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Best Destinations in the Balkans

A list of beautiful places to visit.

Kristian Zara
August 2, 2022

Content Writer

Albania

Theth and Valbona

This part of the Albanian north side is something that you can’t miss of the Balkans. The hike from Theth to Valbona is a three-days adventure that includes a ferry ride, staying with locals, and dragging yourself over the mountains.
After arriving on land, you’ll drive through the mountains to reach the village of Valbona. Some houses are smack bang in the middle of nowhere.
The next morning, you’ll throw on your hiking boots and make your way to the mountain Theth. Babbling creeks, heaps of pine trees, and some pretty epic views will accompany your way. Don’t forget to visit also the blue eye in Theth.

Riviera

One of the most beautiful places in the Balkans is the Albanian Riviera. Its beaches are brightened with turquoise waters located next to green mountains.
Some of the best beaches are settled near Himara, Vlora, Borsh, Jala, Dhermi, Saranda, and Gjipe. You can have delicious seafood and vegetable dishes mixed with grilled meat cuisine.

Berat

Berat is a must-see town in Albania. A UNESCO town that’s often referred to as the town of one thousand windows, due to its architecture.
Wander around the town and make sure you visit the castle. The city is set right next to the river, which is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Find the few wineries in the area and taste the Albanian flavors.

Gjirokastra

Gjirokastra is known as the city of stones. A UNESCO listed because of the old-style houses that you can find throughout the city. Although the area has been inhabited since at least the Bronze age, most of the buildings are from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Saranda

Located south of Albania, with the Monastery of 40 saints, that shouldn’t be missed. Not too far away, you can find the ancient city of Butrint. You should visit the ancient place, walk around the park, and immerse yourself into the history. Another local recommendation it the archaeological site of Finiq.
If seafood is your thing, then you will enjoy your time around the city or head to the old port to find even better.

Tirana

Tirana is the capital of Albania, and the first stop for many tourists arriving in the country. This artistic and upcoming city in Europe has a lot of things to offer. There are great museums, fantastic restaurants and dozens of cafes to soak up the city culture. Tirana is full of events and extremely cheap as well for travelers coming from abroad.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo

With a population of 275,000 and a metro area of 643,000 sq. meter, Sarajevo makes the most energetic city of B&H.
Surrounded by the Dinaric Alps and situated along the Miljacak river, Sarajevo lies within the greater Sarajevo Valley of Bosnia.
The city contains a colorful center with an eclectic collection of architecture and rich modern history.

Tuzla

Tuzla is located in northeast of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The town has long been associated with local deposits of rock salt. In the 10th century it was called Soli (Salts), and its present name derives from the Turkish word tuz, “salt.”
Tuzla is known for its site of thermal-power station, and the good rail and road system makes Tuzla a collection point for agricultural procedure. While large quantities of lignite are mined in the basin, and there is a mining institute in the town.

Mostar

The city of Mostar is an easy day-trip from Dubrovnik. Mostar is named after the Mostari takes its name from the bridge-keepers that guarded the city’s bridges in medieval times. The UNESCO-listed Old Bridge was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and spanned the Neretva River for 427 years.
At the end of July, an annual festival sees brave drivers leap from the Stari Most to the frigid waters below. Visiting Mostar also offers the perfect opportunity to try Bosnian food and the rich and delicious local coffee.

Trebinje

Trebinje has a compact centre with a tiny walled Old Town bordered by a leafy market square. The Trebišnjica River is slow and passes through the town with its banks lined with swimming spots and replicas of waterwheels. Trebije mountains provide a sunbaked background, while hills topped with Orthodox churches scatter the outskirts.

Bulgaria

Pirin National Park

Pirin National Park is located in the Pirin Mountains, in southwest Bulgaria. The park includes seven municipalities in the district of Blagoevgrad: Bansko, Gotse Delchev, Razlog, Sandanski, Strumyani, Kresna, and Simitli.

The park includes one of the oldest reserves in Bulgaria – Bayuvi Dupki – Dzhindzhiritsa.
Within the park, there are more than 182 species of medicinal plants and 1,315 other plant species – roughly 1/3 of Bulgaria’s total. The park also harbors roughly 320 kinds of moss and lichen and 165 varieties of algae.
The wide variety of plant life supports many kinds of animals – more than 2,000 invertebrate species and more than 200 vertebrate species.

