trip Advisor Cheap Eats” to find the best food that fits your budget
• Pick destinations wisely – according to your budget and tastes. Croatia is amazing, but the most expensive in the Balkans. Albania delivers amazing beaches and outdoors for 25% of the Croatia coast.
• Bus everywhere as your primary mode of transportation. Flights are extremely inconvenient in the Balkans, and taxis are expensive and unnecessary. Checkout out the best list of Balkans bus and travel booking sites here .
• Travel carry-on only to save fees on flights traveling in and make life easier when transiting by bus – so you can keep your bags with you.
• Grab a beer and quick food to go, make friends, and eat in the park or on the water for a cheap night out or pregame, instead of burning money at a bar. The Balkans has a great tradition of gathering in parks and green spaces around sunset and some great parks to take advantage of.

ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR BALKANS PACKING LIST

You can get by with very little in terms of packing while you travel the Balkans. However there are a few items that are essential for a good experience and making the most of your opportunities in the Balkans.

• Sport sandals: Walkable, adventure-ready sports sandals such as Chacos or minimalist Xero Trails are perfect for the Balkans because so many experiences involve walking and hiking but are equally close to beaches. Whether you are walking Hvar to get to a beach or on a boat tour in Montenegro, you’ll appreciate having comfy sandals that are ready to get wet. Any of these seven great travel sandals will work as well.
• Walkable shoes: Many of the experiences in the Balkans will involve walking, whether on tour, looking at the architecture, or walking to catch a bus. Make sure you have comfortable shoes for walking to make it a 100% enjoyable experience. This mega list of travel shoes has plenty of options if you don’t have a solid pair of travel shoes.
• If you come in December or January or between April and June, be sure to bring a rain shell as those are the rainiest months in the Balkans. Outside of those months, it’s still smart to keep a waterproof layer in your backpack
• If you max out your Balkans experience, you will spend A LOT of time in swim trunks and shorts. Especially if you visit during summer or just outside of the window, you’ll be so hot that pants will be unbearable. Make the most of it by bringing at least 2 pairs of swim trunks, ideally that double as walk shorts too. I highly recommend the Outlier New Way shorts , as they’re as stylish as they are swim-ready and functional, but check out these 6 other shorts that are perfect for travel .
• In Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, the best adventures are aquatic, whether on relaxing beaches, at waterfalls, or cliff diving. Do yourself a favor and bring a simple roll-top waterproof bag like this to keep your phone, passport, and headphones safe while you swim between boats. The bag takes up minimal space and pays HUGE dividends in function.  

HOW TO GET AROUND THE BALKANS

Best options for transport through the Balkans (in order).

• SHORT FLIGHTS

Though there are international airports in Dubrovnik and the neighboring countries, flights between Balkan countries are fairly expensive – so don’t expect the budget airline deals of western Europe. Additionally, when you account for time and hassle spent checking bags, processing through security, and getting to and from the airport from in town, it takes just as long as a bus trip from anywhere to anywhere in the Balkans, but it’s 10x the price. To save time and money in the Balkans, don’t fly; just take the bus.

Best booking platforms for booking buses in the Balkans.

• General Buses in Balkans:  Flixbus
• Montenegro –  https://busticket4.me/EN
• Croatia –  https://www.buscroatia.com/
• General Planning:  Rome2Rio

For more info on transport in the Balkans, check out the Balkans section of this article How to Get Around while Traveling .

BALKANS TRAVEL FAQ

• Which Balkan country is cheapest?
• What countries are in “The Balkans”
• Will language be a problem in the Balkans
• How do you get around the Balkans?
• What is the best time to visit the Balkans?
• Where to start when backpacking the Balkans?
• What is it like crossing borders in the Balkans?

WHICH BALKAN COUNTRY IS CHEAPEST?

The cheapest country in the Balkans by far is Albania. Considering the country shares the same riviera as Greece and Croatia and accommodations and food are ¼ the price of the other two countries if you want a budget travel experience Albania is a no brainer.

At the same time, Montenegro is as expensive as Serbia and Bosnia; however, the value of the experience surpasses the cost. Montenegro has the southernmost fjords in Europe make the nature comparable to what you would see around Bergen, Norway, but at a fraction of Scandinavian prices. This makes Montenegro a high “value to money” option as well.

