Exploring the Balkans
- Wayne Schmidt
- Jan 3, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 hours ago
The Balkan region generally includes 11 countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and parts of Greece and Turkey.
There is no universal agreement on which countries are definitively part of the Balkans; some definitions include additional territories or countries.
The Balkans have always held a special allure for us. It’s fascinating to realise that there’s no universal agreement on which countries definitively belong to the region—some definitions include additional territories or countries. This intriguing mix of ambiguity, history, and shared culture draws travellers in and keeps them hooked. For us, this only added to the mystery and charm of exploring the Balkans, making it feel like a destination with limitless possibilities.
What is undeniable is how rich and diverse this part of Europe truly is. During our travels, we’ve been lucky enough to visit several countries in the Balkans, each welcoming us with its distinct personality and spirit. Let us show you what makes this region so captivating.
The Balkans are a melting pot, a meeting place between East and West where ancient Ottoman influences collide with Austro-Hungarian traditions, and the scars of history are paired with immense natural beauty. As we ventured through this region, we were amazed by lush mountain ranges, sparkling coastlines, centuries-old fortresses, and cities bursting with life and tradition. What ties these countries together, despite their differences, is their shared resilience and warmth—qualities you’ll feel instantly when travelling here.
We kicked off our Balkan adventure in Croatia, and it didn’t take long to understand why it’s one of the region’s most iconic destinations. Stretching along the Adriatic coastline, Croatia is a dream for anyone who loves history paired with stunning natural beauty. Dubrovnik immediately wowed us with its walled cityscape, and Plitvice Lakes National Park offered scenery we couldn’t stop photographing. Add the fresh seafood and the hospitality of locals, and we knew this was a country we’d want to return to someday.
Montenegro feels like a hidden treasure tucked between mountains and coastline. The Bay of Kotor was one of the most jaw-dropping sights during our journey, with towering peaks cascading into dazzlingly blue waters. The country is compact, but we loved its variety—from medieval towns to quiet coves and untamed mountains. There’s so much packed into such a small area that Montenegro felt like something new around every corner.
Albania surprised and delighted us. Because it doesn’t always make it onto travellers’ radars, we loved feeling like we’d stumbled onto something rare. Its coastal towns, like Saranda, offered untouched and serene beaches. In contrast, inland cities such as Berat, with its Ottoman-style old town, gave us glimpses into a fascinating history. And the food? Fresh, vibrant, and unforgettable.
Our time in Macedonia was filled with unexpected moments, like sitting by the shimmering waters of Lake Ohrid and watching the day quietly fade away. Skopje, the capital, charmed us with its quirky mix of statuary, historic landmarks, and lively cafes. We also fell in love with the food here—a hearty blend of Turkish and Balkan flavours that warmed our hearts as much as it pleased our taste buds.
As we entered Turkiye, we felt we were stepping onto a bridge between continents. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkiye offers an extraordinary blend of history, architecture, and culture that awakens us to awe. Istanbul enchanted us with its bustling streets, iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and lively bazaars that engaged all our senses. Beyond Istanbul, we marvelled at the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and relaxed along the pristine beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Whether sipping Turkish tea above the ruins of ancient Troy or walking through the streets of historic cities like Edirne—an essential connection to the Balkans—we felt Turkey’s layered beauty and profound connection to the region.
Conversely, Serbia felt rugged yet charming, full of contrasts that sparked our curiosity. Belgrade quickly became one of our favourite stops—its vibrant nightlife blends seamlessly with historic landmarks like Kalemegdan Fortress. But it wasn’t just the capital that stuck with us. Rolling hills and sacred monasteries outside the cities painted Serbia as a place of quiet beauty and deep history.
Enjoy each country in-depth below.
Comments