3 Weeks in the Balkans - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Ultimate Balkan Highlights Tour

Perfect for first-time visitors to the region, this epic Balkan highlights itinerary features the must-sees of Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Throughout, you'll pause for overnights in nine different locations, embark on guided and independent explorations, and spend unhurried time in nature. From Bled's postcard-worthy island and the drowned landscapes of Plitvice Lakes National Park to the storied Old Towns of Dubrovnik and Split, each destination promises not only to wow but also to enrich your understanding of Balkan history and culture.

Your ultimate Balkan adventure begins in Ljubljana, and after spending two days taking in the sights of Slovenia's charming capital, you'll continue to Bled. This scenic Julian Alps town is renowned for its one-church island and close proximity to the Vintgar Gorge, and you'll have plenty of time to explore both during your stay. Afterward, transfer along the awe-inspiring Vršič Pass Scenic Drive to Bovec, and spend the evening conquering a hike of your choice. Next, cross the border to Rovinj, Croatia, where, in between exploring independently, you'll tick off a day trip to Pula's impressive Roman Amphitheater.

Week two of your adventure kicks off in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and after an evening arrival, you'll want to wake early to explore before the crowds before continuing to Split. After the fast-paced last few days, you'll be happy to unpack for a four-day stay. Throughout, explore Diocletian's Palace, Trogir, and Klis Fortress alongside private guides and spend a day each soaking up the dreamy island landscapes of Hvar and Šolta. Next, travel inland to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and delve into the city's culinary side during a food and culture tour.

The third week of your trip starts with an overnight in Mostar, home to the iconic Stari Most bridge, followed by a transfer to Dubrovnik. Here, over three days, you'll explore its Old Town, spend an afternoon on the car-free island of Lokrum, and take a cable car up to Mount Srđ. Additionally, venture out of the city for dinner at a family farmhouse before continuing to Kotor, Montenegro. Upon arrival, dedicate the afternoon to exploring its many Venetian palaces and Romanesque churches, then wrap up your adventure with a memorable day in Mount Lovćen National Park. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Nature & Outdoor Adventures in the Balkans: Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro

Hike, raft, kayak, zipline, and paraglide through the Balkans on this activity-filled outdoor adventure. Perfect for nature-loving travelers, you'll spend time in the most breathtaking destinations of the region, including Lake Bled, the mountainous Soča Valley, Paklenica National Park, and Plitvice Lakes National Park. When you're not out adventuring, refuel through food tours, scenic transfers, and free afternoons to explore at your own pace.

While your adventure starts leisurely, with a free afternoon to meander amid Ljubljana's highlights, you'll soon transfer to Bled for an activity-packed three-day stay. A walking tour and visit to Bled Island greets your arrival, then wake before dawn for a thrilling hot-air balloon ride, followed by hikes in Vintgar Gorge and to the summit of Debela Peč. Next, traverse the Vršič Pass on your way to Bovec, and upon arrival, immerse yourself in the region's mountainous landscapes through a hike of your choice. You'll also spend an afternoon ziplining, whitewater rafting, and paragliding before setting your sights on Croatia. 

Your first Croatian destination is Rovinj, a seaside town on the Istrian peninsula and the perfect place to recharge while sampling local cuisine and biking along the Parenzana Trail. Then, dedicate a day to hiking in ​​Plitvice Lakes National Park before continuing to the ancient Roman city of Zadar. Here, after checking out city sights at your own pace, you'll again don your hiking boots for a guided trek in Paklenica National Park. Afterward, continue south to Split and enjoy an indulgent evening sampling Croatia's finest seafood, ensuring you're fueled up for a zipline and hiking excursion in nearby Omiš. 

From Split, travel by ferry to Hvar and settle in for a fun-filled two-day stay. Your home on this storied island is Hvar Town, which is an ideal base to hop between quaint fishing villages and cruise around the Pakleni archipelago. Afterward, another ferry journey brings you to Dubrovnik, and although the main draw here is undoubtedly the walled Old Town, you'll also hike up to Mount Srđ and embark on a sea kayaking excursion. Then, with your trip winding down, overnight in Montenegro's charming mountain town of Žabljak and spend your final days exploring Kotor's medieval streets. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Flavors of the Adriatic: Montenegro, Croatia & Slovenia

Experience the fresh ingredients and unique regional differences of Balkan cuisine firsthand with this diverse gastronomy-focused trip. Indulge in fresh oysters straight from the sea, tuck into local taverns, and sip wine with beyond-beautiful sea views. When you're not dining, learn how to make Balkan dishes yourself through numerous cooking workshops and a take to the Istrian forests with a canine companion for a memorable truffle hunting experience.