WHO IS BACKPACKING THE BALKANS BEST FOR

• Budget backpackers looking for a cheaper alternative to Europe
• Adventurous travelers, aiming to get off the beaten path to truly new destinations, like Albania, Kosovo, and changing destinations like Bosnia.
• Nature lovers that could spend days on end exploring beautiful lakes, alpine mountains, endless coastlines
• Partiers that find the all-night music and dance of Belgrade’s riverfront clubs and Hvars club island unusually alluring
• History lovers desiring to see old Roman cities and castles in pristine condition (like Diocletian’s palace in Split) or learn the “interesting” histories of the Balkans’ past struggles, like Albania, and Bosnia & Serbia

Note that though you can find food, parties, history, and peace & quiet in the Balkans, you can very easily fill a trip with one type of experience (i.e., quiet, nature) and fill a multiple months-long itinerary. If any of the above.

WHAT ARE THE BALKANS? WHAT COUNTRIES ARE IN “THE BALKANS”

The “Balkans” is the cluster of 11 countries situated in the Balkan peninsula, the name for the Balkan mountain range situated in Bulgaria.

The following 11 countries are regarded as the “Balkan states” that are mostly situated within the Balkan Peninsula.

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia

Turkey is also partly situated in the Balkan peninsula. Though some people may not regard Turkey as a Balkan country from a cultural standpoint, Turkey is so amazing and so close that it should absolutely be part of your Balkan itinerary.

As you travel through the Balkans, you’ll notice that, with the exception of Greece, the countries and cultures are strikingly familiar while also being drastically different – especially Albania and Bosnia.

During your Balkan tour, I highly recommend adding Turkey to your itinerary because it’s so close, it’s so cheap, and offers such a fantastic travel experience.

WILL LANGUAGE BE A PROBLEM IN THE BALKANS

No, language will not be a problem in the Balkans. For every single destination on this itinerary, you will be able to easily navigate the experience in English. 

WHERE TO START WHEN BACKPACKING THE BALKANS?

Ljublana, Slovenia or Dubrovnik, Croatia are your best options for starting your Balkans itinerary.

Ljublana as a start point offers you a very straight forward top to bottom itinerary. If you start in Slovenia, consider flying into Budapest and taking the train into Ljublana.

If you don’t want to start in the peace and calm of Slovenia, Dubrovnik is the other best option for starting. Dubrovnik has a large international airport and is central to every location in the Balkans, allowing you to do one large loop.

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES ABOUT BACKPACKING THE WORLD

• The 9 Best South America Backpacking Routes for 2 Weeks to 6 Months of Travel
• 5 Essential Routes for Backpacking the World and Visiting Every Continent
• The Balkan Walk: The Perfect Backpacking Itinerary for the Balkans
• 3 Months in Southeast Asia: A Perfect Plan for the the “Banana Pancake Trail”
• The Mini Backpacking Trails: 15 Itineraries Aroudn the World for 2 Weeks or Less

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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Dubrovnik, Croatia | 1 of 18

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Budva, Montenegro | 6 of 18

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Sveti Stefan Island, Budva, Montenegro | 9 of 18

Old Bridge, Stari Most, Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina | 10 of 18

Gazi Husref Bey Mosque, Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina | 11 of 18

Historic Center in Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina | 12 of 18

Saint Sava Temple, Belgrade, Serbia | 13 of 18

Saint Sava Temple, Belgrade, Serbia | 14 of 18

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Freedom Square and Catholic Cathedral, Novi Sad, Serbia | 16 of 18

Cathedral, Zagreb, Croatia | 17 of 18

Dolac Markets, Zagreb, Croatia | 18 of 18

Journey into the Balkans | 8 Days

Journey into the balkans.

Dubrovnik, Montenegro, Mostar, Sarajevo, Belgrade, Novi Sad, Osijek/Vukovar, Zagreb

Or contact your local travel agent.

Speak to our Croatia Expert - Olivia

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Tour at a Glance

Visit the UNESCO -World Heritage -listed Bay of Kotor, the distinctive old town of Dubrovnik and Sarjevo one of the historically most interesting cities in Europe

• Visit one of the historically interesting cities in Europe
• UNESCO World Heritage Bay of Kotor
• Archaeological sites of Belgrade
• Visit of St. Mark’s church
• Dubrovnik city, with it’s fortified old town

• Map is an indication of destinations visited and may not depict the exact route taken.

