The Balkans are known for a rich history and an unusual mix of cultures and religions.

The Balkan region sits in southeastern Europe, named after a mountain range running through it.

Since it connected the Mediterranean to Central Europe and was one of the main crossing routes linking Europe and Asia, it was ruled by many civilisations and empires, each leaving its mark. You can feel these different influences mostly in the local culture, music, food, and customs of the people who live there.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina — a long name for a small country — sits at the heart of the Balkans, and can be thought of as a condensed version of the whole region.

It’s known as a meeting point of Islam, Catholicism, Orthodox Christianity, and Judaism.

The whole region is mountainous, and this country is no different — the Dinaric Alps run through the centre, separating Bosnia in the north from Herzegovina in the south.

Nature is the first thing that grabs your attention, with mountains, lakes, and rivers offering plenty to explore and enjoy. The most popular spot in Bosnia is the capital, Sarajevo, known for its beauty and remarkable mix of influences, and widely known for the many historic events that shaped the lives of both locals and people around the world.

In short, if you want to explore Balkan tours, Bosnia shouldn’t be missed.

Montenegro

Montenegro simply means “black mountain” in old Venetian, a name used since the 13th century; in Montenegrin, it’s Crna Gora, carrying the same meaning.

Like the rest of the Balkans, it was conquered by the Ottomans in the 15th century. Even so, Montenegro retained a degree of self-governance, ruled for centuries by prince-bishops (Vladika) as a theocratic state.

Since Montenegro has access to the Adriatic Sea in its southern part, you’ll find some of the most interesting places to visit here.

From the Bay of Kotor to Lake Skadar, which it shares with Albania, this Mediterranean gem won’t let you forget the Balkans.

Kosovo

Kosovo has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters — snow can fall as early as November and as late as April.

July and August are always hot, though May and June can be warm too; the day/night temperature swing is generally larger in September and October.

The best time to visit Kosovo is spring (late April, May, or early June) when the fields turn vivid green, though there’s still some snow on the mountain peaks and the meadows are in bloom. There’s still a risk of heavy rain in April, but it rarely lasts more than a day or so.

In July, August, and early September, flights and roads get busy, travel isn’t quite as easy or cheap, and the weather can be too hot for exploring — though September generally offers pleasant weather.

• April — PriFest, the Pristina International Film Festival, brings a touch of international glamour to the capital.
• May to September — no need to worry about crowds during Kosovo’s peak season!
• August — the excellent DokuFest in Prizren is Kosovo’s best arts event.