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Balkan Tours

Delve into the diverse and dynamic Balkan region, a vibrant tapestry of cultures, history, and landscapes. This fascinating area spread over southeastern Europe, offers a rich palette of experiences and adventures. From exploring centuries-old monasteries, buzzing city life, quaint villages, and distinctive culinary scenes to hiking through stunning mountain ranges and relaxing on Adriatic beaches, a world of discovery awaits. With Balkan escorted tours and private trips, immerse yourself in this intriguing blend of cultures and landscapes that stirs the wanderlust.

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Our favourite Balkan tours

Balkan – Best places to visit

Explore the Balkan's numerous marvels, from thriving cities to serene natural wonders. Here are some top spots you should take advantage of.

Dubrovnik old City
Dubrovnik
Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', this Croatian city is famous for its stunning old town, fortified walls, and beautiful sea views.
Dubrovnik
Traditional shops in Sarajevo
Sarajevo
Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital is a fascinating mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences, offering rich history, vibrant culture, and delightful cuisine.
Sarajevo
Saint Sava temple with fountain in Belgrade Serbia
Belgrade
Serbia's bustling capital is renowned for its nightlife, a fortress overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and a lively bohemian quarter, Skadarlija.
Belgrade
Jovan Kaneo church in Ohrid in a beautiful summer day, Republic of Macedonia
Lake Ohrid
Straddling North Macedonia and Albania, this UNESCO-listed lake and its surrounding area boast beautiful churches, a charming old town, and excellent hiking opportunities.
Lake Ohrid
Waterfalls in National Park Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park
This Croatian park features cascading lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Mostar, Bosnia Herzegovina
Mostar
Located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a symbol of unity and resilience.
Mostar

Travel tips for Balkans &FAQs

The geographical area of the Balkans also referred to as the Balkan Peninsula, includes the countries of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia, and the European part of Turkey.

  • Top Outdoor Activities in the Balkans: The diverse Balkan landscapes offer endless opportunities for hiking and biking, such as in the stunning Prokletije or Dinaric Alps.
  • Rafting: Experience thrilling rafting adventures in Tara River Canyon, one of the world's deepest river canyons between Bosnia, Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
  • Beach Relaxation: The Dalmatian Coast in Croatia and the Albanian Riviera offer idyllic spots for beach relaxation and water sports.
  • Caving: Explore the mesmerizing underground world of the Balkans, with notable sites such as the Postojna and Skocjan caves in Slovenia.
  • Wine Tours: Experience the rich Balkan winemaking traditions with tours through famous vineyards in regions like Istria (Croatia) or Tikveš (North Macedonia).

The best time to visit the Balkans is typical during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are thinner. Summer is perfect for beach and coastal activities, especially in Croatia and Montenegro. Winter offers excellent skiing opportunities, particularly in Bulgaria and Slovenia.

Depending on your interests, a two-week trip allows you to cover several countries and experience the major highlights of the Balkans. However, if you have more time, numerous off-the-beaten-path destinations are worth exploring.

Balkan cuisine blends Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central European influences. Enjoy dishes like Cevapi (grilled meat), Burek (flaky pastry with various fillings), Moussaka (eggplant or potato-based dish), and Ajvar (red pepper spread). Seafood is abundant along the coast, while mountain regions offer hearty meat and vegetable dishes. Local wines, rakija (fruit brandy), and Turkish-style coffee are also must-tries.

Each country in the Balkans has its official language, such as Albanian, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Croatian, Greek, Macedonian, Montenegrin, Romanian, Serbian, Slovenian, and Turkish. However, English is widely spoken, especially by younger generations and in tourist areas.

Yes, the Balkan countries are generally safe for tourists. It's always recommended to take standard travel precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Currency varies by country. While some countries like Slovenia, Montenegro, Croatia, and Greece use the Euro, others like Serbia use the Serbian Dinar. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are usually accepted in cities and tourist areas.

In the Balkans, hospitality is highly valued, and guests are often treated with great respect. It's common to greet with a firm handshake. In religious sites, modest dress is expected. Each country has unique customs and traditions, so learning a few before your trip is worthwhile.

Each country in the Balkans has its unique festivals and events. Notable ones include the Guca Trumpet Festival in Serbia, Plovdiv Night of Museums and Galleries in Bulgaria, the Summer Festival in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and the Sarajevo Film Festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Power plug type can vary between countries, but most use Types C and F (two round pins), and the standard voltage is 230 V. It's best to check for each country you're visiting and carry a universal adapter.

Pack versatile layers, as the weather can be quite changeable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring historic sites and cities. Remember swimwear for beach areas, lakes, and warmer clothing if you're heading to mountainous regions. A rain jacket or umbrella could be handy too.

Like any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions such as not displaying expensive items, being aware of your surroundings, and respecting local customs and laws. It's also advisable to keep track of the latest travel advisories or news about the Balkan region.

Accommodation in the Balkans ranges from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. In many places, you can also find private vacation rentals. It's recommended to book in advance during the high season.

Yes, it's generally relatively easy to travel between the different countries in the Balkans. There are regular bus and train services between major cities, and many organized tours offer multi-country itineraries. However, make sure to check visa requirements if you plan to visit multiple countries.

Explore more: News, stories and articles about Balkans

Interiors of St. Sava's Church in Belgrade with religious paintings and mosaics
Exploring the Balkans: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature
Kanin, Slovenia - ski winter resort at mountain hill
The Balkans: A Unique Skiing Experience
Macedonian landmark, the Holy historic church Sveti Naum
Hidden Gems of the Balkans: Top 10 Unexplored Marvels
Mostar
Four unique private tours in the Balkans you cannot miss
Ohrid
Have the best Balkan holiday: the advantages of Balkan escorted tours

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