Exploring the Balkans: Our 2-Month Adventure Across Southeastern Europe
After a year of planning and research, our long-awaited trip to the Balkans is finally here! Ron and I have always been captivated by this region, with its unparalleled beauty, rich history, and diverse cultures. In April, we’ll set off on an incredible 2-month adventure, uncovering the best of The Balkans and Southeastern Europe.
Our itinerary spans multiple countries, starting in Germany, then winding through Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Kosovo, and finally ending in Italy. We’ve crafted a route that balances well-known landmarks with hidden gems, allowing us to fully embrace the essence of the Balkans.
Traveling through The Balkans can feel overwhelming given the region’s vast history and diverse landscapes, but we’re excited to dive in. Whether you’re seeking bustling cities, historical ruins, or stunning landscapes, we’ve got something for every type of traveler. Along the way, we’ll share updates from our journey and hope to inspire your own adventures in this remarkable region.
If The Balkans have always intrigued you, follow along as we explore, and perhaps start planning your own trip to this unique corner of the world.
Our Itinerary – The Balkans 2025
– April 6 – Fly from Vancouver to Munich, Germany
April 7 – 10 – Munich, Germany
Before we head to The Balkans, we do a stopover in Munich, known for its mix of vibrant energy and laid-back vibe, offering a taste of both old-world elegance and modern appeal. We are excited to visit the iconic Hofbräuhaus, serving traditional Bavarian beer and cuisine. Marienplatz, Munich’s stunning central square, plays host to a number of sights including the historic Old Town Hall, New Town Hall, the famous Glockenspiel, as well as a number of cafes and restaurants. Shopping will of course entail exploring the Ludwigstrasse, and Maximilianstrasse.
Must sees also include the English Garden, the Chinese Tower, and perhaps the famous BMW Museum. Of interest is also the Third Reich Walking Tour, as well as an Old Town Walking Tour.
– April 10 – Fly from Munich to Belgrade, Serbia
April 10 – 13 – Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia, is a city where history meets modern energy. At its heart lies Beogradska Tvrđava, the Belgrade Fortress, a monumental landmark located at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. This fortress stands as a testament to the city’s strategic importance throughout history, having been a key site for the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Serbian, and Austrian empires.
Further sights we plan to explore will be Saint Petka’s Chapel, St. Michael’s Cathedral, the Church of Saint Sava (one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world), and Skadarlija street with its attractions and bohemian vibes.
– April 13 – Fly from Belgrade to Sarajevo, Bosnia
April 13 – 16 – Sarajevo, Bosnia
Next, we’re headed to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and we can’t wait to explore this fascinating city on the Miljacka River, surrounded by the breathtaking Dinaric Alps. As we stroll through the city center, we’ll dive into Sarajevo’s rich history, starting with the Sarajevo 1878–1918 museum, where we’ll learn more about the 1914 assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand—an event that famously sparked World War I.
We will also explore the Tunnel of Hope, once used to smuggle food and weapons into the capital, and people out during the Bosnian Serb Army siege from 1992 – 1995. We’ll walk the streets of the Baščaršija district, the heart of the old town, whose narrow streets are lined with Ottoman-era architecture. One landmark we’re definitely looking forward to is the Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, a stunning piece of Sarajevo’s diverse heritage. Sunset will be watched from the Balkans’ famous Yellow Fortress.
– April 16 – Fly from Sarajevo to Zagreb, Croatia – pick up rental car
April 16 – 17 – Zagreb
In one day, we’ll explore the best of Zagreb, starting at Ban Jelačić Square and enjoying a coffee before heading to the vibrant Dolac Market. We’ll stroll through the charming Upper Town (Gornji Grad), visiting St. Mark’s Church and climbing Lotrščak Tower for stunning views.