Your culinary adventure begins in Kotor, and after waking up your appetite with a hike up to St. John Fortress, you'll join an indulgent food and wine walking tour. Next, transfer to Dubrovnik—a Croatian city famous for its walled Old Town, decadent seafood, and beautiful coastal landscapes. Over a three-day stay here, you'll experience them all through guide-led tours, a family farm cooking experience, and an Elafiti Islands speedboat tour. Afterward, on your way to Korčula, pause in Ston to sample fresh oysters, then spend your time on this lovely island sunbathing, sipping wine, and sampling local cuisine. 

The second week of your adventure begins with a ferry to Hvar and a hearty peka dinner at a family-owned restaurant, ensuring you're well-fueled up for a half-day cycling excursion. Next, board another ferry, this one bound for Split, and celebrate your arrival over dinner near the dazzling Diocletian's Palace. Continue your culinary exploration the following day during a private food tour and a soparnik cooking class, then detour to Bosnia and Herzegovina for visits to Mostar and Blagaj. Afterward, en route to Rovinj, pause in Plitvice Lakes National Park to hike and spend the night.

Your time in Rovinj is all about getting to know the nature and culinary traditions of the Istrian peninsula. Visit the impressive Pula Arena, learn the secrets of Istrian pasta at a cooking workshop, hop between hilltop villages, and go truffle hunting with a local family. Then, continue north to the beautiful Slovenian town of Bled and pack in all sorts of adventures over the following three days, including a boat tour of Lake Bled, a remarkable hot-air balloon flight, and a cooking class. Your final destination is Zagreb, but before bidding farewell, squeeze in a private food and culture tour. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Balkan Capitals & Culture: Podgorica, Sarajevo, Ljubljana & Zagreb

This authentic Balkan culture tour features a fascinating blend of capital cities, small villages, and national parks and is perfect for travelers seeking an immersive trip. Over three weeks, you'll see firsthand where "East meets West" in Mostar, wander amid Dubrovnik's famous Old Town, and dine within the striking Ljubljana Castle. In addition, scenic transfers, guided city tours and hikes, and planned side excursions make this itinerary perfect for those who prefer to soak up their surroundings without worrying about any logistics.

Your cultural odyssey begins in Podgorica, Montenegro's capital, which is the perfect place to shrug off travel fatigue while exploring at your own pace. Then, transfer to Kotor and delve into the region's culture and nature through a full-day trip featuring Lovćen National Park and the historic town of Cetinje. Continuing north, you'll soon find yourself in Dubrovnik, uncovering the many stories of its walled Old Town through a walking tour and local-taught cooking class. Additionally, head to Konavle Valley for a dreamy lunch and wine tasting before setting your sights on Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Your first destination in Bosnia is Mostar, and during your two-day stay, you'll learn why it's considered where "East meets West" while exploring its Old Town and iconic Stari Most bridge. Afterward, continue to Sarajevo, where, thanks to a local guide, you'll be treated to a thorough introduction to the city's markets, mosques, and historic streets. A three-day stay in Split is featured next on your itinerary, and upon arrival, kick things off with a guided walking tour. Then, explore Klis Fortress, Trogir, and the nearby island of Brač before setting your sights on Plitvice Lakes National Park.

The third week of your adventure kicks off with a transfer to Opatija, located on the Istrian peninsula, and after taking a day to explore independently, you'll join a guide to hop between the region's hilltop towns. Next, transfer to Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia, and celebrate your arrival over dinner inside the Ljubljana Castle. You'll then embark on a day trip to Lake Bled and the medieval town of Škofja Loka before continuing to your final destination—Zagreb. Here, a fascinating city tour and a day trip to Croatia's former capital, Varaždin, mark the end of your delightful adventure. Learn more

More Great 3-Week Croatia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Croatia? Check out these other three-week Croatia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.

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