Are you ready to explore the Balkans for the first time? Discover all this amazing region has to offer from vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes to unique food and friendly locals!
The Balkans produces more history than it can consume.
Winston Churchill
On your first visit, experience the unique beauty and culture of the Balkans. Learn about the region’s rich history, explore its stunning landscapes, and get to know its friendly people.
Places You Can’t Miss If It’s Your First Time in the Balkans
Discover the unique culture, history, and scenery of the Balkans with this comprehensive guide.
The Balkans is a region of Europe that tourists often overlook. But the Balkans is the perfect place if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with plenty of history, culture, and natural beauty.
And if it’s your first time in the Balkans, there are 10 places you absolutely can’t miss:
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, Bulgaria, is a city full of culture and history. It is the ideal destination for anyone exploring the eastern edge of the Balkans. The streets are filled with colorful traditional buildings mixed with modern architecture, while its parks and nature reserves offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its excellent public transport system makes it easy to get around town and explore all Sofia offers.
The food scene in Sofia is unique, too; here, you can enjoy local specialties and international flavors. From cozy cafes serving fresh pastries to lively restaurants serving Balkan cuisine, there’s something for every palette here. Shopping lovers will be pleased, too – from markets selling local crafts to malls offering designer brands; you can find it all in Sofia!
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the Balkans. Located near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is a vast protected area of 16 crystal clear lakes connected by cascading waterfalls. It is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list, making it an ideal destination for travelers exploring nature’s beauty.
The park has sixteen large lakes interlinked by streams, brooks, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy numerous scenic views from the various observation points throughout the park. Hiking trails provide access to all areas so visitors can immerse themselves in nature while admiring its beauty up close.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
If you visit the Balkans for the first time, add Dubrovnik, Croatia, to your list! This beautiful city is located on the Adriatic Sea and is known for its stunning architecture, including the Dubrovnik City Walls, built in the 14th century. In addition to its historical landmarks, Dubrovnik is home to many restaurants and bars, making it the perfect place to enjoy Croatian cuisine and culture. Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a beautiful coastal city known for its medieval architecture.
Travelers come here to explore the winding streets of this ancient port city, where they can find everything from towering churches to hidden coves along its rocky coastlines.
Visitors to Dubrovnik will be pleasantly surprised by how much there is to do and see. Rich in history, the city is home to several landmarks, including Ston Walls, an impressive fortification system built by medieval residents, and Lovrečina Bay Beach, which sits below Mount Srd on a tranquil bay lined with pebble beaches.
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade, Serbia, is an excellent destination for travelers hoping to explore the Balkans for the first time. It is the largest city in the Balkans and is a great place to experience the nightlife and culture of the region. The Serbian capital is full of history, culture, and nightlife, and plenty will keep you busy for days.
Belgrade has a rich history and culture and is situated along the Danube and Sava Rivers. With its mix of traditional Eastern European architecture and modern developments, visitors can experience genuine Balkan hospitality while exploring this beautiful city.
The capital of Serbia has plenty to offer visitors, from cultural attractions such as the National Museum and Kalemegdan Park to lively cafes and bars scattered throughout the city center. Visitors can also take in stunning views of Belgrade’s skyline from Ada Ciganlija Lake or stroll down Knez Mihailova Street, lined with fashionable boutiques and restaurants – perfect for some retail therapy!
Ohrid, Macedonia
If you’re planning a trip to the Balkans for the first time, you can’t miss Ohrid in Macedonia. This stunning lakeside town is packed with things to do and see, from its beautiful ancient churches and monasteries to its Venetian-style architecture. With a population of around fifty thousand people, modern-day Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe.
Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Ohrid is also one of the best places in the Balkans for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and kayaking. And, of course, no visit to Ohrid would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local food!
