The Ultimate 3 Weeks Balkans Travel Itinerary

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Last Updated on May 22, 2025 by sydabroad

Looking for the perfect Balkans travel itinerary? Keep reading! 

Alright, let’s dive into the ultimate Balkans travel itinerary! This is the exact three-week route I followed on my trip, with a few optional swaps in case you want to switch things up or extend your trip. 

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling through the Balkans—how to get around, the best things to do in each spot, where to stay, what to expect in each destination, and answers to all the FAQs. 

The Balkans is seriously one of the most underrated regions in Europe. It’s stunning, super affordable, and still feels a bit off the beaten path compared to Western Europe. But with more travelers discovering it every year, now is the perfect time to add it to your next Euro trip!  

Keep reading to discover the perfect Balkans travel itinerary!

Looking for more Balkans guides? 

• Amazing Things to Do in Shkoder, Albania 
• How to Spend One Day in Tirana 
• 13 Best Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia 
• Valbona to Theth Hike: A Complete Guide
• 7 Amazing Things to Do in Perast, Montenegro 

Balkans Travel Itinerary Map 

Below you’ll find a map with all the spots mentioned in this Balkans travel itinerary. This guide begins in Belgrade, Serbia, and ends in Ohrid, North Macedonia.

Balkans Itinerary overview 

Here is a quick breakdown of my three-week itinerary. Feel free to adjust this depending on where you want to visit and how many days you have. You can begin your trip somewhere aside from Belgrade, or extend if you’d like. I’ve included some alternative destination options below. 

Day 1: Fly into Belgrade 

Day 2: Explore Belgrade

Day 3: Belgrade to Sarajevo 

Day 4: Explore Sarajevo 

Day 5: Explore Sarajevo 

Day 6: Sarajevo to Mostar 

Day 7: Explore Mostar 

Day 8: Mostar to Kotor 

Day 9: Explore Kotor 

Day 10: Explore Kotor

Day 11: Kotor to Budva 

Day 12: Budva to Shkoder 

Day 13: Northern Albania 

Day 14: Hike in Northern Albania 

Day 15: Relax in Theth

Day 16: Theth to Shkoder 

Day 17: Shkoder to Tirana 

Day 18: Explore Tirana 

Day 19: Tirana to Ohrid 

Day 20: Explore Ohrid  

Day 21: Explore Ohrid 

Day 22: Leave from the nearest Balkan city

Here are other highlights you could swap out or add on to this itinerary: 

• Kosovo: You can visit Kosovo as a day trip from Tirana. I really wish I had done this while I was in Tirana. It would have been cool to check off and experience another Balkan country. Even if it were only for a day. 
• Greece: Consider visiting Athens, Mykonos, or Santorini. Keep in mind that Greece is the most touristy of the Balkan countries, so it will likely be busy. Especially if you stick to popular islands. Check out my Greece itinerary here.
• Croatia: Visit Split or Dubrovnik. Both are amazing! If you are planning to visit Croatia, check out my guide here. 
• The Albanian Riviera 
• Skopje, North Macedonia 
• Sofia, Bulgaria 

Which countries make up the Balkans? 

The Balkans are a region in Southeastern Europe made up of many diverse countries. Depending on who you ask, this list could vary slightly. But in general, the Balkans are made up of Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and Greece. 

How to get to the Balkans?

Compared to Western Europe, there are fewer major airport hubs in the Balkans, but getting there is still relatively easy. I recommend flying into the most convenient airport based on your starting location, or into a nearby city and then taking a bus from there. 

I flew in from Copenhagen and chose Belgrade, Serbia, as my starting point. Other popular airports include Tirana (Albania), Sarajevo (Bosnia & Herzegovina), and Sofia (Bulgaria). 

If you’re already in a nearby country, like Hungary or the Czech Republic, you might also consider taking a bus or train to start your trip. 

Backpacking Europe? Here is the perfect backpacking Europe packing list for female travelers 🧳✈️

How to get around the Balkans

 By Train

Train travel isn’t as common as it is in Western Europe. There are a few scenic trains, like the one from Sarajevo to Mostar, which I highly recommend, but overall, the rail network is limited. 