The afternoon will include a stop at the unique Museum of Broken Relationships, followed by a peaceful walk through Zrinjevac Park. We’ll explore King Tomislav Square and admire the Croatian National Theatre, then enjoy traditional Croatian dishes like štrukli for dinner. Our day will end with drinks at a cozy bar along Tkalčićeva Street, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
– April 17 – Drive to Lake Bled, Slovenia
April 17 – 18 – Lake Bled
Our day at Lake Bled begins with a peaceful stroll around the lake’s picturesque shoreline, taking in the stunning views of Bled Castle perched above, and the island church in the center of the lake. We’ll take a traditional pletna boat to the island, climb the 99 steps to the Church of the Mother of God, and ring the famous bell for good luck.
Afterward, we’ll enjoy a relaxing walk through the lush Bled Park and take in the breathtaking scenery. For lunch, we’ll indulge in the famous Bled cream cake, a must-try local dessert, at one of the lakeside cafes. Our day wraps up with a visit to Vintgar Gorge, where we’ll hike through the stunning canyon, finishing our adventure with a dip in the tranquil beauty of Lake Bled, temperatures allowing.
– April 18 – Drive to Ljubliana, Slovenia
April 18 – 21 – Ljubliana
In Ljubljana, we’ll explore the Old Town, visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views, and relax in Tivoli Park. Dinner by the Ljubljanica River will end our first day. On Day 2, we’ll visit Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave, before returning to Ljubljana for coffee and dinner in Trnovo. Our final day includes a trip to the Central Market, a boat ride on the Ljubljanica River, and a visit to the National Gallery or Museum of Modern Art. We’ll end with a hike up Šmarna Gora and a riverside dinner.
– April 21 – Drive to Trieste, Italy
April 21 – 23 – Trieste
We’ll start our two days in Trieste by wandering through Piazza Unità d’Italia, soaking in the beauty of the vast seafront square. We’ll visit the stunning Castello di Miramare, exploring its gardens and enjoying breathtaking views of the Adriatic. After lunch, we’ll savour fresh seafood at a cozy local trattoria, topped with a glass of Friulian wine.
On the second day, we’ll explore the ancient ruins of Teatro Romano and climb up to Cattedrale di San Giusto for panoramic city views. Before leaving, we’ll unwind with a cup of Trieste-style coffee at one of the city’s historic cafés, reflecting on the city’s unique mix of cultures. While not generally regarded as part of The Balkans, it’s too close not to explore.
– April 23 – Drive to Piran, Slovenia
April 23 – 24 – Piran
We’re really looking forward to our upcoming visit to Piran, a charming coastal town in Slovenia. We plan to stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town, admiring the Venetian architecture and stopping by the iconic Tartini Square. We’ll also make sure to visit the bell tower of St. George’s Church, where we’ll enjoy stunning views of the town and the Adriatic Sea; afterwards we will suss out the Minorite Monastery, hidden in the back alleys – a small monastery with a beautiful little courtyard.
We’re excited to relax by the water, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and perhaps taking a swim in the crystal-clear sea. Before we leave, we’ll indulge in some fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, savouring the flavours of this beautiful part of the world.
– April 24 – Drive to Motovun, Croatia
April 24 – 26 – Motovun
We’re so excited to explore Motovun and the surrounding Istrian countryside on our upcoming trip. We can’t wait to wander through the medieval streets of Motovun, enjoying panoramic views of the vineyards and rolling hills, and maybe even take a walk along its ancient city walls. We’ll also visit the nearby hilltop town of Hum, often called the smallest town in the world, and admire its charming stone buildings and peaceful atmosphere.
The region of the Balkans is famous for its truffles, so we’re hoping to do a bit of truffle hunting in the Motovun Forest and enjoy a truffle-based meal at one of the local restaurants. To top it off, we’ll stop by some of the quaint surrounding villages like Buzet and Roc, where we can relax, enjoy Istrian wines, and soak in the beauty of this hidden gem.
