The Balkan countries are sadly overlooked by a majority of travelers. This unique part of the world is a blend of Roman, Austro-Hungarian, and Ottoman influences with a tumultuous history, dramatic scenery, and some of the friendliest local people in the world. The best way to see the Balkans is with a car since public transport can be awfully slow. A road trip can be a truly luxurious experience if you prepare for it right.
The Balkan countries differ greatly from each other, but they have strong coffee culture and comforting food in common. Meeting fellow travelers is really easy since these countries have many hostels with a great atmosphere.
Sure, there are some things that might stress you out while out on the road and the Balkans don't have the best roads in the world, but if you keep your eyes peeled on the drive, you will be just fine.
10 Start Off Your Roadtrip In Zagreb, Croatia
Even though Zagreb is not a coastal city, the Croatian capital is still well worth a visit. Three days should be enough to explore both the stunning Plitvice lakes and the city itself. Definite highlights are the Museum of Broken Relationships that exhibits artifacts from ordinary heartbroken people and the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art. Unlike the Croatian coast cities, Zagreb has not fallen victim to mass tourism yet. Visit while it's still under the radar.
9 Next Up Is Another Capital City: Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is a four-hour drive away from Zagreb and you will definitely notice that you are now starting to enter the true Balkans. Serbia is cheaper and more relaxed than Croatia, but also a bit rough around the edges. Two nights in Belgrade will be enough to check out the main attractions. Visit the bohemian Skadarlija street and live like the locals do: drink coffee and take it easy.
8 Skopje Is The Capital Of Macedonia, The Hidden Gem Of The Balkans
There's much more to Serbia than Belgrade, but if you're short on time, it's best to keep driving south all the way to Skopje, Macedonia. Visit the nearby Lake Matka for a few hours, stroll around the city's old bazaar and marvel at the huge statue of Alexander the Great. Make sure to enjoy some traditional Macedonian fare in the Stara Kukja restaurant. A museum worth visiting is Mother Teresa's house where she lived until she was 18.
7 Take It Easy At Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
The highlight of your trip to Macedonia will definitely be Lake Ohrid. The town is small and you can walk all its cobblestone streets in a day. Perfect day trips include a visit to the gorgeous Sveti Neum Monastery and a beach day at Orevche. After seeing three intense capital cities in a row, a rest at this tranquil place will be much needed. If you want to meet fellow backpackers, stay at the Sunny Lake Hostel.
6 A Quick Stop In Albania: Tirana
Lake Ohrid lies on the border of Macedonia and Albania. The next stop is Tirana and it will take you two hours to get there. If you have an extra week, take a detour and drive south along Albania's coast to see some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. One night in Tirana is enough to see the city's main attractions: the Skanderbeg Square and the Dajti Ekspres cable car.
5 Back At The Seaside In Kotor, Montenegro
After a quick peek at Albania, a four-hour drive takes you back north to Montenegro. Hooray, this is where you finally get to see the Adriatic Sea. Visiting the tranquil Bay of Kotor is an absolute must. Climb up the fortress for an amazing view, explore the ancient streets and fill up your belly at Tanjga restaurant. Those seeking bustling nightlife should sleep in the nearby Budva.
4 No Balkan Trip Is Complete Without Dubrovnik, Croatia
After spending a few nights in Kotor, the road will take you two hours north into Croatia again. Welcome to the world-famous Dubrovnik - hopefully, there are not too many tourists around! Take a walk on the city walls and the fortresses on the way, swim at the Banje and Buza beaches. Treat yourself to a luxurious fish dinner at Proto or Azur.
3 Bosnia And Herzegovina: Breathtaking Mostar
Back inland we go! The next country on this road-trip is Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar is a stunning little town on the way to the country's capital Sarajevo. Those who mingle with the locals say that they are extraordinarily friendly, warm, and welcoming. The Old Bridge is the centerpiece of the town and it has stood for more than 400 years before getting destroyed by Croatian paramilitary forces in 1993. Luckily, they have rebuilt it by 2004.
2 Bosnia And Herzegovina: History And Culture In Sarajevo
Mostar can be seen in a day, but you will need a few days to make the most of your time in Sarajevo. For amazing views, take a cable car up the Trebević mountain, visit the abandoned bobsled from the 1984 Winter Olympics, have a coffee break at Baščaršija and try some ćevapi (grilled minced meat) at Ćevabdžinica Željo. Neno and Friends is a great provider of free walking tours, and it's definitely mandatory to take one while in town.
1 Coming Full Circle In Croatia: Split
This 3-week road trip comes full circle on the Croatian coast. Your adventure doesn't need to end here, though. Split is a great gateway to the most beautiful Croatian island, such as Hvar or Mljet. Follow the local advice and enjoy a coffee with a view at Vidilica cafe. Make sure to check out the historical Diocletian's palace that dates back to the Roman times.