If you’re only traveling within the Balkans, I don’t think an Interrail or Eurail pass is worth it. These passes work better in countries with more extensive train networks. If you only stick to the Balkans, you’ll save money by booking transport individually. 

By Bus

Buses are the most common and convenient way to travel around the Balkans. They’re super affordable, easy to book, and connect even the smaller towns. I was honestly a bit nervous before my trip because I couldn’t find much detailed information online. But once I got there, the buses were great — clean, reliable (for the most part), and easy to book. 

I used Omio and GetByBus to book my bus tickets. I booked most of my buses in advance, but for some, I booked a couple of days or a day before. If you’re traveling during peak summer, I suggest booking your bus tickets in advance online. 

By Car 

If you want more freedom and flexibility, renting a car is a great option, especially if you’re planning to explore off-the-beaten-path places or smaller villages. You can rent a car from major airports like Belgrade, Tirana, or Sofia, and drive between countries with relative ease. 

Just note that while driving in the Balkans is totally doable, road conditions can vary depending on where you are. 

By Ferry 

There aren’t many ferry routes unless you’re visiting coastal areas. If you’re exploring places like Montenegro, Croatia, or Albania, you might find ferries connecting coastal towns or even international routes (like Italy to Albania or Croatia to Italy). 

I love using RentalCars.com for renting cars abroad! They’ll make sure you get the best rate across rental companies and have a wonderful cancellation policy. If you want to rent a car in the Balkans, check out your rental options here!

How to use this Balkans Travel Itinerary to plan your trip

This three-week Balkans itinerary is based on my personal trip. It starts in Belgrade, Serbia, and ends in Ohrid, North Macedonia— although I actually ended up looping back to Tirana to catch my flight to my next destination, Paris.

For each stop, I’ve included the top things to do, how long to stay (based on the minimum time I think you need, though if you have more time, definitely stay longer!), and how to get from one city to the next.

Feel free to follow this itinerary exactly, or mix and match cities to create a route that works best for your travel style and schedule. 

The Ultimate 3 Week Balkans Travel Itinerary

Belgrade, Serbia | 2 Nights

How to get to Belgrade? 

I began my Balkans trip in Belgrade, Serbia. First, I flew into Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), which is the main international airport in Serbia and a common entry point for travelers starting their Balkans trips.

I met my driver, whom I booked through my hostel, Good People Hostel. If you are solo traveling and uncomfortable figuring out public transportation in a new city, I highly recommend booking an airport pickup through your hostel. Just email them before your trip to organize it. 

To be honest, I landed on Belgrade as the destination for the start of my Balkan trip because of how cheap the flights were from Copenhagen to Belgrade. I used the “everywhere” search feature on Google Flights, and Belgrade popped up as being one of the cheapest, so I booked it! 

How long to stay in Belgrade? 

At a minimum, I suggest staying two nights in Belgrade. If you want to cover all of the highlights of the city, you probably need three to four days. 

However, I only had two, and I think it was a good amount of time to squeeze in the highlights and must-do activities. Obviously, two days in any city is not enough to experience it fully, but it’s a good start. 

About Belgrade 

Belgrade, the lively capital of Serbia, is a city full of character, contrasts, and centuries of history. It has a gritty yet creative feel, where crumbling facades stand next to vibrant street art, cozy cafes, and modern architecture. 

From its buzzing cafe scene to its iconic nightlife (which I sadly did not experience), Belgrade offers an authentic, energetic travel experience. It’s a place where you can dive into rich history or dance until sunrise. No matter what you’re into, Belgrade has something for you. 

Things to do in Belgrade 

• I suggest taking a free walking tour in Belgrade, you’ll visit sites like Kalemegdan Fortress and Park, and learn more about the history of Belgrade. 
• St. Sava Temple: This is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world
• Museum of Yugoslavia & Tito’s Mausoleum 
• Belgrade Waterfront & Sava Promenada 
• Knez Mihailova Street
• Skadarlija Bohemian Quarter 
• Nikola Tesla Museum 

Where to stay in Belgrade?

Budget: Good People Hostel (I stayed here and it was a wonderful budget option in the city. Very centrally located, which was nice)

Boutique: One Luxury Suites

Luxury: Square Nine Hotel 

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina | 3 Nights

How to get to Sarajevo?

