Adriatic coastline
Croatia and Montenegro offer a jagged coastline, islands and fortified towns opening directly onto the Adriatic Sea.
The Balkans
Between the Adriatic coast, mountain ranges and cities shaped by centuries of shared history, the Balkans offer an authentic European journey at the crossroads of several cultures and influences.
- 2 countries
Why visit the Balkans?
The Balkans combine a well-preserved Adriatic coastline, mountain ranges suited to hiking, and historic cities shaped by Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Mediterranean influences. The region remains a European destination with a strong balance of authenticity, heritage and accessibility.
What to discover in the Balkans?
The Balkans stretch from Slovenia to Greece, taking in Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo. The Croatian coast and its thousands of islands, the old town of Dubrovnik and the Plitvice Lakes rank among the region's most visited sites. Inland, the mountains of Montenegro, Bosnia and Albania offer landscapes that remain relatively untouched by mass tourism.
Cities across the Balkans, such as Sarajevo, Belgrade or Skopje, reflect a complex history shaped by successive empires and more recent 20th-century events. This diversity carries through into architecture, cuisine and local traditions, which vary noticeably from one country to another despite their geographic proximity. The Balkans suit a cultural journey as much as a nature-focused trip or a coastal getaway.
Countries of the Balkans
Explore the countries that make up the Balkans, from the Adriatic coast to mountains and historic cities.
Balkans gallery
A visual glimpse of the coastlines, mountains and historic towns of the region.
Regional highlights
A few experiences commonly associated with the Balkans.
Fortified old towns
Dubrovnik, Kotor and Mostar rank among the best-preserved historic towns in the region.
Lakes and national parks
The Plitvice Lakes in Croatia are among the most remarkable natural sites in the Balkans.
Wild mountains
The mountain ranges of Montenegro, Bosnia and Albania offer hiking routes that remain relatively unfrequented.
Multicultural heritage
Local architecture and traditions carry traces of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Mediterranean influences.
History-rich capitals
Sarajevo, Belgrade and Skopje reflect a complex history shaped by several successive empires.
Practical information
- Number of countries
- 10 countries
- Area
- About 700,000 km²
- Population
- About 60 million people
- Languages
- Serbian, Croatian, Albanian, Greek, Bulgarian and other local languages
- Time zones
- UTC+1 to UTC+2
- Climate
- Mediterranean along the coast, continental inland
- Best season
- Spring and autumn, April to October
- Entry requirements
- Visa generally not required for short stays, depending on the country
Frequently asked questions
When to visit the Balkans?
Spring and autumn, between April and October, offer pleasant temperatures, while summer draws more visitors to the Adriatic coast.
Which country is best for a first trip?
Croatia is often chosen first for its accessible coastline and well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Do I need a visa for the Balkans?
Most countries in the region do not require a visa for short stays, though conditions vary depending on nationality.
Are the Balkans a budget-friendly destination?
The cost of living remains generally lower than in Western Europe, making it an accessible destination.
Can I combine several Balkan countries?
Yes, geographic proximity makes it easy to build an itinerary covering several countries in the region.
Are the Balkans safe for travelers?
The region is now an established tourist destination, though it remains wise to check local conditions before departure.
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