DAY 1    Saturday:                             DUBROVNIK

Transfer from Dubrovnik airport, Dubrovnik harbor or another hotel in Dubrovnik to the designated tour hotel. Dinner and overnight in Dubrovnik. (D)

DAY 2    Sunday:                                DUBROVNIK

Starting from Pile square on the eastern side of Dubrovnik Old Town, embark on a walking tour through the maze of its narrow streets and lively piazzas and enjoy in the view of stunning palaces like Sponza and churches like St. Blaise all the way to the Cathedral and the Rector’s Palace, where you will discover a fine synergy between governance and faith which kept Dubrovnik afloat as the independent Republic of Ragusa for 450 years. Dinner and overnight in Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik area. (B, D)

DAY 3    Monday:                              DUBROVNIK – MONTENEGRO – DUBROVNIK

From Dubrovnik, join us for a visit to the off-the-beaten-path Montenegro, a diminutive southeast European country that boasts big things: the UNESCO-World Heritage-listed Bay of Kotor and the eye-pleasing city of Kotor, situated within Europe’s southernmost fjord. Have some free time to explore on your own and then enjoy a ride across the Bay of Kotor on your way back to Dubrovnik. Dinner and overnight in Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik area. (B, D)

DAY 4    Tuesday:                              DUBROVNIK – MOSTAR – SARAJEVO

Morning departure to Mostar, city of bridges, where the traveler from the south gets the first glimpse of the continent beyond. Free time for lunch and sightseeing. Departure to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo is one of the historically most interesting cities in Europe, a melting pot of different cultures and a town of particular charm. City tour of Sarajevo upon arrival. Dinner and overnight in Sarajevo/Sarajevo area. (B, D)

DAY 5    Wednesday:                      SARAJEVO – BELGRADE

Morning departure to Belgrade, capital of Serbia. Short break will be made in Zvornik, charming little town in the northeastern Bosnia on Drina River. Belgrade is situated at the place where Sava joins the Danube River. There are spots in Belgrade you must see and feel; Streets, squares, monuments, parks, fountains, archeological sites. Many of them have been given the status of cultural assets. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of this beautiful city between two rivers famous for its sunsets. Dinner and overnight in Belgrade. (B, D)

DAY 6    Thursday:                            BELGRADE – NOVI SAD – OSIJEK/VUKOVAR

Morning departure to Novi Sad, Serbia’s second largest city, located on Danube River. After the guided tour of Novi Sad, continue towards Ilok. You will have opportunity to taste wines in one of the famous Croatia wine cellars “Iločki Podrumi” followed by traditional lunch. On the way to Osijek, stop in Vukovar, the biggest Croatian river port located at the confluence of Vuka River in Danube, a town also known as a symbol of the Croatian war for independence as it arose from the ashes of the ’90s into the proud city that it is today. Overnight in Osijek or Vukovar. (B, L)

DAY 7    Friday:                                  OSIJEK/VUKOVAR – ZAGREB

You will start you morning with the city tour of Osijek, the largest city in eastern Croatia, beautifully settled on the banks of Drava River. The tour passes by the Cathedral and the Tvrdja (Old Fort). Continue the drive to Djakovo, and admire the beauty of the two towers and cupolas of its Cathedral. After the visit, departure towards Zagreb followed by a visit to one of the ethno villages of the region for a tasty meal filled with local flavours. Afternoon guided tour of Zagreb. Overnight in Zagreb /Zagreb area. (B, L)

DAY 8    Saturday:                             ZAGREB

Departure transfer from the tour hotel to Zagreb airport or hotels in Zagreb. End of our services. (B)

Accommodation (or Similar):

DUBROVNIK: Hotel Valamar/Lacroma

SARAJEVO: Hotel Colors In

BELGRADE: Hotel Zira

OSIJEK: Hotel Osijek

ZAGREB: Hotel Astoria

• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
• Accommodation as listed below or similar
• Meals as per itinerary (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
• Touring with Multilingual speaking guide
• Sightseeing Tours: Dubrovnik, excursion to Montenegro, Sarajevo, Belgrade, Novi Sad, Osijek, Zagreb
• Other Services: Entrances to Etno Village, wine tasting in Ilok

Not Included:

• Gratuities, drinks, telephone charges and incidentals

Things to Note:

–          This may be a bilingual tour.

–          Accommodation is subject to change without notice. Every effort is made to avoid hotel changes, but should a mid-tour hotel change become necessary after this list has been printed, contact details of the new hotel will be supplied to you by your Tour Director.

–          Hotel rooms may not be available for check-in before 2:00 p.m. Hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling are included in the tour price.

–          Tour can be a combination of regular tours, therefore coach changes may be required.

–          The same people may not be travelling throughout the tour.

–          Should you be delayed during your journey and cannot arrive on time for the start of your tour, please phone the first hotel to advise your Tour Leader of the same. If the Tour Guide is unavailable, leave a message with the hotel reception, please.

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Pricing & Availability

All rates are based on twin/double share. Please enquire for single and triple rates. Rates are based on AUD. Availability is conditional on final confirmation from the supplier and is subject to change.

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