The most common way to get from Belgrade to Sarajevo is by bus. This is the route I took, and it was about 8 hours and cost €24. I booked my bus ticket online through BookAway, and the local bus company that I had booked through BookAway was Konder Bus. 

The long bus journey actually wasn’t bad at all. It was a comfortable bus, and they stopped along the way for bathroom breaks and snacks, but I do suggest bringing your own snacks. I was also shocked by how scenic this bus journey was; I seriously did not expect the landscape to be so lush and green. 

How long to stay in Sarajevo? 

I recommend staying three nights in Sarajevo. This will give you enough time to experience the city’s historic sites, take a guided tour to learn about its complex past, and enjoy the local food scene. 

About Sarajevo

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina, is known as the “Jerusalem of Europe” — a city where East meets West. It’s an interesting city with a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences. 

Despite its turbulent past, such as the siege of the 1990s, Sarajevo is now a welcoming city full of culture, history, and incredibly friendly people. Oh, and don’t leave without trying ćevapi, Bosnian baklava, and Bosnian coffee (Yes, it’s different from Turkish coffee!)

Things to do in Sarajevo

• Baščaršija (Old Bazaar)
• Ride the Sarajevo cable car 
• Try local food like burek, ćevapi, and baklava, and Bosnian coffee. 
• Visit the Yellow Fortress 
• Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
• Sarejevo Tunnel Museum 
• Latin Bridge
• Take a walking tour! You’ll see that I recommend taking a walking tour in every city because I really believe this is the best way to get to know a destination from a local’s perspective. They’ll take you to all the best spots. 

One of my favorite things to do when I first get to a new city is take a free walking tour. This is a great way to get a sense of where everything is, learn about the city itself, and you’ll get the best local recs from your guide. I love booking my walking tours with GuruWalk – check them out here! But always remember to tip your guide.

Where to stay in Sarajevo?

Budget: Balkan Han Hostel: This was such a fun hostel, the staff were so nice, and I met the best people here! 10/10 recommend. 

Boutique: Hotel Aziza

Luxury: Swissôtel Sarajevo

Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina | 2 Nights 

How to get to Mostar?

You can take a train from Sarajevo to Mostar, and you should—it’s seriously one of the most scenic train rides I took during my four months in Europe. The views are stunning, the ticket is super affordable, and the whole ride is relaxing and easy.

How long to stay in Mostar?

I suggest staying two nights in Mostar. It’s a beautiful town with a lot of charm, and there are some amazing day trips you can take from there, like visiting Kravice Waterfall or Blagaj Tekija. 

That said, I personally did Mostar as a day trip from Sarajevo, and it was great. So if you’re short on time, a day trip is a wonderful option. But if you have the flexibility, staying overnight in Mostar lets you enjoy the town once the day-trippers leave, and it will be absolutely worth it. 

About Mostar 

Mostar is a stunning little city in Bosnia & Herzegovina, known for its rich history, Ottoman-inspired architecture, and the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). You’ve probably seen photos of the breathtaking stone bridge online—and trust me, it’s even more beautiful in person. 

A trip to Bosnia isn’t complete without experiencing Mostar. Wander the cobblestone streets, sip on traditional Bosnian coffee, and dive into the city’s past by joining a walking tour or visiting one of its local museums.  

Things to do in Mostar 

• Book a walking tour in Mostar. I booked mine through GuruWalk, and it was incredible! It was with the Sheva Walking Tours Team, and I couldn’t recommend them more.
• Walk across Star Most (It is quite slippery if it rains!) 
• Watch the bridge jumpers — yes, people dive off this bridge. It’s certainly something to see 
• Visit the Museum of War and Genocide Victims 
• Explore the Old Bazaar
• Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque 
• Eat traditional Bosnian food 
• Day trip to Blagaj or Kravice Waterfalls 

Where to stay in Mostar? 

Budget: Hostel David Mostar

Boutique: Old Town Hotel

Luxury: Hotel Mepas

Kotor, Montenegro | 3 Nights 

How to get to Kotor?