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria. It is situated in the Upper Thracian Plain on both banks of the Maritsa River.
The town was built, since, around seven hills – the hills of Plovdiv (Plovdiv Tepes). Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe – the beginning of its history dates back to 4,000 years BC.
Numerous well-preserved artifacts, from the Roman times, had remained untouched so far. Cobblestoned streets, fortress walls, buildings, water supply and sewerage systems are still visible around Plovdiv.

Sofia

We can describe Sofia as one of the most overlooked capitals in Europe. Located in the Western part of Bulgaria and it is easily accessible. Sofia’s charm is hidden in its tiled streets, cozy restaurants and bars, delicious food and a beautiful view of the mountains nearby. It holds a mixture of communism and historical buildings. The major attraction of Sofia is the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Croatia

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik looks like a fortified city with its ancient walls that protected the capital for centuries. The city is full of limestone streets, baroque buildings and an endless shimmer of the Adriatic Sea.
The city has sprung up with vigor, enchanting its visitors, since. Visit Dubrovnik is an experience filled with museums, arts, artefacts, and history.

Lokrum Island

Lokrum is conveniently located on a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik Old Town. Spending a day or just a half-day there can be a really refreshing experience, as the island has plenty of pine, cypress and olive trees as well as some other subtropical vegetation which offers tranquility and shade, especially during the hot summer days.
Krka National Park
Krka National Park, named after the Krka River, lies about 10 km inland from Sibenik in this part of Dalmatia. The National Park covers an area of just over 142 square km and includes two-thirds of the river itself. The top attraction of the park is its magnificent waterfalls. A boat trip through the park is a great way of seeing other highlights, including the small island of Visavac and Roski.

Istrian Penisula

Istria is the largest peninsula in Croatia, located on the very west part. It looks like a triangle and is a very popular destination for tourist and travelers due to its close vicinity to Italy, Slovenia and Austria, as well as its large coastline, full of small and larger bays with hundreds of places and villages offering tourist services.

Kosovo

Prizren

Heading to Kosovo? Try Prizren!
Prizren is a small city near the Albanian border but within easy reach of a host of other nearby Kosovan towns. Despite being popular with tourists, Prizren hasn’t tried to hide its cosmopolitan culture and history. The result is a town that’s bustling with life, history and architecture – even in the winter months.

Pristina

If you’re looking for a place to go and relax, Pristina is the place for you. The city has plenty of cafes, things to do and a rich history.
While you’re in the city, make sure you visit the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa. You can climb the stairs for 1 euro and get a nice view of the city. Another recommendation is to visit Germia Park, which is located not far from the center as is a popular hangout for locals in the summer.
If you’re a lover of street art, then make sure you visit Rruga B (Street b). There are over 1000 meters of wall covered in beautiful graffiti done by local artists. The wall is run by a non-profit organization which promotes art within the community.

Peja

Kosovo might be a small country in the Balkans, but it has plenty to offer. One of the most beautiful places to visit is the city of Peja. It’s a lively city with a bazaar and mosques that date back to Ottoman times, as well as some great shopping streets and restaurants.
Peja is also a perfect place to get a feel for Kosovo. You can stroll through its new shopping areas and explore its old part of town with its lively bazaar—or you can take a day trip up into the mountains to see Rugova canyon or head out on one of many hikes in the region.

North Macedonia

Lake Ohrid

Ohrid is one of the most popular spots in North Macedonia, and for good reason. The city has a beautiful setting on Lake Ohrid, with the church of St John perched on the hill above it. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the Balkans!
The city is small and easy to explore. You could easily spend a few days in Ohrid, enjoying the view, wandering the streets of the old town and checking out the medieval churches and ruins. The city is small and is one of many UNESCO protected places within the Balkans.

Shkup/Skopje

Skopje is an underrated gem, and there’s a lot that you can do here.
You’ll quickly realize that this is one-of-a-kind city: the center is full of weird and quirky statues and newish buildings that resemble ancient ones, the local bazaar is the biggest one in the Balkans (after Istanbul), and the brutalism architecture is a masterpiece here.
Skopje is also a perfect base for nature’s half-day trips. The nearby Mount Vodno and Matak Canyon are an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Skopje is also a perfect value for money, accommodation and food are really affordable here.

