The Balkans comprise historically rich and culturally vibrant countries with breathtaking landscapes, including striking peaks and deep blue waters of the Adriatic coastline. These countries offer various unforgettable experiences, but knowing the optimal seasons to explore can influence how much of a good time you have. While you are here, you might like to explore our range of Europe Cruise Holidays for a slower pace travel or take a look at our Europe Walking Holidays for a more active adventure; taking you along the wonders of the Balkans. So, come with us as we show you the best time to visit the Balkans!
Albania
Albania is a tiny mountainous Balkan country with an extensive Adriatic and Ionian coastline, and it experiences four distinct seasons. The best time to visit this gorgeous country is from April to June and September to October because the weather is typically mild and pleasant. You can comfortably indulge in activities like trekking, cycling, and sightseeing and have a great time on the beach.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
The best time to visit the diverse Bosnia and Herzegovina is May to September. The weather is enjoyable, as it is hot, but only enough to feel pleasant. It is perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking mountainous paths and visiting scenic mediaeval villages in the countryside. However, because of how lovely it is around this time, you might witness a lot of crowds. If you want to avoid the crowd, you can visit around October to March.
Photo credit: Lora P
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a country with charming summers and short, cool winters. While the best time to visit this lovely country may vary based on the activities you plan to engage in during your trip, June is an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking and festivities. Also, September and October welcome you with pleasant weather and stunning scenery.
Croatia
Croatia is a vibrant country that caters to various interests with its impressive mix of history and coastal allure. If you are looking to spend a relatively quiet time in Croatia and enjoy hikes and water sports, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are perfect.
Kosovo
Kosovo is a great walking territory. So, it’s best to visit when the weather is pleasant, and you can tour the gorgeous monasteries and trek the Accursed Mountains, and that time is from April to September.
Photo credit: Artūras Kokorevas
Montenegro
To fully enjoy and explore the charms of Montenegro, it’s best to visit around when spring ends and autumn begins. This is from May to June and September to October. You will enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. You can traverse its protected areas, participate in festivals and tour charming Montenegrin villages. Visiting in July and August can be uncomfortable because the vacationers and the weather are at their peak.
North Macedonia
North Macedonia experiences four seasons and a relatively dry Mediterranean climate. You can enjoy fewer vacationers, mild temperatures, lower chances of rain, and witness bursting autumn colours in the Matka Canyon in May, June, September and October.
Photo credit: Calin Stan
Romania
You can try many activities depending on the exact months you choose to visit terrific Romania. Regarding enjoyable weather, the best time to visit Romania is from May to September. However, there is something fun to do in Romania’s four seasons. You can indulge in touring cities and cultural explorations in spring (April to June), witness festivals, hike the Carpathian Mountains and explore castles in summer. In the fall (September to October), you can savour lush landscapes and fewer crowds and enjoy winter sports during winter (December to February).
Serbia
Spring and fall are arguably the best times to visit Serbia. In spring, the stunning country picks up, lush greenery opens up, and the weather is mild and pleasant. It is perfect for city explorations and relishing the countryside. In the fall, the temperatures are cooler, there are fewer vacationers, the landscape transcends into another realm of beauty, and vibrant festivals are in order.
Slovenia
Saying that you can have a good time in Slovenia, whichever month you decide to visit, is not a stretch. Due to its fascinatingly diverse landscape and plethora of outdoor activities, there is something for every month. However, the most pleasant weather season spans from May to September.
Photo credit: Jimmy Teoh
Greece
It’s best to visit Greece in spring and fall. From April to June, the weather is cool and convenient for exploring ancient ruins and sightseeing. Ancient wonders and historical monuments are everywhere; journeying with a licensed guide will allow you to get the most out of it. Another great time to visit stunning Greece is in the fall when you can check out more archaic attractions, visit the beach, and enjoy having fewer crowds.
Turkey
Like it is an enjoyable time to be anywhere in the world, spring and fall are great seasons to tour diverse Turkey. From April to May and September to October, you can enjoy al fresco dining, cultural events, swimming, and even lesser crowds in the fall months. However, despite the summer being hot, you can explore the cooler green highlands of the Black Sea mountains.
The Balkan countries have what it takes to give you the perfect vacation. However, your experience depends on the activities you plan to engage in. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, explore fascinating sites and enjoy cultural activities, you can work with our list on the best time to visit the Balkans.
