Balkan Tours & Vacation Packages 2025 & 2026

When is the best time to visit Balkan countries?

April to to November are the best times to visit because the summers are very hot and the winters are cold or wet, so the weather is better in Spring and Autumn. Some more touristy destinations, such as Croatia, will be busy during peak seasons, such as Easter and summer. Albania’s beautiful beaches can get very busy in August.

What does “Balkan” mean?

The word Balkan actually comes from the Turkish language and means ‘mountain’ and is therefore a highly appropriate name for the region.

What religions are practiced in the Balkans?

The most common religions in the Balkans are Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Christianity and Islam (mostly Sunni or non-denominational) but this varies by region.

Are the Balkans Safe?

Yes, the Balkans is a very safe area to travel! The area is often associated with war, however, it has been peaceful for over 20 years. In busier tourist areas, such as Dubrovnik, beware of the usual pickpockets and be sensible as you would in any other tourist location. Driving in the Balkans can be a bit wild so we would always advise full insurance when renting a car. It’s also a good idea to check over the local highway codes and plan your route out in advance because some roads may still be little more than dirt tracks. This was our biggest safety concern when travelling the Balkans, both as drivers and pedestrians! There are many stray dogs in some cities but most are friendly and will approach you for attention or food. Just be aware that they are not always treated for rabies or fleas.

What countries are in the Balkans?

Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia,Turkey, Moldova and Slovenia are all or partly located within the peninsula.

Parts of Greece and Turkey are also geographically in the region and many descriptions of the Balkans include these countries. Moldova is also included in the Balkans, under some definitions, due to its close connection with Romania.

Do You Need a Visa to Balkans?

The great thing about the Balkans is that most of the countries are out of the Schengen zone. Greece and Slovenia are the only countries that are in the zone and so make sure you only spend 90 days out of 180 days within the Schengen countries.

The Balkans is incredibly common for travelers because of their majority exclusion from the zone. Depending on where you’re from, of course, in most countries you will get a maximum of 3 months within each country out of the Schengen. But make sure you always double-check your own countries requirements.

Incredible variety of delicious and nutritious regional cuisine

A trip to the Balkans isn’t complete without trying some local cuisine. Immerse yourself in a mouthwatering local cuisine that will teach you about the people and their culture. Just saying that “Burek” is one of the most popular street foods in the world is an understatement. In most of the places surrounding the Balkans, you may find this delicious culinary masterpiece. You will have an overwhelming desire to visit the Balkans after reading this.

The natural beauty of the Balkans is unparalleled.

The Julian Alps go through Slovenia to the north, while the Dinaric Alps encapsulate the majority of the Western Balkans. As a result of its mostly karst construction, the Balkans boast some of the world’s most breathtaking natural scenery.

Without a doubt, the most breathtaking shoreline in all of Europe is the Adriatic coast, which stretches from Montenegro to Albania. The Bosnian and Montenegrin Mountains, in contrast, are home to some of the world’s most thrilling hiking trails. Experience the wonders of nature at one of the many magnificent national parks in Croatia, including Plitvice Lakes, Triglav, Tara, Sutjeska, Velebit, and many more.

Absolutely Mind-Boggling Cultural Variety

Four main religions and twelve distinct countries were among the various minorities who called Yugoslavia home. The majority of Balkans are South Slavs, a people group who first settled the peninsula in the fifth or sixth century. Many empires came and went from controlling the area after then. When compared to the rest of Europe, the Balkans’ cultural and historical diversity is unparalleled today.There were several minority groups in Yugoslavia, including adherents of four main faiths and five distinct nationalities. The majority of Balkans are South Slavs, a people group who first settled the peninsula in the fifth or sixth century. Many empires came and went from controlling the area after then. When compared to the rest of Europe, the Balkans’ cultural and historical diversity is unparalleled today.

The four languages spoken in Bosnia and Herzegovina—Croatian, Serb, Montenegrin, and Bosnian—are now officially recognized as distinct languages due to largely historical reasons. As divergent interpretations of the same language, these distinctions provide an excess of complications.

One of the many fascinating reasons to visit the Balkans is to learn about these phenomena.

Even now, few tourists venture to the Balkans.

You have arrived at the ideal spot if you are seeking a vacation that is genuinely uncharted. You may get an incredible amount of this type of enjoyment at Balkan places.

France, Spain, and Italy are among the European countries that are witnessing the full force of mass tourism. But countries in the Balkans like Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Romania still have infrequent visitors. Put simply, these hidden treasures in the Balkans provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the world as it truly is.

Traveling alone is quite secure.

The tourism sector is vital to the economies of Balkan nations, and businesses catering to female travelers have noticed a dramatic increase in bookings for trips taken alone. Consequently, the security of solo travelers became a significant concern for the Balkans tourist industry. As a result, it developed to mean advocating for a better world while also modeling tolerance and respect for diversity.

Indulge in a wine tasting or visit one of the many craft or microbreweries.

Did you know that biodynamic winemaking accounts for less than 3% of global output? To rephrase, all the way from the vineyard to the finished wine, using the most stringent ecological production methods. More than 300 sunny days per year are experienced by the Balkan region. This, among other things, gives it a paradisal setting for winemaking.

One thing that is gaining a lot of popularity in the Balkans is beers made at home. These days, a lot of individuals aren’t afraid to try new things, and they can make incredible things with their imaginations. The quality and affordability of alcohol in the Balkans is undeniable. Now is the time to explore the many offerings of the Balkans, whether we are talking about wine, beer, or powerful liquor.