Plan Your Holidays In The Balkans Around These 26 Idyllic Balkan Cities

The fact that the whole Balkan region is super beautiful and cheaper than the rest of Europe makes the Balkans is the perfect place to enjoy a weekend getaway – or an entire vacation.

With soothing scenes of beauty, beautiful beaches, snow-capped mountains, links to ancient history, pristine lakes, gushing waterfalls, buildings of medieval architecture, well known and small unspoiled islands as well as idyllic villages, the Balkans is one of the most wonderful places in the world I love to visit.

Popularly known as The Balkan Peninsula, it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and the Marmara Sea to the south, the Adriatic Sea to the west and the Black Sea to the east.

The rivers Danube, Sava, and Kupa are usually referred to as its northern boundary. It is endowed with natural beauty and has umpteen numbers of pristine beaches, mountains, and historic settlements. In short, it is a traveler’s paradise and has much to offer in terms of exquisite holiday memories.

With tourism on the rise in the Balkan region, there are a growing number of accommodation choices. It’s well known how inexpensive it is to backpack your way around the Balkans but, it’s also a vast region to spend a long weekend. If you have more than a weekend spare these stops all have plenty to keep you busy for a longer.

Most of the places in this Balkan cities guide are easy enough to get to; we picked cities that have direct airports or excellent road links.

To help you decide where to go on your Balkan holidays, let’s check out a few of the best stops:

Zagreb, Croatia

The capital of Croatia and its largest city, Zagreb has more than enough to keep a visitor busy for a few days, if not more! With some beautiful 18th century architecture, Zagreb is also packed with modern fun, such as shopping and catching a coffee in the sunshine.

Head to Zagreb Cathedral, St Mark’s Church, and Tkalciceva Street as a few hotspots, as wells Ban Jelacic if you have kids, for some outdoor parks, they will love.

Closest Airport

Zagreb Airport

Drive From

Dubrovnik (6 hours), Ljubljana (2 hours), Sarajevo (5 hours).

Best Hotel To Stay

Esplanade Hotel: Stay in serious grandeur at this beautiful hotel, complete with spa and wellness center.

Zagreb Accommodation

Find lots of other great hotel options in Zagreb here.

Things To Do In & Around Zagreb

Zadar, Croatia

Located on the beautiful Dalmatian coast, you can have a beach and city break all in one here with ease. Check out the Venetian and Roman ruins, as well as the 2000-year-old Forum and the city walls.

St Anastasia’s Cathedral is also another hotspot, but if you simply want to chill the hell out in the sunshine, you’ll find plenty of laidback fun too. Zadar combines old and new seamlessly.

Closest Airport

Zadar

Drive From

Lake Bled (3.5 hours), Sibenik (1 hour), Tirana (8 hours)

Best Hotel to Stay

Almayer Hotel: Fans of art and architecture will love this hotel, a top class on-site restaurant and seriously modern decor.

Zadar Accommodation

Where to stay in Zadar

Things To Do In & Around Zadar

Rovinj, Croatia

Rovinj is a gorgeous spot to head to all year round, and one which will allow you to chill out.

Located on the western Istrian peninsula, Rovinj started life as a small fishing port but has grown into a tourist hotspot, albeit a relatively chilled out one. Check out Lone Bay, a beautiful pebbled beach that’s perfect for families, as well as a day, spent meandering the Old Town’s cobblestone streets.

Closest Airport

Pula (40 minutes away)

Drive From – Zadar (4 hours), Dubrovnik (7.5 hours), Ljubljana (2.5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Lone Hotel: Five stars, ocean views, total luxury – do we need to explain further?

Rovinj Accommodation

Best Places To Stay In Rovinj

Things To Do In & Around Rovinj

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The ultimate in Croatian city breaks, Dubrovnik is a place which you won’t want to leave.

Walk around the city walls, enjoy the history, check out the food, and of course, the stunning beaches. It’s a good idea to avoid July and August if you don’t want too much in the way of crowds, but if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, this is a must visit, as one of the filming locations!

Check out St Blaise Church, Stradun, and the Gothic Rector’s Palace as just a few hot spots in Dubrovnik

Closest Airport

Dubrovnik

Drive From

Zagreb (6 hours), Sarajevo (4 hours), Skopje (8 hours)

Dubrovnik Accommodation

Things To Do In & Around Dubrovnik

Best Hotel To Stay

Royal Blue Hotel: With everything you need on site for a luxury stay, the Royal Blue Hotel combines city break fun with all the relaxation of being close to the Adriatic Sea. An onsite wellness center helps you relax further.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The capital city of Slovenia is a huge and exciting place to visit. With modern shopping and nightlife, and plenty of olde-world fun to explore, you certainly won’t be bored. Tivoli Park is the spot to head to, for much needed chill time, whilst sitting drinking a coffee on the banks of the Ljubljanica River is a must do too. Check out the Museum of Modern Art and the National Museum of Slovenia to learn more about the city’s history.

