Holidays in the Balkans - Cheapest Balkans Countries

The Balkans is a beautiful region in Southeast Europe, full of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the Adriatic and Aegean coasts to the Dinaric Alps, the region offers a mix of nature and rich heritage.

If you want to relax on beaches, hike in mountains, or explore ancient cities, the Balkans has something for everyone. It’s also a great place for budget travelers, with low accommodation prices, tasty local food, and affordable attractions. If you're looking for a cheap and unforgettable holiday, the Balkans is the perfect choice.

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Quick Facts about the Balkans

• Best Country to Visit in the Balkans:  Croatia is a destination that should definitely be added to the Balkans tour you will plan, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty through its unforgettable Dubrovnik top attractions.

• Safest Country in the Balkans: Macedonia is recognized as one of the safest countries in the Balkans for travelers. It offers both economic value and a secure environment, making it ideal for a stress-free holiday. It is a a popular choice for tourists seeking safety and comfort during their visit.

• Best Time to Visit the Balkans: Spring is the ideal season to visit the Balkans, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures. This time allows you to explore comfortably, avoiding the cold winters and the summer heat.

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If you’re wondering which countries offer the best value for money, here’s a guide to some of the cheapest Balkans countries for your next unforgettable holiday.

Ohrid - Macedonia

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Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia has always existed throughout history and is the heart of the geography we know as the Balkans. Lake Ohrid, believed by Macedonians as paradise on earth, is a must-visit place during holidays in the Balkans. 

It is the cleanest and deepest lake in Europe. Churches of various sizes were built on all four sides of the lake with the logic of 365 churches for 365 days. Lake Ohrid, one of the best places in the Balkans, is truly a unique place in the world in many ways. 

Lake Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe. It is one of the best places in the Balkans. The blue water and green hills are perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.

There are many fun activities:

• Take a boat tour on the lake.

• Walk in the old town to see cute streets and houses.

• Visit Tsar Samuel Castle for amazing views.

• See Kaneo Church, which looks like a postcard.

For history fans, you can visit:

• Hagia Sophia and Saint Clement's Church.

• Plaošnik, an old Christian site.

• The Old Theatre, where concerts and plays still happen.

If you like beaches, go to Struga. It has sandy shores and quiet rivers. Struga also has a big poetry festival every year.

Belgrade - Serbia

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Belgrade is the capital of Serbia. It is one of the most exciting cities in the Balkans. The city is lively, fun, and very cheap. It is a great place for budget travelers looking for things to do in Belgrade.

Belgrade has a long and interesting past. It was under Ottoman rule for 357 years. You can see Turkish and European styles in its buildings, food, and culture. Visit the Belgrade Fortress, or Kalemegdan. It is a historic place with beautiful views of the rivers and the city. Sunset here is magical. The fortress also has a park, museums, and old ruins to explore.

Spring is the best time to visit. The weather is nice, flowers bloom, and there are many outdoor events. Belgrade is famous for its nightlife. The city never sleeps! There are clubs, bars, and music venues open all night.

These are floating clubs on the rivers Danube and Sava. You can enjoy electronic music, jazz, or other styles. For a calm evening, visit Skadarlija. This old, charming area has traditional restaurants called kafanas. You can eat Serbian food and listen to live folk music.

Things to Do in Belgrade

• Knez Mihailova Street: Walk, shop, eat, and enjoy the busy street.

• Ada Ciganlija: This island on the Sava River has beaches, sports, and cafes.

• Saint Sava Temple: A big and beautiful Orthodox church. It is a symbol of Serbian culture.

• Zemun: A peaceful neighborhood with small streets, riverside cafes, and a relaxing vibe.

A trip to Belgrade offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you want to dance the night away, explore ancient landmarks, or enjoy delicious local cuisine, Belgrade has it all.

Sarejova - Bosnia and Herzegovina

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The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the most enthusiastic, is Sarajevo, the still-forgotten city of past sufferings and great experiences. We can call the old days good to move forward slowly after the war and Europe living for about 20 years. But the Bosnian in the city centre can be depicted both on and on.

If you are going to take a tour of the cities, you should visit the city for a lovely holiday during the holidays in the Balkan. You can see the temples of different religions all over the city, and you can hiss different cultures.

You can discover many new things in Sarajevo, a city that is almost a cradle of culture. One of the best experiences is sampling popular traditional Balkan dishes, which showcase the region's rich culinary heritage.

Must-Try Dishes in Sarajevo

• Ćevapi: Small grilled meat sausages. They are served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak, a creamy dairy spread. Ćevapi is very popular in Bosnia.

