The Balkans, that rugged and diverse corner of southeastern Europe, is a region that often surprises travelers. Stretching from the Adriatic Sea to the Black Sea, it’s a land of dramatic mountains, turquoise coastlines, Ottoman-era bazaars, medieval towns, and hearty, flavorful cuisine. Spending one to two weeks touring the Balkans gives you the chance to explore multiple countries, each distinct yet tied together by a shared history and vibrant culture. Don’t forget – DRACULA!

Week One: The Adriatic & Historic Heartlands

Day 1–3: Croatia (Dubrovnik & Split)

• What to See/Do: Start in Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," where you can walk the medieval city walls overlooking the sparkling Adriatic, explore the Old Town’s limestone streets, and take a cable car up Mount Srđ for sweeping views. From Dubrovnik, head up the coast to Split to see Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman-era complex that’s still alive with shops and cafés.
• What to Eat: Fresh seafood risotto, black cuttlefish ink pasta, and local wines from Dalmatia.

Day 4–5: Montenegro (Kotor & Budva)

• What to See/Do: Drive along the Bay of Kotor, a fjord-like inlet surrounded by steep mountains. Kotor’s Old Town is UNESCO-listed, with winding alleys and ancient churches. Hike up to San Giovanni Fortress for panoramic views. Nearby Budva offers lively nightlife and sandy beaches. Head over to Tivat if you want to see an impressive collection of multi-million dollar yachts.
• What to Eat: Njeguški pršut (smoked ham), cheese from Njeguši village, and rakija (fruit brandy).

Day 6–7: Bosnia & Herzegovina (Mostar & Sarajevo)

• What to See/Do: Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most) is one of the region’s most photographed sights. Wander the bazaar, sip Turkish coffee, and watch daredevil divers leap into the Neretva River. Continue to Sarajevo, a city where Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences converge. Visit Baščaršija (the Ottoman bazaar), the Latin Bridge (site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination), and the Tunnel of Hope Museum.
• What to Eat: Ćevapi (grilled minced meat with flatbread), burek (savory pastry), and strong Bosnian coffee.

Week Two: Into the Mountains & Beyond

Day 8–9: Serbia (Belgrade & Novi Sad)

• What to See/Do: Belgrade is lively and gritty, with Kalemegdan Fortress overlooking the Danube, vibrant café culture, and a nightlife scene that often spills onto floating river barges. Take a day trip to Novi Sad, known for its Petrovaradin Fortress and summer EXIT music festival. I saw Duran Duran here once!
• What to Eat: Pljeskavica (Balkan-style burger), ajvar (roasted red pepper spread), and local wines. Try an index sandwich from a local street vendor. The best sandwich I ever had.

Day 10–11: North Macedonia (Skopje & Lake Ohrid)

• What to See/Do: Skopje is quirky and eclectic, with oversized statues and Ottoman bazaars side by side. Don’t miss the Stone Bridge and the Old Bazaar. Then travel to Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO site with crystal-clear waters, monasteries perched on cliffs, and traditional fishing villages.
• What to Eat: Tavče gravče (baked beans in clay pots), pastrmajlija (flatbread with meat), and Ohrid trout.

Day 12–13: Albania (Tirana & the Riviera)

• What to See/Do: In Tirana, admire colorful architecture, Skanderbeg Square, and the lively café culture. If time allows, head south to the Albanian Riviera, with beaches rivaling Greece’s but far less crowded. Visit Gjirokastër or Berat, both UNESCO-listed Ottoman towns.
• What to Eat: Byrek (savory pastry), grilled lamb, fresh seafood, and raki.

Day 14: Bulgaria or Romania (Sofia or Plovdivor Timisoara)

• What to See/Do: End your Balkan adventure in Bulgaria. Sofia blends Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and modern city life at the foot of Mount Vitosha. Alternatively, visit Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with Roman amphitheaters and colorful Old Town houses.
• Transylvania: You can tour Dracula’s castle and experience the mystical Carpathian Mountains. This can be especially fun around Halloween for obvious reasons.
• What to Eat: Shopska salad (tomato, cucumber, peppers, and feta-like cheese), banitsa (cheese pastry), and Bulgarian yogurt.

Travel Tips for the Balkans

• Transport: Buses are the most common way to travel between cities, though renting a car gives you flexibility, especially for rural areas and mountain towns.
• Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few local words (thank you, hello) is appreciated.
• Currency: Several countries use their own currencies (Croatian kuna until recently switched to euro, Serbian dinar, Albanian lek), so carry some cash.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather without the summer crowds.

Why Tour the Balkans?

I am partial to the Balkans having lived in the area for a couple of years. The Balkans combine Europe’s cultural richness with a sense of discovery. Here, medieval monasteries sit beside Ottoman bazaars, pristine beaches meet rugged peaks, and traditional hospitality greets you at every table. Whether you have one week or two, this region offers a rewarding journey that feels like Europe’s best-kept secret. It’s less expensive, less crowded, but just as historically and culturally rewarding. Highly recommended!!!