Egor Karpovich
May 14, 2025
EUR
The Balkans are Europe’s treasure trove, a region where history meets natural beauty and culture sparkles with colour. If you’re looking for a trip full of experiences, the Balkans are the perfect place to start. This first-time travel guide to the Balkans will give you information on what to see, where to go and what you need to know to make your first Balkan adventure unforgettable. Planning a group tour ? The Balkans are a great destination!
The Balkans are a kaleidoscope of experiences, with something for everyone. Imagine strolling along the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik, the pearl of Croatia, where you can feel the breath of history. In Montenegro’s Kotor, you climb the ancient ramparts to see the breathtaking panorama of the Bay of Kotor, one of the most beautiful fjords in Europe. And in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, you’ll find the famous Old Bridge, a symbol of the fusion of cultures and eras. Looking for picturesque views and want to book a hotel with a view of the mountains? Then head to Albania, where you’ll be captivated by the Albanian Alps with their rugged peaks and crystal-clear lakes.
Continuing your Balkan journey, visit Sofia, Bulgaria, where ancient ruins sit alongside modern buildings, and Orthodox churches stand next to Muslim mosques. Skopje, North Macedonia, will amaze you with the monumentality of Macedonia Square, while Belgrade, Serbia, will offer a vibrant nightlife and rich history. Don’t forget to visit Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, a natural wonder where cascading waterfalls form picturesque lakes, and take a tour of Montenegro to see its mountainous landscapes and Adriatic coast.
Looking for adventure? Go to Postojna Cave in Slovenia, one of the largest and most beautiful caves in the world. Want to touch the ancient world? Visit the ancient city of Butrint in Albania, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. For beach lovers, tours to Croatia with its numerous islands and crystal clear sea are ideal. And, of course, do not forget to buy plane tickets in advance to save on your trip.
Other must-sees include: Durmitor National Park in Montenegro with its impressive canyons and lakes; Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe; and Tirana, the capital of Albania, with its vibrant architecture and vibrant life.
Choosing a country for your first acquaintance with the Balkans is not an easy task, because each of them is unique and beautiful in its own way. However, if you want to get the most complete picture of the region, then you should pay attention to Croatia, Montenegro and Albania.
Croatia is a country where the Mediterranean atmosphere meets rich history and culture. Here you can enjoy a beach holiday on the Adriatic coast, visit ancient cities such as Dubrovnik and Split, and see picturesque national parks. Croatia tours offer a variety of activities, from yachting and windsurfing to hiking and excursions to historical sites.
Montenegro is a country of contrasts, where high mountains border the azure sea. Here you can admire the Bay of Kotor, stroll along the old streets of Kotor, climb the Durmitor Mountains and relax on the beaches of the Budva Riviera. This country is ideal for those who seek adventure and active recreation.
Albania is a country that is just beginning to open up to tourists, but has already managed to win the hearts of many travelers. Here you can see untouched nature, visit ancient cities such as Berat and Gjirokastra, and get acquainted with a unique culture and traditions. Tours to Albania offer the opportunity to see the Balkans from a different side, get acquainted with an authentic culture and enjoy the beauty of untouched nature. Do not forget that when planning a trip, it is important to buy air tickets and book a hotel in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Now you know where to go for your first trip to the Balkans. We also recommend Slovenia - a small but very diverse country where you can see the Alps, the Adriatic coast, caves and vineyards. Here you can enjoy nature, culture and gastronomy.
In these countries you will be able to find entertainment for every taste and budget. And if you decide to trust the organization of group tours to professionals, you will be able to focus on enjoying the trip.
Choosing the best Balkan countries is a matter of taste, as each of them has its own unique charm. However, if you focus on a combination of factors such as natural beauty, historical heritage, cultural diversity and tourist infrastructure, you can single out six countries that are definitely worth visiting: Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. We have already told you about the first four.
Now let's talk a little about the last two. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country where history intertwines with culture, and eastern traditions intertwine with western ones. North Macedonia is a country with a rich historical heritage, beautiful lakes and hospitable people. In these countries you can find everything you need for an unforgettable trip: beautiful landscapes, interesting sights, delicious food and hospitable people.
The Balkans is a region with a rich history, complex political situation and diverse culture. Before traveling here, it is worth knowing a few important facts.
Firstly, the Balkans are a multinational and multi-confessional region where different cultures and religions intertwine. Secondly, the history of the Balkans is full of conflicts and contradictions, which is reflected in the culture and mentality of the locals.
Thirdly, the Balkans is a region with a developing economy and infrastructure, so you should be prepared for some difficulties and inconveniences. Fourthly, the Balkans are spoken in different languages, but in many places you can communicate in English or German.
Fifthly, the Balkans are very hospitable people who are always ready to help tourists. When planning a trip, do not forget to check the prices for tours to Montenegro and other countries in the region to find the best deal.
For first-time tourists, the Balkans may seem like a complicated and confusing region. However, in reality, traveling in the Balkans is quite simple and interesting. The main thing is to plan your trip correctly and be prepared for some surprises.
The following tips are universal for any trip. Before your trip, study the history and culture of the region to better understand local customs and traditions. Book a hotel and buy air tickets in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises. Plan your travel itinerary, but be prepared to change it depending on the circumstances. Don’t be afraid to communicate with locals, they are always happy to help tourists. Try the local cuisine, it is very tasty and varied. And, most importantly, enjoy the trip and discover new places and experiences.
The Balkans is a unique region that is definitely worth visiting at least once in your life. Here you will be able to see beautiful landscapes, get acquainted with an interesting culture, try delicious food and meet hospitable people. Don’t be afraid to go on a trip to the Balkans, even if you are a beginner tourist. This guide will help you take the first steps in exploring this amazing region. Discover the Balkans - and they will remain in your heart forever.