Bitola

Bitola is the southernmost city in North Macedonia. It sits on the Dragor River, and it’s at an elevation of 2,019 feet (615 meters). The city was founded in the 5th century by Slavic tribes who were later forced out by the Romans.
There were 60 mosques in Bitola, of which 12 remain today. In World War II, Bitola was occupied by German troops and suffered severe damage before being liberated by British forces at the end of 1944.

Montenegro

Kotor

The best thing to do in Montenegro is wander around the old town of Kotor and soak up the culture, architecture, and friendly people who call this place home. The cobbled-lined streets are absolutely gorgeous, and it’s easy to get lost among them.
If you want to stay a bit busier, though, check out the local zig zag path route back down—it’s a beautiful walk through several drink stalls made by the locals

Budva

Budva (Будва) is Montenegro’s most-visited destination, and it’s easy to see why. The seaside town has tons of atmosphere – it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a more tranquil vacation. It’s also packed with bars and clubs, which means it’s not nicknamed “the Montenegrin Miami” for nothing.
The Old Town is delightful: there are plenty of charming architecture and historic buildings to explore, as well as a number of museums that draw in visitors from all over the world. The beaches are also beautiful – The Budva Riviera is one of the best in the country. There’s something for everyone here!

Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park in Montenegro is one of the Balkans’ most beautiful natural reserves. With its gorges, plateaux, and mountains, the park transitions from a Mediterranean to an alpine environment in a matter of kilometers.
The village of Zabljak serves as a base for visiting Durmitor National Park. It has the atmosphere of an alpine resort and is mostly utilized for winter skiing in the Alps. However, I believe that staying there in the summer and going trekking, climbing, or wildlife spotting is much better.
Crno Lake (Black Lake, in English) is one of the park’s most picturesque places, surrounded by pine forest and spectacular mountains. On a hot day, it’s a great place to go canoeing or swimming.

Lake Skadar

The lake that Montenegro shares with Albania, Skadar Lake, is among its most stunning features. You can drive around it and take in the scenery, but if you want to take a boat tour, you can get a somewhat greater sense of the lake.
There are several businesses in the town of Virpazar that may provide you with a personalized or group tour. We had a great time traveling on our reed boat with the other four passengers.

Serbia

Belgrade

Serbia’s capital city is Serbo-Croatian Beograd, also known as the “White Fortress.” It is located in the north central region of the nation near the meeting point of the Danube and Sava rivers.
Three historically significant routes connecting Europe and the Balkans meet in Belgrade: one that runs east-west along the Danube River valley from Vienna to the Black Sea; another that runs west along the Sava River valley toward Trieste and northern Italy; and a third that runs southeast along the valleys of the Morava and Vardar rivers to the Aegean Sea. The Pannonian Basin, which contains the significant grain-growing area of Vojvodina, is to the north and west of Belgrade.

Subotica

Subotica, a significant cultural hub in Vojvodina and one of Serbia’s most stunning cities, even served as the heart of a fantastical empire in the sixteenth century.
Only 10 kilometers separate the Serbian-Hungarian border from one of Vojvodina’s most picturesque cities. The development of this city has been greatly affected by its location on the border between two powerful empires—the Austro-Hungarian and the Ottoman Empire—between Europe and Asia. The city has been inhabited by people of many nations and religions throughout antiquity.

Nis

Nis is one of the oldest cities in Europe and the third-largest city in Serbia. A large portion of Nis’ inhabitants were either massacred by the Germans during World War II or transferred to the adjacent concentration camp at Crveni Krst.
Both the Ottomans, who built the skull tower, and the Romans, who left the fortress’s Roman remains, both occupied this city (a literal tower made of actual skulls). As you can see, Nis has a rich and fascinating history!

Tara National Park

Legend has it that the Illyrian gods frequented Tara, a peak in Serbia. The supreme deity Tar chose (and named) Tara as the location for the construction of his throne due to its special allure. Tara National Park is one of the most beautiful sites to visit in Serbia as a result, therefore you should give it top priority on your travel schedule.
It is worthwhile to spend a day at Tara National Park if you are traveling to western Serbia, even if you are only passing through.