Closest Airport

Ljubljana Joze Pucnik

Drive From

Lake Bled (1 hour), Dubrovnik (7 hours), Zagreb (2 hours)

Ljubljana Accommodation

Things To Do In & Around Ljubljana

Best Hotel To Stay

InterContinental: For a weekend break with a little luxury, it’s sometimes best to choose a big brand name, and you can’t beat the InterContinental. With an on-site wellness center and spa, you can chill the hell out, and enjoy the view over the entire city.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

If you love nature, then Lake Bled has to be the ultimate weekend destination for you. Located within the Julian Alps of the north-west of Slovenia, Lake Bled is a beautiful destination for outdoor fun, especially hiking, mountain biking, and camping. The nearby town of Bled is also packed with history and culture, as well as some beautiful architecture. Check out the authentic restaurants in Bled for a hearty meal!

Closest Airport

Ljubljana (45 mins)

Drive From

Zagreb (2.5 hours), Mostar (5.5 hours), Belgrade (4 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Adora Luxury Hotel: You are literally on the lake, almost in it, by staying at this beautiful hotel, which gives you real home from home experience. In authentic Slovenian architecture, the hotel is quiet and quaint, but close to all the fun of the tourist area.

Lake Bled Accommodation

Things To Do In & Around Lake Bled

Piran, Slovenia

Slovenia Travel Blog_Things to do in Slovenia_Day Trips from Ljubljana_Piran

Photo Credit

The Adriatic coast might be dominated by Croatia’s big tourist resorts, but Slovenia has a few of its own, with Piran being one of the most beautiful.

With hthe uge pier, perfect for sunshine walks, and photoworthy architecture dating back to Venetian times, Piran is ideal for anyone who wants to relax. Check out Tartini Square, as well as the aforementioned coastal pier as a few must visits, and be sure to enjoy some delicious seafood whilst you’re there.

Closest Airport

Ljubljana (1.5 hours)

Drive From

Zagreb (3 hours), Rijeka (1.5 hours), Lake Bled (2 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Piran: The stunning rooftop of the Hotel Piran is enough to make you want to stay there, as the ideal spot to chill out and soak up the sun, or enjoy a cocktail. The on site spa and wellness centre are another perk, but overall this hotel is high quality.

Piran Accommodation

Things To Do In & Around Piran

Prizren, Kosovo

Kosovo’s second largest city is a hidden gem place to visit, and if you want to get there before everyone else realizes this fact, now is the time to go!

Located in a beautiful setting, with the Shar mountains to one side, and the fantastic Rahovec wine region to the other, Prizren is packed with foodie fun. Gastronomy is delightful, wine is amazing, and there are opportunities to get out into the mountains and enjoy the fresh air. The perfect weekend destination.

Closest Airport

Pristina International Airport

Drive From

Pristina (1.5 hours), Sarajevo (8 hours), Skopje (2.5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Albatros: The ideal spot for families, Hotel Albatros has a huge outdoor pool, with space for children to roam free. It’s also very centrally placed, so you can explore the area with ease.

Things To Do In & Around Prizren

Prizren

Tirana, Albania

The capital city of Albania is a melting pot of cultures, thanks to its rich history. You can check out Ottoman architecture and other examples, including Skanderbeg Square and its pastel-colored buildings.

The National History Museum is a top spot, explaining about the turbulent history of the city, and you can also check out the famous Pyramid of Tirana! There is plenty of modern fun to be had too, with shopping, dining, and nightlife on offer.

Nearest Airport

Tirana International Airport

Drive From

Berat (2 hours), Skopje (4 hours), Dubrovnik (6 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Vila D: With a huge outdoor swimming pool and beautiful views of the mountains, this hotel will give you a vacation feel, right in the heart of the city. You’re within easy reach of all the main Tirana sights also.

Tirana Accommodation

Things To Do In & Around Tirana

Berat, Albania

Visiting Berat feels like going back in time, thanks to the huge number of old ruins and architectural examples.

Located in the center of the country, on the Osum River, be sure to check out the huge Berat Castle, the Red Mosque, the churches dating back to Byzantine times, and the 18th-century Ethnographic Museum.

