In 2011, my brother and I spent a magical week exploring souther Croatia: both Dubrovnik and Sipan Island off of the Adriatic Coast. The beauty of the coastline mesmerized us and we ate one delicious meal after another. However, we were less enchanted by how over-touristed Dubrovnik is. We promised ourselves we’d come back and explore the lesser-known parts of the Balkans. And the idea of the Balkans Road Trip was born.
We began in Belgrade, Serbia and ended in Podgorica, Montenegro, the following week. The itinerary combined equal parts history, culture, and off-the-beaten path adventure. Throw in some excellent food and happening nightlife. The ultimate Balkans Road Trip.
I wrote posts on each of the destinations, which you can link to below. With the exception of the treacherous drive from Belgrade to Sarajevo, a road trip was an excellent way to get around the Balkans and experience the region.
Days 1 & 2: Belgrade, Serbia
Day 3: Full Day road trip to Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina with a stop in Srebrenica
Days 4 & 5: Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Day 6: Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Days 7 & 8: Kotor, Montenegro – Kotor/Budva/Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
Day 9: Depart from Podgorica, Montenegro
More Balkans and Road Trip Inspiration
- To add on more of the Balkans (or as a separate trip), we loved Dubrovnik & Sipan Island in Croatia.
- For more European Road Trips, check out my romantic one-week itinerary through the Algarve in Southern Portugal & Portuguese Riveria outside of Lisbon.
- If you’re looking for a Road Trip of a totally different kind, look through our 2-week itinerary for a Road Trip through the North and South Islands of New Zealand.
- Questions on how to make this trip a reality for you or on any of the logistics? Leave me a message in the comments. I’ll be sure to answer!