The city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities makes it an ideal destination for those seeking culture, natural beauty, and relaxation. The lake provides stunning views from nearly every angle, while the mountain ranges serve as a spectacular backdrop throughout the year. With its convenient location near other Balkan countries such as Albania, Montenegro, and Greece, Ohrid makes an excellent starting point for any traveler exploring this often-overlooked European region.
Kotor, Montenegro
If you’re planning a trip to the Balkans for the first time, there are a few places you definitely won’t want to miss. Kotor, Montenegro, is one of them. This small city on the Bay of Kotor is often called a hidden gem, and for good reason. Its Venetian-style architecture, winding streets, and gorgeous scenery make it unlike anywhere else.
In addition to its unique setting, Kotor is home to several historical and cultural landmarks. For example, the Kotor Cathedral of St. Tryphon dates back to the 11th century and is one of the city’s most important religious sites. The Maritime Museum, on the other hand, provides visitors with a glimpse into Kotor’s rich maritime history. Whether you’re interested in history and culture or want to enjoy some breathtaking views, Kotor is a must-visit destination if you’re planning a trip to the Balkans for the first time.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina that is well worth a visit. It is known for its Ottoman-era architecture and beautiful bridges. The city is home to the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), built in the 16th century and one of the country’s most recognizable symbols. Visitors can also explore the Old Bridge Museum, stroll through the historic old town, and visit the nearby Kravice Waterfalls.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a beautiful city in the Balkans region of Europe. It is filled with historical sites, charming architecture, and remarkable landscapes that can take your breath away. As the gateway to the Balkans for many travelers, Mostar is an ideal destination for those looking to explore this fascinating area for the first time.
The city is divided into two sections by the Neretva River—one side belongs to Bosnia and Herzegovina, while Croatia lies on the other. Stari Most (Old Bridge), built in 1566, is one of Mostar’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning piece of Ottoman architecture became a symbol of unity between these two countries after it was destroyed during the Balkan Wars in 1993 and later reconstructed in 2004.
The people of the Balkans are like a dysfunctional family. We may fight and argue, but in the end we are family.
Vlade Divac
Pristina, Kosovo
Pristina is the capital and largest city of Kosovo. It is situated at the confluence of the White Drin and south-western edge of the Kosovo Plain. The city has a majority Albanian population with a significant minority of Serbs. Pristina, Kosovo, is the capital of Kosovo and is a great place to experience Albanian culture. Pristina has many historical landmarks, including the Grand Mosque, the clock tower, and the Old Stone Bridge. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and cafes.
The city’s most notable landmark is its iconic Clock Tower, which stands tall in the center of town and dates back to 1941. Visitors can also check out Hammam Turkish baths or stroll through one of Pristina’s many parks, City Park or Newborn Square. For those looking to experience traditional Kosovar cuisine, plenty of restaurants offer local specialties like burek (pastry filled with meat) and qebapa (grilled minced meat).
Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all and relax in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Balkans, then Banja Luka is the perfect place for you. Banja Luka is surrounded by forests, rivers, and mountains in Bosnia and Herzegovina, making it a nature-lovers paradise.
In addition to its natural beauty, Banja Luka is also home to some interesting historical sites. The city’s Old Town features a variety of architectural styles, including Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian. Several museums in Banja Luka are worth visiting, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Bosnian-Herzegovinian Independence. Banja Luka has plenty to offer if you’re looking for a place to enjoy delicious food and drink.
The city has several excellent restaurants serving traditional Bosnian cuisine and international dishes. And when it comes to nightlife, Banja Luka has plenty to keep you entertained, with a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from. So whether you’re looking to relax in nature or explore some fascinating historical sites, Banja Luka is worth a visit.
Final Words
The Balkan region is one of Europe’s most beautiful and diverse places, with its many countries, cities, and cultures offering something for everyone. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins or take in stunning views of mountain ranges, the Balkans have it all. If it’s your first time visiting the region, there are some cities you can’t miss. From historical sites to unique cuisine and friendly people, these cities provide a chance to truly experience the Balkans’ culture.