It’s not all history, however, as the nature around this area is simply jaw-dropping, so you can easily head out and do a spot of walking or hiking too.

Nearest Airport

Tirana International Airport

Drive From

Tirana (2 hours), Skopje (5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Rezidenca Desaret: Set in beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, this hotel sets the historic scene of Berat perfectly, and gives you a relaxing place to stay.

Things To Do In & Around Berat

Kruje, Albania

Shtame Pass, Lake Bovilla, are Kruje Castle just a few of the most-visited spots in Kruje, in the north of Albania. With plenty of history and culture to explore, nature is everywhere you look, so Kruje is a good idea for a weekend break in total peace and serenity.

Check out the huge Mount Kruje for hiking and walking opportunities, and enjoy the peace and quiet on the banks of the Ishem River.

Nearest Airport

Tirana International Airport

Drive From

Berat (2 hours), Skopje (4.5 hours), Tirana (1 hour)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Group Veshti: With stunning mountain views when you open the curtains every morning, this hotel is luxurious and central in equal parts.

Things To Do In & Around Kruje

Sofia, Bulgaria

The capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia is a city that has a huge amount of history to explore within a weekend! You’ll be able to see examples of Greek Ottoman, Roman, and Soviet history, including architecture at every turn.

Check out St George Rotunda Church, dating back to the 10th century, and Boyana Church, from the 13th century. In addition, you’ll find a vibrant nightlife, shopping, gastronomy, and a vibrant feel, with the Vitosha Mountains in the background.

Closest Airport

Sofia Airport

Drive From

Belgrade (4.5 hours), Bucharest (5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Grand Hotel Sofia: A city break in a capital deserves luxury, and this hotel ticks that box. With a very central location, on site spa and wellness centre, and a range of restaurants on site, you won’t want to leave!

Sofia Accommodation

Best places to stay in Sofia

Things To Do In & Around Sofia

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

By staying in Veliko Tarnovo, you get to see the nature of Bulgaria first hand. Located in the northern portion of the country, check out Tsarvets, a huge 12th century fortress, the Yantra River, with an ancient monastery, kayaking opportunities, and fishing, and the Trapezitsa, which is a set of old ancient ruins dating back centuries.

For somewhere with a difference, somewhere traditional and completely natural, this is a great choice.

Closest Airport

Plovdiv Airport (3 hours)

Drive From

Sofia (3 hours), Plovdiv (3 hours), Skopje (5.5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Meridien Hotel Bolyarski: Set on a hillside, this hotel has beautiful views to wake up to every morning, and guests always rave about how good the breakfast is!

Bucharest, Romania

The Romanian capital of Bucharest is a must visit for anyone interested in rather gory history, and this is where Vlad The Impaler once imposed rule.

Check out the huge government building, as the city’s main landmark, which is as impressive on the outside as the inside! It’s not all about history, however, as Bucharest has a very vibrant nightlife scene, with quite cheap prices for a weekend away.

Check out Curtea Veche Palace if you are interested in Vlad The Impaler’s story.

Nearest Airport

Henri Coandă International Airport, Bucharest

Drive From

Sofia (5 hours), Belgrade (8 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest: Big name, big hotel on luxury. With a huge swimming pool, spa and wellness center, on-site restaurants, and fantastic rooms, this hotel is the ideal central spot to stay for the weekend.

Things To Do In & Around Bucharest

Brasov, Romania

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If you have always wanted to head into deepest, darkest Transylvania and explore the gothic architecture and vampiric fables, Brasov is for you!

Surrounded by the Carpathian mountains, Brasov has architecture from Saxon times, and the Black Church is a must visit, as well as world famous Bran Castle.

Generally, however, Brasov is about immersing yourself in the feel of the place, and the whole Transylvanian vibe. The natural scenery here is completely jaw-dropping and you can’t help but feel serene and peaceful.

Nearest Airport

Brasov Airport

Drive From

Belgrade (7 hours), Bucharest (3.5 hours)

Best Hotel to Stay

Hotel Aro Palace: The only five star in the whole of Brasov has to be the place to stay for luxury and chill out time, including access to the huge indoor swimming pool.

Things To Do In & Around Brasov

Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Located in the south of Bosnia & Herzegovina, Mostar is a very popular place to visit for many reasons, but not least because of the stunning nature around it.

Mostar is home to the Neretva River, and over it, you will find the Stari Most, the Old Bridge which suffered so much damage during the war, but now rebuilt it’s the key place to start.

