So, Albania sounds amazing, right? It’s definitely rocketing up my travel list. But it got me thinking—the Balkans are a whole treasure chest of places that don’t get the mainstream spotlight they deserve. If you’re charmed by Albania’s mix of raw coastline, dramatic mountains, and deep history, then you’re in for a treat because the entire peninsula is packed with similar magic. Each country has its own distinct flavor, but they all share that incredible blend of affordability, stunning landscapes, and a palpable sense of history that feels alive. So, where else should you look? Let’s talk about a few other Balkan destinations that absolutely deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Montenegro: The Compact Powerhouse
Just north of Albania, Montenegro is like a miniature version of everything great about the region, all squeezed into a tiny country. It’s almost unfair how much beauty they packed in there! The Bay of Kotor is the star—a fjord-like bay surrounded by steep mountains, dotted with medieval towns like Kotor and Perast. Walking the ancient walls of Kotor’s Old Town, a UNESCO site, feels like stepping into a Game of Thrones set (and parts of it actually were!). For a real jaw-dropper, drive the serpentine road up to Lovćen National Park. The views are insane. And if you loved the idea of the Albanian Riviera, Montenegro’s Budva Riviera offers a similar vibe with pebble beaches and vibrant nightlife, though it can feel a bit more developed. My take? Montenegro is perfect if you’re short on time but want a huge variety of scenery—from coast to mountains to historic towns—without driving for days.
Bosnia & Herzegovina: Where East Meets West
Now, if you’re after a completely different cultural vibe, you have to consider Bosnia. Seriously, Sarajevo is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe. You can literally feel history layered on every street—Ottoman bazaars (the Baščaršija is a must), Austro-Hungarian architecture, and poignant reminders of the 1990s siege. It’s a city that will make you think and feel deeply. And then there’s Mostar. That iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) is just as breathtaking in person as it is in photos. Watching divers leap from it is a tradition that’ll have you holding your breath. The countryside is wild and beautiful, too, with places like the Kravice waterfalls offering a stunning natural escape. It’s less about beach life here and more about profound history, incredible coffee culture (even more intense than Albania’s!), and some of the most heartwarming hospitality you’ll ever encounter. It’s a powerful, unpolished gem.
North Macedonia: Lakes and Timeless Towns
Often overlooked, North Macedonia is a quiet stunner. Its centerpiece is Lake Ohrid, another UNESCO World Heritage site that’s shared with Albania. They don’t call it the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” for nothing—the town of Ohrid is sprinkled with ancient churches and has this serene, timeless atmosphere. The lake itself is crystal clear and perfect for a summer swim. Then you have the capital, Skopje, which is… well, it’s an experience. The city center underwent a massive, controversial project to fill it with neoclassical buildings and monuments. It’s bizarre, overwhelming, and you can’t look away. It’s the perfect example of a place that doesn’t try to fit a postcard image but is utterly memorable because of its unique character. For a taste of traditional life, the mountain town of Kruševo, with its colorful houses, feels a world away from everything.
Look, picking the “best” is impossible because it totally depends on what you’re after. Want a seamless beach-and-mountain combo with a dash of ancient ruins? Albania and Montenegro are your go-tos. Craving a deep, soul-stirring historical and cultural immersion? Bosnia will stay with you forever. Dreaming of peaceful lakeside days and exploring quirky cities? North Macedonia is calling. The beautiful thing about the Balkans is that they’re still relatively uncrowded compared to Western Europe, your budget stretches miles further, and the experiences feel incredibly genuine. The hardest part isn’t finding a great destination here—it’s choosing which one to visit first.