To get from Mostar to Kotor, you’ll take a bus. Because I ended up doing a day trip to Mostar, I went from Sarajevo to Kotor via bus, which took about 8 hours and cost €30. I booked the ticket online with GetByBus. 

Alternatively, you can purchase these tickets at a local bus station. I booked mine ahead of time to make sure I could grab a seat before they filled up because I was traveling in peak tourist season. 

How long to stay in Kotor?

I recommend staying in Kotor for three nights. It’s a gorgeous little Balkan city nestled between stunning mountains—you don’t want to rush your time here. 

The bay of Kotor is beautiful, and there are so many activities that you can do on and around the bay. Three days will give you enough time to experience the old town, enjoy relaxing on the beaches, and you can visit Perast. 

Kotor is a major cruise ship hub, so the old town will be packed with tourists most days during the summer. This is why it’s nice to stay here to experience the old town before and after the cruise ships dock. It feels like an entirely different place without the loads of people.

Need help planning your first solo trip? Here are 15 steps on how to plan your first solo trip.

About Kotor 

Kotor is a medieval little city situated on Montenegro’s gorgeous bay of Kotor. It’s tucked between massive mountains and the stunning Adriatic Sea. The old town of Kotor is a mix of charming squares, cobblestone streets, and ancient buildings. 

Kotor blends Roman, Venetian, and Byzantine influences, giving it a unique cultural and architectural feel. It’s a destination that feels like stepping back in time. You can’t miss it. 

Things to do in Kotor

• Climb the Kotor Fortress (San Giovanni Castle) 
• Wander around the Old Town
• Visit St. Tryphon’s Cathedral 
• Relax at Kotor Beach 
• Paddleboard or Kayak in the Bay of Kotor 
• Visit the Maritime Museum 
• Visit Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

Read more about the best things to do in Kotor, Montenegro here! 🇲🇪

Where to stay in Kotor?

Budget: Montenegro Hostel 4U — This is where I stayed; it’s right by the water and super social. You can literally lie out on the beach and still be connected to the hostel’s Wi-Fi. Also, they had pub crawls just about every night. 

Boutique: Boutique Hotel Hippocampus 

Luxury: Hotel Libertas 

Budva, Montenegro | 1 Night

How to get to Budva?

The journey from Kotor to Budva will take 30 minutes to an hour; it’s quick and incredibly scenic, making it a popular spot on any Montenegro itinerary. You can choose to book a taxi, rent a car, or book a bus.

How long to stay in Budva? 

In this Balkans travel itinerary, I allocated one night in Budva. You can split up your four days in Montenegro however you like. It’s nice that both cities are very close, making it easy to experience both. 

I opted for a day trip to Budva from Kotor, so I didn’t actually stay here. You can do this, but if you have the time, I suggest staying here in Budva for a night. This way, you can experience the stunning beach club scene and the old town. 

About Budva 

Budva is a short drive away from Kotor, and another stunning little town in Montenegro right on the sea. It’s known for its mix of medieval charm and modern beach vibes. 

Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic — over 2,500 years old, and its Old Town is packed with stone churches, cobbled streets, and hidden gems. It’s got a long stretch of beautiful beaches that draw locals and tourists alike every summer. Whether you’re into history, beaches, or a vibrant nightlife, Budva has something for everyone  

Things to do in Budva 

• Wander around Budva Old Town (Stari Grad) 
• Visit the Citadel 
• Kamenovo Beach Club
• Stroll the Budva Riviera 
• Enjoy the nightlife in Budva
• Relax on Mogren Beach
• Take a boat trip to Sveti Nikola Island (known as the Hawaii of Montenegro) 

Read more about the best beaches around Kotor and Budva here! 🌊☀️🐚

Where to stay in Budva? 

Budget: Freedom Hostel Budva

Boutique: Astoria Boutique Hotel

Luxury: Avala Resort 

Shkodër, Albania | 2 Nights (1 before the hike and 1 after) 

How to get to Shkodër?

To get from Kotor (or Budva) to Shkodër, you’ll take a bus. I booked my bus online for  €17 through Bookaway, and the local bus company was called Old Town Travel. My route was from Kotor to Shkodër, and the journey took around four hours. 

How long to stay in Shkodër? 