The bridge has now been reconstructed to its former glory and the ‘jumping off the bridge’ tradition amongst locals is something to see (don’t you do it though!) Check out the narrow streets and the various markets, as well as an amazing view from the top of Mehmed-Pasha Mosque.

Nearest Airport

Sarajevo International Airport (2 hours)

Drive From

Sarajevo (2 hours), Dubrovnik (2.5 hours), Tirana (6 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Mepas: This is the only five star in the hotel of Mostar, so if you want to stay somewhere high quality, it has to be this one! You’ll also find a huge entertainment center downstairs, so you’re sure to never get bored of an evening!

Mostar Accommodation

Where to stay in Mostar

Things To Do In & Around Mostar

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

The capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina is a history-laden place, but also somewhere which has a vibrant nightlife scene and plenty to see and do. A city which for so long was a no-go zone has now re-built itself and created a fantastic weekend hotspot.

Sarajvevo is easy to walk around, and it sits on the banks of the Miljacka River, with the Dinaric Alps to one side. You’ll find many museums giving you information about the history and the recent wars, as well as architecture which dates back centuries, including the Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque

Nearest Airport

Sarajevo International Airport

Drive From

Mostar (2 hours), Dubrovnik (4.5 hours), Zadar (6 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Pino Nature Hotel: This beautiful five-star hotel is modern to the max and is set in some beautiful natural surroundings. Check out the wellness center, the on-site restaurant, and the general vibe of the place!

Sarajevo Accommodation

Where to stay in Sarajevo

Things To Do In & Around Sarajevo

Bihac, Bosnia & Herzegovina

If you love the pavement cafe vibe, then Bihac is the place for you, and it is adorable during the warmer weather.

Located on the banks of the Una River, Bihac has a history dating back to Roman times, with plenty of ruins to explore. Overall, however, a weekend in Bihac should be about checking out the scenery and enjoying near by Una National Park.

Nearest Airport

Bihać Golubić Airport

Drive From

Sarajevo (5 hours), Mostar (4.5 hours), Zagreb (2.5 hours

Best Hotel To Stay

Kostelski Buk Hotel: Nature at every turn is the single reason why you should stay at this hotel. There are also countless outdoor activities you can do directly from the hotel, as well as one of the best on-site restaurants around.

Things To Do In & Around Bihać

Belgrade, Serbia

The capital of Serbia is now a cosmopolitan affair, packed with fun to be had, both old and new. With a vibrant nightlife scene, you can enjoy the history and have a few drinks at night time too. Check out the history, dating back to Roman times, with many nods to Serbian and Ottoman times too. Kalemegdan is also a top spot, a huge urban park with plenty of space to roam. Be sure to head to Knez Mihailova Street and Belgrade Fortress too.

Nearest Airport

Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport

Drive From

Sarajevo (5 hours), Sofia (4.5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Metropol Palace: If you want to feel like you’re staying in an actual royal palace, this is the closest you’re ever likely to get! The exterior is jaw-dropping in opulence and the interior just as special, with fantastic facilities on site.

Belgrade Accommodation

Where to stay in Belgrade

Things To Do In & Around Belgrade

Novi Sad, Serbia

Sitting on the banks of the Danube River you will find Novi Sad, in the north of the country.

Novi Sad is on a hilltop, so you get to see amazing views of nature at every turn. You can explore the Petrovaradin Fortress, which goes back to the 17th century. Check out the colourful buildings around the town centre, and be sure to explore the other architecture, such as the City Hall, in Neo-Renaissance style.

Danube Park is a fun place to explore, as well as Fruska Gora National Park.

Nearest Airport

Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport

Drive From

Belgrade (1 hour), Sarajevo (5 hours), Zagreb (4 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Prezident Hotel: With a huge swimming pool, wellness center, and a chilled out vibe, this central hotel is a great place to stay. The hotel also does airport shuttles, to help you get out and about.

Things To Do In & Around Novi Sad

Best things to do in Novi Sad

Niš, Serbia

As the third largest city in the country, Nis is a place to visit with plenty of history.

If you like the gory side of life, check out Skull Tower, or head to Nis Fortress for amazing views. Bubanj Memorial Park is also a must visit, as a memorial to WWII and a huge natural park for plenty of fresh air. Overall, Nis is a great place to enjoy history and culture, but also somewhere with a quiet and authentic vibe.

