25 day itinerary for Balcanes

Itinerary

The Balkans are a stunning region filled with rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 25-day itinerary that will take you through some of the most beautiful spots in the Balkans. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1-3: Belgrade, Serbia

## Day 1: Arrive in Belgrade! Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll along the Sava River. Grab dinner at a local restaurant and try some traditional Serbian dishes like ćevapi.

## Day 2: Explore the Kalemegdan Fortress for panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Visit the Museum of Yugoslavia to learn about the country’s history. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the Skadarlija district.

## Day 3: Take a day trip to Novi Sad, just an hour away. Visit the Petrovaradin Fortress and enjoy the views of the Danube. Don’t miss the charming streets of the city center and try some local pastries!

## Day 4-6: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

## Day 4: Travel to Sarajevo (about 4-5 hours by bus). Once you arrive, explore Baščaršija, the old bazaar. Try some delicious burek for lunch and visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.

## Day 5: Visit the Tunnel of Hope and the War Childhood Museum to understand the city’s history. In the afternoon, take a cable car up to the Trebević Mountain for stunning views.

## Day 6: Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Mostar. Visit the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and explore the charming streets. Don’t forget to try some local coffee!

## Day 7-9: Dubrovnik, Croatia

## Day 7: Head to Dubrovnik (about 6 hours by bus). Once you arrive, take a walk along the city walls for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy dinner in the Old Town.

## Day 8: Spend the day exploring the Old Town. Visit the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery. In the evening, take a sunset cruise for a magical experience.

## Day 9: Take a day trip to the nearby island of Lokrum. Explore the botanical gardens, swim in the sea, and visit the old monastery. Return to Dubrovnik for a relaxing evening.

## Day 10-12: Kotor, Montenegro

## Day 10: Travel to Kotor (about 2 hours by bus). Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and climb up to the fortress for stunning views of the bay.

## Day 11: Take a boat trip to the Blue Cave and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Visit the charming village of Perast and see the Our Lady of the Rocks island.

## Day 12: Spend a leisurely day exploring the surrounding area. Consider a hike in the nearby mountains or a visit to the beautiful town of Tivat.

## Day 13-15: Tirana, Albania

## Day 13: Travel to Tirana (about 4 hours by bus). Explore Skanderbeg Square and visit the [National History Museum](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=National%20History%20Museum&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 14: Take a day trip to the ancient city of Berat, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Explore the castle and enjoy the views of the Osum River.

## Day 15: Visit the Bunk’Art museum and the Pyramid of Tirana. Spend the afternoon in the Grand Park, and enjoy a leisurely evening in the city.

## Day 16-18: Ohrid, North Macedonia

## Day 16: Travel to Ohrid (about 3 hours by bus). Explore the Old Town and visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo for stunning views of Lake Ohrid.

## Day 17: Take a boat tour of Lake Ohrid, visiting the Monastery of Saint Naum and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Swim in the lake if the weather permits!

## Day 18: Spend the day exploring the ancient ruins of Ohrid, including the Roman amphitheater and the Samuil’s Fortress. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake.

## Day 19-21: Skopje, North Macedonia

## Day 19: Travel to Skopje (about 3 hours by bus). Explore the city center, including the Stone Bridge and the Old Bazaar. Don’t miss the Mother Teresa Memorial House.

## Day 20: Visit the Millennium Cross on Mount Vodno for panoramic views of the city. Spend the afternoon at the Skopje Aqueduct and enjoy some local cuisine.

## Day 21: Take a day trip to the beautiful Matka Canyon. Go kayaking or hiking, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

## Day 22-25: Sofia, Bulgaria

## Day 22: Travel to Sofia (about 4 hours by bus). Explore the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. Enjoy dinner in the city center.

## Day 23: Visit the Vitosha Boulevard for shopping and dining. Take a hike in Vitosha Mountain for some fresh air and beautiful views.

## Day 24: Take a day trip to Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Explore the Roman theater and the charming Old Town.

## Day 25: Spend your last day in Sofia visiting the Boyana Church and the [National History Museum](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=National%20History%20Museum&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Enjoy a farewell dinner and reflect on your amazing journey through the Balkans!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Buses are the most common way to travel between cities. They are generally reliable and affordable.
• Currency: Each country has its own currency, so be sure to have some local cash on hand.
• Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way!

I hope this itinerary excites you as much as it excites me! The Balkans are a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Safe travels! 🌍✈️