• Burek: A pastry with meat, cheese, or spinach inside. It is a tasty street food and great for a quick snack.

• Begova Čorba: A rich soup made with chicken, vegetables, and okra. It’s a warm and comforting dish for cold days.

• Sogan-dolma: Onions stuffed with meat and rice, cooked in a tangy sauce. It’s a delicious dish for food lovers.

• Baklava: A sweet dessert made with filo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup. It shows Sarajevo’s Ottoman history.

We can say that the Bosnia tour, which will make a holiday with its cuisine, is a place you should add to your list of things to do in the Balkans.

Tirana - Albania

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Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a charming and underrated destination in the Balkans. With its mix of history, culture, and modern life, Tirana is a great place to explore during your Balkan holiday.

Tirana has undergone significant changes in recent years. Once a modest city, it now boasts vibrant streets, colorful buildings, and plenty of parks. The city is a blend of old and new, with communist-era architecture standing next to modern cafes, restaurants, and shops. Tirana may be small, but it is full of surprises.

Although Tirana may not have as many famous tourist attractions as other cities, it has a charm that draws visitors in. Here are some must-see spots in the city:

• Skanderbeg Square: The big square in the center. It is named after a national hero, Skanderbeg. You can visit important places like the National History Museum and Et'hem Bey Mosque here.

• Tirana Pyramid: This was built as a museum for the old leader, Enver Hoxha. Now it’s a symbol of the city. It’s a great spot for photos and has nice views of the city.

• Mount Dajti National Park: Take a cable car up the mountain. You will see amazing views of the city and nature. You can hike, relax, or have a picnic here.

• Blloku District: A lively area with cafes, bars, and shops. It was once closed off during the communist time. Now, it is a fun place to see Tirana’s modern life.

Local Cuisine

When in Tirana, be sure to try some delicious Albanian food. Local dishes include tavë kosi (a baked lamb and yogurt casserole), byrek (savory pastries filled with meat or cheese), and fërgesë (a creamy dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese).

Prizren - Kosovo

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Prizren, Kosovo is a very special place in the Balkans. The city is often called an open-air museum because it shows different cultures and religions. Prizren has beautiful buildings, a peaceful atmosphere, and a rich history. It is a must-see city in the Balkans.

Prizren has been around for thousands of years. It was ruled by many empires, like the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Today, the city is a mix of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish cultures.

As you walk in Prizren, you can see this mix in the buildings, streets, and places of worship. You can find mosques, churches, synagogues, and bridges. Prizren shows how different cultures and religions lived together peacefully.

Must-See Places in Prizren

• Prizren Fortress: This old fortress is on a hill above the city. It has great views of the city and area. It’s perfect for history lovers and photographers.

• Sinan Pasha Mosque: This beautiful mosque was built in the 16th century. It is a great example of Ottoman architecture.

• Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš: This church is listed by UNESCO. It has amazing frescoes and is important for both Albanians and Serbs.

• The Stone Bridge: Built in the 15th century, this bridge connects the two parts of the city. It is a nice place to walk and enjoy the city’s beauty.

• Ethnological Museum: This museum is in an old Ottoman house. It shows how people lived in Prizren in the past. You can see old clothes, items, and tools from the city’s history.

The city is proud of its diversity. You can see this spirit of unity in the city’s daily life and in its many festivals and events.

Dubrovnik - Croatia

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Dubrovnik is one of the most popular cities in Croatia. It is called the "Pearl of the Adriatic." The city has beautiful old buildings, stunning beaches, and a lively culture. Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means it is protected and cared for.

Dubrovnik’s history starts in the 7th century. It began as a small settlement. Over time, it grew into a powerful city called the Republic of Ragusa. This city was important in trade and diplomacy. Walking in the old town feels like going back in time.

The city walls are one of the most famous parts of Dubrovnik. They were built between the 12th and 17th centuries to protect the city. Today, visitors can walk along the walls and enjoy amazing views of the city and the sea.

Must-See Places in Dubrovnik

• Rector’s Palace: This was the government building of the Republic of Ragusa. Now, it is a museum with art and history.

• Sponza Palace: A mix of Gothic and Renaissance style. It is home to important documents.

• Dubrovnik Cathedral: A beautiful Baroque church with religious art.

Interesting Facts

• The city was used in the TV show Game of Thrones, especially for scenes in King’s Landing.

• The Dubrovnik Cultural Summer Festival has concerts, plays, and dances. It’s a big celebration of art.

Dubrovnik has a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature. You can walk the city walls, visit old places, or relax on the beach.