12 of the most beautiful places in the Balkans
Must-see pretty places in the Balkans
The Balkans is a region of incredible beauty and diversity, with stunning landscapes and spectacular views. From the mountains of Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the coastlines of Montenegro and Croatia, it's easy to see why the Balkans has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers looking to explore Europe's most picturesque destinations.
With so many beautiful places to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your list. To help you out, we've compiled a list of the 12 most beautiful places in the Balkans that you must visit!
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Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
Located in the southwestern part of Macedonia, Lake Ohrid is a stunningly beautiful body of water surrounded by breathtaking views. One of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, it is also one of the Balkan countries’ most precious jewels.
Its crystal-clear waters give the lake an almost ethereal beauty, and its surroundings are steeped in history and natural beauty. The shores of the lake are dotted with small villages and churches, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday.
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Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Located in the northwest region of Montenegro, Durmitor National Park is a stunningly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to numerous species of plants and animals. With its dramatic mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and lush valleys, it is no wonder why the area has been designated a National Park. It is the perfect place for visitors to explore the spectacular landscapes, with its stunning panoramas of Montenegro’s wilderness.
There are plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, such as hiking and kayaking in the lakes or trekking to the top of Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak in Durmitor at 2,523 meters above sea level. Visitors can also explore the park’s incredible biodiversity, which includes protected species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.
Make the most of your trip to Durmitor with a comprehensive guided tour, including a trip to the incredible Ostrog Monastery.
Durmitor National Park is an incredible sight to behold and is one of the most breathtaking places in the Balkans.
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Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Located in the mountainous region of central Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans. The park is famous for its 16 interconnected lakes, each with its own distinct hue and beauty. The lake system is surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls, and limestone canyons. Visitors to the park can take advantage of the many hiking trails that traverse the area, as well as boat rides on the lakes.
You’ll want to visit this amazing national park if you’re travelling across Croatia or staying in Split, Dubrovnik or Zagreb, so join a Plitvice Lakes guided tour to get the most out of your trip.
The beauty of the park is breathtaking, from the cascading waterfalls to the lush forests and jagged mountains. You'll be sure to spot a few rare species of birds, mammals, and amphibians as you explore the park. This unique destination has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is definitely worth adding to your bucket list!
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Albanian Riviera, Albania
Situated in the southwestern part of the country, the Albanian Riviera is one of the most stunningly beautiful places in the Balkans. With its crystal-clear waters and a stunning coastline, it's no wonder why this region is so popular with locals and tourists alike. From the city of Sarandë in the south to the Llogara Pass in the north, the Albanian Riviera offers visitors a wide array of sights, activities, and experiences.
Take a stroll along the beach in Sarandë or explore the ancient ruins of Butrint National Park. Then hop on a boat and explore secluded coves and private beaches, as well as some of Albania’s most picturesque islands, including Sazan Island. For a more active experience, take a jeep tour of the spectacular mountains and gorges, or go rafting down the Vjosa River.
No matter what you do, a trip to the Albanian Riviera is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its unspoiled beauty and unique attractions, the Albanian Riviera is truly one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans.
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Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Located in the heart of the Balkans, Sarajevo is one of the most beautiful and historically-rich cities in Europe. This UNESCO-recognised city has a long and fascinating history, which can be explored through its winding cobblestone streets and preserved monuments.
The city is full of life, with an array of cultural activities and festivals held throughout the year. Visit during the summer for a lively outdoor atmosphere, or during winter for some of the most spectacular snow-covered scenery in the Balkans. In either season, you will find plenty to do – from visiting local markets to exploring the old quarter known as Bascarsija, the city has something for everyone.
Sarajevo is also home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the region, such as the Gazi Husrev-Beg Mosque and the Sarajevo National Library. Other must-see attractions include the Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, and Vrelo Bosne, a stunning park located on the banks of the Miljacka River.
When visiting Sarajevo, you’ll be amazed by its charm and vibrant culture, making it one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans.
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Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a stunning coastal town nestled in the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. With its winding cobblestone streets, Kotor is one of the most picturesque towns in the Balkans. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor's old city is full of stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the mountains and sea.
A trip to Kotor would not be complete without a visit to the 12th century fortress that overlooks the city. It is well worth the effort it takes to hike up to the fortress and see the amazing views from the top. The nearby Our Lady of the Rocks Church is also a must-see for visitors. This beautiful church was built on an artificial island in the bay and is an impressive feat of engineering and artistry.
Kotor is also known for its numerous beaches, which offer stunning views of the Mediterranean. From swimming in crystal clear waters to relaxing on the beach with a book, there is something for everyone. There are plenty of restaurants offering local seafood dishes as well, so don't forget to sample some of the delicious cuisine while you're there!
Kotor is one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans and should definitely be on your list if you are planning a trip to the area. Whether you want to take a stroll through the old town, explore the fortress, or simply relax on one of the many beaches, you will find something special in Kotor.