Slovenia

Lake Bled

Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places that I’ve ever visited. The town is popular year-round for its photogenic qualities and outdoor activities. Take a trip out to the island in the middle of the lake, which has been a popular pilgrimage site for centuries.

Piran

The Gulf of Trieste encircles the ancient harbor town of Piran, which is situated on a small peninsula. The town bears the scars of Venetian control for half a century. Walking and cycling are made easy along the long, broad trails that follow the shore from north to south.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is brilliantly, defiantly, itself, a modern hub where the local farmers’ market stocks vegetables grown just a stroll away by old women in their allotments. While the architecture and delectably in the remarkable local cuisine may be replete with spectacular international influences. With a sizable student population, this charming city on the banks of the willow-lined Ljubljanica River has a hustle and vibrancy that is unmatched by any other. Ljubljana is the place to go if you want to experience a seductive urban area that nevertheless has a true feeling of who it is.

Caves of Slovenia

There are a ton of breathtaking views in Slovenia that simply appear in front of you while you create priceless campervan memories. However, some are genuinely concealed beneath the surface of the soil and require a little more work to find.
The scenery of Slovenia’s south-west is unique because it is more varied, uneven, and devoid of most visible water surfaces. Grounds are made of soluble rocks, primarily gypsum, dolomite, and limestone. Due to their lack of water retention, these boulders disintegrate when rainfall that is somewhat acidic seeps through their pores and fractures, leaving behind some amazing natural formations.
In Slovenia, there are more than 10.000 recorded caves, with roughly 100 being found year.

Turkey

Istanbul

Travelers love Istanbul because there is so much to see, see, and eat there. Additionally, it has two airports with reasonably priced flights, making it a wonderful place to begin a trip to Turkey. Visit the blue mosque, the largest mosque in the city, as soon as you can.
Even if you are not religious, the beautiful architecture of this cathedral will wow you. Don’t forget to dress appropriately; if you don’t, you won’t be able to enter. If you’re not dressed appropriately, you can don one of their cloaks.
Getting a pickle juice and a fish sandwich from the Bosporus and enjoying them there is another fantastic thing to do in Istanbul.

Cappadokia

The region with the most unique sceneries, maybe ever! The historical region of Cappadocia is distinguished by rock formations that resemble chimneys. They are known as fairy chimneys, and they are present all across Cappadocia. Multiple volcanic eruptions in the region led to the development of the rocks.
Cappadocia’s history is also quite intriguing. Make sure to go to the Goreme Open Air Museum so you may experience life within a chimney firsthand. Houses, monasteries, and cathedrals are in ruins. One of the most visited places in Turkey and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is Cappadocia. Taking a hot air balloon flight above the area is one of the most popular activities for visitors.

Pamukkale

The Pamukkale white stone terraced hot baths are another well-known and stunning natural attraction. Nature created these hot springs. You can see why Pamukkale is called cotton candy when you get there!
These pools have sustained a great deal of damage over the years, to the point that parts of them have turned yellow. Fortunately, they are being preserved now, and maybe with time, they will recover. While you’re on vacation in Turkey, I strongly suggest going to this UNESCO monument.

Romania

Maramures

The great majority of tourists to Romania choose to stay in the country’s more well-known regions, with Transylvania being the most well-liked. Even while it’s a beautiful area to visit, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it. However, up in the very north of the nation is the gorgeous county of Maramures, one of our favorite destinations to travel in Romania. It’s like traveling back in time when you visit the magnificent Maramures region.
The entire area is made up of undulating hills and twisted valleys that are populated with sheep and haystacks. Every dozen or so kilometers, the highway, which is really just a skinny, two-lane road, goes through a little rural community.

Sighisoara

Sighisoara is a charming old city that is well worth the journey, I promise! This charming medieval village is unlike any other. Explore the historic cobblestone alleys while admiring the vibrant homes that border the confined lanes.
To obtain a beautiful view, make sure to go to the church in the old town at the top of the hill.
For a wonderful perspective and insight into the city’s history, you may also climb the clock tower in the center.