Nearest Airport

Niš Constantine The Great Airport

Drive From

Skopje (2.5 hours), Belgrade (2 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Best Western Hotel My Place: For a central and modern place to stay in Nis, this is the ideal spot. Check out the health and wellness center for a real treat in your weekend away.

Tivat, Montenegro

Located in the picturesque Bay of Kotor, Tivat is a fantastic place to visit for those who want to enjoy coastal views with a peaceful vibe.

Check out Vrmac Mountain, with stunning panoramic vies, as well as Selfanovo, a beach which will make you never want to leave!

Head over to the Island of Flowers, for a totally relaxing time and explore the ruins of an old monastery. Overall, Tivat is a great place to visit in the south west of the country, for those who want to enjoy beach time in a quiet setting.

Nearest Airport

Tivat Airport

Drive From

Podgorica (1.5 hours), Dubrovnik (2 hours), Sarajevo (5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Porto Montenegro Hotel: If you’re looking for amazing views, a modern and luxurious place to stay, and home away from home feel, this hotel is the one for you.

Kotor Bay Accommodation

Places to stay in Kotor Bay

Things To Do In & Around Tivat

Kotor, Montenegro

Often referred to as a ‘fjord’, Kotor is a beautiful place to visit, with many small islands and beaches to explore within the sunshine! The winding, cobbled streets are also fantastic for exploring, and the old town dates back to medieval times, with Kotor Cathedral a must visit. Be sure to explore the islands off the coastline, with Sveti Dorde one of the most beautiful.

Nearest Airport

Podgorica (1.5 hours)

Drive From

Podgorica (1.5 hours), Sarajevo (4.5 hours), Dubrovnik (2 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Boutique Hotel Astoria: If you’re traveling with a partner, this is the ideal spot for a romantic weekend away, with cosy, luxurious surroundings. It’s also a very central place to stay.

Kotor Bay Accommodation

Places to stay in Kotor Bay

Things To Do In & Around Montenegro

Lustica Bay, Montenegro

Located very close to the Bay of Kotor, Lustica Bay is a recently created area for entertainment and total relaxation. With a huge marina, a soon to be golf course (the only one in Montenegro), and a waterfront pier with cafes and restaurants, this is a great place to chill out. The beach is one of the most beautiful you’ll set your eyes on, and totally private for residents and guests of the area.

Nearest Airport

Tivat Airport

Drive From

Dubrovnik (2.5 hours), Sarajevo (5 hours), Zadar (6 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Chedi Lustica Bay: Part of the entire development along the bay, the Chedi Lustica Bay is the ideal place for luxury, in totally modern surroundings. A five-star establishment, you’ll have everything you need to hand.

Accommodation

The Chedi

Things To Do In & Around The Bay

Skopje, Macedonia

The capital city of Macedonia is a great place to visit for anyone into history and nature. With the nearby Matka Canyon full of walking, hiking, and wildlife spotting opportunities, the city itself is packed with nods to Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times gone by.

The Stone Bridge dates back to the 15th-century and the Old Bazaar is from Ottoman times. Check out the statue of Alexander The Great, Skopje Fortress, as well as the many modern nods, such as shopping, nightlife, and gastronomy to be enjoyed.

Did you know: One of the most famous personalities to have come out of the Balkans is Mother Teresa, now referred to as Saint Teresa of Calcutta. She was actually born in Skopje, before she moved to India.

Nearest Airport

Skopje International Airport

Drive From

Tirana (7 hours), Sofia (3.5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Hotel Arka: With a very modern yet comfortable feel, right in the center of Skopje, the Hotel Arka is a fantastic base for exploring the city, with a wonderful traditional restaurant on site.

Things To Do In & Around Skopje

Ohrid, Macedonia

If you love photo moments, the hilltop in Ohrid is the place to be for you.

Head to Samoil’s Fortress and watch the sunset, with amazing reflections over the water. Overall, Ohrid is a great place to visit for anyone wanting to check out a hidden gem, and it is located to the southwest of the city.

Ohrid is quite small, so you can easily walk around, exploring the churches and ruins from days gone by. There are also many fantastic traditional restaurants where you can try authentic cuisine.

Nearest Airport

Ohrid St Paul the Apostle Airport

Drive From

Skopje (1 hour), Sofia (5 hours), Tirana (2.5 hours)

Best Hotel To Stay

Park Lakeside Hotel: With amazing views over the water to wake up to every morning, this is one of the best hotels in the whole of Ohrid. For quiet surroundings in luxury, this is the one.

Things To Do In & Around Ohrid

Of course, there are even more dope Balkan cities to hit up – which others should we add to this list?