I recommend staying one night in Shkodër before you set off for the hike in the Albanian Alps and the night after you return to Shkodër. This will give you a bit of time to rest before and after the hike, as well as explore the city a bit. 

It is actually such a lovely city in northern Albania. If you do find yourself with more time, it’s worth staying an extra day or two. 

Of course, you can always swap out Northern Albania for the Albanian Riviera. Or take on the south of Albania at the end of your trip. You honestly really shouldn’t miss the Alps up north, the views are amazing!  

About Shkodër

Shkodër is considered the gateway to the Albanian Alps. Many people begin their journey here if they plan on doing the Valbona to Theth hike. It’s a laid-back city filled with rich culture and lively cafes.

Shkodër really surprised me. Like many others, my sole reason to visit was for the hike in the Alps, but I enjoyed spending time exploring the city. You can read all about the best things to do in Shkodër here.

Things to do in Shkodër 

• Rozafa Castle 
• Visit the museums in Shkodër 
• Rent a bike and ride to Shiroka 
• Enjoy Shkodër Lake
• Explore the city center (Rruga Kole Idromeno) 
• Xhamia E Madhe — Ebu Bekr Mosque 

Where to stay in Shkodër?

Budget: Wanderers Hostel — This is the place to stay in Shkodër if you are a backpacker. I LOVED this hostel. They will plan absolutely everything for you if you’re doing the hike from Valbona to Theth. You can learn more about the Wanderers Hostel here. 

Boutique: Atelier Boutique Hotel 

Luxury: Villa Teverde 

Albanian Alps (Valbona to Theth) | 3 Nights

How to get to the Alps? 

Now, let’s go over a quick rundown on your time in the Albanian Alps. The Valbona to Theth hike is a must, and the simplest way to book everything is through the Wanderers Hostel. (or you can book through various tour companies). 

I booked with Wanderers, and this included all of my transportation, guesthouses in the Alps, and meals. You can read more about the Valbona to Theth hike in Albania here.

How long to stay in the Albanian Alps?  

You’ll stay in Valbona for a night, do the hike the next day, then you can stay in Theth one or two nights (I suggest two). Again, check out my guide here for all the details.

About The Albanian Alps

The Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, are one of the most gorgeous (and underrated) regions in all of Europe. For anyone craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this is a must. 

You’ll experience lush valleys, tiny mountain villages, and crystal clear rivers. I’ve actually never seen rivers so clear. Not only are the landscapes stunning, but the hospitality is so kind and genuine. The Valbonia to Theth hike is hands down one of the most memorable experiences of my entire Balkans trip. 

Things to do in Theth and Valbona

The hike from Valbona to Theth is the highlight! Once you’re in Theth, you can visit the Blue Eye, a beautiful little church, and a waterfall. You really are off the grid and out in nature, which I loved. 

Where to stay in Theth and Valbona?

In Valbona, I stayed at Valbona Arben Selimaj guesthouse, and in Theth, I stayed at Dreni Guesthouse. This was all booked through Wanderers hostel. The guesthouses were great, and they also included all of your meals. The home-cooked Albanian food was absolutely delicious. 

Tirana, Albania | 2 Nights 

How to get to Tirana? 

Yet another wonderful thing about the Wanderers hostel in Shkodër is that you can book transportation to Tirana with them. And if you’re staying at Trip’n’Hostel in Tirana, they will literally take you door to door. It couldn’t have been easier. It was affordable and very efficient.

If you aren’t staying at Wanderers or Trip’n’Hostel, you can book a bus from the bus station in Shkodër to the station in Tirana. Buses are cheap, and there are usually quite a few options in terms of timing. However, keep in mind that sometimes buses in Albania don’t run on time. And the journey will likely take longer than anticipated. 

How long to stay in Tirana?

I recommend spending 2 nights in Tirana. To be honest, it was probably my least favorite stop in Albania, just a big city really—but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. 

Tirana is the perfect place to learn about Albania’s communist past, and if you’re into history, you’ll definitely find it fascinating. A couple of days is enough to explore the highlights and get a feel for the city.

About Tirana 

Tirana, the capital city of Albania, is rich in history and full of energy. The city has undergone a dramatic transformation as it was once isolated under communist rule, but now it is a hub of creativity, culture, and growth. 

