The Balkan states can be difficult to get to grips with, but with more and more operators moving into the region they are well worth the trouble.
Here’s a guide to the key destinations – read this alongside our feature on how and why Balkan tourism is growing and you’ll soon get the hang of the region.
Montenegro
Attractions: Adriatic beaches and ancient coastal towns. The Bay of Kotor is one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Balkans, with vertical cliffs plunging straight into the sea. Within Kotor’s historic city walls are cobbled streets, churches, museums, outdoor cafes, and a picturesque harbour.
The seaside resort of Budva is an old walled town dotted with fashionable boutiques and bars. The popular Becici beach in Budva stretches two miles along the coast.
The iconic island of Sveti Stefan, connected to the mainland by a strip of land, is bursting with narrow streets, historical squares and stylish accommodation.
Ulcinj boasts the longest beach on the Adriatic – Velika Plaza stretches eight miles. Montenegro’s beautiful landscape of lakes, canyons and mountains is equally spectacular. Take a boat trip on Lake Skadar – the largest lake on the Balkan peninsula.
Sell it to: Middle-aged couples eager to explore the historic coastal towns, but in the last few years Montenegro has begun appealing to younger visitors too.
Sample packages: Holiday Options offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast at the three-star Hotel Prestige in Budva, from £535 per person twin-share in July, including return flights with a Holiday Options charter to Dubrovnik, transfers and taxes.
Albania
Attractions: The Ionian coast (also known as the ‘Albanian Riviera’) features secluded beaches and hillside villages set against a backdrop of mountains.
The ancient town of Saranda – the honeymoon capital of Albania – offers pebbled beaches, crystal-clear waters and simple, modern hotels. South of Saranda is the impressive Roman city of Butrint – a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 3rd century BC and surrounded by lush woodland. Follow picturesque hiking paths through Butrint National Park, past rolling hills, lagoons and marshes.
The ancient towns of Berati and Gjirokastra are also worth visiting. The capital, Tirana is compact and easily explored on foot. Tirana’s main sights include the main square, Sheshi Skenderbej, the National History Museum, Et’hem Bey Mosque and the landmark church tower.
Sell it to: Culture lovers, history buffs and outdoorsy types. It’s not for those seeking a luxurious getaway.
Sample packages: Sunvil offers six nights’ bed and breakfast at the three-star Rapo’s Hotel in Himara as well as one-night bed and breakfast at the three-star Cavalieri Hotel in Corfu Town, from £857 per person twin-share in July, including return flights to Corfu with Excel Airways, boat tickets, all transfers and four local excursions.
Bulgaria
Attractions: The 125-mile Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is lined with golden sandy beaches and clear waters, with a good choice of hotels, restaurants and evening entertainment. Popular attractions include Roman ruins, monasteries, vineyards and ancient castles.
Bulgaria’s capital Sofia offers an eclectic mix of architectural styles – follow the yellow brick road from the golden-domed Alexander Nevski Memorial Church past the National Theatre and Russian Church.
The most impressive 19th century architecture can be found in Veliko Tarnovo – a striking old town built either side of a steep gorge. Explore the Tsarevets Citadel, hilltop church and narrow cobbled lanes.
The highest peaks in the Balkans are the Rila and Pirin mountain ranges, which offer hiking trails and the panoramic narrow-gauge railway of Bansko-Septemvri.
Sell it to: The youth market will like its inexpensive beachfront accommodation and lively evening entertainment. Also a firm favourite with families looking to combine a beach holiday with day trips.
Sample packages: Balkan Holidays offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast at the two-star Hotel Arda in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria from £318 per person twin-share in July 2008, including return flights with BH Air and all transfers.
Croatia
Attractions: Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is made up of a long string of beaches and offshore islands lapped by striking turquoise seas. Croatia’s beaches may not be the sandiest, but they offer the chance to combine relaxation with sightseeing.
The walled city of Dubrovnik is a highlight – its impressive architecture is best viewed from Mount Srd or by taking a ferry to Lokrum Island.
The most popular coastal towns on the Adriatic include Rovinj, Pula, Zadar, Trogir, Split and Hvar, with their colourful waterfront houses, picturesque squares, and Roman and Venetian architecture. Hvar is one of the most visited islands with its Renaissance mansions, impressive square and striking cathedral.
The country’s capital, Zagreb, is worth a visit for its 19th century architecture, as well as its many galleries, theatres and museums. Croatia’s most stunning natural attraction, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, features 16 lakes, waterfalls and lush forest.
Sell it to: Families and couples seeking beach-based holidays with the opportunity for cultural days out.
Sample packages: Thomas Cook offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast at the three-star Hotel Dalmacija in Makarska, Croatia from £403 per person twin-share in July, including return flights with Thomas Cook Airlines.
Romania
Attractions: Romania’s Black Sea resorts are set along a 45-mile stretch of sandy coastline, and include Mamaia, Eforie, Neptun, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn and Mangalia.
Inland, Transylvania is a land of rolling hills, pretty villages, fortified churches and Saxon towns. Founded by the Teutonic Knights in 1211, the Saxon city of Brasov is famous for its well preserved medieval and baroque architecture.
Sibiu, the largest Saxon citadel in Transylvania, dates back to the 12th century and retains its old town grandeur. One of the most beautiful towns in Transylvania is Sighisoara, once home of the legendary Vlad the Impaler, a 15th century Romanian prince and the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
The untouched countryside of Maramures is a trip back in time, with more horse and carts on the roads than cars. The Bucegi Mountains and Prahova Valley provide plenty of hiking trails. Romania’s capital, Bucharest, is built on the banks of the Dambovita River and packed with historical charm.
Sell it to: Self-drive holidays and guided tours. Particularly popular with the over-40s interested in Romania’s rich history and untamed countryside.
Sample packages: Sunvil Discovery offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast at the three-star Hotel Imparatul Romanitor in Sibiu, Romania from £727 per person twin-share in July, including return flights with British Airways and transfers.
Serbia
Attractions: Serbia’s vibrant capital, Belgrade, is one of the most popular cities in the Balkans. Its narrow, bustling streets are lined with cafes, bookshops and museums. Stari Grad, ‘the old city’ is the perfect place to relax with a coffee.
The floating river clubs or ‘Splavs’ offer lively evening entertainment. Serbia’s second largest city, Novi Sad is characterised by its hilltop citadel, 19th century buildings, and riverside cafes. Away from the cities are the medieval monasteries of Ljubostinja, Mileseva and Studenica.
Hikers will enjoy the rolling hills and wooded valleys of Zlatibor, while the Belgrade-Bar railway offers unforgettable views. Popular ski resorts include Brezovica and Kopaonik, both at more than 2,000 metres’ altitude. Tara National Park is 220sq metres of lush forests, streams, waterfalls, flower-clad meadows and hidden caves just waiting to be explored.
Sell it to: Young and old seeking vibrant city breaks in Belgrade. Single travellers or couples with an interest in history and the wilds of national parks.
Sample packages: Regent Holidays offers a seven-night tour and half-board accommodation at three-star hotels in Belgrade, Lepenski Vir, Nis and Bajina Basta in Serbia from £1,425 per person twin-share in July, including return flights with British Airways, transfers and transportation by private car and sightseeing programme.