Bucharest

The capital city of Bucharest exudes a particular allure. Numerous individuals fall in love with Bucharest since there are so many things to do there, such as exploring the old town, learning more about the communist past, sitting in one of the numerous cafes and people-watching, or admiring one of the many stunning cathedrals.
The cuisine scene in Bucharest is also growing, with several excellent restaurants located all around the city. There is a wonderful combination of hearty Romanian food and a burgeoning international dining scene. An excellent approach to explore the city’s culinary culture is to go on a food tour!

Greece

Thessaloniki

The 34-meter-tall “Lefkos Pyrgos” (“white building/tower”), which is situated just by the seaside, is the most recognizable and distinctive feature of Thessaloniki. It once made up a portion of the city’s protective walls. A popular and active promenade also stretches the length of the seashore from the White Tower to the port.
Our favorite area in Thessaloniki is this one; it’s a well-liked gathering place with lots of great cafes and pubs to hang out in.
The historic portion of the city, which lies farther from the seaside, features many adorable cobblestone lanes adorned with orange trees. Some of the greatest traditional Greek eateries may be found here, including “Prytanio,” “Kanoula,” and “Tripia Potiria.”
There are regular flights from Thessaloniki to much of Europe from its international airport. The city’s primary train station is situated right in the middle of the city for visitors coming by train.

Aegina

You may travel there for as little as $8 if you choose one of the daily few boat alternatives. When you visit Aegina, you’ll be happy to learn that the fish is excellent and that the island’s biggest export is pistachios. The only site in Greece where pistachios are grown is on the island of Aegina, which is recognized by the European Union.
The Temple of Aphaia, which was constructed on Aegina in or about 500 BC, is another attraction worth seeing. Since the island is not very big, it is easy to travel throughout it by taxi or rental vehicle. If you’d prefer to journey there more slowly, there is also public transit accessible.

Athens

Athens is one of the locations you really must see if you are traveling through the Balkans. With a population of just under 4 million, Athens is a thriving city that provides a variety of historic buildings, Byzantine cathedrals, contemporary districts, lots of street art, and a dynamic atmosphere at all hours of the day and night. Athens won’t let you down whether your interests are in history, shopping, nightlife, or cuisine.
For stunning views, climb Areios Pagos, Filopappou Hill, or Lycabettus Hill. Alternatively, have a drink at one of the many rooftop bars near Monastiraki or Acropolis Metro Stations.
You will discover that Athens has a distinct, vibrant atmosphere when it comes to contemporary culture. There are several marketplaces and shopping districts to discover, including the Monastiraki flea market, the Plaka neighborhood’s gift shops, and the central market in the Psirri neighborhood.
Make sure to include items in your schedule if you want a peek at everyday life in the area. Last but not least, savor some delectable Greek cuisine.

Chalkidiki

The area of Chalkidiki is one of the least recognized in Greece while having so much to offer tourists all year long. Thessalonika is a significant and vibrant Greek city that air, train, automobile, or sea can reach. The Sithonia and Kassandra peninsulas in the Aegean Sea, known for its incredibly picturesque islands and the small but very endearing population. This historic region on the outskirts of Central Macedonia has important tourist attractions such as the sacred Mount Athos (only accessible to men, although everyone can appreciate its beauty from one of the tourist boats that daily are as close to their coasts.
Aegean Sea is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful islands, and Stageira, a small yet quaint island that was home to numerous people, including the Greek philosopher Aristotle.

Ioannina

The Epirus region’s capital, Ioannina, is centered on the lovely Lake Pamvotida. This body of water, which serves as the region’s unmistakable emblem, characterizes the town’s natural setting, climate, and personality. The lake is a natural landmark around which the entire region revolves, with its calm waters and little island. Visitors get the chance to learn about the origins of Epirus’ intellectual life thanks to the town’s rich cultural traditions, which have produced many notable authors and poets, as well as the artistic and intellectual events that are held all year long.
A stroll around the city has the air of a bygone period, full with undiscovered locations and living stories. Wonderful structures like the House Matei Hussein, the Veli Pasha Ottoman Mosque, and the entire town’s historic center are distinctive attractions.

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