What is the Balkans and why is interesting to travel there

The Balkans is a region in Southeast Europe known for its rich history and diverse cultures. It is a crossroads between Europe and Asia, bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the east.

The borders of the Balkans region are, due to a multitude of contrasting definitions, widely disputed, with no universal agreement on its components. By most definitions, it fully encompasses Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia (up to the Sava and Kupa rivers), mainland Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Northern Dobruja in Romania, Serbia (up to the Danube river) and East Thrace in Turkey. However, many definitions also include the remaining territories of Croatia, Romania and Serbia, as well as Slovenia (up to the Kupa river). Additionally, some definitions include Hungary and Moldova due to cultural and historical factors.

Historically, the Balkans has been a melting pot of different empires and civilizations. It was home to ancient tribes and later became part of the Roman and Byzantine empires. During the Middle Ages, it saw the rise of powerful kingdoms and was influenced by both Western and Eastern religions and cultures.

The earliest mention of the name appears in an early 14th-century Arab map, in which the Haemus Mountains are referred to as Balkan. The first attested time the name ＂Balkan＂ was used in the West for the mountain range in Bulgaria was in a letter sent in 1490 to Pope Innocent VIII by Filippo Buonaccorsi, an Italian humanist, writer and diplomat. The Ottomans first mention it in a document dated from 1565.

The English traveler John Bacon Sawrey Morritt introduced this term into English literature at the end of the 18th century, and other authors started applying the name to the wider area between the Adriatic and the Black Sea. In European books printed until late 1800s it was also known as Illyrian Peninsula

The region that is nowadays known as the Balkans is largely the ancient, it's Europe's oldest civilisation, also referred to as the Old Europe civilization, and which peaked between 5000 and 3500 BC.

The Balkan region was the first area in Europe to experience the arrival of farming cultures in the Neolithic era. The Balkans have been inhabited since the Paleolithic and are the route by which farming from the Middle East spread to Europe during the Neolithic (7th millennium BC). The first known Neolithic culture of Old Europe was Kakanj culture that appeared in Central Bosnia's town of Kakanj and covered periods dated from 6795 to 4900 BC.

The Balkans are also the location of the first advanced civilizations. Vinča culture developed a form of proto-writing before the Sumerians and Minoans, known as the Old European script, while the bulk of the symbols had been created in the period between 4500 and 4000 BC.

The identity of the Balkans is dominated by its geographical position; historically the area was known as a crossroads of cultures. It has been a juncture between the Latin and Greek bodies of the Roman Empire, the destination of a massive influx of pagan Bulgars and Slavs, an area where Orthodox and Catholic Christianity met, as well as the meeting point between Islam and Christianity.

The Ottoman Empire ruled much of the Balkans for centuries, leaving a deep cultural and architectural mark. This period introduced new customs, traditions, and religious diversity, especially Islam. The region's complex history of conflicts and alliances has shaped its unique identity.

The Balkans is famous for its natural beauty, including stunning mountains, lush forests, and beautiful coastlines. The Adriatic coast, with its clear waters and historic towns, is a favorite destination for beach lovers and sailors. The rugged landscapes offer excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

Tourists are drawn to the region for its charming old towns, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities. Places like Dubrovnik in Croatia, known as the ＂Pearl of the Adriatic＂, offer a blend of medieval walls and modern attractions. Its old city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its historical importance and architectural excellence.

Another significant destination is Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, which mixes Roman history with contemporary life. Visitors can explore ancient churches, Roman ruins, and museums that display the rich cultural legacy of the region.

In Greece, Athens stands out for its ancient wonders like the Acropolis and Parthenon, both UNESCO-inscribed sites that attract millions annually. The country's islands offer idyllic beaches, traditional villages, and vibrant nightlife, making the Balkans a full package for all tastes.

The Balkans' cultural scene is lively, with festivals, traditional music, and cuisine reflecting the diverse influences from Slavic, Greek, Turkish, and Roman roots. Food tourists can enjoy specialties like Balkan grilled meats, fresh seafood, and local wines or rakija.

UNESCO also recognizes the natural beauty and heritage of the Balkans. For example, the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is inscribed as ＂Plitvice Lakes National Park＂, famous for its series of cascading lakes and waterfalls amid dense forests, attracting nature lovers worldwide.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the historic city of Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bridge symbolizes reconciliation and coexistence, drawing visitors interested in history and culture.

The Balkans today is a diverse and evolving region. After a turbulent 20th century marked by conflicts and political changes, many countries have stabilized and are developing their tourism sectors. This transformation makes the region accessible and welcoming for travelers.

Current-day Balkans offer a blend of old and new, where visitors can witness traditional lifestyles alongside modern urban growth. Cities like Belgrade and Skopje showcase dynamic art scenes and nightlife, enhancing the region's appeal to young tourists and culture seekers.

Nature lovers will enjoy the Balkan Mountains, the Dinaric Alps, and national parks like Durmitor in Montenegro and Rila in Bulgaria. These areas provide hiking, skiing, and breathtaking views, making the Balkans a paradise for outdoor adventurers.

History buffs can explore Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and traces of Roman roads scattered throughout the region. Archaeological sites like Philippi in Greece and ancient theaters in Bulgaria offer fascinating windows into the past.

The religious diversity of the Balkans is also captivating. It features Orthodox Christianity, Islam, and Catholicism deeply intertwined in its architecture and traditions, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange and religious coexistence.

The Balkans' strategic location has meant it is often a place of political tension, yet it remains a hotspot for cultural tourism and historical exploration. Visitors often find warm hospitality from locals proud of their heritage.

Many tourists visit for the affordability and authenticity of the experience. Compared to Western Europe, the Balkans offer excellent value in accommodation, food, and activities, combined with stunning scenery and rich cultural encounters.

In summary, the Balkans is a unique European region that fascinates travelers with its complex history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. From ancient ruins and medieval towns to vibrant urban centers and pristine natural parks, it is a destination well worth exploring.

Last reviewed: 3 September 2025

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