– April 26 – Drive to Porec, Croatia
April 26 – 28 – Porec
We’re really looking forward to our upcoming visit to Poreč, a coastal gem on the Istrian Peninsula. We’ll start by exploring the stunning Euphrasian Basilica, with its incredible mosaics, and wander the charming old town with its narrow streets and cozy cafes. We’re excited to stroll along the seafront, enjoy the views, and maybe rent bikes to explore the nearby Zelenka Forest and Brijuni National Park.
A day trip to the Lim Fjord is also on the agenda, where we can enjoy the peaceful waters and try some local seafood. We’ll end our trip with a relaxing dinner in one of Poreč’s seaside restaurants, sipping local wine as we watch the sunset over the Adriatic. Time permitting, we may also take a day trip to the city of Rovinj.
– April 28 – Drive to Pula, Croatia
April 28 – 29 – Pula
We’re excited for our upcoming trip to Pula, a historic city on the Istrian Peninsula, where we can’t wait to explore its ancient Roman ruins. First on our list is the impressive Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, where we’ll soak in its history and stunning architecture. We’ll also visit the Temple of Augustus, Fortress Kastel, the Cathedral of the Assumption, and wander through the old town’s charming streets, stopping at local cafes.
A short drive will take us to the nearby Kamenjak National Park, where we’re looking forward to hiking and relaxing by the crystal-clear waters. This area is often compared to the grandeur of the white cliffs of Dover.
– April 29 – Drive to Zadar, Croatia
April 29 – May 1 – Zadar
We’re so excited for our upcoming visit to Zadar, where we’ll dive into its unique mix of history and seaside charm. We can’t wait to experience the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, two of Zadar’s most famous landmarks, especially at sunset. We’ll also explore the Roman Forum and St. Donatus Church, discovering the city’s rich past along the way.
A boat trip to Kornati National Park is notionally on our agenda, where we’ll take in the stunning islands and crystal-clear waters. Zadar Cathedral, the Church of St. Donatus and Plitivice Lakes National Park are all also on our agenda. Ambitious to say the least.
– May 1 – Drive to Sibenik, Croatia
May 1 – 2 – Sibenik
We’re really looking forward to our upcoming visit to Šibenik, a hidden gem on the Croatian coast. We can’t wait to explore the stunning St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through the charming old town with its narrow alleys and medieval architecture. A visit to Fortress St. Michael is on the agenda for sweeping views of the city and the nearby Krka National Park.
The Monastery of St. Lawrence with it’s enchanting gardens is an oasis of peace and tranquility, opened to the public only since 2007. We’re also excited to take a boat trip to the Prvić Island, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
– May 2 – Drive to Split, Croatia – Drop off Rental Car
May 2 – 6 – Split
We’re so excited to spend four days in Split, soaking up the city’s rich history and stunning coastal views. On Day 1, we’ll dive into the heart of Split by exploring the Diocletian’s Palace, marvelling at its ancient architecture and bustling squares. We’ll then enjoy a leisurely walk along the Riva promenade, grabbing a coffee and people-watching by the sea. Day 2 will take us to Marjan Hill, where we’ll hike to the top for panoramic views of Split and the surrounding islands. Day 3 will see us visiting the Cathedral of Saint Dominius, the Triclinium, and The Substructures featured in Game of Thrones.
– May 6 – Catch ferry to Brac, Croatia
May 6 – 10 – Brac
The island of Brač is a four day adventure, starting with a relaxing day in Supetar, where we’ll stroll through the charming old town. Later we will head out and enjoy a wine tasting and tour at Brac’s most famous Stina Winery. Afterwards, we’ll watch the sunset before enjoying a cozy dinner by the sea. On Day 2, we’ll head to Bol, unwind at Zlatni Rat Beach, and visit the secluded Pustinja Blaca monastery. Day 3 will be spent hiking Vidova Gora for panoramic island views, followed by a wine tasting and dinner at Vina Senjković. On our final day, we’ll explore the old town of Bol, enjoying one last swim and a seaside lunch before heading home.
