Matthias MulliWhy the Balkans Should Be Your Next European Adventure
Traveling to Europe but want something different than the usual London-Paris itinerary? Let us introduce you to a journey that’s perfect for travelers craving natural beauty, diverse cultures, and rich history without the high tourist traffic. Welcome to the Balkan Peninsula — a lesser-explored gem nestled between Eastern and Western Europe.
This 10-day Balkan itinerary takes you through three amazing countries: Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. From sunny beaches and ancient walls to waterfall-fed valleys and vibrant old towns, this road trip is packed with memory-making moments.
Why choose the Balkans?
- Fewer crowds than Western Europe
- Incredibly scenic road trip routes
- Affordable food, lodging, and activities
- Warm hospitality and diverse culture
If you love history, food, nature, and winding your way through charming towns, keep reading. This blog post lays out the ultimate 10-day adventure with practical tips, must-see highlights, and helpful links to plan your own trip.
Hvar, Croatia. Photo courtesy of Pexels.com
Days 1–3: Starting Strong in Stunning Croatia
Your starting point for this remarkable journey is Dubrovnik, Croatia — also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” If it looks familiar, that’s because this walled city served as a filming location for King’s Landing in HBO’s Game of Thrones.
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center of Dubrovnik
Spend your first day walking along the top of the Dubrovnik Walls, peeking over rooftops while enjoying breathtaking sea views. Walk through Stradun Street, and don’t forget to catch the sunset from the Lovrijenac Fortress just outside the city walls.
Day 2: Day Trip to Lokrum Island or Mount Srd
Looking for a half-day adventure? Take a ferry to Lokrum Island for a peaceful afternoon of hiking and cliff-jumping. Alternatively, take a cable car up to Mount Srd for panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea.
Day 3: Drive to Korčula via the Pelješac Peninsula
Grab your rental car and hit the road toward Korčula Island. Stop by the renowned Pelješac Peninsula for fresh oysters in Ston and a glass of local wine. The scenic coastal roads are a big part of the experience.
Korčula itself is famous for:
- Charming Old Town streets
- Reputed hometown of Marco Polo
- Delicious white wines like Pošip and Grk
- Peaceful beaches with crystal-clear waters
Yachting in Montenegro. Photo courtesy of Pexels.com
Days 4–7: Montenegro Magic – Beaches, Bays, and Mountains
Day 4: Journey to Kotor, Montenegro
Take the ferry back to the mainland and drive south to magical Kotor, Montenegro. Nestled at the base of steep mountains and lining the edge of the Bay of Kotor, this medieval town is full of winding alleyways and charming squares.
Don’t miss:
- Hiking up the Kotor Fortress for jaw-dropping views
- Sipping espresso in the Old Town
- Watching the sunset across the bay
Day 5: Drive the Serpentine Road to Lovćen National Park
This legendary road consists of 25 hairpin turns that carry you up to Lovćen National Park. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints for photos. At the top, you can explore the Njegoš Mausoleum and take in panoramic mountain views.
Day 6: Day Trip to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks
Just a short drive from Kotor, the beautiful village of Perast feels like stepping into a postcard. From here, take a boat to the island church, Our Lady of the Rocks, and learn the fascinating tale behind its man-made creation.
Day 7: Beach Day in Budva
Time to relax! Head to Budva for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. The old town here is walled and full of seaside charm. Make room for some fresh seafood and maybe an outdoor cocktail or two.
Travel tip: Navigating Montenegrin roads can be tricky. Keep your GPS handy and be cautious on mountain routes.
Makarska, Croatia. Photo courtesy of Pexels.com
Days 8–10: Bosnia and Herzegovina – Culture, Nature & History
Day 8: Drive to Mostar
On your way to Mostar, you’ll pass through lush hills that open up to this picturesque town split by the Neretva River. Mostar is famous for its iconic bridge — the Stari Most — and its fairytale-like old town.
Things to do in Mostar:
- Watch brave divers leap off the bridge
- Stroll through the Turkish-influenced bazaar
- Taste traditional Bosnian coffee and baklava
Day 9: Day Trip to Kravice Waterfalls and Blagaj Tekke
Just a short drive from Mostar, the Kravice Waterfalls are like a mini version of Niagara surrounded by lush greenery. Don’t forget a swimsuit—you can swim here!
Nearby, visit Blagaj Tekke, a mystical Sufi Dervish house built into a cliff beside a turquoise river spring.
Day 10: Return to Dubrovnik or Sarajevo
Depending on your flights, you can either head back to Dubrovnik (a 2.5–3 hr drive) or continue exploring Bosnia by heading to Sarajevo — the capital city full of history, resilience, and East-meets-West vibes.
Bonus Tip: For ease of travel, rent your car in Dubrovnik and return it in the same city. Crossing borders is easy but always carry your passport and car documents.
Final Thoughts and Travel Tips
This 10-day Balkan itinerary packs in everything: sea, mountains, medieval towns, and cultural flavor. It’s perfect for people who want an epic road trip with a mix of relaxation and exploration.
Quick travel tips:
- Pack layers – you’ll experience a range of climates.
- Carry cash – not every town takes cards, especially in Bosnia and Montenegro.
- Rent a small car – easier for maneuvering in narrow old town streets.
- Try local dishes like ćevapi, burek, and fresh seafood.
So, are you ready to hit the road and dive into one of Europe’s most underrated adventures? The Balkans await — and trust us, your Instagram feed will thank you.