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Rila Monastery, Bulgaria
Rila Monastery is one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans, located in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria. It is considered to be the spiritual centre of Bulgaria and was founded in the 10th century by the hermit Ivan Rilski. It has survived throughout the centuries and today it is a must-see tourist destination.
The architecture of Rila Monastery is breathtaking. Its walls are made of white stone and are covered with colourful frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible, making it one of the most impressive monuments in Bulgaria. The interior is also a sight to behold, with its wood-paneled ceilings, intricately carved columns, and ancient frescoes.
Rila Monastery also boasts an impressive library, which holds more than 300,000 books and manuscripts, many of them dating back to the 16th century. Its grounds include several churches, chapels and buildings.
Visitors to Rila Monastery are sure to be captivated by its unique beauty and its long and rich history. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a stunning natural landscape, Rila Monastery is sure to leave you in awe.
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Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Situated on the southern Adriatic coast, the Bay of Kotor is often considered to be one of the most beautiful bays in the world. It is nestled in a mountainous region of Montenegro and its stunning beauty is a sight to behold. The bay is surrounded by towering mountains that reach high above the Mediterranean Sea, creating an awe-inspiring view.
The small town of Kotor located at the head of the bay is a picturesque little village, full of colorful buildings and narrow alleyways. Visitors can explore its Old Town and take in the Venetian style architecture or visit some of the nearby islands. Kotor is also a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and sailing.
The Bay of Kotor has become increasingly popular over the past few years, with more and more travelers coming to explore its beauty. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, this destination has something for everyone. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hikes, bike rides and kayaking trips. For those looking for relaxation, there are plenty of beaches to lounge on, as well as some fantastic restaurants and bars.
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Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
Located on the Adriatic Coast of Montenegro, Sveti Stefan is one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans. This stunning island was once a 15th century fishing village and today it is a luxurious resort town with amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation make Sveti Stefan a popular tourist destination. The red tiled rooftops, colorful homes, and cobblestone streets add to the charm of this place. There are also plenty of outdoor activities that you can do while you’re here such as swimming, sailing, kayaking, or just taking a leisurely stroll along the shore.
The small town of Sveti Stefan is a great place to explore and experience Montenegrin culture and hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just want to relax and soak up some sun, Sveti Stefan is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
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Belgrade, Serbia
Located at the confluence of two great rivers, the Danube and the Sava, Belgrade is a city of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is known for its vibrant nightlife and world-class music scene. With a long history that dates back to Roman times, this lively Serbian capital offers a unique blend of culture, architecture, and entertainment.
The historic cobbled streets of the city are lined with beautiful baroque buildings, and the bustling pedestrian-friendly Knez Mihailova Street is the perfect spot to take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere. To get an amazing view of the city, visitors can head to the top of the Avalski Tower or the Gardos Tower.
There are plenty of cultural attractions to visit in Belgrade, including the National Museum, which houses numerous artifacts from prehistoric to modern times. For some outdoor relaxation, visitors can head to one of the many parks, such as Kalemegdan Park, located on the edge of the river.
If you’re looking for a great night out, Belgrade is home to some of the best bars and clubs in Europe, as well as a variety of live music venues. Whether it’s a relaxing evening out or an all-night party, Belgrade is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
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Dubrovnik, Croatia
Located on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities in the Balkans. As the capital of the Republic of Ragusa, it was a major maritime power during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
The city is known for its well-preserved fortifications and walls, which have been standing since the 12th century. The streets are filled with cobblestones, baroque churches, and old-fashioned shops. It’s also home to some stunning beaches such as Banje and Sveti Jakov.
The main attraction in Dubrovnik is the old town, which is filled with Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Stroll down Stradun, the main street of the old town, to take in the sights and sounds. From there, you can explore the old fortress walls or catch a ferry to nearby islands.
In addition to its beautiful sights, Dubrovnik also offers a vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to explore. And if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, take a stroll along the harbor or take a boat tour of the nearby islands.
No matter what your interests are, Dubrovnik has something for everyone. With its stunning views, fascinating history, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that this city is one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans.
Read next: The best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
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Mostar Bridge, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Situated in the southern part of Bosnia & Hercegovina, the Mostar Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Balkans. Originally built in the 16th century, it stretches across the Neretva River and is a symbol of unification between the two halves of the city.
The new Mostar Bridge is made from limestone and its design is traditional for Ottoman architecture. It is also an important part of Bosnian history and culture. The bridge served as a primary crossing point for locals and travelers until it was destroyed during the war in 1993.
After more than 15 years of reconstruction efforts, the bridge was officially reopened in 2004. Visitors to Mostar will find a bustling city center with plenty of attractions, cafes, and shops. The famous Old Town is full of colorful street art and historical buildings.
Visitors should take time to admire the impressive structure of the Mostar Bridge, as well as take a few photos while they’re at it. The view of the Old Town from atop the bridge is truly spectacular. Make sure to take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Neretva River as well to really soak in this beautiful region of the Balkans.
Join a Mostar Bridge tour from Dubrovnik to experience Bosnia and Hercegovina within a day.
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