The Balkans, also known as the Balkan Peninsula is bordered by the Adriatic Sea on the Ionian Sea on the southwest, the Aegean Sea in the south and southeast, and the Black Sea on the east and northeast. The term of Balkan Peninsular was implemented by August Zeune, a German geographer which was a synonym for European Turkey in the 19th century. It had a geopolitical definition rather than a geographical one. Today, scholars usually like to discuss Balkan as a region and rejected the idea of Balkan Peninsular. The Balkan is usually said to consist of Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece and Slovenia. In some way, Turkey is also partially or mostly included in the Balkan Peninsula.
Most of the area in the Balkans is covered by mountain ranges such as the Balkan Mountains, stretching from the Black Sea to Rhode Mountains and far off the Albanian Alps. The Balkans had settlements since the Palaeolithic age where two early cultures, the Starčevo culture and Vinča culture have developed in the region. Being one of the oldest settlements in the continent, it’s no surprise it is one of the most popular destinations. There are many things to see in Balkans from ancient buildings, mountains, beaches to luxurious resorts, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy the Balkan attractions.
Top-Rated Attractions in Balkan Countries
1. Serbia
Serbia is full of majestic attractions and Balkans tourist places waiting to be discovered and adored! Serbia’s landscapes surround the whole country, from the plains of Vojvodina to the mountains and valleys of the national park. History has left a mark from its Communist-era architecture to the cuisine. It's home to 19th-century mansions, opera and ballet at Narodno Pozorište.
Best Attractions in Serbia
1.1 Belgrade
What better way to start your trip than the magnificent city, Belgrade? You will want to walk along the river banks or even eat, drink at the riverboat. There are many attractions you can see while you are in Belgrade such as Avala Tower, House of Flowers, Gardos Tower, Nikola Tesla Museum and many more things to see and do in Balkans country.
1.2 Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress
Kalemegdan is Belgrade’s main park and it was converted into a park in the mid-19th century. In the past, it was an ancient city of Singidunum, but today its home to museums, galleries, sports courts, restaurants and the Belgrade zoo. As for the Belgrade Fortress, it’s a historic place in Belgrade which tells the history of the country.
Best Attractions in Bulgaria
2.1 Rila Monastery
The Rila Monastery is among the Rila Mountains, founded in the 10th century and held in high esteem as being one of the most historical and cultural monuments. It is widely known as Jerusalem of Bulgaria, and it’s the biggest monastery in the country. The ancient monastery is still up and running with 60 monks who work in peace in the monastery.
2.2 Old Nessebar
For the past 9000 years, Old Nessebar has always charmed visitors from all over the world, and it keeps on captivating people until today. It is situated on a craggy peninsular and the charming old town is an open-air museum full of churches, pretty squares and cobbled streets. All these historical monuments span around the Roman and Byzantine eras.
Best Attractions in Croatia
3.1 Dubrovnik Old Town Walls
Are you looking for the best places to Visit in Balkans? Why not explore the UNESCO world heritage site. Also, it was a popular filming spot for Game of Thrones surrounded by the Walls of Dubrovnik. Its 1940 m in length, and consist of 6 fortresses. It’s always a good feeling to walk along the Old Town Walls.
3.2 Diocletian's Palace in Split
The UNESCO World Heritage site dates back its history to the 4th century. The Palace was built by Diocletian who spared at nothing to build this immense palace. And, all its splendour can still be seen as you walk through its labyrinthine roads and white stone walls.
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Croatia
1. Hvar Town
2. Plitvice National Park
3. Zagreb Gornji Grad
4. Sailing Around Kornati National Park
5. Zadar's Romanesque Churches
6. Zlatni Rat Beach
7. Korčula Town
8. Mljet National Park