The Balkans – One of Europe’s Greatest Travel Adventures

Croatia • Slovenia • Montenegro • Bosnia & Herzegovina • Serbia • Kosovo • North Macedonia • Albania

The Balkans have become one of my favourite regions in Europe, and it’s somewhere I recommend to travellers looking for something a little different.

It all started in 2016 with a cheap flight to Split in Croatia. When I looked at the map, I realised just how many fascinating places were within easy reach. Cities and countries I’d heard about for years suddenly felt accessible, and I couldn’t resist planning an overland adventure.

That first journey took me through:

Split (Croatia) → Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina) → Sarajevo (Bosnia & Herzegovina) → Belgrade (Serbia) → Bar (Montenegro) → Dubrovnik (Croatia) → Lake Bled (Slovenia) before continuing into Italy.

Planning the route was almost as exciting as travelling it. One of the highlights was discovering the spectacular railway from Belgrade to Bar, often regarded as one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys. Crossing mountains, deep valleys and dramatic gorges, it remains one of my favourite rail experiences anywhere in the world.

From the moment I arrived, I knew I wanted to return. The Balkans offer an incredible mix of cultures, landscapes and history, where Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences all come together. Every border crossing feels like entering another fascinating chapter of Europe’s story.

In March and April 2025, I finally returned to complete the journey, travelling through:

Tirana (Albania) → Pristina (Kosovo) → Skopje (North Macedonia) → Ohrid (North Macedonia) → Durrës (Albania)

Over two unforgettable weeks I travelled almost entirely by bus, enjoying spectacular mountain scenery, welcoming local people and beautiful historic towns. Exploring Ottoman architecture, wandering lively markets, relaxing beside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid and simply watching everyday life unfold made this one of my most rewarding European adventures.

The Balkans are still wonderfully under the radar compared to many parts of Europe. You’ll find stunning coastlines, dramatic mountains, fascinating history, excellent local food and exceptional value, all without the crowds found in many of Europe’s better-known destinations.

Whether you’re looking for an independent rail and bus adventure, a tailor-made itinerary or simply inspiration for somewhere different, I’d be delighted to help you discover this remarkable region.

If you’re ready to travel beyond the ordinary, I can’t recommend the Balkans highly enough.