Balkan Itinerary: Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania & Montenegro
The Balkans are a fascinating mix of medieval fortresses, Ottoman bazaars, Adriatic beaches, and lively cities. From Bulgaria’s mountain villages to Montenegro’s coastal gems, here’s how to make the most of a Balkan adventure.
🇧🇬 Bulgaria – Villages, Fortresses & Forest Walks
Fun fact: Gabrovo is known as Bulgaria’s 'capital of humour', with locals joking they cut cat tails short to close doors faster and save heat.
In Tryavna, cobbled streets and wooden houses set the scene for market shopping and cafe-hopping. Nearby Veliko Tarnovo is a must – a medieval fortress overlooking the Yantra River by day, and a buzzing student city by night.
🇲🇰 North Macedonia – Statues & Canyons
Fun fact: Skopje has more statues per square kilometre than almost any city in the world, thanks to the 'Skopje 2014' urban makeover.
The capital, Skopje, blends cafe culture with a quirky old bazaar. A day trip to Matka Canyon offers hiking trails and boat rides to Vrelo Cave, one of the world’s deepest underwater caves.
🇽🇰 Kosovo – Fortress Views & Café Squares
Fun fact: The Prizren Fortress has guarded the city for over 1,000 years, once connected by secret tunnels to the old town below.
Prizren is Kosovo’s prettiest city, with red-roofed houses, Ottoman mosques, and riverside cafes. A hike to the fortress rewards you with panoramic views of the city.
🇦🇱 Albania – Cultural Capital & Lake Views
Fun fact: Shkoder’s Ebu Bekr Mosque was rebuilt in 1995 after Albania’s communist era banned religion (1967–1990).
Shkoder is often called the cultural capital of northern Albania. Visit the mosque and cathedral, then wander the pedestrian street filled with bars, restaurants, and live music. Don’t miss fresh fish dishes from Lake Shkoder.
🇲🇪 Montenegro – Coastlines & Old Towns
Fun fact: The coastal city Bar is named after Bari, the Italian port city across the Adriatic – not cocktails!
Bar offers Adriatic beaches at a fraction of Croatia’s prices, plus the mountain-framed Stari Bar old town with cobbled streets and Roman ruins. For livelier energy, Budva delivers nightlife and a walled medieval city by the sea.
🏆 Balkan Highlights
- ✔️ Fortress views in Veliko Tarnovo & Prizren
- ✔️ Exploring Skopje’s statues & Matka Canyon
- ✔️ Street food & mosque visits in Shkoder
- ✔️ Pomegranate beer in Stari Bar
- ✔️ Adriatic sunsets from Bar & Budva
👕 Balkan-Inspired Tees
Been there? Get the T-shirt!
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Balkans safe to travel?
Yes – the region is generally very safe for tourists. Use standard precautions in cities and when hiking.
What’s the best way to get around?
Buses and minibuses are the main mode of transport. Renting a car gives more flexibility, especially in Montenegro and Albania.
When’s the best time to visit?
May-June and September-October offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and great value compared to peak July-August.
Which Balkan city has the best nightlife?
Budva in Montenegro and Skopje in North Macedonia are top choices for bars and clubs.