– May 10 – Catch ferry to Korcula, Croatia
May 10 – 13 – Korcula
We’re thrilled to spend four days on Korčula, one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, steeped in history and charm. On Day 1, we’ll wander through the medieval streets of Korčula Town, exploring the St. Mark’s Cathedral and the impressive Korčula City Walls. We will also hunt down the original home of Marco Polo. Day 2 we’ll relax on the quiet Bacva Beach with it’s rentable chairs and rumoured cheapest cocktails on the island before sampling some local wines at nearby vineyards. On Day 3, we’ll take a boat trip to the small island of Badija to explore its serene landscapes and historical monastery. Day 4 will be dedicated to hiking the island’s forest trails, with a stop at the Pupnatska Luka beach to cool off in the turquoise waters.
– May 13 – Catch ferry to Dubrovnik, Croatia
May 13 – 17 – Dubrovnik
We’re so excited for our four-day adventure in Dubrovnik, one of the most iconic cities in Croatia. On Day 1, we’ll explore the Old Town, wandering through the Stradun and visiting the stunning Sponza Palace and Rector’s Palace. Day 2 will see Ron’s sister Tami join us for the remainder of our trip. Today will be all about the city walls—we’ll walk the entire length for breathtaking views of the Adriatic and the terracotta rooftops.
Our third night, we managed to snag a reservation at the iconic Panorama Restaurant at the top of the cable car for a sunset dinner overlooking Dubrovnik. Needless to say, we are giddy at the thought of great food and wine enjoyed over fantastic views.
We end our time here, by taking a day trip into the heart of the Balkans, Mostar, Bosnia is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a reconstructed medieval structure spanning the Neretva River. The surrounding alleys are lined with shops and market stalls, while the Old Bridge Museum dives into the bridge’s rich history. For stunning city views, we’ll climb the narrow staircase to the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque minaret.
– May 17 – Daytrip Transfer to Budva, Montenegro
May 17 – 22 – Budva
Renting scooters is on the agenda for this portion of our trip, which will see us exploring the Serpentine Rd, and all it has to offer. We’ll stroll through the Old Town, marveling at its Venetian walls and charming streets. We’ll head to Kotor, where we plan to hike up the City Walls for a panoramic view of the Bay of Kotor and explore the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Day 3 will take us to Bar, where we’ll visit the impressive Stari Bar ruins, then enjoy some time on the quiet Sutomore Beach. On Day 4, we’ll take a scenic drive along the coast, stopping to admire the stunning views and tiny villages along the way.
– May 22 – Daytrip Transfer to Prizren, Kosovo
May 22 – 23 – Prizren
We’re excited for our one-day visit to Prizren, Kosovo’s cultural gem deep in the heart of the Balkans. We’ll start by exploring the Old Town, wandering through its charming streets and stopping at the stunning Sinan Pasha Mosque. A hike up to the Prizren Fortress will offer us incredible views of the city and surrounding mountains. After lunch, we’ll visit the Lounge of the Stone Bridge and explore the Ethnological Museum before enjoying a relaxing evening by the Bistrica River, taking in the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere.
– May 23 – Daytrip Transfer to Ohrid, North Macedonia
May 23 – 25 – Ohrid
On Day 1, we’ll explore the Ohrid Old Town, visiting the impressive Church of St. John at Kaneo and taking in the views of Lake Ohrid from the cliffs. The Old Bazaar is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity which we will explore, and of course the promenade is the spot to people watch and take in the sunset. Day 2 will take us to the Ohrid Amphitheater and the ancient Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, followed by a peaceful boat ride on the lake to see Saint Naum Monastery and its beautiful surroundings. We’ll wrap up our visit with a sunset stroll along the lake, soaking in the calm, scenic beauty of this UNESCO-listed destination.