It really is an intriguing city, and you’ll find trendy cafes, bustling streets, and a mix of vibrant buildings with Soviet-era architecture. It’s a place where old meets new — where bunkers have become museums and communist landmarks now sit beside chic coffee shops. 

Did you know? Due to the country’s strict communist rule, it wasn’t until the early 1990s that Albanians were allowed to own and drive cars. This recent change explains why Tirana’s streets can feel a bit chaotic. 

Things to do in Tirana  

If you are visiting Tirana, read my guide here about everything you need to know before visiting Tirana, including things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and more helpful tips! 

• Book a walking tour to learn about Tirana’s complicated past and the many landmarks in the city. 
• Explore Skanderbeg Square 
• Visit the National History Museum 
• Wander the trendy neighborhood of Blloku 
• Pyramid of Tirana 
• Tour Bunk’Art 1 or Bunk’Art 2
• The House of Leaves 
• Traditional Albanian food at Oda
• Et’hem Bej Mosque

Where to stay in Tirana?

Budget: Trip’n’Hostel or Trip’n’Hostel Chill Zone — these are both great budget options. If you are looking to meet people and socialize, stay at Trip’n’Hostel. On the other hand, if you want a nicer space and a very chill atmosphere, stay at Trip’n’Hostel Chill Zone.

Boutique: Hotel Boutique Villa 135

Luxury: The Plaza

Ohrid, North Macedonia | 3 Nights 

How to get to Ohrid? 

I used FlixBus to book my transport from Tirana to Ohrid. The journey was about 3 hours long and relatively easy. I left from Tirana’s East Bus Terminal. There are a few bus stations around the city, so make sure you are going to the correct one. I arrived at Ohrid Bus Station, which I believe is the only station in Ohrid. 

How long to stay in Ohrid? 

Plan for three nights in Ohrid, North Macedonia. This will give you plenty of time to wander the old town, visit the historical sites, and take advantage of the relaxing Lake Ohrid. 

About Ohrid

Ohrid is a magical little Balkan city nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid — one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. There’s a nice balance of cultural landmarks to explore and natural wonders. Explore centuries-old ruins or watch the sunset from a lakeside cafe. There’s something for everyone here to enjoy. 

Things to do in Ohrid

• Boat Tour of Lake Ohrid
• Church of Saint Sophia 
• Saint John at Kaneo 
• Explore the National Workshop of Handmade Paper 
• Climb the top of Samuel’s Fortress
• Explore the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid
• Wander Along the Ohrid Boardwalk
• Spend time at the best beaches in Ohrid

Read my in-depth guide to Ohrid, North Macedonia here! Discover the best things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and more. 🇲🇰

Where to stay in Ohrid?

Budget: Sunset Lake Hostel — The perfect spot for backpackers!

Boutique: Villa Sofija 

Luxury: Aleksandar Villa Boutique Hotel and Spa

Balkans Travel Itinerary | Additional FAQs 

Which is the best country to visit in the Balkans? 

This is entirely based on your preferences and travel style. Every country in the Balkans is an amazing place to visit.

Honestly, all of them have beautiful landscapes and amazing outdoor activities. If you’re looking for beaches, consider Greece, Southern Albania, Montenegro, or Croatia. For culture and history, visit Bonisa, Serbia, Albania, or North Macedonia. 

What is the best way to travel between Balkan countries? 

Typically, the best way to travel between Balkan countries is by bus. You’ll notice that this part of Europe is not as conveniently connected compared to Western Europe. You’ll likely only have bus options and a few train choices from time to time.

I would say that Greece and Croatia are better connected; you have the options of trains, cars, buses, tours, and even some ferries. That being said, I found the buses to be easy to navigate during my time in the Balkans. 

Book your transportation in the Balkans here with Omio! 🚌

Is it easy to travel through the Balkans?

Yes! To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from solo traveling around the Balkans. I knew it was going to be a bit tougher compared to Western Europe, however, it ended up being relatively easy. 

All of my buses were pretty much on time and easy to book. The border crossings were always smooth and never took too long. And every journey was so scenic, the Balkans are a gorgeous region. 

