When I first set out on a Balkan countries tour, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I’d heard whispers of wild mountains, ancient towns, and cultures layered like baklava, but nothing prepared me for the sheer richness and variety I found.
If you’re thinking of embarking on your first adventure through this incredible region, here’s my personally curated list of ten must-visit destinations across the Balkans that truly blew me away.
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Transylvania, Romania
If there’s one place that made my trip to Romania feel like stepping into a fairy tale, it’s Transylvania. Think misty forests, Gothic castles, and towns straight out of medieval lore. Bran Castle, often (somewhat misleadingly) dubbed Dracula’s Castle, was fascinating, but it was the charm of Brașov, the colorful alleys of Sighișoara, and the peaceful fortified church in Viscri that really stole my heart. Plus, if you’re into hiking, the Carpathian Mountains here offer some unforgettable trails.
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Rila Monastery, Bulgaria
Tucked into the Rila Mountains, this Orthodox monastery isn’t just a religious site—it’s a masterpiece of Bulgarian heritage. When I first walked through its archways, surrounded by vivid frescoes and the smell of mountain air, I felt like I’d been transported back in time.
The monastery is serene, yet dramatic, and if you have time, the surrounding national park is perfect for a nature escape.
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Berat, Albania
Berat was the biggest surprise of my Albanian leg. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” its hillside homes seem to watch you as you walk by. The castle (yes, people still live inside it) offers panoramic views, and the sunsets here are golden and dreamy. I also highly recommend sampling local wine and olive oil—it’s not as famous as Tuscany, but it should be.
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Prizren, Kosovo
Kosovo doesn’t often top tourist lists, which is a shame because Prizren is a gem. With its mix of Ottoman mosques, Orthodox churches, and cobbled lanes, the town exudes warmth and charm.
One of my favorite memories was watching the sunset from the Kalaja Fortress, after sipping strong local coffee in Shadervan Square. If you can, time your visit with the Dokufest Film Festival. It’s electric.
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Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
Lake Ohrid feels ancient and peaceful all at once. It’s one of Europe’s oldest lakes, and the town is packed with centuries-old churches, monasteries, and ruins. I spent a few days just wandering from the old bazaar to the Church of St. John at Kaneo (go for sunset—it’s magical), swimming in the clear lake, and taking boat rides to hidden beaches. It’s the kind of place that soothes your soul.
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Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is gritty, bold, and endlessly interesting. By day, I explored the Kalemegdan Fortress and learned about the city’s layered history. By night, I found myself hopping between floating river clubs and cozy wine bars.
Skadarlija, the bohemian quarter, has a romantic vibe, with live folk music and hearty Serbian food. If you want a capital with character, this is it.
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Bucharest, Romania
Often overshadowed by Romania’s rural charm, Bucharest is a city of contrasts. Wide boulevards meet brutalist architecture, trendy bars rub shoulders with old Orthodox churches, and street art flourishes in the most unexpected places.
Don’t miss the monumental Palace of the Parliament: it’s both fascinating and a little surreal. I also loved wandering through Herăstrău Park and exploring the local design shops and cafes in the Creative District.
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Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Imagine a city draped across hills, with a river curling around it and a fortress towering above. That’s Veliko Tarnovo. It’s postcard-perfect. Tsarevets Fortress feels like a movie set, especially when lit up at night.
The old town is full of artisans still practicing traditional crafts, and I stumbled upon some of the best banitsa (a flaky Bulgarian pastry) of my trip here.
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Theth, Albania
If you crave off-the-grid adventure, head to Theth. This remote village in the Albanian Alps is the gateway to some of the best hiking I’ve ever done.
I trekked to the Blue Eye, a surreal turquoise spring, and crossed the Valbona Pass, which felt like hiking through a Tolkien novel. The accommodations are basic, but the hospitality and mountain views are unforgettable.
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Novi Sad, Serbia
Laid-back and artsy, Novi Sad was the perfect ending to my Balkan adventure. The Petrovaradin Fortress offers epic views over the Danube, and in the summer, it turns into a massive music venue during the EXIT Festival.
The old town is lovely for strolling, with pastel buildings, cozy cafes, and galleries tucked into courtyards. Nearby Fruška Gora National Park is a great detour for wine tasting or hiking.
Conclusion
What makes the Balkans so special, beyond the castles, mountains, and medieval towns, is the spirit of the people and the unexpected moments. Whether I was sipping rakija with locals in Serbia, hiking above the clouds in Romania, or floating on Lake Ohrid in the late afternoon sun, I constantly felt like I was discovering something raw and real.
For first-time travelers, this region is a revelation. Each country offers something different, and together, they weave a rich, textured story of resilience, history, and heart.
If you’re looking for a journey that blends culture, nature, and adventure, start planning your Balkan countries tour. Just don’t be surprised if you start planning your next trip before the first one ends.
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