– May 25 – Daytrip Transfer Berat, Albania
May 25 – 26 – Berat
Today, we’ll wander through the Old Town, marveling at the Ottoman-era houses and visiting the stunning Berat Castle for panoramic views of the town and surrounding valley. The Holy Trinity Church is a must. Further exploring will take us to the Onufri National Museum, where we’ll admire Byzantine art, and we’ll explore the peaceful Mangalem and Gorica districts. We’ll end our visit with a relaxing meal in one of Berat’s riverside restaurants, enjoying local wine and traditional Albanian dishes.
– May 26 – Daytrip Transfer to Gjirokaster, Albania
May 26 – 28 – Gjjiorkaster
We’re excited to spend two days in Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed town known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. On Day 1, we’ll explore the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, where we can take in sweeping views of the valley and visit the Armament Museum housed within. We will also suss our the underground bunker left from Albania’s communist era with it’s Cold War Tunnel. Day 2 will be spent wandering through the charming Old Bazaar, stopping by the Ethnological Museum, and admiring the town’s unique stone houses.
– May 28 – Daytrip Transfer to Sarande, Albania
May 28 – May 30 – Sarande
We’re excited for our two-day adventure in Sarandë and its stunning surroundings. On Day 1, we’ll start by exploring the Ruins of the Synagogue in the heart of the city, then head up to Lekursi Castle for incredible views of the coast. Afterward, we’ll visit the Monastery of the 40 Saints, where we can admire the Byzantine frescoes and enjoy the panoramic vistas. On Day 2, we’ll drive to Himarë, where we’ll explore the well-preserved Himarë Castle and wander through the charming cobbled streets of Himare Old Town. We’ll also visit the Museum of Traditions, offering a glimpse into local history. To finish our trip, we’ll spend some time at Ksamil Beach, known as the “Maldives of Europe,” and unwind at the peaceful Pulebardha Beach. If we’re feeling adventurous, we might take a walk to Ali Pasha Castle, surrounded by water for a stunning view.
– May 30 – Ferry to Corfu, Greece
May 30 – June 4 – Corfu
For the last portions of our trip, we leave the Balkans for Greece, and Italy. We’re thrilled for our four-day trip to Corfu, an island full of charm and beauty. On Day 1, we’ll wander through the narrow streets of Corfu Old Town, exploring its Venetian architecture and stopping by the Liston Promenade for a coffee. Day 2 will take us to the Achilleion Palace, where we’ll admire the stunning gardens and enjoy the views over the island. On Day 3, we’ll visit the Paleokastritsa Monastery, perched on a cliff, and spend the afternoon relaxing at Paleokastritsa Beach. Our final day will be dedicated to exploring Kanoni, with its famous view of Mouse Island, and ending with a sunset at Vlacherna Monastery for the perfect end to our trip.
– June 4 – Fly to Milan, Italy
June 4 – 7 – Milan
We’re excited to return to Milan for three days, picking up where we left off on our previous visit. On Day 1, we’ll start with the awe-inspiring Duomo di Milano, climbing to the rooftop for incredible views over the city, then enjoy a leisurely walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some window shopping. Since we’ve already seen Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” on our last trip, we’re eager to revisit the Sforza Castle and explore its museums and stunning courtyards. Day 2 will be spent in the vibrant Brera district, with its art galleries, cafes, and the Pinacoteca di Brera. On our final day, we’ll enjoy a peaceful afternoon along the Navigli canals, sipping an aperitivo as we watch the sunset before indulging in a delicious Italian dinner.
– June 7 – Fly home to Vancouver. Adventures are at an end.
Wow, I’m getting even more excited just writing out our itinerary! Visiting the Balkans and it’s area is really starting to feel real now. Of course, we’ve learned to leave room for spontaneity—while we’ve got our destinations locked in, we’re always open to the unexpected. That’s the beauty of slow travel, right? You never know what’s around the next corner, and sometimes it’s those surprise moments that make the trip unforgettable. Can’t wait to see where the journey takes us!
*As a footnote to this post – photos in this post are from Adobe Stock, as we have not travelled to these places as of yet.