Do you need a visa for the Balkans? 

This depends on your nationality and which Balkan countries you plan on visiting. As an American, you can visit all of the countries mentioned in this guide visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days. 

Visa requirements can change; make sure to confirm this before your trip.

Which month is best for the Balkans? 

The Balkans are a year-round destination, and the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re after. 

Late spring to early summer (May-June): This is one of the best times to visit. The weather is warm but not too hot, and crowds are smaller compared to the busy summer months. 

Summer (July-August): Expect hot weather and lots of tourists, especially in popular spots like Croatia and Greece. If you don’t mind the heat and the crowds, summer is a great time to visit. Honestly, the countries mentioned in this itinerary are still relatively “off the beaten path,” so even in the summer months, they still aren’t as busy as places in Western Europe. 

Fall (September-October): During the fall, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. It’s a great time to explore both the cities and nature. 

Winter (December-February): If you are into skiing or cozy winter getaways, winter is a great time to visit. Countries like Bulgaria and Romania have fantastic ski resorts, and you can’t forget about the markets around Christmas time! 

If you’re staying in a hostel, you’ll want to check out my hostel packing list here!

What is the difference between the Baltics and Balkans? 

The Baltic and the Balkans regions are quite different. The Baltics are located in Northern Europe and include Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. 

On the other hand, the Balkans are in Southeastern Europe and include Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia. 

What currency is used in the Balkans? 

These are the currencies used in each of the Balkan countries: 

Albania: Albanian Lek (ALL) 

Bulgaria: Bulgarian Lev (BGN) 

Croatia: Euro (EUR) 

Greece: Euro (EUR) 

Kosovo:  Euro (EUR) 

Montenegro: Euro (EUR) 

North Macedonia: Macedonian Denar (MKD)

Romania: Romanian Leu (RON) 

Serbia: Serbian Dinar (RSD) 

Slovenia: Euro (EUR) 

How much to budget for this Balkans travel itinerary? 

The Balkans are a very budget-friendly place to travel. If you’re backing around like I did, plan to budget for about $30 to $60 USD per day. 

If you are more of a mid-range traveler, plan to spend $60 to $120 USD per day. This includes staying at a boutique hotel or Airbnb, all meals, transportation, and entrance fees for activities. 

Are there trains in the Balkans? 

Yes, but train travel is limited and less reliable than buses in the Balkans. The countries with decent trains are Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The countries of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia don’t have any train networks or have very limited ones. Buses are almost always quicker. So I suggest utilizing the buses in the Balkans. 

Are the Balkans safe for solo female travellers? 

Speaking from personal experience, yes. I felt safe as a solo female traveler in the Balkan countries I’ve visited. Like any destination, do your research, respect local laws and customs, and don’t go out at night by yourself. 

Like everywhere in Europe. Keep your belongings close because one of the most common crimes is pickpocketing. 

Which is better, Montenegro or Albania? 

It really depends on what kind of trip you’re after; both countries are incredible, and I highly recommend visiting both. 

Montenegro: If you’re looking for charming old towns, dramatic coastal views, and a slightly more developed tourism infrastructure, places like Kotor and Budva are the places for you. Both cities offer nightlife, natural beauty, and fascinating history. The coastline here is more built up, with easy access to hotels, restaurants, and organized tours. 

Albania: On the other hand, if you are looking for adventure, visit Albania. Albania is known for its incredible hikes, untouched nature, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s also great for history lovers, and a bit more affordable than Montenegro. 

Are the Balkans in the Schengen Zone? 

The Schengen zone allows for border-free travel. Some Balkan countries are part of the Schengen Zone, and others are not. Currently, Slovenia, Greece, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania are in the Schengen zone. Things also change, so double-check this information at the time of your trip. 

Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia are NOT in the Schengen zone. Things also change, so double-check this information at the time of your trip. 

Are the Balkans in the EU? 

Again, some Balkan countries are in the EU and others are not. The countries in the European Union are Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Romania, and Bulgaria. 

And that wraps up my Balkans travel itinerary! I hope this helped plan your trip. If you have any questions about visiting the Balkans, DM me on Instagram or comment below!

Recommended Tours in The Balkans

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